NAYPYITAW — March 30, 2026

Retiring Commander-in-Chief of Defense Services, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, urged the armed forces to carry out their duties with unity under the guidance of their new leadership as he officially handed over his command.

The formal transfer of command, accompanied by a military parade, took place on the morning of March 30 at the Zeyathiri Beikman in Naypyitaw. During the ceremony, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing officially transferred his responsibilities to the former Commander-in-Chief (Army), General Ye Win Oo.

In his farewell address, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing called upon the military personnel to strive together cohesively under the new Commander-in-Chief. Highlighting the enduring nature of the nation and its armed forces, he stated, "As long as the world exists, Myanmar must exist; as long as Myanmar exists, the Myanmar Tatmadaw must exist." He urged the military to preserve its noble historical traditions and to continue operating as an institution that both the state and the public can rely upon.

Reflecting on his tenure, the Senior General noted that he had fulfilled his duties to the best of his physical and intellectual abilities since being entrusted with the leadership role by former military heads. He stated that he had actively worked to build a strong, capable, modern, and patriotic military, aligning with the visions set forth by successive military leaders, including General Ne Win.

He further added that by combining the guidance of past leaders with his own life experiences, he was able to successfully elevate the Tatmadaw's capabilities to be on par with international armed forces.

In response, the newly appointed Commander-in-Chief of Defense Services, General Ye Win Oo, delivered a speech expressing his gratitude and affirming his commitments to his new role.

The ceremonial handover concluded with Senior General Min Aung Hlaing presenting the official insignia of command, the ceremonial sword, and the flag of the Office of the Commander-in-Chief to General Ye Win Oo. In a gesture of respect, General Ye Win Oo then presented a commemorative ceremonial sword back to his predecessor.

Following the formalities, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing and his wife, Daw Kyu Kyu Hla, alongside the new Commander-in-Chief General Ye Win Oo and his wife, Daw Nilar, cordially greeted senior military officers, their spouses, and other invited guests in attendance.

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