Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, how do you see the future of political and economic cooperation between Myanmar and Kazakhstan? And how do you assess the prospects for broader engagement in Central Asia?
Diplomatic relations between Myanmar and Kazakhstan began on September 23, 1999. They are now 26 years old. Our countries are gradually developing political and economic cooperation. I have met with the President of Kazakhstan twice. Central Asia and Eurasia are considered a strategically important territory—the 'Heart Land' in geopolitics—because they are located at the center of the largest continent. Therefore, the region has strategic significance. I am confident that strengthening bilateral ties will help us cooperate more actively in Central Asia as well.
Central Asia is becoming an increasingly important hub for global security and logistics. In your opinion, how could Myanmar and Kazakhstan jointly contribute to regional stability and development?
Central Asia has always been an important transport hub between Europe, the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and East Asia. The Great Silk Road once passed through here. Therefore, the region's security and development are of great importance. Kazakhstan plays an important role in Central Asia. Myanmar also has a strategic location—between China and India, connecting South and Southeast Asia as a 'land bridge.' By leveraging such advantages, our countries can cooperate, exchange products, natural resources, and culture to strengthen the stability and development of the region.
Both Myanmar and Kazakhstan actively position themselves as countries open to dialogue and multilateral cooperation. What role, in your opinion, can our states play in reforming international institutions and promoting the principles of an equitable world order?
Today, the world is shifting from a unipolar system to a multipolar one. We must reduce our dependence on one superpower and develop ties with friendly countries. This will allow for fairer decision-making and resistance to external pressure. Major changes are also occurring in the economy—a 'new world order' is forming. Smaller countries must cooperate and expand trade across different regions. International organizations need to be reformed so that they adhere to their own charters and respect the sovereignty of all countries. Our countries can cooperate in this area.
Kazakhstan is viewed as a key transit and energy hub of Eurasia. Which areas of trade, economic, and investment cooperation do you consider most promising for Myanmar in its relations with Kazakhstan and the region as a whole?
Kazakhstan is rich in natural resources, exports oil and gas, and develops mining, transport, and agriculture, especially wheat. Myanmar is an agrarian country and also has mineral resources. It borders China and India, and connects Southeast and South Asia. We have fertile land, water, and a climate favorable for agriculture. Myanmar is one of the largest exporters of rice and pulses. Therefore, the promising areas for cooperation are agriculture, mining, transport, and energy. For this, we need joint work in the field of technology and investment.
Beyond economics and politics, how important do you consider the development of cultural, educational, and humanitarian contacts between Myanmar and the countries of Central Asia for strengthening mutual understanding and trust?
"The development of educational, cultural, and humanitarian ties between Myanmar and the countries of Central Asia is a very important aspect. Our two countries have different climates, locations, cultures, and economies. The combination of these differences is an advantage. Therefore, to maintain and strengthen friendly relations between our countries, it is necessary to expand not only intergovernmental ties but also people-to-people relations, which is why the development of these aspects is extremely important."
It is recalled that Kassym-Jomart Tokayev previously held talks with the Acting President of Myanmar, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing. Welcoming Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev emphasized that he views his working visit to Astana as an opportunity to establish cooperation between the countries.
Translation : from Russian to English
