By Thu Thet Thar

A political tide that once seemed uniquely American is now unmistakably washing ashore in Japan. In the policies and pronouncements of Sanae Takaichi, a leading and powerful voice in the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, we are witnessing the rise of a distinctly Japanese iteration of a familiar global phenomenon: the nationalist populism championed by Donald Trump. While the cultural contexts are worlds apart, the core tenets of her platform—a fiercely protectionist "Japan First" agenda, a hardline stance on immigration, and a nostalgic appeal to national pride—echo the "America First" doctrine that has reshaped American politics.

For decades, Japan built its postwar identity on quiet multilateralism and economic interdependence. That consensus is now being challenged from within. Takaichi's political ascent signals a pivot toward a more transactional and assertive foreign policy. Her skepticism of international agreements that don't offer a clear, immediate advantage to Japan and her calls to renegotiate past trade deals mirror the transactional diplomacy that defined the Trump administration. This approach, which prioritizes short-term national gain over long-standing alliances and global norms, suggests a Japan less willing to play its traditional role as a cornerstone of the liberal international order and more inclined to go it alone.

This "Japan First" mentality extends most starkly to the issue of immigration. In a nation grappling with a demographic crisis of a rapidly aging and shrinking population, Takaichi has chosen not to embrace immigration as a solution but to frame it as a threat. Her platform is built on calls for significantly tighter border controls and restrictions on foreigners. By casting immigrants as a risk to Japan’s social fabric and cultural homogeneity, she employs the same divisive rhetoric that fueled anti-immigrant sentiment across the United States and Europe. This position overlooks the economic necessity of foreign labor for Japan and instead plays on nationalist anxieties, a classic move from the populist playbook.

Furthermore, Takaichi’s brand of nationalism is deeply rooted in a particular vision of Japanese identity and history. A staunch conservative, her regular visits to the controversial Yasukuni Shrine and her alignment with revisionist views on Japan’s wartime past are not just personal convictions; they are political statements.

To be clear, Sanae Takaichi is not a carbon copy of Donald Trump. Her politics are a product of Japan's unique history and its own conservative traditions. Yet, to ignore the striking parallels would be to miss the larger global trend. The formula of economic protectionism, stringent immigration policies, and fervent nationalism has proven potent worldwide.

As the world navigates a landscape where "America First" is once again the stated policy of the White House, the emergence of a "Japan First" advocate like Takaichi is a sign of the times. It represents a profound shift, one that could see Japan turn inward, fundamentally altering its relationships with its allies and its position on the global stage. The sun is rising on a new, more assertive, and more nationalist Japan, and its silhouette looks remarkably familiar.

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Nay Pyi Taw, October 2, 2025

Myanmar Oil and Gas Enterprise (MOGE) and a Russian state-owned oil company are reportedly collaborating on the exploration and production of oil and natural gas in an onshore block located in Padaung Township.

Union Minister for Energy U Ko Ko Lwin inspected the location of Test Well No. 1 in the onshore block on October 2, according to a press release from the Ministry of Energy.

During a meeting with officials, the Union Minister emphasized the need to accelerate oil and gas exploration and production activities. He also mentioned that plans are being formulated to enhance cooperation with both domestic and international companies.

The Union Minister and his delegation also met with officials at the meeting hall of the Pyay Oil Field, which is under the supervision of MOGE. Discussions focused on the situation and future plans to increase oil and gas output from the Pyay Oil Field.

The General Manager of the Pyay Oil Field presented data regarding the field, the current status of oil and gas production through exploration and development wells, and the work plans of HNA Myanmar Oil & Gas Ltd., the joint venture partner.

The Union Minister stated that while the Pyay Oil Field is a mature field, it holds significant potential to boost the production of oil and natural gas required by the state.

He further noted that the Pyay Oil Field is capable of producing both oil and natural gas and that measures are being implemented to provide modern technology and equipment to facilitate production.

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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

https://www.inform.kz

September 28, 2027

The President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Mr. Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, expressed his country's readiness to pursue economic cooperation with Myanmar's Acting President, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, who is also the Chairman of the State Security and Peace Commission.

The announcement came during a meeting between Senior General Min Aung Hlaing and Mr. Kassym-Jomart Tokayev on the afternoon of September 27 at the Presidential Palace in Kazakhstan.

Despite the geographical distance, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing stated that since Myanmar and Kazakhstan are friendly nations, he wishes to strengthen close cooperation in various sectors that will benefit both countries.

President Tokayev noted that while Myanmar is a country located in the south of Southeast Asia, Kazakhstan is strategically positioned to facilitate the best logistics operations from the Russian side. He expressed confidence that economic cooperation between the two nations could also lead to collaboration not only with Russia but also with other Southeast Asian countries.

Senior General Min Aung Hlaing responded by saying he believes this meeting and discussion will serve as a driving force to enhance bilateral relations and implement practical cooperation.

According to a press release from the Myanmar government, the Acting President of Myanmar and the President of Kazakhstan held friendly exchanges on boosting cooperation in various sectors, including trade, agriculture and livestock, transportation of goods, oil, natural gas and mineral extraction, and political developments in Myanmar.

Accompanying the Acting President were Joint Chief of Staff General Ye Win Oo, U Than Swe Member of the Commission and Union Minister for Foreign Affairs, Union Ministers U Nyan Tun and U Ko Ko Lwin, Myanmar Ambassador to the Russian Federation U Thit Lin Ohn, and other officials. The President of Kazakhstan was accompanied by Minister of Foreign Affairs Mr. KOSHERBAYEV Yermek Bedelbayevich and other senior government officials.

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Putin Pledges Continued Discussion on Agreements Between Russia and Myanmar Governments to Senior General Min Aung Hlaing

Nay Pyi Taw, September 25 — Russian President Vladimir Putin told Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, who is on a working visit to the Russian Federation at President Putin's invitation, that they will proceed with detailed discussions to ensure the continued implementation of agreements already reached between the governments of Myanmar and Russia.

Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, the Acting President of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar and Chairman of the State Security and Peace Commission, met with President H.E. Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin this evening at the Kremlin Palace in Moscow.

The Senior General noted that the diplomatic relations between Myanmar and Russia span over 70 years, and that military-to-military diplomatic relations are also marked by strong friendship and joint cooperation efforts.

Following this, the two leaders exchanged views candidly and openly on matters concerning the promotion of friendship and cooperation between the two nations across various sectors. These included the peaceful use of nuclear energy, as well as cooperation in investment, electric power, health and pharmaceutical production, agriculture, education, strengthening defense cooperation, and collaborating with the international community regarding elections, among other areas.

Attending the meeting alongside the Senior General were Gen Ye Win Oo (Joint Secretary and Chief Executive of the Commission), Union Minister for Foreign Affairs U Than Swe (Commission Member), Union Ministers U Nyan Tun, U Ko Ko Lwin, Dr. Myo Thein Kyaw, Dr. Thet Khaing Win, Mandalay Region Chief Minister U Myo Aung, and Myanmar's Ambassador to the Russian Federation U Thit Lin Ohn, along with other officials.

Accompanying the President of the Russian Federation were the Deputy Chief of Staff of the Presidential Executive Office, the Assistant to the President of the Russian Federation, Ministers from the Ministries of Finance and Energy, along with other officials and heads of government agencies.

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Moscow, September 25, 2025 - Myanmar's Acting President, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, who is also the Chairman of the State Security and Peace Commission, urged Myanmar students studying in civilian universities in the Russian Federation to work towards the widespread use of artificial intelligence (AI) in Myanmar's agriculture sector. He made these remarks during a scientific workshop held in Moscow on September 25.

The Senior General, who is on a working visit to the Russian Federation, spoke at the workshop titled "Youth and Future Myanmar – Science and Technology," which was held at the Radisson Collection Hotel in Moscow.

He stated that while efforts should be made to apply AI technology in education, healthcare, and transportation sectors, it is especially crucial for the agriculture sector, as Myanmar is an agriculture-based country. The Senior General encouraged the students to work towards the widespread application of AI in this field.

He also urged them to work effectively towards national and socio-economic development through the advancement and application of AI technology.

Furthermore, the Senior General emphasized the importance of developing nuclear technology in Myanmar and using nuclear energy for peaceful purposes. He stated that skilled human resources would be necessary to establish a nuclear infrastructure, as nuclear and radiation technology could be applied not only in the energy sector but also in healthcare, agriculture, livestock, industry, and environmental conservation.

Following his remarks, representatives of the students from various civilian universities in Russia presented their scientific analyses. The Senior General and the Myanmar delegation members in attendance asked questions, engaged in discussions, and offered suggestions regarding the presentations.

The workshop was attended by General Ye Win Oo, the Secretary and Joint Chief Executive Officer of the Commission, Commission member and Union Minister for Foreign Affairs U Than Swe, Union Ministers U Nyan Tun, U Ko Ko Lwin, Dr. Myo Thein Kyaw, Dr. Thet Khaing Win, Mandalay Region Chief Minister U Myo Aung, Deputy Ministers, other officials, and the Myanmar students studying in civilian universities in the Russian Federation.

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