Thaksin Shinawatra Joins Myanmar-Malaysia Talks in Bangkok

Thaksin Shinawatra Joins Myanmar-Malaysia Talks in Bangkok: Diplomatic Move Analyzed

Bangkok, April 17, 2025 – Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra was seen attending a closed-door meeting, Myanmar-Malaysia Talks,  between Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and Myanmar’s military leader, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, in Bangkok. The high-profile gathering, confirmed by Myanmar’s state media (MOI announcement), has sparked intrigue over Thaksin’s unofficial diplomatic role in regional affairs.

Meeting Focus: Regional Stability and Economic Ties

The discussions reportedly centered on:

Myanmar’s political crisis and potential ASEAN engagement.

Bilateral trade Myanmar-Malaysia Talks , including energy and infrastructure projects.

Security cooperation amid ongoing conflicts in Myanmar.

While Thaksin was not listed as an official participant, his presence suggests behind-the-scenes influence. Analysts note his longstanding ties to Myanmar’s leadership and business interests in the region.

Controversy Over Thaksin’s Involvement Myanmar-Malaysia Talks

Thai Government Silence: Thailand’s current administration, led by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, has not commented. Thaksin remains a divisive figure in Thailand, having returned from exile last year amid legal battles.

Myanmar’s Stance: The junta’s public statement did not mention Thaksin but emphasized “fruitful dialogue” with Malaysia.

Malaysia’s Position: PM Anwar Ibrahim’s office has yet to address Thaksin’s attendance, though Malaysia has been critical of Myanmar’s junta in ASEAN forums.

Political Implications Myanmar-Malaysia Talks

Thaksin’s appearance fuels speculation about his ambitions:

Mediation Role: Some sources suggest he could be positioning himself as an informal broker in Myanmar’s crisis.

Domestic Repercussions: Thai opposition figures may question his involvement in foreign affairs while facing legal constraints at home.

Malaysian Prime Minister posted on his Facebook that,

“Late yesterday evening in Bangkok, I held a meeting with the informal advisory group to the ASEAN Chair, chaired by former Thai Prime Minister Dr Thaksin Shinawatra.

The extensive discussion provided an opportunity for us to exchange views on a range of regional issues, including the generation of ideas towards ensuring lasting peace in Myanmar, which is critical to securing sustained humanitarian access to the country’s people.

Then this morning, I held a forty-minute virtual meeting with U Mahn Win Khaing Than of Myanmar’s National Unity Government (NUG). Our discussion focused on the urgent humanitarian needs of the Myanmar people and the importance of ensuring that assistance reaches those most in need.

We also exchanged views on the importance of continued dialogue. He expressed openness to the prospect of meeting in person in Malaysia at an appropriate time. As with my earlier meeting with the State Administration Council, the conversation was constructive. Neither side raised objections to our engagement with the other.

Trust-building remains essential, and it is vital that this continues to be an ASEAN-led effort. We will continue to engage all parties in support of peace, reconciliation and the well-being of the people of Myanmar.”

What’s Next?

Observers will watch for reactions from Thailand’s government and whether Thaksin’s engagement signals a broader diplomatic maneuver. For now, the meeting underscores his enduring clout in Southeast Asian politics.

Key Discussion Points

• Myanmar political crisis: Potential ASEAN mediation efforts.
• Malaysia-Myanmar trade: Energy deals and infrastructure investments.
• Security cooperation: Addressing ongoing conflict in Myanmar.

Why Thaksin’s Presence Matters

• Unofficial Mediator? Thaksin, a polarizing figure in Thai politics, has deep business and political ties in Myanmar, suggesting a possible behind-the-scenes role.
• Thailand’s Reaction: The Thai government has remained silent, but critics may question his involvement given his legal troubles.
• Malaysia’s Stance: PM Anwar Ibrahim has previously criticized Myanmar’s junta, making Thaksin’s attendance even more notable.