Myanmar Junta Leader Admits Difficulties Due to Sanctions

International sanctions have had an impact on Myanmar’s military government, creating challenges, according to the Myanmar junta leader, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing. He made this admission today (March 21) during a ceremony in Naypyidaw.

Speaking at a forum titled “Challenges and Opportunities Myanmar Will Face in a Multipolar World Beyond 2025,” which was attended by foreign experts from Russia, China, India, Thailand, and military council officials, Min Aung Hlaing acknowledged the difficulties posed by economic restrictions.

“If sanctions are imposed, there will surely be an impact. However, as countries form alliances to overcome such difficulties, new competitors will emerge, and the situation could become even more challenging,” Myanmar Junta Leader stated.

Western countries, including the U.S. and the EU, have imposed sanctions on Myanmar’s military leaders, military-linked businesses, and economic entities associated with the junta, citing allegations of war crimes and human rights violations.

“Currently, we are facing sanctions, but we are overcoming them in our own way. It is true that there are difficulties, but we are managing to resolve them. Overcoming these challenges requires both effort and diplomatic political solutions,” he added.

The U.S. and the European Union (EU) have imposed sanctions on Senior General Min Aung Hlaing and other military council members, as well as business owners linked to the junta.

At 68 years old, the military leader emphasized the importance of sustaining economic growth. He stated that Myanmar’s GDP is currently between $60 billion and $70 billion and is projected to reach $81 billion in the coming fiscal years.

Additionally, he discussed the potential for Myanmar to export goods to neighboring countries, citing regional demand.

“In a region with nearly 4 billion people, only about half of them wear shoes. That means 1.5 to 2 billion people need footwear. Many of these countries also lack sufficient raw materials. If we can supply and export these products, it presents a significant business opportunity,” he claimed.

Meanwhile, the International Labour Organization (ILO) has drafted a resolution under Article 33, calling for stricter measures against the Myanmar military government, including cutting off revenue sources. This could lead to even stronger economic sanctions on the junta in the near future.

Source: MRTV