Diplomatic snubs isolate Myanmar's military regime

Western governments downgrade ties with Naypyidaw

20220509 Min Aung Hlaing

A number of countries have downgraded their diplomatic representation in Myanmar, led by its military chief, Min Aung Hlaing. (Source photo by MYANMAR MILITARY INFORMATION TEAM/AFP/Jiji) 

GWEN ROBINSON, Nikkei Asia editor-at-large

BANGKOK -- Myanmar's military regime has rejected Britain's ambassador to the country after a four-month standoff over London's decision to downgrade his title to charge d'affaires ad interim. The regime, known as the State Administration Council, formally notified Britain in late April that it would not accept its designated envoy, Pete Vowles, as charge, but would consider alternative candidates.

The dispute highlights Naypyitaw's growing diplomatic isolation as countries move to downgrade their representation to Myanmar, either replacing ambassadors with charges or in most cases, leaving the position unfilled.

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