Myanmar Seeks Foreign Investment Amid Conflict | Nikkei Asia

Myanmar’s newly elected speaker of the Pyithu Hluttaw, Khin Yi, stated his commitment to attracting foreign investment to the country, signaling a potential shift in economic policy amid ongoing political instability. Khin Yi, a former military officer, was elected to the position on March 16, 2026, according to reports. The leader of the Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) indicated a willingness to engage in dialogue with all nations, including those in the West, in an effort to rebuild economic ties. This statement comes as Myanmar continues to grapple with the aftermath of the 2021 military coup and subsequent conflict. Khin Yi currently holds the position of Chairman of the USDP, having assumed the role on October 5, 2022, succeeding Than Htay. Prior to this, he served as Vice Chairman of the party from December 31, 2019, alongside Myat Hein. He similarly previously held the post of Minister of Immigration and Population from August 1, 2021, to August 19, 2022, under the acting presidency of Myint Swe and the prime ministership of Min Aung Hlaing. Before entering politics, Khin Yi served as Chief of the Myanmar Police Force and held the position of Minister of Immigration and Population from March 30, 2011, to August 12, 2015, during the presidency of Thein Sein. The USDP, historically linked to the military, has been a significant political force in Myanmar. Khin Yi’s election as speaker of the Pyithu Hluttaw, the lower house of parliament, reflects the party’s continued influence. The position of speaker was previously held by T Khun Myat. As of today, no specific timeline or concrete plans for initiating dialogue with Western nations have been announced. The military government, led by Min Aung Hlaing, has yet to officially respond to Khin Yi’s statement.