Myanmar President Min Aung Hlaing on Saturday began an official visit to India, marking his first trip to the neighboring country since assuming the presidency in April after an election widely criticized by opponents as a move to preserve military rule.

According to Myanmar’s state-run MRTV, Min Aung Hlaing departed from Naypyitaw and arrived at Gaya International Airport in Bihar state. During the visit, he is scheduled to meet Indian President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, senior government officials, and business representatives.

Discussions are expected to focus on strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation in economic, cultural, religious, and social sectors. The Myanmar leader, accompanied by cabinet members, will also tour key infrastructure projects in India.

India has maintained engagement with Myanmar’s military-led administration despite sanctions imposed by Western nations following the military takeover in 2021 that ousted the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi. The coup triggered widespread unrest, armed conflict, and a prolonged humanitarian crisis.

Sharing a 1,643-kilometer border and a maritime boundary in the Bay of Bengal, India regards Myanmar as strategically important for regional security. The two countries have worked together on border management and intelligence cooperation to address insurgent activities in frontier areas.

India also hosts thousands of refugees who have fled violence in Myanmar, particularly from conflict-affected regions such as Chin state.

The visit has drawn criticism from pro-democracy activists. Justice For Myanmar spokesperson Yadanar Maung said hosting Min Aung Hlaing risks legitimizing a government accused of serious human rights violations.

In a statement issued Friday, she urged India to reconsider its support for Myanmar’s military authorities, including military cooperation and business relations, and instead back the people of Myanmar in their pursuit of federal democracy.