The paper explores the evolution of trade and economic relations between Russia and Myanmar in 1948-2018. Cooperation between two countries began with the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1948 (although the first contacts took place as early as the ХIХ century). The article emphasizes that the Soviet Union, and later Russia, provided significant assistance to Myanmar not only in economic development but also in other areas (education, geological exploration, healthcare, construction, military assistance). The author notes that the development of the legal framework for cooperation is of great importance for further strengthening of political, trade and economic relations between the countries.
At the same time, the author states that the history of relations between the countries was not continuous. During the period of military rule in Myanmar, relations remained good, but the volume of economic and humanitarian ties decreased to insignificant values. Their recovery began only in the 2000s. The beginning of political and economic reforms in Myanmar since 2011 has become a new driver for its cooperation with Russia.
Summarizing the results of the research, the author emphasizes that at the end of the second decade of the XXI century, the Russian-Myanmar cooperation is developing quite successfully, although not at a high pace and volume due to the presence of various risks in Myanmar
The author compares the quantitative and qualitative characteristics of Myanmar cooperation with China, India and Russia, highlighting their features and prospects. Summarizing the results, the author states that, despite the currently modest volumes of trade and investment, the potential for developing foreign economic relations between Russia and Myanmar is very high. However, Myanmar is an important link in the regional strategies of China and India, which also belong to the BRICS and the SCO. Therefore, it is impossible for Russia to build its political and economic ties with Myanmar without taking these aspects of regional relations into account.
