In this episode, host Namfon Narumol Choochan interviews Michał Lubina, Associate Professor of Political Science at Jagiellonian University, Poland. Together, they explore the evolving relationship between Russia and Myanmar, particularly since the 2021 military coup, and how these growing ties have influenced Myanmar's foreign policy and its relationship with China .Dr. Lubina also shares his insights on the future of Russia-Myanmar-China relations and on navigating the complexities of conducting research in Myanmar. Tune in to learn more!
Lightning round (Lecture Summary): 3:02
Main interview:
6:14 - What drew you to study international relations? Did you start by focusing on Myanmar/Burma?
11:30 - After the coup in 2021, the ties between Russia and Myanmar grew closer. What do you think contributed to this?
16:09 - During Aung San Suu Kyi's tenure, how was the relationship between Russia and Myanmar?
18:57 - How much has Russia influenced Burma's foreign policy?
22:13 - Does the rapprochement between Russia and Burma change Burma's relationship with China?
26:17 - Do you think the foreign relations between Burma and Russia, and between Burma and China, have strengthened the Tatmadaw after 2021?
29:28 - In 2023-2024, the Tatmadaw faced obstacles from the civil war. In your opinion, is there still any optimism that the resistance will prevail?
34:20 - What do you think about the future of the triangular relationship between China, Burma, and Russia in the next 5 to 10 years?
39:00 - Can you tell us about how you navigate complexities in conducting research in Burma?
Advice for researchers and recommendations: 42:38
Dr. Lubina's top recommendation:
The music on the podcast is from "14 Strings!", a Filipino-style Rondalla group established at Cornell University. Check them out here.
Produced by Adam Farihin and Cecilia Liu
