Myanmar opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi had a rare meeting with a government minister on Monday, possibly signaling improved relations between her and the country's new military-backed leadership. Suu Kyi, who was informed of the meeting just a day prior, met with Labour Minister Aung Kyi for over an hour at a state guesthouse. This was the first known interaction between the 66-year-old activist and a member of the new civilian government. Both parties expressed positivity and satisfaction with the meeting, during which they discussed issues beneficial to Myanmar's people. Aung Kyi had previously met with Suu Kyi nine times between 2007 and now, while she was under detention and he was a minister liaising between her and the military government. He rejected the idea that these previous meetings were futile and expressed hope for further dialogue with Suu Kyi. Aung Kyi informed reporters that there were positive outcomes from past meetings and they anticipate improved results from the current talks. Alongside Suu Kyi, he issued a joint statement to the media, emphasizing the discussions centered on potential collaboration for the well-being of the people. This encompassed topics such as upholding the rule of law, addressing disunity, and addressing issues that will be advantageous to the general public. The country saw a new government take power in April, marking the end of nearly five decades of direct military control over the nation, which was formerly a British colony. Since being released from seven years of house arrest in November, Suu Kyi has consistently called for discussions with the new rulers. Nyan Win, a spokesperson for the National League for Democracy (NLD), Suu Kyi's active but officially disbanded party, noted that there have been signs of progress in the political climate and that the government's invitation to Suu Kyi shows some improvement. Suu Kyi has been cautious not to provoke the government since her release, refraining from criticizing the November 7 election, which was widely seen as fraudulent. The government and military have softened their stance towards Suu Kyi, occasionally criticizing her in state-controlled media but allowing her to travel and meet with diplomats, journalists, and supporters. Analysts believe that the government understands that taking action against Suu Kyi would upset the international community and prevent the lifting of Western sanctions in the near future. Having a dialogue with Suu Kyi could be seen as a strategic move by Myanmar's secretive leaders, many of whom have a military background, to demonstrate to foreign governments their willingness to engage. Christopher Roberts, a Southeast Asia expert at Australian National University, believes that the meeting was more than just a publicity stunt. He views it as part of a larger effort by the government to make gradual improvements. Myanmar is working towards establishing a credible government system and a positive image, and is seeking to normalize its relations with other countries. In addition to meeting with representatives from the US, Australia, and the UN, Myanmar's leaders have also allowed them to engage with Suu Kyi. Roberts stated that it would carry out these actions as long as they do not compromise security or stability.