Myanmar opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi had an unusual meeting with a government minister on Monday, potentially indicating improved relations between her and the new military-backed leadership. The meeting, which Suu Kyi was only informed about the day before, lasted over an hour and took place at a state guesthouse. This was the first confirmed interaction between the 66-year-old Suu Kyi and a member of the new civilian government. Both parties expressed satisfaction with the meeting and stated that they discussed issues beneficial to the people of Myanmar. Despite being previously acquainted, having met on nine occasions while Suu Kyi was in detention and Aung Kyi was a minister liaising with the junta, Aung Kyi emphasized that he hoped for more dialogue with Suu Kyi and rejected the notion that their past meetings were unproductive. Aung Kyi informed reporters that there were advantages from past meetings and they anticipate improved outcomes from the current talks. Standing next to Suu Kyi, Aung Kyi presented a joint statement to the media, stating that the discussions revolved around potential collaboration for the welfare of the people. This encompassed topics such as enforcing the rule of law, addressing divisions, and addressing issues that will be advantageous to the public. Following 49 years of direct military control, a new government assumed power in April in the former British colony. Ever since being released from seven years of house arrest last November, Suu Kyi has been advocating for dialogue 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, especially with the government extending an invitation to Suu Kyi. Suu Kyi has been cautious in her interactions with the government since her release, refraining from criticizing the November 7 election, which was widely seen as a sham that maintained the same regime in power under the guise of democracy. The government and military have shown a softer approach towards Suu Kyi, occasionally criticizing her in state-run media but allowing her to travel freely and meet with diplomats, journalists, and supporters. Analysts believe that the government recognizes that any action taken against Suu Kyi would provoke backlash from the international community and jeopardize the possibility of Western sanctions being lifted in the near future. Engaging in dialogue with Suu Kyi could be a strategic move by Myanmar's secretive leaders, many of whom have military backgrounds, to demonstrate to foreign governments their willingness to communicate. Christopher Roberts, an expert on Southeast Asia at Australian National University, suggested that the meeting was likely more than just a show for the public. He believes that it is part of a larger effort by the government to make gradual improvements and establish a more legitimate image. Myanmar is striving to create a functioning government and improve its international reputation by not only meeting with representatives from the US, Australia, and the UN, but also allowing them to have discussions with Suu Kyi. Roberts stated that these actions will be taken, as long as they do not compromise security or stability.