Myanmar and Russia are expanding cooperation in oil and gas, refining and small-scale nuclear power as both countries seek deeper energy ties. The partnership includes potential Russian investment and technology to strengthen Myanmar’s energy security.
Myanmar and Russia are enhancing collaboration in the oil and gas, as well as nuclear energy fields, indicating a wider trend of deepening economic and strategic relations between Myanmar and Russia. Those talks were held while Myanmar's President, Minister Aung Hlaung Suu Kyi, was in Moscow, and energy projects were among the main issues discussed in meetings with Russian officials.
One of the first collaborations is in the area of developing Myanmar's oil and gas field. Russia has expressed interest in the exploration of hydrocarbons, including in Myanmar's seas, which cover the continental shelf. Talks have also been held on setting up an oil refinery and increasing Russian energy product supplies to Myanmar.
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The two countries are also discussing possibilities for enhancing cooperation in the field of natural gas and liquefied natural gas (LNG). Increased Russian involvement would allow Myanmar to develop access to its energy resources, as well as opportunities for investment, technology transfer and infrastructure development.
Another major aspect of the cooperation between the two is nuclear energy. Russia and Myanmar have been working towards developing a small-scale nuclear power plant based on Russian technology. In March 2025, an intergovernmental agreement was signed laying the groundwork for cooperation on the project, which was originally planned to be approximately 110 MW, but could be expanded.
The planned nuclear plant will be a significant boost to Myanmar's capacity to meet its electricity demand and enhance power grid stability. In addition, cooperation might include nuclear science, technical training, safety and the training of qualified personnel.
Russia's state nuclear corporation Rosatom is part of the nuclear cooperation. The project is part of a wider peace treaty for the use of nuclear energy agreed upon by the two countries in 2023.
A greater degree of engagement with Russia could open Myanmar to energy technology, investment and alternative fuels, as the nation struggles with major power and economic issues. The collaboration is a chance for Moscow to strengthen its presence in the energy market in Southeast Asia.
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The current talks also illustrate the wider economic cooperation between Myanmar and Russia in various fields, such as infrastructure, agriculture, trade and technology. Despite the ongoing international isolation of Myanmar, both sides have been keen to deepen the bilateral relationship.
Thus, the emphasis on oil, gas and nuclear power underscores the increasing significance of cooperation in the energy sector in Myanmar-Russia relations. The proposed projects can further support Myanmar's energy infrastructure and open up new room for Russian investment and technical cooperation if they are implemented.