The U.S. Embassy’s top diplomat in Myanmar, Douglas Sonnek, has sparked a wave of public criticism following his high-profile attendance at the Yangon International Mobility Show held between 20 and 22 March.
Images of the Chargé d’Affaires socializing with business entities linked to the Myanmar junta have ignited a fierce debate on social media, with many activists accusing the United States of a “policy-practice disconnect.”
In an official statement released on 24 March, the U.S. Embassy defended the visit, characterizing it as a standard diplomatic effort to support American commercial interest specifically the Ford Motor Company and to advocate for a “level playing field” for international businesses.
The embassy underscored that their participation was strictly aimed at ensuring fair competition for U.S. brands in the local market.
However, following the release of the statement, revolutionary activists and the Myanmar public began questioning the U.S. stance on social media platforms.
Critics argue that while the U.S. government claims to oppose the military dictatorship and defend democracy, its involvement in business sectors under the junta shows a discrepancy between policy and practice.
“By shaking hands with the business partners of a terrorist military, U.S. values are being diminished. The U.S. Embassy should not have mutual business interests with the terrorist military,” one Facebook user criticized.
Although the U.S. government has repeatedly imposed sanctions on the Myanmar junta and its interests, the personal attendance of the embassy chief at the car show is being viewed as a disappointing event.
The Yangon International Mobility Show, featuring top automotive brands, was held at the Yangon Convention Centre (YCC) from 20 to 22 March.
Douglas Sonnek assumed the role of Chargé d’Affaires at the U.S. Embassy in mid-January of this year. According to a U.S. Embassy announcement on 15 January, he previously led the embassy’s Political and Economic Section from 2011 to 2014.
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