Hsu/Pearl (NSS) - Oct 7 

A source close to the Myanmar-Russia Friendship Association told The Statesman Journal that preparations are underway to sign an MoU between the two countries concerning the labor rights of workers sent from Myanmar to Russia.

With Myanmar workers recently beginning to travel to Russia officially for employment, initial meetings and discussions are underway between the two nations. The goal is to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to ensure that the workers can fully enjoy job opportunities and labor law protections. 

“There will be an MoU signed between Myanmar and Russia concerning the sending of workers. It will primarily address labor rights and related protections. Currently, the two ministries are conducting reciprocal discussions via video conferencing. As far as I know, the latest draft has already been exchanged. Our communications took place through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA). Our side has responded to the points raised by the other side, so the signing will proceed. Each country has its own procedures for sending workers—for example, Korea has one system, while in Laos it is mandatory to use agencies. Similarly, in Russia, workers must go through agencies, which means agency fees will apply,” a source from the Myanmar-Russia Friendship Association explained to The Statesman.

It is also learned that the MoU signing is being prepared for next month. 

“The signing is expected to take place this year. The Myanmar-Russia Joint Committee meeting will be held in Moscow. The signing is anticipated to occur before that meeting,” the source added.

Furthermore, it has been reported that plans are in place to send over 200 Myanmar male workers to Russia in the coming months.