Myanmar's ex-junta chief Min Aung Hlaing is expected in Thailand on Thursday, making his first trip there since becoming civilian leader as he seeks a return to the diplomatic fold for his pariah state. Advertisement AdvertisementAdvertisement AdvertisementNeighbouring Thailand has since been leading an effort to normalise relations with Myanmar, both bilaterally and through the 11-nation Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). And Min Aung Hlaing has been on a diplomatic drive since swapping his military uniform for civilian dress, visiting India, key ally China, and ASEAN member Laos in turn. Advertisement AdvertisementAdvertisement AdvertisementIndependent Myanmar analyst David Mathieson told AFP that Myanmar's campaign for re-entry into ASEAN was a matter of "pure status" for Min Aung Hlaing. Campaign group Justice For Myanmar slammed Thailand for its diplomatic overtures, saying in a statement: "Min Aung Hlaing must be held accountable for his crimes, not awarded false legitimacy."