The Myanmar military council has hired McKeon Group, becoming the second lobbying firm engaged to improve relations with the United States government. Based in Alexandria, Virginia, the company will primarily focus on enhancing relationships between the Myanmar military and both the US State Department and Congress. The agreement marks a significant expansion of the junta’s efforts to influence US policy through professional lobbying services.
The contract between McKeon Group and the military council commenced on August 1, 2023, with an initial term of six months. Under the agreement, the firm will receive monthly payments of $60,000 for its lobbying services. Howard McKeon, the chairman of McKeon Group, will lead the lobbying efforts for the Myanmar military. The company brings considerable experience in international lobbying, having maintained long-term client relationships with countries such as Saudi Arabia. This engagement represents another attempt by the military council to establish diplomatic channels through professional intermediaries.
McKeon Group will work in conjunction with DCI Group, another lobbying firm already retained by the military council. The arrangement involves a significant financial commitment, with DCI Group separately contracted for $3 million annually to work on improving US relations. This dual approach to lobbying demonstrates the military council’s substantial investment in attempting to influence US policy and potentially mitigate international sanctions. The hiring of multiple lobbying firms reflects the military council’s strategic efforts to navigate international diplomatic challenges and sanctions that have been imposed following their actions against civilians. Observers note that these lobbying efforts represent attempts to circumvent international pressure and sanctions that have been implemented against the military council.
