Myanmar strongman, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, has poured high praise on the late General Prem Tinsulanonda, saying he felt as if he had lost his father.

Min Aung Hlaing is reported to have made the comment to Thai Supreme Commander General Pornpipat Benyasri and Navy Commander-in-Chief Admiral Luechai Ruddit as they accompanied him to pay their last respects to the late Privy Council president and to sign a book of condolence at Songtham Throne Hall in the compound of Wat Benjamaborpit today.

Min Aung Hlaing was first introduced to General Prem in 2012 when Prem paid a courtesy call after his appointment as Myanmar’s military chief.

He reportedly said he felt good about General Prem at their first encounter and praised him for giving him good advice on democratic principles, which differ from one country to another, the idea of being grateful to the Motherland, poverty eradication through agricultural development and good leadership.