6487 2 ON EDGE: A majority of Myanmar’s ASEAN neighbours in Southeast Asia are opposed to any sanctions. Reuters G Parthasarathy Chancellor, Jammu Central University & Former High Commissioner to Pakistan Military dictatorships are now frowned upon across the world. Despite this, military coups do happen, particularly in Africa. Military dictators face prospects of ostracisation and denial of foreign aid. There are two countries in Asia — Pakistan and Myanmar — where the military exercises a strong influence on national affairs, and in shaping government policies. The authority wielded by the Pakistan army is unconstitutional. It knows how to manipulate politicians, and how to dump them. Despite this, the US has frequently been more than comfortable with the army’s extra-constitutional role in Pakistan.