According to state media reports on Monday, Min Aung Hlaing, the leader of Myanmar’s junta, is set to visit China this week for regional summits. This marks the general’s first trip to a significant neighbouring country since he took control in a coup in 2021.
Since the coup, Myanmar has descended into chaos, particularly in regions bordering China. An armed resistance movement has emerged, joining forces with established ethnic minority militias to seize control of significant territories from the military government.
Min Aung Hlaing is set to participate in the upcoming summits of the Greater Mekong Subregion and the Ayeyawady-Chao Phraya-Mekong Economic Co-operation Strategy (ACMECS). He will also engage in discussions with representatives from Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam on November 6 and 7 in Kunming, according to MRTV.
The junta chief is set to engage in meetings and discussions with Chinese authorities, focusing on enhancing bilateral relations and economic and developmental initiatives across various sectors.
Recent developments in Myanmar have raised concerns in China as the military’s situation worsens amid significant advances by anti-junta fighters following a surprise offensive last October. In response, China has taken measures to seal portions of its border and suspend crucial imports to areas controlled by rebels, according to reports from Reuters.
China’s economic engagement in Myanmar is marked by significant strategic interests, notably the construction of major oil and gas pipelines traversing the nation, alongside plans for a deep-sea port in the Bay of Bengal.
Beijing imports rare earth from its smaller neighbour, utilizing these resources in the automotive and wind energy sectors.
“Regardless of whether he is seeking additional support from China or facing increased pressure, the outcome remains detrimental for the populace,” stated David Mathieson, an independent analyst monitoring developments in Myanmar.
“China has expressed its support for the State Administration Council (SAC) and their electoral transition plan,” he stated, referencing the junta led by Min Aung Hlaing.
Last month, the junta initiated a nationwide census to facilitate an election scheduled for next year. This move comes in the face of significant challenges, including a lack of control over large areas of the country and the disbandment of numerous political parties.
In August, Myanmar state media reported that Beijing pledged technical support and assistance to the junta regarding the upcoming census and proposed elections following a meeting between Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Min Aung Hlaing.
The meeting held in Naypyidaw, Myanmar’s capital, has drawn criticism from various quarters, with some viewing it as an endorsement of the junta by Beijing. Activists within the war-torn nation have expressed their frustration over China’s position, labelling it as an obstacle in their pursuit of democracy.
