China’s Xi vows support for Myanmar as President Min Aung Hlaing moves to bridge isolation

Myanmar expected to push for reopened China trade routes that were restricted for fear of conflict spilling over the border4-MIN READ4-MIN0ListenPublished: 10:00pm, 16 Jun 2026Chinese President Xi Jinping reaffirmed support for Myanmar’s leadership under former junta chief Min Aung Hlaing on Tuesday, reinforcing Beijing’s influence as its southern neighbour struggles to contain a gruelling civil war.Speaking after a welcome ceremony at the Great Hall of the People, Xi said Beijing prioritised its ties with Myanmar, which he said held an “important position” in China’s neighbourhood diplomacy.“I am willing to strengthen strategic guidance with you, carry forward our pauk-phaw friendship, and deepen comprehensive strategic cooperation,” Xi said, according to news footage aired by state broadcaster CCTV. He was using a Burmese term that refers to the two countries’ close-knit ties.01:04Myanmar paves way for junta chief to be civilian president, ruling with ‘iron fist’As Myanmar’s neighbour with the longest shared border, China was “a trusted friend and steadfast partner”, Xi told his counterpart from Myanmar.