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

Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Myanmar's leader, Min Aung Hlaing, in Beijing, reaffirming China's support for Myanmar's leadership. Xi stated that Beijing prioritizes its relationship with Myanmar, describing it as holding an "important position" in China's neighborhood diplomacy. He expressed a willingness to strengthen strategic guidance and deepen comprehensive strategic cooperation, using the Burmese term "pauk-phaw" to refer to their close ties. China, as Myanmar's neighbor with the longest shared border, was called a "trusted friend and steadfast partner" by Xi. Myanmar was expected to seek the reopening of China trade routes that had been restricted due to fears of conflict spilling over the border.

During a state visit to Beijing, Myanmar's President Min Aung Hlaing met with Chinese President Xi Jinping, who offered staunch support for his leadership. The two nations signed 18 cooperation deals, including agreements on free trade and disaster assistance. Xi expressed a desire to deepen comprehensive strategic cooperation and stated China supports all parties in Myanmar advancing peace and reconciliation through dialogue. This meeting marks Min Aung Hlaing's second with Xi in less than a year, with analysts suggesting these visits signal a closer relationship with Beijing and could enhance his international standing. China remains the primary international ally of Min Aung Hlaing's government, which has faced international isolation since the 2021 military coup.

China has pledged to assist Myanmar's new government in reducing its diplomatic isolation and combating telecommunications scams. During a visit to Naypyidaw on Saturday, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi expressed China's firm support for Myanmar's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Wang emphasized the importance of strengthening bilateral relations and opening new avenues for cooperation in the first year of Myanmar's new administration. This commitment comes as Myanmar seeks to re-engage with international platforms and address the pervasive issue of scam operations, which have been a significant concern. The meeting between Wang Yi and Myanmar's junta leader, Min Aung Hlaing, underscored China's continued diplomatic engagement with the country.