Myanmar Junta Chief’s Visit to China: A Delicate Balancing Act
Myanmar’s junta chief, Min Aung Hlaing, visited China for the first time since the 2021 coup, attending a summit aimed at enhancing economic cooperation. Analysts viewed the invitation as cautious support amidst the junta’s struggles against rebels. While China desires regional stability, longstanding mistrust defines their relationship, and Beijing’s demands may shape the future governance of Myanmar amid ongoing conflicts.
On Tuesday, Myanmar’s junta chief, Min Aung Hlaing, arrived in Kunming, China, for the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) summit, his first known visit since the military coup in 2021. The junta is keen to strengthen economic ties with China amidst ongoing internal strife. Despite China’s longstanding support for the junta, analysts suggest that the invitation reflects a cautious stance rather than robust backing, especially given the junta’s struggles against significant rebel offensives. Min Aung Hlaing’s presence in Kunming is framed as an opportunity for cooperation, yet Richard Horsey from the Crisis Group elucidates that the invitation carries limited diplomatic weight compared to a bilateral visit to Beijing. This caution arises from China’s desire to maintain regional stability and avoid the repercussions of a potential collapse of the military government. The Myanmar military is currently under pressure, facing large territorial losses to rebel groups near the China border, illustrating the urgency of strengthening its alliance with Beijing. Jason Tower from the United States Institute of Peace notes that despite the strains in the relationship, China has made it clear it prefers the junta to maintain power, mainly out of fear of creating a power void that may invite western influence into the region. The historical mistrust between the Myanmar military and China complicates their alliance. The junta is reportedly wary based on past support China provided to insurgent groups, while recent developments have seen China leveraging its influence to restrain rebel advances that threaten its interests. Min Aung Hlaing’s planned discussions with Chinese officials may revolve around expediting elections, a demand made by Beijing, although such polls face criticism for their lack of potential fairness amid ongoing violence and party bans. Overall, this visit underscores the delicate balance of cooperation amidst underlying tension.
The political landscape in Myanmar has been tumultuous since the military coup in February 2021, which resulted in the ousting of Aung San Suu Kyi and her civilian government. Since then, the junta has faced fierce resistance from various pro-democracy factions and ethnic armed groups. China’s involvement in Myanmar is crucial, not only for geopolitical reasons but also due to its substantial economic investments, particularly under the Belt and Road Initiative. Analysts have noted that while China has offered tacit support to the junta, its approach has been cautious, indicative of the delicate dynamics involving insurgencies, regional stability, and international influences.
Min Aung Hlaing’s visit to China represents an effort to solidify support with a crucial ally amidst considerable internal conflict. However, the invitation’s implications appear limited, reflecting China’s careful maneuvering in the region. The junta remains in a precarious position, struggling against rebel forces while attempting to navigate the complexities of international relations that involve deep-seated mistrust and geopolitical interests. The outcomes of this summit could significantly affect Myanmar’s political landscape and its military’s future operations against insurgents.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
Post Comment