China has reaffirmed its support for Myanmar’s military-led government during high-level talks in Beijing, where President Xi Jinping met Myanmar’s leader Min Aung Hlaing and pledged deeper strategic cooperation between the two countries.
During the meeting on Tuesday, Xi described Myanmar and China as “brothers who have stood together through thick and thin,” according to Chinese state media CCTV. He said Beijing was committed to strengthening ties and promoting “comprehensive strategic cooperation” across key sectors.
The visit comes as Myanmar’s military government continues to face international isolation following the 2021 coup that removed the elected administration of Aung San Suu Kyi and plunged the country into ongoing civil conflict.
Despite global criticism of the junta, China remains its most important diplomatic and economic partner, maintaining investment ties and political engagement.
18 agreements signed
Both countries signed 18 cooperation agreements during the visit, covering areas including free trade, cross-border infrastructure, healthcare, media cooperation, and disaster response. Beijing also pledged continued involvement in development projects under its Belt and Road Initiative, including energy pipelines and a planned deep-sea port.
Chinese officials also raised concerns over illegal online gambling, fraud networks, and drug trafficking operating across the border, calling for joint crackdowns.
Strategic alignment amid conflict
Min Aung Hlaing’s visit to China marks his second meeting with Xi in less than a year, signaling growing diplomatic engagement despite Myanmar’s internal instability and ongoing armed resistance from pro-democracy groups.
Analysts say the increased engagement reflects China’s strategic interest in maintaining influence in Myanmar, particularly in regions where major infrastructure projects intersect with conflict zones.
While most of the international community continues to distance itself from Myanmar’s military leadership, Beijing has positioned itself as a key partner advocating for “dialogue and stability” in the country.
The latest talks highlight China’s continued willingness to engage with Myanmar’s ruling authorities as it expands its regional influence in Southeast Asia.
