Op-Ed
“Love- Hate” Relationship Between Myanmar Military Council and China
This analysis details the deteriorating relationship and mutual distrust between the Myanmar military junta and China following the loss of the Northeastern Regional Military Command. It explores China's diplomatic interventions, including Wang Yi's visit to Nay Pyi Taw, aimed at stabilizing the junta while maintaining leverage over ethnic resistance organizations.
Key Events
- Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi visited Nay Pyi Taw on August 14, 2024, to meet with Min Aung Hlaing and address the military leader's anxieties regarding China's role in the conflict.
- The Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) captured the Northeastern Regional Military Command headquarters in Lashio by the end of July 2024, marking a significant defeat for the SAC.
- Following the fall of Lashio in early August 2024, military-aligned nationalist extremists organized protests portraying the resistance victory as a Chinese-led invasion.
- On July 9, 2024, China closed border trade gates and cut off telecommunications and electricity to Lauk Kai in an attempt to pressure the Brotherhood Alliance.
- In June and July 2024, China invited former President Thein Sein and Vice Chairman Soe Win to separate high-level meetings in China, signaling shifts in diplomatic engagement.
Regions Affected
Shan (Northern)
Note on statistics: The figures and events presented are drawn from published accounts in local media, reports and research by our network. Figures are cross-checked from local sources wherever possible, however due to challenges of reporting in conflict zones, discrepancies may result. In general, our team of researchers believe actual numbers are likely higher than we report.
Full Report
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