In brief
The visit signals Beijing's ongoing support and concern over Myanmar's stability as Hlaing faces challenges from insurgents.
China has welcomed Myanmar’s military leader Min Aung Hlaing for his first visit since the coup that ousted Aung San Suu Kyi in February 2021. This trip to Kunming, Yunnan, marks a significant moment for Hlaing, who has struggled against increasing pressure from poorly-armed insurgents and civil unrest. Although the trip was not classified as a state visit, the reception hints at China’s view of Hlaing's role in moving towards resolving the ongoing conflict in Myanmar. Leading a delegation of officials and business representatives, Hlaing attended a minor summit in the Greater Mekong Sub-region. His attendance is notable, given his recent isolation from international gatherings typically involving Burmese leadership. The summit includes leaders from other authoritarian nations, emphasizing the low-key nature of Hlaing's presence in an era marked by his regime's mounting difficulties. During the visit, Hlaing is anticipated to engage with Chinese Premier Li Qiang, underlining China's nuanced diplomatic strategies. Although outwardly seeking to distance itself from Hlaing’s regime due to the escalating civil war, China appears intent on maintaining influence in Myanmar. The recent escalations along the border, related to insurgent attacks targeting Chinese interests, have prompted Beijing to consider the risks associated with a potential collapse of the military regime.China's diplomatic approach appears designed to stabilize Hlaing’s leadership, with discussions reportedly including calls for a timeline to restore elections. The National Unity Government, representing the deposed elected officials, criticized Beijing’s invitation to Hlaing as a harmful move for Myanmar’s prospects, emphasizing that true peace and stability cannot exist under military rule.Despite ongoing struggles against the junta, the opposition remains beleaguered, while China’s commitment supports the current regime, potentially hindering genuine political progress. Amid limited engagement from the West and neighboring India, China's involvement stands out as the most tangible force attempting to address the unrest in Myanmar. The recent years have seen huge investments from Beijing into trade routes now complicated by ongoing conflict, positioning China as a central player in Myanmar's future amidst this turmoil.
