Chinese President Xi Jinping and military council leader Min Aung Hlaing met on May 9 to discuss the security of Chinese interests and personnel in Myanmar. During the meeting, the Chinese President directly requested practical guarantees for the safety of Chinese employees, organizations, and projects in Myanmar. They also discussed the effective suppression of cross-border crimes, including online gambling and telecommunications fraud occurring in border regions.
Min Aung Hlaing responded by emphasizing the importance he places on relations with China, expressing his desire to continue as China’s trusted partner nation. He promised to enhance cooperation in economic, trade, and energy sectors while guaranteeing full responsibility for the security of Chinese projects and personnel. This meeting took place during Min Aung Hlaing’s attendance at the 80th anniversary celebration of World War II victory in Moscow, Russia.
China is Myanmar’s largest foreign investor, with numerous infrastructure projects including oil and natural gas pipelines, hydroelectric power projects, and mining operations. However, due to ongoing internal conflicts, many Chinese projects face security challenges, with some operations suspended. As a result, the Chinese government is seeking security guarantees from the military council to protect their economic interests, according to analysts. The meeting’s significance is heightened by the fact that it was arranged through Russian assistance while Min Aung Hlaing was in Moscow for the Red Square victory parade, according to military sources in Naypyidaw.
