
New Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun holds a news conference in Beijing on Jan. 6, 2025. (Photo by Kyodo News via Getty Images)
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mr. Guo Jiakun has made an important announcement regarding the situation in Lashio. He confirmed that China is acting as a mediator and observer in the process of transferring control of Lashio urban areas, currently held by the Kokang MNDAA forces, back to the military council and implementing a ceasefire between both sides. China has already dispatched a special ceasefire monitoring team to Lashio, which is closely observing the cessation of hostilities between military council forces and MNDAA troops.
According to the Chinese Foreign Ministry statement, China respects Myanmar’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and is actively supporting peace process initiatives in northern Myanmar at the request of relevant organizations. They also disclosed that China is serving as a witness in implementing the agreements reached during the Kunming peace talks. Mr. Guo emphasized that China will continue to facilitate dialogue aimed at ending conflicts in northern Myanmar and maintaining stability in the China-Myanmar border region.
Mr. Guo Jiakun also outlined China’s future plans regarding the situation. He stated that China will continue to enhance the Kunming peace talks process and maintain ongoing negotiations to end conflicts in northern Myanmar. He emphasized that bilateral cooperation between China and Myanmar will continue to ensure peace and stability in the border regions. The relevant stakeholders have expressed their appreciation for China’s constructive role in maintaining peace and stability in northern Myanmar. The spokesperson noted that China will remain actively engaged in supporting peaceful resolution efforts while respecting Myanmar’s internal affairs and territorial sovereignty.