Chinese President Xi Jinping has made direct demands to military council leader Min Aung Hlaing regarding the security of Chinese business interests and personnel in Myanmar. During their meeting on May 9, the Chinese President demanded practical guarantees for the safety of Chinese staff, organizations, and projects in Myanmar, according to Chinese state media Xinhua. Additionally, he called for effective measures to combat cross-border crimes such as online gambling and telecommunications fraud occurring in border regions.
Military council leader Min Aung Hlaing responded by emphasizing the importance he places on relations with China, expressing his desire to continue as China’s trusted partner. He promised to maintain cooperation in economic, trade, and energy sectors while guaranteeing maximum security for 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. According to military sources in Naypyidaw, Min Aung Hlaing had sought this meeting with the Chinese President through Russian assistance.
This meeting occurs at a time of heightened concerns over Chinese interests in Myanmar. China is the largest foreign investor in Myanmar, with major investments in energy, mining, infrastructure, and telecommunications sectors. The discussion highlights the complex relationship between China and Myanmar’s military council, particularly regarding the security of Chinese investments and personnel in the country. The meeting also underscores China’s significant economic presence in Myanmar and its interest in maintaining stability for its investments, even as the country faces ongoing internal conflicts and international criticism of the military council’s actions.
