China welcomes Myanmar's president, offering legitimacy amid civil war

Myanmar's President Min Aung Hlaing received a diplomatic boost with a state visit to China, his highest level of engagement with Beijing since seizing power. The five-day trip includes a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, following a recent visit to India.

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An official state visit hosted by Xi Jinping is a visible signal that China is prepared to deal with Myanmar's new administration as a full partner.

Analysts view the official state visit as a clear signal that China is ready to treat Myanmar's administration as a full partner. While India offered a warm reception, it did not grant the full honors of a state visit. This diplomatic win for Min Aung Hlaing comes as he seeks to solidify his control over a nation embroiled in a devastating civil war.

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India gave him a warm embrace on his recent visit, but not the full honours of an official state visit.

China, a crucial ally and top trading partner, is expected to leverage the visit to advance its strategic interests. These include securing borders, developing key resources like rare earths, and strengthening its economic corridor to the Indian Ocean through Belt and Road projects. Beijing also acts as a vital supplier and diplomatic partner to the Myanmar military.

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China's interests are not on federalism, but rare earths, infrastructure, mining, and securing the economic corridor to the Indian Ocean.

Myanmar has been in turmoil since the 2021 coup, with protests evolving into a nationwide armed conflict. The military engineered an election that brought an army-backed party to power, leading to Min Aung Hlaing's presidency. The delegation accompanying him includes leaders from border states, highlighting the significance of China's influence and interests in the region.

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China also perceives the West in retreat from Myanmar and Beijing will assert a new suzerainty over the country.