Xi Jinping Endorses Myanmar Military Leader Min Aung Hlaing in Beijing Talks

Chinese President Xi Jinping has officially endorsed the political leadership of Myanmar's military chief Min Aung Hlaing during a state visit to Beijing. The two leaders met to chart the future course of their countries' bilateral relationship.

"I am willing to continue strengthening our leadership (over our countries' bilateral ties), carry forward the brotherly friendship between our two peoples, deepen comprehensive strategic cooperation," Xi told his Myanmar counterpart, according to Chinese state broadcaster CCTV. Xi also emphasized making greater contributions to regional peace and development through their strengthened ties.

Min Aung Hlaing is on a five-day state visit to China, his first to the world's second-largest economy since solidifying his power after controversial elections in December and January. The visit follows his attendance at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit last August, marking his second meeting with Xi in less than a year. While Min Aung Hlaing previously chose India for his first foreign trip as president, these successive visits to China signal a deepening relationship with Beijing and potentially boost his international standing.

The leaders participated in a state welcome ceremony at the Great Hall of the People before engaging in a closed-door meeting. Following their talks, they witnessed the signing of 18 memorandums of cooperation. These agreements span various sectors, including cross-border transportation in the Greater Mekong subregion, free trade, assistance during natural disasters, health initiatives, and media collaboration.

China remains a crucial foreign partner for Myanmar's military, which seized power from the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi in February 2021, leading to widespread armed resistance. Beijing has stated its support for Myanmar's efforts to unify domestic political forces and restore stability. China's investments in Myanmar, part of its Belt and Road Initiative, include an oil and gas pipeline and planned infrastructure projects like a deep-sea port. Analysts suggest that Min Aung Hlaing's engagement with China indicates a strategic alignment aimed at bolstering his regime's legitimacy and international acceptance.

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I am willing to continue strengthening our leadership (over our countries' bilateral ties), carry forward the brotherly friendship between our two peoples, deepen comprehensive strategic cooperation.