China’s Minister of Public Security, Wang Xiaohong, visited Myanmar on November 1, 2023, to discuss security along the two countries’ shared border.
The visit came as fighting rages between the Myanmar military and an alliance of ethnic minority groups near the border.
Wang met with Myanmar’s Home Affairs Minister, Lieutenant-General Yar Pyae, and discussed “peace and tranquillity in border areas of the two countries” and cooperation on law enforcement and security.
The visit was seen as a sign of China’s support for the Myanmar military government, which has been accused of human rights abuses.
The fighting near the border has displaced thousands of people and raised concerns about a possible refugee crisis.
China has a vested interest in maintaining stability in Myanmar, as the two countries share a long border and China has significant economic interests in Myanmar.
Some analysts believe that China is using its influence to pressure the Myanmar military to reach a ceasefire with the ethnic minority groups.
However, others believe that China is more interested in helping the Myanmar military to suppress the rebellion and maintain its grip on power.
The outcome of China’s visit to Myanmar remains to be seen. However, it is clear that China is playing an important role in the ongoing conflict in Myanmar.