BEIJING
China gave a formal welcome to Myanmar’s President Min Aung Hlaing during his state visit to Beijing, marking a major diplomatic moment for the former military chief as he seeks wider recognition of his leadership. The visit included a ceremonial reception at the Great Hall of the People, where Chinese President Xi Jinping met Min Aung Hlaing. The trip is being seen as a significant step for Myanmar’s military-backed administration, which has faced strong international criticism since taking power after the 2021 coup.
Reports say the visit gives Min Aung Hlaing a boost in legitimacy, especially after a recent election that excluded major opposition groups and resulted in an army-supported government taking power. China, Myanmar’s largest trading partner, is expected to focus discussions on economic projects, border trade, and resource development. Key topics likely include infrastructure projects under China’s Belt and Road Initiative and access to rare earth minerals from border regions.
The delegation also includes officials from Myanmar’s Kachin and Shan states, areas that share borders with China and are rich in natural resources. These regions have also seen ongoing armed conflict between the military and ethnic armed groups. Experts believe projects such as the long-stalled Myitsone Dam may be discussed again during the visit, along with wider investment and trade agreements between the two countries.
Myanmar has been in civil war since the 2021 military takeover, which triggered nationwide protests and armed resistance. The conflict has killed tens of thousands and displaced millions of people. Observers note that China continues to play a key role in Myanmar through trade, diplomacy, and strategic influence, while also managing its own security and economic interests along the border region.
