China has reaffirmed its support for Myanmar’s military junta by promising technical assistance and aid for conducting a census and subsequent elections. This announcement came during a visit by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi to Naypyitaw, the capital of Myanmar, where he met with junta leader Min Aung Hlaing. The meeting, reported by the state-run Global New Light Of Myanmar newspaper, discussed the organization of an “all-inclusive election.”
While the Chinese foreign ministry did not explicitly mention the prospect of aid in its statement, the state-run publication emphasized that “necessary technological assistance will be provided for Myanmar to conduct the census-taking process” and that “essential aid will be given for the election.” This commitment comes as the junta faces increasing pressure from armed rebel groups and an ailing economy, with a recent extension of emergency rule for another six months.
The junta’s plans for elections, scheduled for next year, have been met with skepticism and criticism from the international community. Many political parties, including the dominant National League for Democracy (NLD), have been disbanded or forced to register under the junta’s terms. The resulting election is widely considered a sham, with the outcome unlikely to be recognized by most Western countries.
The junta’s efforts to consolidate power are occurring against a backdrop of escalating conflict in the country. The military is currently engaged in intense fighting with rebel groups, particularly in border areas, where the junta has suffered significant losses, including the fall of Lashio in northern Shan state. Beijing’s intervention last October, brokering a ceasefire between the junta and rebel groups near the Chinese border, only temporarily halted the fighting. The conflict has intensified in recent months, with the rebel groups gaining momentum and inflicting significant losses on the junta.
China’s decision to support the junta’s election plans raises concerns about its commitment to democratic values and the potential for further instability in Myanmar. While China maintains a policy of non-interference in internal affairs, its actions suggest a clear preference for the junta’s continued control over Myanmar, despite widespread criticism of its human rights record and the growing threat of armed rebellion.
