In a significant diplomatic engagement over the weekend, Myanmar's newly appointed President U Min Aung Hlaing held talks with Wang Yi, a senior Chinese official and Foreign Minister, signaling continuity and deepening cooperation between the two neighboring nations.
The meeting, which took place on Saturday, centered on strengthening the comprehensive strategic partnership that forms a cornerstone of Myanmar's foreign policy. President U Min Aung Hlaing was unequivocal in his commitment, stating that Myanmar consistently regards its relationship with China as its most important bilateral tie.
"Myanmar stays committed to the one-China principle and highly appreciates and actively supports the China-proposed four global initiatives," the president emphasized during the discussions.
Looking ahead, the new Myanmar administration outlined a clear roadmap for collaboration. This includes plans to intensify high-level exchanges with China and advance the construction of the vital Myanmar-China Economic Corridor, a key artery for regional connectivity and development. Both sides also pledged to work jointly to maintain peace and stability along their shared border.
Addressing specific areas of concern, President U Min Aung Hlaing assured his counterpart that Myanmar "will never allow any activities that harm China's interests within its borders." He further committed to intensifying the crackdown on cross-border crimes like online gambling and telecom fraud, promising concrete measures to ensure the safety of Chinese personnel, institutions, and projects operating within Myanmar.
In response, Foreign Minister Wang Yi reaffirmed China's consistent and principled policy toward its neighbor. "China firmly supports Myanmar in following a successful development path that suits its national conditions and is supported by its people," Wang stated. He added China's firm support for Myanmar's efforts to safeguard its sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity, as well as its journey toward national peace and social harmony.
Wang Yi framed the bilateral relationship within a broader, forward-looking vision, noting that building a China-Myanmar community with a shared future aligns perfectly with the development needs of both countries. He urged both sides to unswervingly follow this path of mutual benefit.
Echoing the president's stance, Wang confirmed China's willingness to cooperate with Myanmar to "resolutely and thoroughly eradicate" the scourge of online gambling and telecom fraud. Furthermore, China expressed support for Myanmar's enhanced participation in regional dialogue and cooperation mechanisms, including its engagement with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
This high-level meeting underscores the strategic priority both nations place on their relationship as they navigate a complex regional landscape in 2026. The discussions set a collaborative tone for the new Myanmar administration, focusing on economic integration, security cooperation, and shared developmental goals.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
