China's Xi backs Myanmar's president as two leaders meet in Beijing
Xi Jinping and Min Aung Hlaing Strengthen Bilateral Relations
BEIJING, June 16 (Reuters) - Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday endorsed the political leadership of Myanmar's military chief-turned-president Min Aung Hlaing as the two met in Beijing to map out the future development of bilateral ties.
Statements and Commitments from Leaders
"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.
Min Aung Hlaing's State Visit to China
Min Aung Hlaing is in China for a five-day state visit until Friday, his first trip to the world's second-largest economy since the former junta chief formalised his grip on power following controversial elections in the war-torn country in December and January.
Focus on Regional Peace and Development
Xi also spoke about making greater contributions to regional peace and development through their bilateral ties.
Key Events During the Visit
State Welcome and Closed-Door Talks
Beijing held a state welcome ceremony at the Great Hall of the People before the leaders began their talks in a closed-door meeting that lasted for less than an hour.
Signing of Cooperation Documents
The two men then witnessed the signing of cooperation documents, Chinese state news agency Xinhua said.
Areas of Cooperation
The 18 memorandums for cooperation covered areas including cross-border transportation in the Greater Mekong subregion, free trade, assistance in natural disasters, health and media.
China-Myanmar Relations in Context
China's Support for Myanmar's Military Government
China remains one of the most important foreign partners of Myanmar's military, which seized power from the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi in February 2021, triggering an armed uprising.
China's foreign ministry has said it supports Myanmar in unifying domestic political forces and restoring stability.
Belt and Road Initiative Investments
Beijing has also invested in projects in Myanmar under its Belt and Road Initiative, including an oil and gas pipeline crossing the country and planned infrastructure including a deep-sea port.
International Implications of the Meeting
Recent Engagements Between Xi and Min Aung Hlaing
The meeting is Min Aung Hlaing's second with Xi in less than a year, after he attended the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit in Tianjin last August.
Analysis of Myanmar's Foreign Relations
While Min Aung Hlaing picked India for his first foreign trip after becoming president, some analysts said the visits to China suggested a closer relationship with Beijing and a boost to his international acceptance.
(Reporting by Liz Lee and Ethan Wang; Editing by Himani Sarkar and Kate Mayberry)
