Myanmar correspondent Leong Wai Kit unpacks recent trips to China by Thein Sein and Soe Win, and what both countries want from each other.
This handout photograph taken on Jul 6, 2024 and released by the Myanmar Military Information Team shows Myanmar 's military deputy commander in chief of defence services Soe Win , upon his arrival at Qingdao in Shandong province of China . But it was a late June visit by ex-president Thein Sein that sparked international headlines.
In January, China brokered a ceasefire between the fighting groups, though the ethnic armies have since accused the junta of “Meanwhile, via the diplomatic track engagement, Thein Sein was able to make the trip to Beijing on Jun 28,” the source added. A source told CNA that Wang had asked Thein Sein to persuade Min Aung Hlaing to hand over power and form an interim government to pave the way for elections.
Soe Win’s trip takes place just as the junta is struggling to fend off renewed fighting with ethnic armies. The general is likely to seek China’s help and support in suppressing his opponents. He added Beijing was likely also using the visits to quell anti-China sentiments within Myanmar, strengthen ties and fix any issues of distrust.“Honestly, has a lot of explaining to do to China – its election plan, the escalation of fighting and the meeting with US in Hanoi,” said Stimson Centre senior fellow and co-director of the East Asia Programme and director of the China programme Yun Sun.
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