6-11-2023 (BEIJING) China has called on Myanmar to collaborate in maintaining stability along their shared border following a recent escalation of clashes between junta forces and insurgents in Myanmar, a Chinese official stated on Monday (Nov 6).
Myanmar’s ruling military recently announced its efforts to restore order near the border after an alliance of ethnic minority armies engaged in coordinated attacks against junta targets, as they continue their fight for self-determination.
Nong Rong, the Chinese official, stressed the importance of Myanmar’s cooperation to ensure stability along the China-Myanmar border. He emphasized the need for the safety and security of Chinese border residents and personnel. However, there was no immediate comment available from Myanmar’s ruling military regarding China’s statement.
According to the Asia Times news site, one Chinese citizen was killed and several others were wounded on Saturday when a shell fired by the Myanmar military accidentally hit the Chinese side of the border.
Nong, who recently visited Myanmar from Nov 3 to Nov 5, expressed China’s hope for the restoration of stability in Myanmar. Furthermore, he expressed support for all parties involved, urging them to resolve their differences and achieve reconciliation through dialogue as soon as possible.
Meanwhile, Thailand is making efforts to repatriate 162 of its nationals who have become trapped in the midst of the fighting in Myanmar.
Myanmar has been in a state of chaos since the military coup in February 2021, which ousted the democratically elected government led by Aung San Suu Kyi, a Nobel laureate.
Pro-democracy insurgent groups have formed alliances with ethnic minority guerrillas in certain areas, who have long been advocating for greater autonomy and have been engaged in battles against the junta forces.
While Western governments have condemned Myanmar’s military and imposed sanctions, China, along with Russia, has shown support for the military regime. China asserts that it supports Myanmar in finding its own path and has called on the international community to respect Myanmar’s sovereignty.
China’s foreign ministry stated last week that it is closely monitoring the conflict in Myanmar. The ministry urged all parties involved to immediately cease the fighting, settle their differences through peaceful dialogue and consultation, and avoid further escalation, as stated by spokesperson Wang Wenbin during a regular press briefing.
