28-11-2023 (YANGON) In a gesture of goodwill, three Chinese navy vessels, including the guided-missile destroyer Zibo and guided-missile frigate Jingzhou, have docked in Myanmar’s main city of Yangon. The visit, part of renewed Chinese defence engagement, comes amid growing concerns in China about escalating conflicts between Myanmar junta forces and insurgents along the Chinese border.
Led by Senior Captain Sun Bo, the 700-strong Chinese force, on a four-day visit, aims to strengthen naval ties with Myanmar. The task force, which also includes a Chinese resupply ship, the Qiandaohu, is set to conduct naval security exercises, according to reports from the Global New Light of Myanmar newspaper.
The arrival of the Chinese vessels is part of the ongoing efforts by the Chinese navy’s 44th fleet, which has been involved in anti-piracy operations in the Gulf of Aden and off the coast of Somalia since 2008. This fleet was recently spotted in the United Arab Emirates earlier this month.
China’s increased military engagement in Southeast Asia this year follows the relaxation of zero-COVID restrictions in late 2022. In a show of regional collaboration, this month witnessed the 35th joint patrol between the Chinese and Vietnamese navies in the Beibu Gulf since 2005. Additionally, Chinese troops engaged in a border defence exchange with armed forces from Laos.
The Chinese naval visit comes at a critical time as Myanmar junta forces are engaged in battles with ethnic minority insurgents near the Chinese border. China, concerned about the situation, has called for peace. In response to the escalating tensions, Chinese troops are reported to have initiated live-fire drills on their side of the border, aiming to ensure that the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) forces are “ready for any emergency.” The drills, part of an annual training plan, are scheduled to conclude on Tuesday. However, the PLA Daily has noted that the conflict in Myanmar is complicating the security situation, adding a layer of complexity to the region’s stability.
