11-12-2023 (BEIJING) China confirmed on Monday (Dec 11) that peace talks concerning the conflict in northern Myanmar had taken place, yielding what the foreign ministry described as “positive results.” The announcement follows weeks of intense fighting between Myanmar’s junta and armed groups representing ethnic minorities.
Foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning expressed China’s satisfaction with the peace talks and the achieved positive outcomes. Mao stated that China is committed to providing ongoing support and facilitation for the peace process in northern Myanmar.
“We believe that the easing of the situation in northern Myanmar serves the interests of all parties in Myanmar and is conducive to maintaining tranquillity and stability along the China-Myanmar border,” Mao added.
The clashes erupted in Myanmar’s northern Shan state after an armed alliance, comprising the Arakan Army (AA), the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA), and the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA), launched surprise attacks against the military in October. This alliance has seized numerous military positions and a strategically important town for trade with China, posing a significant challenge to the junta’s authority since it seized power in 2021.
Last week, the junta’s foreign minister held discussions with the deputy secretary of the Yunnan Provincial Party Committee in China’s Kunming. The talks reportedly centered on “peace and stability along the border areas,” according to the Global New Light of Myanmar.
As a major ally and arms supplier to Myanmar’s junta, China has refrained from labeling the 2021 power transition as a coup. The offensive by the ethnic minority armed groups’ alliance has not only intensified opposition against the junta but has also led to clashes spreading to other parts of the country, displacing over half a million people, according to the United Nations.
