China Backs Myanmar’s Development Path in State Visit
China has reaffirmed its support for Myanmar in pursuing a development path suited to its national conditions, a principle that was underscored throughout Myanmar’s President Min Aung Hlaing’s five-day state visit to Beijing from June 15 to 19. The visit, his first since being appointed president in April 2026, marked a significant milestone in bilateral relations and provided a major diplomatic boost for Myanmar’s new military-backed civilian government.
A Consistent Diplomatic Message
The message of support was first articulated publicly by Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian at a regular press briefing on April 30, when he stated that China supports Myanmar in pursuing a development path suited to its national conditions. Lin also notably described Myanmar’s former State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi as a “long-standing friend of China,” adding that Beijing has consistently monitored developments regarding her situation, according to Xinhua News.
This position was reinforced on June 5, when Li Hongzhong, Vice Chairman of the National People’s Congress Standing Committee, met with Myanmar’s Minister for Foreign Affairs Tin Maung Swe in Beijing. Li reiterated that China will, as always, support Myanmar in pursuing a development path suited to its national conditions and deepen comprehensive strategic cooperation, as reported by People’s Daily.
The State Visit: Full Diplomatic Honors
Min Aung Hlaing arrived in Beijing on June 15 and toured Beijing Aerospace City before the main diplomatic engagements. On June 16, President Xi Jinping held a formal welcome ceremony for the Myanmar leader at the Great Hall of the People, complete with a 21-gun salute on Tian’anmen Square and a review of the honor guard. A state banquet was hosted in the Golden Hall at noon.
During their talks, Xi told Min Aung Hlaing that China places ties with Myanmar as a priority in neighborhood diplomacy and supports the new Myanmar government in coordinating development and security imperatives to find a correct path of development that suits its national conditions and wins popular support, according to the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
“China adheres to the principle of non-interference in other countries’ internal affairs, pursues a friendly policy toward all the people of Myanmar, and firmly supports Myanmar in safeguarding its sovereignty and territorial integrity,” Xi said, as reported by Xinhua News.
Deepening Economic Cooperation
A central focus of the visit was the China-Myanmar Economic Corridor (CMEC), a flagship project of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Xi called for both sides to steadily advance the safe construction of key projects to help Myanmar develop its economy and improve people’s livelihoods. Following the talks, the two heads of state jointly witnessed the signing of cooperation documents in areas including transportation and people’s livelihoods.
Min Aung Hlaing noted that China’s implementation of its 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030) brings important opportunities for Asian neighbors including Myanmar, and expressed hope to deepen all-round cooperation with China and elevate bilateral trade and investment.
Security and Regional Stability
The discussions also addressed shared security concerns. Min Aung Hlaing affirmed that Myanmar attaches great importance to the safety of Chinese enterprises and personnel in Myanmar and will make every effort to ensure their security. He added that Myanmar is willing to work closely with China to resolutely crack down on online gambling and telecom fraud and safeguard border security and stability.
Xi expressed support for all parties in Myanmar in advancing peace and reconciliation through talks to achieve lasting stability in northern Myanmar, which serves the fundamental and long-term interests of Myanmar and its people.
The ‘Pauk-Phaw’ Friendship
Throughout the visit, both leaders emphasized the deep historical ties between the two nations. Xi described China as “a trustworthy friend and partner” and noted that China and Myanmar have jointly advocated and practiced the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence over the 76 years since establishing diplomatic ties.
Min Aung Hlaing highlighted the “pauk-phaw” (fraternal) friendship between the two countries, stating that Myanmar and China are “brothers sharing the same bloodline,” according to an interview quoted by Bastille Post.
Strategic Implications
The visit signals China’s continued influence in Myanmar despite the international isolation of the military-backed government. By extending full ceremonial honors and signing cooperation agreements, Beijing has provided Min Aung Hlaing’s administration with a significant diplomatic victory and a measure of international legitimacy. The approach contrasts with Western nations that have largely condemned the 2021 military coup and imposed sanctions on Myanmar’s leadership.
What to Watch
Looking ahead, the implementation of the cooperation documents signed during the visit — particularly in transportation and livelihood projects — will be a key indicator of the relationship’s trajectory. Additionally, China’s role as a mediator in Myanmar’s internal conflicts, especially in northern border areas, and its engagement with various political factions including Aung San Suu Kyi’s camp, will shape the future of bilateral ties.