The relations between China and Myanmar have had ups and downs throughout history. The relationship between these two historically tense countries, particularly due to their neighboring borders, has recently been marked by improved ties between the Myanmar Army and China. However, due to ethnic conflicts and movements of militant groups on the border, problems in relations recur from time to time.
Bilateral relations started when the Myanmar recognized China in 1949, as the first non-communist country. As a result, diplomatic relations were established for the first time in 1950, and a mutual “Peace and Non-Aggression” agreement, founded on the principles of peaceful coexistence was signed. Myanmar pursued a neutral foreign policy during 1950’s and 60’s, and the start of “anti-China” riots in 1967 and the forced expulsion of Chinese communities from Myanmar, damaged relations between the two countries and created hostility between them.
During the 1970’s the bilateral relations has been significantly improved. Under the rule of Deng Xiaoping, whether China lowered it’s support to communist party in Myanmar, they improved their cross-border trade and agreed upon large commercial agreements. Along with that, relations also improved with China’s support, in terms of military aid. After coming under pressure from foreign countries due to the violent suppression of the protests in 1988 and the increase in violations, Myanmar tried to have stronger ties with China, and within this framework, Beijing’s influence within the country began to increase.
The greatest foundation of relations between China and Myanmar is provided by “economic and trade relations”. While China helps industries and industries in Myanmar develop and make profits, it plays a leading role in the development of Myanmar’s vast oil and natural gas reserves. In this process, although it has been subject to protests by the Myanmar people, China has not only provided assistance to the Myanmar Army and helped with economic development, but also played a role in the operation of all reserves in the country, ensuring that Chinese factories are included in the establishments.
While China is a “military supplier” and “trading partner” for Myanmar, Myanmar is an “important market” and “oil/gas source” for China. China has also strived to establish regional security as well as supplying many military materials. In this context, it aims to provide the shortest route from South China to the Indian Ocean by helping Myanmar build a naval base in Sittwe, a strategically important sea port, and financing the construction of a road connecting Yangon & Sittwe. In short, every benefit provided by Beijing also has its national interests at its core.
In addition, while China and Russia vetoed the UN’s penal bill against Myanmar, the Beijing government has worked to help its neighbor, which is in an unstable political situation, out of this situation over time. On the other hand, Myanmar has made trade agreements with India and increased its cooperation with ASEAN, trying to reduce its dependence on China.[i]
The UN bill for sanctions to be imposed on the country as a result of the coup that took place in 2021 was again vetoed by Russia and China. Although China initially described the situation as a “cabinet change,” it expressed its concerns over the imprisonment of Aung San Suu Kyi and the declaration of a state of emergency.[ii] In addition, the military structure within the country and the civil war environment pose a great risk to Beijing’s economic interests.
China has stated that it will not interfere in Myanmar’s internal affairs due to its consistent policy of “non-interference in the internal affairs of foreign countries” that it has been following for many years. Although its economic interests and influence in the region are at risk, China cannot disrupt its relations with the military, with which it has long-standing relations, nor can it risk its interests due to instability in the region. In this context, China is pursuing a peaceful path by easing tensions, cooperating with countries in the region, and engaging in mediation activities. Because for China, reaching a common decision with countries in the region is the most acceptable option rather than the West having a say in its own borders.
[i] “Myanmar: A Political Economy Analysis”, Research Gate, https://www.researchgate.net/publication/323018961_Myanmar_A_Political_Economy_Analysis, (Erişim Tarihi: 25.08.2024).
[ii] “The U.S. Calls Myanmar Military’s Takeover a Coup, While China Labels It a ‘Cabinet Reshuffle’”, CBS News, https://www.cbsnews.com/news/myanmar-coup-united-nations-biden-china-russia/, (Erişim Tarihi: 25.08.2024).
