Min Aung Hlaing, the leader of Myanmar's military junta, is visiting Kunming, China, for a summit of the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) on November 5, 2024. This marks his first official trip to China since the military coup in February 2021.
The summit includes representatives from Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia. According to Myanmar's state broadcaster, MRTV, Hlaing will engage in discussions with Chinese officials to strengthen goodwill and economic ties between the two nations.
China has maintained a working relationship with Myanmar's junta, which is crucial for Beijing's strategic interests in the region, particularly regarding the Belt and Road Initiative. However, instability in Myanmar poses risks to China’s investments and regional stability.
Despite the official visit, experts suggest that it may not confer significant diplomatic weight, as the invitation to the summit does not equate to a formal bilateral invitation to Beijing. Analysts have expressed concerns that this visit could exacerbate challenges for the junta, as it may be perceived as conceding to Chinese influence in exchange for support.
Hlaing's trip is viewed as an effort to garner international legitimacy and support amid ongoing domestic unrest and criticism of the junta's governance.