Myanmar's Junta Leader Makes First Visit to China Since 2021 Coup

Min Aung Hlaing's visit aims to strengthen ties amid Myanmar's ongoing conflict and China's strategic interests.

Min Aung Hlaing, Myanmar's junta chief, is attending regional summits in Kunming, marking his first visit to China since the 2021 coup.
China remains a crucial ally and arms supplier to Myanmar, despite international isolation and sanctions against the junta.
The visit comes as Myanmar's military faces significant battlefield losses, particularly near the Chinese border, raising concerns for Beijing.
China has strategic economic interests in Myanmar, including infrastructure projects and resource imports, which are threatened by regional instability.
Critics express concern that China's support for the junta could complicate Myanmar's internal conflicts and hinder democratic progress.