ArrowArtboardCreated with Sketch.Title ChevronTitle ChevronIcon FacebookIcon LinkedinIcon Mail ContactPath LayerIcon MailPositive ArrowIcon Print
Comment

It's complicated: Myanmar and China have a difficult relationship

Generals aware of risks of depending on Beijing

Workers in Naypyitaw prepare for the visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping in January 2020. Myanmar's military has been wary of becoming overly dependent on China.   © Reuters

BANGKOK -- China's response to the coup d'etat in Myanmar on Feb. 1 was quiet, merely describing the country as a "friendly neighbor." Perhaps it was difficult for Beijing to acknowledge the political drama in a country that shares a border of 2,160 km.

It is easier to understand Beijing's position through Chinese media reports than from the government's official statements. The state-run Xinhua News Agency described the overthrow of the civilian government by the Myanmar military as a "major cabinet reshuffle."

Sponsored Content

About Sponsored Content This content was commissioned by Nikkei's Global Business Bureau.

Nikkei Asian Review, now known as Nikkei Asia, will be the voice of the Asian Century.

Celebrate our next chapter
Free access for everyone - Sep. 30

Find out more