Myanmar Junta Leader Meets Chinese Premier

Myanmar's military leader, General Min Aung Hlaing, made his first visit to China since the 2021 coup, attending the Greater Mekong Subregion Summit where he met with Chinese Premier Li Qiang. The discussions focused on ongoing civil unrest in Myanmar and the importance of peace talks with insurgent groups, as well as China's significant economic interests in the region. Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra also engaged with Min Aung Hlaing, advocating for peaceful resolutions amidst skepticism regarding Myanmar's electoral plans. Despite China's military support for the junta, it maintains communication with various insurgent groups, urging negotiations to stabilize the country. The backdrop of these meetings highlights the geopolitical complexities in Southeast Asia, particularly in light of Myanmar's civil war and regional security concerns.