Myanmar Military Chief Meets Xi Jinping in Moscow After 2021 Coup

Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, Myanmar's military leader since the 2021 coup, met President Xi Jinping of China for the first time since seizing power, during the Victory Day events in Moscow. Xi pledged support for Myanmar's earthquake recovery efforts, ongoing civil war resolution, and broader development, while emphasizing the protection of Chinese interests and personnel in Myanmar. The meeting highlighted China's role as Myanmar's largest trading partner, major arms supplier, and key diplomatic ally amid Western sanctions and international isolation of the junta. Min Aung Hlaing expressed gratitude for China's humanitarian aid following the March earthquake and outlined plans for a general election later this year with international observers. China's influence extends to mediation efforts with ethnic rebel groups to stabilize Myanmar and secure regional peace, given their shared long border and Beijing's significant economic investments. Both leaders reiterated commitments to strengthening bilateral cooperation and regional stability despite the ongoing humanitarian crisis and conflict in Myanmar.