China's Diplomatic Efforts in Southeast Asia

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has engaged in diplomatic efforts with Laos, Thailand, and Myanmar to strengthen regional ties and address internal conflicts. In Thailand, Wang met with Lao Deputy Prime Minister Saleumxay Kommasith to enhance bilateral cooperation and support Laos' ASEAN chairmanship. Wang also visited Myanmar, where he met with former military leader Than Shwe and junta chief Min Aung Hlaing to discuss stability and democratic transformation. Amidst this, rumors of Min Aung Hlaing's detention by top generals were dismissed by the junta as 'propaganda' aimed at disrupting peace. China's role as a major ally to the Myanmar junta, while maintaining connections with ethnic armed groups, underscores its complex influence in the region.