Myanmar's top general heads to China as border regions slip from control
Myanmarʼs military leader prepares for his first China trip since taking power almost 4 years ago. The visit comes as rebel forces gain ground and Chinaʼs economic interests in the region face new risks
Min Aung Hlaing plans to join multi-nation talks in Kunming this week: its his first China visit since the military take-over back in early-21. The meetings (scheduled for nov-6 and nov-7) include the Greater Mekong group and ACMECS discussions with nearby countries
The trip happens as Myanmarʼs army loses ground to anti-government forces who started their push-back about a year ago‚ making China worried about its border areas. Beijing has already shut-down some border crossings and stopped goods going to rebel-held regions
China keeps big money in Myanmarʼs future — oil-and-gas lines cross the country and theres plans for a deep-water port. The northern neighbor also needs Myanmarʼs rare-earth minerals for its car and wind-power industries
Going there either for Chinese backing or pressure - both are bad for regular people
Last month the military started counting people for next years voting plans even though it doesnt control much of the country. During a meet-up in late summer Beijing promised to help with this census and election stuff; making pro-democracy groups mad at China for getting in the way of their freedom fight
