China Advances BRI Initiatives in Myanmar to Expand Influence

Key Takeaways

China is advancing BRI projects in Myanmar.
Key projects include the China-Myanmar Economic Corridor.
Safety for Chinese personnel is a priority.
Chinese security firms are now operating under new laws.
Growing influence raises concerns among analysts.

Naypyidaw, Mar 5 (NationPress) China is advancing its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) projects in Myanmar, a proactive strategy that analysts suggest is designed to enhance Beijing's presence in the area.

According to Myanmar's prominent media outlet Irrawaddy, China is aiming to promote its interests in Myanmar through BRI ventures that encompass the China-Myanmar Economic Corridor, hydropower, cross-border industrial zones, and infrastructure projects such as high-speed railway systems and the Kyaukphyu deep seaport. However, these initiatives have faced delays due to ongoing conflicts in the region.

During her recent visit to Mandalay, Chinese Ambassador to Myanmar Ma Jia reportedly met with Junta-appointed Chief Minister Myo Aung to emphasize the need for heightened safety for Chinese personnel in the area.

Previously, Chinese initiatives in Mandalay had drawn criticism amid confrontations involving ethnic armed groups opposing the regime. In response, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi visited Myanmar to urge military leadership to guarantee the security of Chinese investments.

Reportedly, China has initiated discussions with ethnic armies along its border to cease their operations against the Myanmar regime, leading to a ceasefire in January. This engagement with both the Junta and ethnic rebel factions highlights a dual strategy aimed at amplifying China's influence.

Recently, a leading expert on Southeast Asian security dynamics, particularly concerning Myanmar, expressed concerns about China's increasing assertiveness in the area.

Miemie Winn Byrd, a security analyst at the Asia Pacific Centre for Security Studies (APCSS), stated in an interview with Irrawaddy that the presence of Chinese security firms in Myanmar, under the military Junta's Private Security Services Law, poses a significant risk of transforming the country into a “client state”.

The military Junta of Myanmar enacted the 'Private Security Services Law' in February, which allows Chinese private security firms to operate within the country. This legislation enables Beijing to safeguard its interests, including BRI projects, by allowing Chinese security firms to formally establish their presence throughout Myanmar, where Chinese investments are widely spread.