Chinese delegation discreetly arrives to hold meeting with Kachin government team

28 August 2023
Chinese delegation discreetly arrives to hold meeting with Kachin government team

A government delegation from China's Nujiang sub-province, accompanied by a dedicated security team, arrived on the morning of 24 August for a covert meeting with the Kachin State government under the Military Council, according to local sources.

The Chinese delegation met with the leader of Kachin State government for various reasons. It is common for China to engage with the government in Myanmar, as part of their efforts to maintain stability along their shared border.

According to a high-ranking official of the Kachin State government, it has been confirmed that the delegation of about 20 people arrived in Myitkyina town, where the Kachin State government office is situated, via a chartered plane.

Based on information from Mizzima reporters in the state, the delegation team is staying at the Yadana Thatchan Hotel, located in the heart of Myitkyina. It is reported that the hotel is owned by an affluent individual who maintains a close association with the Military Council of the Northern Regional Military Command based in Myitkyina.

According to an undisclosed member of the Kachin State government, the Nujiang sub-province, which is under the administration of Yunnan Province in China, has come to meet with the Kachin State government under the Military Council to discuss matters related to border trade.

Apart from the security team accompanying the delegation, the Northern Regional Military Command has provided security by deploying at least two fully armed battalions.

The purpose of this meeting also could be to discuss various matters of mutual interest, such as bilateral relations, regional stability, and potential areas of cooperation.

The townships of Bamaw, Momauk, and Mansi in Myanmar share borders with China's Yunnan Province, specifically with Baoshan District and Dehong Dai and Jingpo Autonomous Prefecture.

Additionally, the townships of Panwah, Tsawlaw, and Khaunglanhpu in Kachin Special Region (1) share borders with China's Nujiang Lisu Autonomous Prefecture located in Yunnan Province.

Within Kachin Special Region (1), China has undertaken extensive rare earth mineral extraction activities, backed by significant investments.

China has economic interests in the region, particularly in terms of natural resources and infrastructure development projects. Engaging with the local government and other ethnic armed groups allows China to protect its investments and maintain influence in the region.