China urges effective cooperation for resolving Myanmar's crisis during talks with UN Special Envoy

China urges effective cooperation for resolving Myanmar's crisis during talks with UN Special Envoy
Published 21 August 2024

The Chinese Embassy in Myanmar announced that during a meeting with Ms. Julie Bishop, the United Nations Secretary-General's Special Envoy for Myanmar, Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China and Foreign Minister, expressed hope that an effective solution to the differences in Myanmar could be found through mutual cooperation. He also emphasized the desire for efficient implementation of the ASEAN Five-Point Consensus and Myanmar's Five-Point Roadmap through reciprocal assistance.

On August 20, in Beijing, Wang Yi met with Ms. Julie Bishop and discussed these points.

During the meeting, Wang Yi reiterated that China, as Myanmar's largest neighboring country, has a vested interest in Myanmar's stability and development. He emphasized that no other country is more invested in seeing Myanmar return to peace and prosperity. Wang Yi reaffirmed China's respect for Myanmar's sovereignty, independence, national unity, and territorial integrity, while also stressing the principle of non-interference in internal affairs. He expressed China's support for ASEAN's role as the primary platform in addressing Myanmar's issues and highlighted the importance of effectively implementing both the ASEAN Five-Point Consensus and Myanmar's new Five-Point Roadmap through mutual support.

Additionally, Wang Yi acknowledged the complexity of the situation in Myanmar and recognized the unique and critical role that the UN Secretary-General's Special Envoy plays. He encouraged the Special Envoy to thoroughly study Myanmar's unique circumstances and the complexities of the situation, emphasizing the need for a fair and objective stance in managing relations with all parties. Wang Yi expressed hope that the Special Envoy would assist in finding an effective solution to reconcile the differences in Myanmar, benefiting the long-term interests of its people. He also mentioned that China is willing to support the Special Envoy's efforts and participate constructively in restoring political stability and long-term peace in Myanmar.

Ms. Julie Bishop expressed her gratitude for China's hospitality during her visit and acknowledged the complexity and challenges of the situation in Myanmar. She recognized China's unique influence as Myanmar's important neighbor and as a permanent member of the UN Security Council. She emphasized the importance of close cooperation with China and ASEAN to resolve the situation in Myanmar. Ms. Bishop committed to working towards a consensus that would lead to a swift resolution of the conflict, alleviating the humanitarian situation, and promoting a sustainable peace and prosperity led by the people of Myanmar.