China pledges ongoing support for Myanmar’s development and peace efforts.

Chairman of Myanmar’s State Administration Council (SAC), Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, met with Chinese President Xi Jinping on May 9 at the Beijing Ballroom of the Soluxe Hotel in Moscow.

 The meeting took place during the Senior General's visit to Russia, where he attended the military parade commemorating the 80th anniversary of the Soviet victory in the Great Patriotic War of 1941-1945.

President Xi extended his condolences to the government and people of Myanmar over the recent earthquake in Mandalay, expressing confidence that Myanmar would overcome the disaster through unity and resilience. He also reaffirmed China's commitment to providing the necessary assistance for Myanmar’s reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts. Marking the 75th anniversary of China-Myanmar relations, Xi highlighted China’s enduring support for Myanmar's sovereignty, stability, and development, pledging continued collaboration in promoting peace and progress in the country.

Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, in response, expressed his gratitude for China’s swift support during Myanmar's time of need. He noted that Chinese relief teams were the first to arrive, reaching Myanmar within 18 hours of the earthquake to deliver crucial aid. He thanked China for its emergency humanitarian assistance and requested continued support, given that rebuilding will be a long-term challenge. The Senior General also acknowledged China’s consistent backing of Myanmar on regional and international platforms.

Looking ahead, Min Aung Hlaing reaffirmed Myanmar’s commitment to holding a successful multi-party democratic election by the end of the year, with plans to invite international observers. He voiced support for China’s vision of building a community with a shared future among neighboring countries and expressed confidence that the meeting would further strengthen bilateral ties and cooperation.

President Xi, in turn, emphasized China’s adherence to the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence in international affairs and reiterated China’s support for Myanmar’s efforts in organizing the upcoming elections and maintaining regional peace.

The two leaders also discussed deepening cooperation across various sectors, enhancing bilateral relations, and working together on regional peace and stability. They exchanged views on building stronger ties rooted in friendship, tolerance, and mutual benefit.

Present at the meeting from Myanmar's side were Council Joint Secretary General Ye Win Oo, General Maung Maung Aye, Dr. Ba Shwe, Khun San Lwin, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister U Than Swe, senior military officers, deputy ministers, and the Myanmar Ambassador to Russia. On the Chinese side, President Xi was accompanied by top officials, including Mr. Cai Qi, Mr. Wang Yi, and senior members of the Chinese government and Communist Party.

This marks the first official meeting between the SAC Chairman and President Xi since 2021. Although Senior General Min Aung Hlaing previously met Xi as Commander-in-Chief of the Defense Forces, his November 2024 visit to China included talks only with Premier Li Keqiang.