China pushes for progress on industrial zone and deep-sea port

After the two sides met at the Presidential Palace on Monday, Yang said Thein Sein’s efforts had helped improve bilateral cooperation between China and Myanmar. 

“Peace talks between the Myanmar government and KIA [Kachin Independence Army] have brought about better outcomes and China is glad to see it. China has always respected the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Myanmar, and vows to cooperate with Myanmar for development of China-Myanmar border regions as well as economic development,” said Yang. Kachin State in Northern Myanmar shares a long and rugged border with China and suffered renewed outbreaks of fighting between the KIA and the Myanmar army this year. Last month both sides reached a seven-point agreement to continue talks for a ceasefire.

The Chinese State Councillor also pushed for early implementation of the Kyaukphyu Industrial Zone Project in Rakhine. The project includes construction of a deep-sea port which will allow China access to Indian Ocean trade routes. 

In 2011, work was halted on another Chinese-funded mega-project, the Myitsone Dam in Kachin State, with Thein Sein citing the objections of locals worried at the dam’s damaging effect on ecology and livelihoods.

Rakhine residents have complained that plans for the Kyaukphyu project lack transparency and cooperation with the public. 

Thein Sein thanked China for offering loans to develop Myanmar’s agriculture, for its assistance in the run-up to Myanmar’s chairmanship of Asean next year, and for the donation of three Buddha’s tooth relics.

“Myanmar needs to take lessons from China, where peace, stability and economic development have been realised over a 30 year period,” said Thein Sein. 

The president and Yang also discussed improving Myanmar’s health and energy sectors, ensuring peace and stability in the border regions and cementing a bilateral strategic partnership.