Moscow: China's President Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of advancing Myanmar's political agenda cautiously during a meeting with Myanmar's junta chief Min Aung Hlaing in Moscow. This statement was shared by Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning on the platform X.

According to Anadolu Agency, Xi Jinping expressed China's support for Myanmar in its efforts to follow a development path aligned with its national conditions. He highlighted the importance of safeguarding Myanmar's sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity, and national stability. Xi urged Myanmar to advance its domestic political agenda prudently and to ensure the safety of Chinese personnel, institutions, and projects within the country. Additionally, he encouraged Myanmar to intensify efforts to curb cross-border crimes.

The meeting between Xi and Min Aung Hlaing took place as both leaders attended the 80th anniversary commemoration of Victory Day against Nazi Germany in Russia. During the discussions, Xi reiterated China's commitment to support Myanmar in the aftermath of the devastating March 28 earthquake in Mandalay, which resulted in nearly 3,800 fatalities and left tens of thousands homeless.

Myanmar is currently grappling with a prolonged ethnic conflict, predominantly in the northern regions, where clashes between ethnic armed groups and the ruling military junta have intensified in recent months. This ongoing violence has led to significant displacement and raised concerns about potential spillover into neighboring Thailand.

In an effort to address the conflict, Myanmar and the ethnic armed groups have recently agreed to extend their temporary ceasefire period from May 6 to May 31. China has also taken an active role by sending observers to Myanmar to monitor the ceasefire between the conflicting parties.