Mizzima
The National Unity Government (NUG) of Myanmar extends an olive branch to China by committing to uphold the “One China” policy, and to uphold its obligations under any treaties or agreements safeguarding Chinese investments.
In NUG’s official statement dated 1 January outlining its position on China, the NUG seeks to navigate a delicate balance between recognizing China’s importance and asserting its own aspirations for a democratic Myanmar.
The statement entitled “The National Unity Government’s Position on China” says “The One China principle will be upheld and supported in a sustained manner”.
“Aspiring to foster the interests of the people of the two countries, measures will be taken to safeguard Chinese economic investments and other socio-economic enterprises within Myanmar,” the statement said.
The statement also asserts the publicly-mandated NUG policy to prevent any organisation that poses a threat to the neighbouring countries’ “national security” from setting up operations or establishing a presence within Myanmar’s territory.
“Any organisation that poses a threat to the national security of neighbouring countries shall not be permitted to establish a presence within the territory of Myanmar.”
The statement also reaffirms NUG’s dedication to honouring its commitments outlined in treaties or agreements, specifically emphasising the pre-existing boundary treaties or agreements signed with other countries before the military coup in 2021.
“Myanmar remains committed to upholding its obligations under any treaties or agreements, including boundary treaties, signed between the two countries before the attempted military coup in 2021,” the statement said.
Regarding combating transnational crimes, NUG’s statement said that the country will be steadfast in collaborating with China and neighbouring nations to combat the crimes.
“Myanmar remains committed to engaging in close cooperation with China and other countries in the region to combat transnational crimes, including online scams and gambling, human trafficking and drug-related activities, which pose threats not only to the border stability of the two countries but also to the stability and security of the whole region.”
China’s influence over Myanmar’s escalating political crisis is prominent, as it holds sway over both the Myanmar junta and multiple armed groups, with the NUG statement marking a crucial point in this scenario.
The NUG’s statement carefully walks a tightrope, acknowledging China’s economic clout and historical influence while subtly pushing back against the junta’s closer alignment with Beijing.
Some Burmese activists have voiced alarm on social media.
An anonymous activist who is a member of the Milk Tea Alliance Myanmar Facebook group told Mizzima on the condition of anonymity, “In its statement, NUG says it accepts the One China principle. That means the NUG appears to be betraying the Milk Tea Alliance activists, who expressed strong support for Myanmar’s Spring Revolution.”
The Milk Tea Alliance comprises primarily internet activists from Hong Kong, Taiwan, Thailand, and Myanmar, advocating for democracy and human rights through online activism.
In his recent New Year’s address, Chinese President Xi Jinping reaffirmed China’s determination for eventual reunification with Taiwan. This in essence is the One China principle.
“China will surely be reunified, and all Chinese on both sides of the Taiwan Strait should be bound by a common sense of purpose,” Xi said in his New Year address.
