EVENTS

Abstract:       

Myanmar-China bilateral relations have been based on the treaty the two countries signed in 1950, of mutual respect for each other’s territorial integrity and sovereignty; mutual non-aggression; non-interference in each other’s internal affairs; respect for mutual equality and to work for mutual benefit; and peaceful co-existence. Over 60 years of diplomatic relations have been relatively cordial but there were also difficult times. Tensions were high in the 1950s with the incursion of Chinese troops into the northern Shan state and the Chinese support of Burmese Communist Party and its insurgents. Moreover, the anti-Chinese riots in 1967 and the expulsion of Chinese from Burma accentuated the hostility. The bilateral relations, particularly post-1988 pro-democracy uprising in Myanmar, have been reciprocal and mutually beneficial. By pursuing a non-interference policy with regard to the internal matters of the country, China seized the opportunity to strengthen its ties with Myanmar in the face of pressures and isolation by the Western democracies on account of poor human rights conditions and lack of democratic reforms, as well as exercising veto powers in this regard at the UN Security Council. In return, China availed a range of investment opportunities in Myanmar. In the past few years, especially since the formation of parliamentary government in March 2011, Myanmar has opened up its doors to Western democracies, thereby bringing in more international competitors for China.

About the Speaker:

Dr. Nehginpao Kipgen is a political scientist whose general research interests include democratization, democratic transition, human rights, ethnic conflict, identity politics, and foreign policy. His academic research focuses on the politics of South and Southeast Asia, with specialization on Burma/Myanmar. He has published peer-reviewed academic articles in a number of journals. His forthcoming book titled ‘Myanmar’s History of Political Transition’ by Oxford University Press will be published this year. He has also made contributions in various international newspapers and magazines, all over the world.