The conflict between the groups threatens the peace Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi has promised minorities living in that region of the country. (Photo : Getty Images)
In an attempt to prevent any damage that could sever diplomatic ties, China took an action against ethnic Myanmar rebels, suspending a Chinese bank account that these opposers have reportedly used.
According to a Reuters article, this move has earned the praises of Myanmar's government.
China's State-owned Agricultural Bank of China (AgBank) has been revealed as a portal that the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA), an armed group of rebels fighting Myanmar troops near the Chinese border, uses to solicit funds.
Reuters revealed that for the past two years, the MNDAA was able to raise over $500,000, which was either deposited directly to the bank or was sent via Tencent's WeChat Pay and Alibaba's Alipay.
However, no evidence of AgBank or any other financial platforms that were used in MNDAA transactions breaking Chinese law has surfaced.
After Nobel Peace Prize winner Aung San Suu Kyi came to power in 2016, Myanmar's peace process has lost its momentum. The battle to end the country's conflict commenced under the preceding semi-civilian administration.
Militias have reportedly accused Suu Kyi of refusing to enter a major peace conference and of undertaking a one-sided strategy in resolving the issue.
With the ethnic conflicts in Myanmar, its diplomatic ties with China have also been strained. These conflicts have spilled over the boarded and observers claim that "Beijing uses ethnically Chinese insurgent groups as a means of leverage over Myanmar," Reuters wrote.
The recent AgBank suspension sparked positivity between the two countries.
"We appreciated this action. Stability and peace in border area is common interest for both side. (It was a) very positive move from China," presidential spokesman Mr. Zaw Htay told Reuters.
Meanwhile, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Hua Chunying noted that she does not know details about the suspension of AgBank.
"We consistently persevere in not interfering in other countries' internal affairs and respect the entirety of Myanmar's sovereign rights and territory. We will not allow any group or individual to use China's territory to undermine China-Myanmar relations and the border regions' stability. For any illegal activity, we will deal with it according to law," she enthused.
Earlier in March, rebels from the predominantly ethnic Chinese MNDAA fought against troops located in northeastern Myanmar. Beijing called for a ceasefire after around 20,000 fled across the border to China to avoid being involved in the conflict.
To address the conflict and to discuss ways on how to promote peace and stability, Myanmar Army Chief Min Aung Hlaing has summoned the Chinese ambassador and defense attache via his Facebook page.
