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)
The Chinese foreign ministry is calling for peace in the Myanmar-China border town. The call was expressed by Geng Shuang, the spokesperson of the foreign ministry, at a press briefing.
He said, "The situation in northern Myanmar relates to the peace and tranquillity of the China-Myanmar border."
"The relevant parties should have an immediate ceasefire to prevent the clashes from escalating and return normal order to the border as soon as possible," he added.
Geng explained that China has taken in refugees from the Myanmar-China border town and given humanitarian aid.
The spokesperson added, "Since the clashes began, some Myanmar border residents have entered into China on safety considerations."
China also offered $3 million to the Myanmar government so a nationwide ceasefire agreement would be signed.
The aid from China was for the victims of the insurgency that has been a challenge to Suu Kyi's year-old term. The rebellion is led by Rohingya insurgents.
Members of the Chinese-Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) launched attacks on the government, police and military forces in Laukkai, the capital of Myanmar's northeastern region of Kokang.
United Nationalities Federal Council Secretary Khu Oo Reh said that the conflict in Myanmar will need help from China.
He said, "As we don't really trust each other, we need international involvement."
Government spokesperson Zaw Htay admitted that China's support is important to the peace talks. He said China is the key player to encourage all non-signatory groups to come to the table.
He added that the government is opening its doors to all to sign the peace pact.
"Our State Counsellor is opening the door for all who are non-signatories to sign the nationwide ceasefire agreement and to participate in the political dialogue," he said.
Although China has given aid, the government made it clear that they will not meddle.
According to Special Envoy for Asian Affairs Sun Guoxiang, China "will not be a judge or an arbitrator. But it would like to see peace and stability in Myanmar."
