China pushes Myanmar to cooperate in maintaining stability along their common border

This comes after a surge of fighting between Myanmar's junta forces and insurgents near the border.

Nong Rong, assistant Chinese foreign minister, emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety of Chinese border residents and strengthening the security of Chinese personnel, according to a report from Reuters.

China hopes Myanmar will restore stability and supports all parties in handling their differences and achieving reconciliation through dialogue.

Thailand is working to bring home its nationals trapped in Myanmar due to the ongoing conflict.

Myanmar has been facing turmoil since a military coup in February 2021 that ousted the democratically elected government.

Pro-democracy insurgent groups have joined forces with ethnic minority guerrillas in some areas to confront junta forces. While Western governments have condemned the Myanmar military and imposed sanctions, China has been supportive of the generals and has called for respecting Myanmar's sovereignty.

Nong, during his recent visit to Myanmar, also encouraged the strengthening of security for Chinese institutions and projects in the country.

He visited a significant natural gas pipeline, part of China's Belt and Road infrastructure and energy network, connecting Ramree Island on Myanmar's west coast with the Chinese border city Ruili in Yunnan Province.