By: Maarij Farooq
China has once again demonstrated its role as a responsible and stabilising force in global diplomacy by mediating the 7th round of peace talks between the Myanmar government and the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA). Held in Kunming, Yunnan Province, the talks culminated in a historic ceasefire agreement, halting hostilities as of 12 a.m. on January 18, 2025. This agreement is a significant milestone in ending years of bloodshed and conflict in Myanmar’s northern regions. Yet, the global response has been strikingly muted, exposing the double standards in the international community when it comes to acknowledging China’s contributions to peace and stability.
The MNDAA has been a key factor in Myanmar’s internal strife for decades. Emerging from a complex web of ethnic and political tensions, the group has been engaged in conflict with the central government, resulting in violence, displacement, and human suffering. Despite various attempts at reconciliation, sustainable peace has remained elusive, further destabilising a region already grappling with poverty and underdevelopment.
China, with its proximity to Myanmar and deep historical ties, has been a consistent advocate for peace in the region. Unlike Western powers that often impose sanctions or intervene militarily, Beijing has pursued a strategy of dialogue and constructive engagement. This approach has not only fostered trust but also positioned China as an indispensable mediator in resolving complex disputes like the one involving the MNDAA.
The mediation efforts of China are rooted in its vision for regional stability and shared prosperity. Over the years, Beijing has actively engaged with both the Myanmar government and the MNDAA, urging both sides to prioritize peace and development over conflict. The talks in Kunming, facilitated by Chinese officials, are a testament to this sustained diplomatic effort.
China’s approach is characterized by respect for sovereignty, a cornerstone of its foreign policy. Unlike Western nations that often dictate terms or impose their agendas, China ensures that the parties involved are empowered to make their own decisions. This respect for autonomy has been a critical factor in gaining the trust of both sides in Myanmar.
During the Kunming talks, China provided a neutral platform for negotiations while emphasizing the need for a ceasefire to pave the way for future dialogue. The agreement reached is not merely a cessation of hostilities but a roadmap for building mutual trust and addressing underlying grievances. This careful balance between short-term relief and long-term solutions reflects China’s pragmatic and forward-thinking diplomacy.
The ceasefire agreement signed on January 18, 2025, is more than just a document; it is a lifeline for thousands of people affected by the conflict. Under the agreement, both sides have committed to halting all military operations, allowing humanitarian aid to reach affected areas, and beginning discussions on political and economic reforms.
This is a critical step toward addressing the root causes of the conflict, which include ethnic tensions, political exclusion, and economic marginalization. China’s emphasis on inclusive development ensures that peace efforts are not confined to mere words but translate into tangible improvements in the lives of those most affected by the conflict.
The implications of this ceasefire extend far beyond Myanmar. Stability in Myanmar’s northern regions has a direct impact on China, particularly Yunnan Province, which shares a border with Myanmar. Escalation of conflict in Myanmar often spills over into Chinese territory, disrupting trade, displacing communities, and threatening regional security. By mediating a peaceful resolution, China not only safeguards its own interests but also contributes to regional peace and security.
Moreover, the ceasefire aligns with China’s broader vision for regional connectivity under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). A stable Myanmar is crucial for advancing infrastructure projects and trade corridors that benefit not only China but also neighboring countries. This is a prime example of how China’s foreign policy prioritizes win-win cooperation and shared prosperity.
Despite the significance of this achievement, the international response has been disappointingly muted. Western powers that often tout themselves as champions of peace and human rights have largely ignored this historic development. This silence exposes a glaring hypocrisy: when China takes proactive steps to promote peace, it is often overlooked or downplayed, while similar actions by Western nations are celebrated and amplified.
The double standards are evident. Western nations have historically approached Myanmar’s conflicts with punitive measures such as sanctions, which often exacerbate suffering rather than alleviate it. In contrast, China’s strategy of engagement and dialogue has produced tangible results, yet it receives little recognition. This bias not only undermines China’s efforts but also denies credit where it is due.
The Kunming ceasefire is a powerful reminder of the effectiveness of China’s diplomatic approach. By prioritizing dialogue over confrontation and respecting the sovereignty of nations, China offers a model for resolving conflicts in a way that promotes long-term stability and mutual benefit.
The world would do well to take note of this achievement and draw lessons from China’s approach. It is time to move beyond outdated Cold War mentalities and recognize the role that emerging powers like China play in fostering global peace and development. Acknowledging China’s contributions is not about taking sides; it is about being fair and objective in assessing efforts that make the world a safer and more prosperous place.
The ceasefire agreement between the Myanmar government and the MNDAA, brokered by China, is a landmark achievement with far-reaching implications. It demonstrates China’s commitment to peace, its respect for sovereignty, and its ability to mediate complex disputes effectively.
As China continues to play a constructive role in regional and global affairs, the world must shed its biases and recognize the value of China’s contributions. The Kunming agreement is not just a victory for Myanmar and China but a testament to the power of diplomacy and dialogue in addressing the challenges of our time. It is high time the international community acknowledges and supports such efforts for the sake of global peace and stability.
The writer is the deputy editor-in-chief of Daily Ittehad Media Group and Pakistan Economic Net.