Burmese Americans Protest China’s Role in Supporting Military Junta In Myanmar

Around 50 Burmese Americans gathered outside the Chinese Embassy in Washington to protest China’s involvement in Myanmar’s internal affairs, according to Voice of America (VOA). This protest is part of a global campaign urging China to withdraw its support for Myanmar’s military junta and respect the democratic aspirations of the people since the February 2021 coup.

Protesters held signs reading “Reject Junta’s Sham Elections” and “Solidarity with the People of Myanmar.” The demonstration was sparked by a statement from the Chinese Embassy in Myanmar, claiming China was not interfering in Myanmar’s matters and promoting peace and stability. Yin Aye, a protest leader and organizer since the 2021 coup, rejected this assertion, highlighting China’s close ties with Myanmar’s military junta and its alleged interference with ethnic resistance groups.

In August, the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA), an ethnic group opposing the junta in northeastern Myanmar, reported receiving a warning from Chinese authorities in Ruili, urging them to halt their offensive in northern Shan State or face repercussions. This warning angered the Myanmar public, who view it as a threat to ethnic forces fighting for democracy.

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China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Liu Jian did not confirm or deny sending the warning but stated that China is closely monitoring the situation and promoting peace talks. The protest in Washington was part of a series of coordinated demonstrations by the Myanmar diaspora, with similar protests having taken place earlier in cities like New York, San Francisco, London, and Tokyo.