China Increases Military Presence Amid Myanmar Conflict

China's military is organizing patrols and live-fire exercises near the Myanmar border to maintain security as fighting between Myanmar's junta and rebels escalates. Areas around Ruili, Zhenkang, and Gengma Dai and Va in Yunnan Province are the focus, with recent clashes affecting Chinese infrastructure and social stability.

China's military announced on Monday that it had mobilized army units and coordinated joint air-ground police patrols near its border with Myanmar to uphold security as clashes between Myanmar's ruling junta and rebel factions intensify.

The security operations will concentrate on regions around Ruili and Zhenkang in China. Fierce battles in northern Myanmar's Kachin and Shan states have led to casualties and property damage on the Chinese side, jeopardizing infrastructure projects.

The Southern Theater Command of the Chinese People's Liberation Army is assessing its troops' proficiency in rapid response, control, and coordinated strikes to sustain stability in the border regions. Additionally, live-fire drills are slated for August 27-29 in areas south of Ruili in Yunnan Province.

China has expressed concerns that the Myanmar conflict is disrupting stability and social harmony along its border. Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi recently affirmed China's ongoing commitment to fostering peace and stability in Myanmar.

(With inputs from agencies.)