- Web Master
- June 15, 2024
Tribune Desk,
Dhaka, Bangladesh
Publish
: 20 Jan 2024, 10:55 PM
Myanmar junta officials convened in Naypyitaw on Wednesday
to discuss plans for the construction of vital infrastructure related to a
massive China-backed seaport in Kyaukphyu Township, Rakhine State.
This meeting follows the recent signing of an addendum to
the concession agreement for the deep seaport project, a crucial component of
the 1,700-kilometer China-Myanmar Economic Corridor connecting Kunming in
Yunnan province to the Indian Ocean, The Irrawaddy reported.
The seaport and special economic zone (SEZ) is a joint
venture between China and Myanmar and the junta-backed Kyaukphyu SEZ Management
Committee.
A China-brokered ceasefire between the military regime and
the Brotherhood Alliance, which includes the Arakan Army, Myanmar National
Democratic Alliance Army, and Ta’ang National Liberation Army, has stipulated
the protection of Chinese investments and the safety of Chinese citizens in
Myanmar.
Aung Naing Oo, the chairman of Myanmar Special Economic Zone
Central Working Committee and a minister in the regime’s governing body,
emphasized the need for closer coordination between ministries to ensure timely
completion of tasks.
He expressed optimism during a press briefing last month,
envisioning the Kyaukphyu port and SEZ as a pivotal hub connecting markets
across Asia, Africa, and Europe, fostering socio-economic development in
Myanmar and the broader region.
The recent developments are unfolding against the backdrop
of ongoing conflicts, with the Arakan Army engaging the regime forces in
Rakhine State.
Despite the regime’s imposition of a blockade and
indiscriminate air and artillery strikes on civilians, the Arakan Army has made
territorial gains, capturing Paletwa Township in Chin State and defeating junta
battalions in northern Rakhine.
The ongoing conflict in Ramree Township, bordering
Kyaukphyu, poses challenges to the continuity of the ambitious seaport project,
according to business analysts.
As Myanmar navigates through political complexities and military engagements, the fate of the China-backed Kyaukphyu seaport project remains uncertain, contingent on the delicate balance between military activities and economic aspirations.