Of the junta’s two major allies, only Russia sent a congratulatory message for Myanmar’s 77th Independence Day, with China eschewing the traditional mark of respect.
Moscow has sent congratulatory messages every year on Jan. 4, but China has not done so since the February 2021 coup.
China and Russia are the main suppliers of weapons and warplanes to the junta while also providing diplomatic support at the United Nations.
Countries that sent congratulatory messages on Independence Day included Russia, Belarus, Pakistan, North Korea, Algeria, Nepal, Cambodia and neighboring Bangladesh, according to junta media.
Neighboring Thailand and India, which enjoy close ties with the regime, joined Laos in refraining from sending a message.
Before 2021, most of Myanmar’s neighbors, including China, routinely sent Independence Day messages. However, many have abandoned this tradition since the military’s takeover.
Russian President Vladimir Putin, in his Independence Day message to junta boss Min Aung Hlaing, expressed confidence that Russia and Myanmar would continue to enhance their relationship for the benefit of both peoples and to strengthen stability and security in the Asia-Pacific region.
“I would also like to congratulate You on the New Year 2024. I wish You health, happiness, and success, as well as peace and prosperity for all Myanmar citizens,” Putin’s message read.
Although China failed to send a message, its ambassador to Myanmar Ma Jia attended the Independence Day dinner in Naypyitaw.
China responded to the 2021 coup by maintaining interactions with Myanmar but reducing diplomatic ties with the junta.
However, Beijing resumed high-level engagement with the regime in mid-2024. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi visited Myanmar in August 2024, and China hosted Min Aung Hlaing in November, his first visit since the 2021 coup. China has also been pressuring ethnic armed organizations near its border to stop fighting the junta.
China has yet to officially recognize the junta as Myanmar’s legitimate government. However, its increased engagement and support have sparked calls for Beijing to refrain from meddling in Myanmar’s internal affairs, with protests erupting among Myanmar nationals overseas.
