♤ India supported the inclusion of Myanmar as an observer in SAARC in 2008

1.2.6. Chinese Involvement in Myanmar

♤ Large Chinese infrastructure and mining projects in Myanmar have come up since the early 1990s, with scant regard for environmental degradation and displacement.

♤ China has increased its economic profile in the country in recent times pushing for a special economic zone at Kyauk Phyu among other projects. The special economic zone, expected to cover more than 4,200 acres (17 sq. km), includes the $7.3 billion deep sea port and a

$2.3 billion industrial park, with plans to attract industries such as textiles and oil refining, a Reuters report said.

♤ It also used short-sighted western aid policies to acquire considerable leverage within Myanmar.

♤ China now has an ability to significantly influence Myanmar insurgent groups such as the United WA State Army (UWSA) and Kachin Independence Army (KIA).

♤ Its navy recently held joint exercises along Myanmar’s shores.