China will steadfastly back Myanmar’s military

Significance

The junta in Naypyidaw is under growing external pressure to restore the democratically elected civilian government. Several Western powers, including the United States, have imposed sanctions targeting the military.

Impacts

• ASEAN’s unwillingness to intervene meaningfully in the Myanmar situation may complicate its relations with Western dialogue partners.
• Political instability in Myanmar will deter Western and Japanese investors from investing in the country.
• The plight of the Rohingya minority in Rakhine State will worsen under military rule.