On 20 July 2023, H.E. Secretary General Shi Zhongjun of the ASEAN-China Centre (ACC) paid a courtesy call on H.E. Union Minister U Than Swe for Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Myanmar in Nay Pyi Taw. Director General Khin Thidar Aye of ASEAN Affairs of MOFA was also present.

    Secretary General Shi Zhongjun said that ASEAN-China cooperation really carries special significance in maintaining regional peace and stability, as well as achieving economic recovery and social progress in the post-pandemic era, considering the current challenging international circumstances. As “pauk-phaw” brothers connected by mountains and rivers, Myanmar and China have every reason to tide over difficulties in a spirit of building a community with a shared future. He also acknowledged Myanmar’s active role as current country coordinator for ASEAN-China relations significantly contributing to promoting cooperation between both sides. The ACC stands ready to work with Myanmar to better serve the growth of Myanmar-China relations as well as ASEAN-China comprehensive strategic relationship in the future.

  

    Union Minister U Than Swe warmly welcomed the visit by Secretary General Shi to Myanmar and expressed his belief that a consolidated and productive relationship between Myanmar and China is not only essential for both countries, but also critical for regional peace and prosperity. Myanmar always stays earnest in collaborating with the ACC to further enhance and enrich cooperation in such areas as strengthening connectivity, micro, small and medium-sized enterprises development and people-to-people exchanges. Minister Than Swe stressed that, Myanmar, as the country coordinator for ASEAN-China relations, and the ACC, as a linking bridge for cooperation between AMS and China, shoulder the same responsibility of translating ideals and potential of cooperation into tangible benefits for the peoples of both countries and the region.