Yang Houlan

Editor's Note:

Myanmar, once internationally isolated under the rule of its military junta, has made huge steps forward during its democratic transition. In the light of public demonstration and opposition against several Chinese-investment projects and increasing competition between the West and China in Myanmar, will the once close relationship between Myanmar and its giant neighbor be affected? What kind of role can China play in helping Myanmar's transition? Global Times (GT) reporter Yu Jincui interviewed Yang Houlan (Yang), the Chinese ambassador to Myanmar, on these issues.

GT: Talks between Myanmar government and Kachin ethnic rebels under mediation of China yielded a seven-point agreement on October 10. Some Chinese scholars suggested China act as a more active mediator in promoting Myanmar's national reconciliation. How do you view this?

Yang: China firmly sticks to the principle of non-interference in others' internal affairs. But it is willing to offer assistance at Myanmar's request.

Since last year, China has helped in promoting peace talks between the Myanmar government and the Kachin Independence Army (KIA), and appointed Wang Yingfan as its special envoy for Asian affairs to coordinate in the process.

Wang paid frequent visits to Myanmar recently, conducting extensive interactions with relevant parties as well as presenting at the latest round of talks. The Myanmar people want peace and stability in northern Myanmar. This is also tied to the safety of China's bordering areas with Myanmar.

GT: With the West lifting sanctions on Myanmar and Western politicians visiting the country, strategists highlighted the possibility of Myanmar turning into an "anti-China" front. Is Nay Pyi Taw drifting away from China?

Yang: Myanmar has entered a period of opportunity for development. The Myanmar government is leading its people to construct democratic politics, boost the economy, improve livelihoods, and expand foreign relations, which has renewed and complicated the development environment for bilateral relations.

Some Chinese projects in Myanmar have encountered difficulties. Some media outlets grab attention using negative, sometimes fabricated, reports on Chinese projects.

But there's little chance that Myanmar will join "anti-China" efforts. We have a famous saying in China "a near neighbor is better than a distant cousin," while the Myanmar people say that one can choose his friends but not his neighbors.

I sensed this also through communications and contacts with various parties in Myanmar. They have a strong desire to learn from China's development and gain more opportunities through cooperating with China.

Western relations with Myanmar were abnormal in the past two decades. China urged the West to eliminate sanctions over Myanmar, and supported Myanmar participating in international communication and cooperation.

When visiting the US in September 2012, National League for Democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi called for China-US cooperation and healthy competition in Myanmar, which she said was in the best interests of her country.

Suu Kyi is an influential politician. I had several pleasant talks with her and she expressed her willingness to visit China. We'd like to arrange a visit at a convenient time for both sides.

GT: What causes local opposition to Chinese programs? Are Chinese investments particularly targeted?

Yang: Some Chinese enterprises lacked experience in dealing with local people, media and non-governmental groups, which provoked doubts over the transparency of the projects.

The criteria for environmental protection, social impacts and compensation for land acquisition are improving with Myanmar's reform and opening-up, and some enterprises are still adapting to this. Meanwhile, the possibility that some groups and forces with ulterior motives intentionally create troubles should not be excluded.

People aren't only pointing their fingers at Chinese companies. Foreign companies participating in developing the Thilawa Port and Dawei Port are also targeted. Due to the considerable amount of Chinese investments in Myanmar, Chinese companies received more attention.

GT: How can we secure Chinese-invested projects under such conditions?

Yang: We have urged Chinese companies to enhance communication with local people, media and NGOs based on a spirit of mutual understanding, respect and benefit. We hope they solve problems through friendly consultations.

But meanwhile, Myanmar's government, political parties, social groups and mainstream media should play an active and constructive role in creating a sound investment environment.

They should help promote dialogue between enterprises and the public instead of intensifying confrontation. These are important for maintaining the legitimate interests of investors as well as guaranteeing smooth reform in Myanmar. 

GT: The Myitsone dam project has been suspended for more than two years. How do you see its prospects?

Yang: One of the preconditions for Myanmar to continue reform, introduce foreign investments and realize economic and social development is having a sustainable power supply. The current government needs to carefully dwell on energy policymaking.

At present, some Myanmar people have misunderstandings on the use of hydropower, and some NGOs have exaggerated its disadvantages while overlooking the benefits.

Developing hydropower is most suitable for Myanmar's long-term development, taking technological cost, environmental protection, safety and natural resources into consideration. The Myitsone project should not be politicized, and Myanmar should avoid judging it based on a presumption of guilt.

The Myitsone dam project is an exceptional case. But the long delayed issue could chill the enthusiasm of Chinese investors in Myanmar. The Chinese side has been conducting a second investigation on environmental protection, dam safety and resettlement of local villagers based on concerns of the locals. Other Chinese enterprises should learn from this case, caring more about the appeals of local people.

I hope both sides can work out a feasible and mutually beneficial solution to solve the Myitsone issue.

GT: Chinese Premier Li Keqiang proposed the establishment of the Bangladesh-China-India-Myanmar (BCIM) corridor when he visited New Delhi in May. How do you see the role of Myanmar in the corridor and how will the corridor benefit Myanmar?

Yang: The BCIM corridor proposal presents all countries involved with a new opportunity to benefit from. It strategically reacts to India's "Look East" policy and China's "Go West" strategy. Myanmar, located between China and India, is the transportation hub connecting ASEAN, South Asian countries and the southwestern region of China.

The establishment of the corridor will attract more talent and capital, creating new economic growth opportunities for Myanmar. We've been told by the government that they take a positive attitude toward the promotion of the plan.