China's Burma Connection

Brown Journal of World Affairs: Could you describe China’s current resource relationship with Burma?

David I. Steinberg: Chinese resource penetration into Burma has many aspects. Strategically, China sees Burma as an extension of its geopolitical interests. As such, they are very concerned about the country—something clearly indicated by the high level of Chinese representatives appointed to Burma. This concern is strong because Burma is potentially an important element of Chinese relations with India.
Although China does not regard India as a substantial threat, some in India regard China as a potential enemy, as the former defense minister of India indicated some years ago. This is true in spite of present warm relations between the two states. From Delhi’s perspective, Chinese penetration of Burma—both political and economic—indicates to India that it is surrounded by centers of Chinese influence. With the close alliance of China and Pakistan to the west, China’s influence to the north, and an increasing Chinese role in Burma to the east, India feels threatened. This gives China access to the Bay of Bengal (where India tests its missiles) and the Strait of Malacca, allowing for potential Chinese naval activity in...

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