Abstract: Since abandoning its neutral foreign policy in 1988, Burma?s close relationship with China has caused considerable unease in the Asia- Pacific region. While some reporting on the defence and intelligence links between Rangoon and Beijing has been inaccurate and misleading, it has helped create the perception of an expansionist China and led in turn to significant policy changes on the part of regional countries, particularly India. The future of China?s relationship with Burma has been interpreted in three ways. The ‘domination school? sees Burma overwhelmed by China and becoming a client state. The ‘partnership school? predicts a close and mutually supportive strategic relationship. The ‘rejectionist school? believes that Burma can resist China?s enormous strategic weight and remain independent. All three schools seem to agree, however, that the Rangoon regime will do whatever is necessary to survive in the face of increasing international pressure.