"This briefing examines the changing political and economic landscape, outlining the key histories, developments and strategies in recent Myanmar-China relations. A particular concern is the continuing conflict in the ethnic borderlands in Myanmar, which are in the front-line of contention and where many of the country?s most valuable natural resources are located. History has long warned that instability and political failure will continue until there is inclusive peace and reform in these territories..... Key Points: " •• The changing socio-political landscape in Myanmar since the advent of a new system of government in March 2011 has brought significant challenges to China?s political and economic relations with the country. From a previous position of international dominance, China now has to engage in a diversified national landscape where different sectors of society have impact on socio-political life and other foreign actors, including the USA and Japan, are seeking to gain political and economic influence. •• China has made important steps in recognising these changes. In contrast to reliance on ?government-to-government” relations under military rule, Chinese interests have begun to interact with Myanmar politics and society more broadly. A ?landbridge” strategy connecting China to the Bay of Bengal has also been superseded by the aspiring, but still uncertain, ?One Belt, One Road” initiative of President Xi Jinping to connect China westwards by land and sea with Eurasia and Africa. •• Many challenges remain. Government change, ethnic conflict and the 2015 Kokang crisis raise questions over political relations, border stability, communal tensions, and the security of Chinese nationals and property in Myanmar, while Chinese investments have been subject to criticism and protest. Mega-projects agreed with the previous military government are subject to particular objection, and resentment is widespread over unbridled trade in such natural resources as timber and jade that provides no local benefit and is harmful to local communities and the environment. •• Chinese interests prioritize stability in Myanmar. While keen to develop good relations in the country and support ethnic peace, Chinese officials are concerned about the sustainability of the present system of governance and what this will mean for China. A continuing preoccupation is the USA, which often dominates strategic thinking in China to the detriment of informed understanding of other countries and issues. These uncertainties have been heightened by the advent to government of the civilian-led National League for Democracy in March. •• Given their proximity and troubled histories, it is essential that good relations are developed between the two countries on the basis of equality and mutual respect. Initiatives to engage with public opinion, communities and interest groups in both countries should be encouraged. Based upon its own experiences, economic change, rather than political change, is China?s primary focus. Chinese officials, however, need to understand that Myanmar?s challenges are political at root. Criticisms should not be put down to a lack of knowledge or ?anti-Chinese” sentiment. Good projects that will benefit the local population will be welcomed: bad projects that ignore their priorities and vision for development will not."