At least 39 people were reported killed in Myanmar as Chinese-financed factories were set ablaze in the poor, industrial Hlaing Tharyar Industrial Zone suburb of Yangon on March 14. The Chinese embassy said many Chinese staff were injured and trapped in arson attacks by unidentified assailants on garment factories in Hlaingthaya and that it had called on Myanmar to protect Chinese property and citizens. Describing the situation as "very severe", the Chinese Embassy said “China urges Myanmar to take further effective measures to stop all acts of violence, punish the perpetrators in accordance with the law and ensure the safety of life and property of Chinese companies and personnel in Myanmar.” Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said (March 15) that Myanmar should “take further effective measures to stop all acts of violence, punish the perpetrators in accordance with the law and ensure the safety ... of Chinese companies and personnel in Myanmar”. He added “The Chinese side is closely following the developments in Myanmar and is highly concerned about the safety of the affected Chinese institutions and personnel.” Zhao Lijian did not comment on whether Beijing had any plans to evacuate its citizens. The CCP-owned Global Times reported that 32 Chinese-invested factories were vandalised, resulting in 240 million yuan (US$36.8 million) in losses. It also said “China holds friendly ties with all parties in Myanmar. No matter which party holds power, Myanmar maintains friendly cooperation with China. Those who maliciously defame China and instigate attacks against Chinese factories are common enemies of China and Myanmar, they must be severely punished.”  Separately, an unsigned editorial published on the website of the state-run CGTN network on March 16, suggested that China might be “forced into taking more drastic action” in Myanmar if its interests are not more firmly safeguarded.

 (Comment: The Chinese statements are the strongest yet. China is viewed as being supportive of the military junta that has taken power.)