China and Myanmar Collaborate on Border Security and Crackdown on Multibillion-Dollar Scams

China and Myanmar have pledged to jointly maintain border security and combat cross-border crimes, including telecommunications fraud, amidst ongoing conflicts with rebel groups. The Three Brotherhood Alliance, a coalition of ethnic armed groups, claimed to have captured the entire Kokang region in northern Shan state, including the regional capital Laukkai. The capture led to the surrender of over 2,100 junta soldiers. This development comes as China expresses increasing concern for the safety of its citizens and assets due to nearby fighting and recent peace talks it has brokered have yet to yield a lasting agreement. China continues to advocate for a ceasefire and plays a supportive role in the peace process, while also cracking down on online scam operations in the region.