China promises tech support for Myanmar to hold 'all-inclusive polls'

Pledge signals Beijing’s backing for junta that has been losing ground to rebel forces

- 

China has promised technical support and aid to military-run Myanmar for conducting a census, followed by an election, said state media on Aug 15, signalling Beijing's backing for a junta that has been cornered by an armed rebellion and is steadily losing ground.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met junta leader Min Aung Hlaing on Aug 14 during a visit to the capital Naypyitaw where they held discussions to conduct an "all-inclusive election", reported Global New Light Of Myanmar newspaper.

"Necessary technological assistance will be provided for Myanmar to conduct the census-taking process," according to the staterun publication. "Moreover, essential aid will be given for the election." Myanmar's generals in July extended emergency rule for another six months to allow more time to put together census data for voter lists. General Min Aung Hlaing previously said an election would be held in 2025.