Khairul Alam from CoxsBazar : The rivalry between the US and China over Myanmar is threatening the repatriation of Rohingya refugees from Bangladesh.
China has long had a strong presence in Myanmar, while the US has been trying to build its influence in Naypyidaw for decades.
After a pause due to Myanmar’s ethnic cleansing and genocide of Rohingya, the US is now focusing on strengthening ties with Myanmar’s junta government.
Washington has lifted sanctions on several junta generals and their associates, raising concerns about the Rohingya’s return.
Myanmar’s junta faced global sanctions for crimes against humanity, including ethnic cleansing in Rakhine. However, the US recently withdrew sanctions on junta-linked businesses, drawing criticism from analysts.
They say the US is eyeing Myanmar’s rare earth minerals, which are in high demand globally and largely controlled by China. This was a concern at a recent Quad meeting.
Former ambassador M Humayun Kabir told that Myanmar’s junta has hired powerful lobbyists in Washington and strengthened its embassy.
This shows a trend toward normalizing ties with the US, which could weaken Myanmar’s democratic movement and delay justice for the Rohingya genocide.
The US-China rivalry over Myanmar is driven by geopolitical and economic interests, with China using projects like the Kyaukphyu pipeline to secure access to the Bay of Bengal.
Meanwhile, the US is easing sanctions to counter China and gain access to Myanmar’s minerals. This shift may overlook human rights, risking Rohingya repatriation and regional stability.
On Monday, the US State Department praised Bangladesh for hosting Rohingya but noted ongoing violence in Myanmar threatens their future.