Japan weighs Myanmar aid restart to counter China’s growing clout

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Japan is considering whether to restart development aid to Myanmar amidst pressure as China expands influence in the country. Human rights groups warn resumption could legitimize Myanmar's military junta accused of widespread abuses, making the decision delicate for Japan's strategic regional influence.

Japan is facing mounting calls to decide whether its long-frozen development aid to Myanmar should stay that way, as rights advocates warn that any resumption could ease pressure on a regime accused of widespread abuses. The decision is a delicate one for Tokyo, which has tried to retain influence in Myanmar without appearing to legitimise the junta that seized power in 2021 – all while watching China deepen its own engagement with the country. Human Rights Watch has urged Japan to resist...