The number of coronavirus cases is continuing to rise. The death toll has now crossed the 1000 mark after China recorded 108 new deaths and bringing the death toll to 1016 across mainland China. The confirmed cases are now standing at more than 42,600. Wuhan which remains the worst hit has started at full front disinfection drive on the streets to control the spread. Watch report:

Wion Dispatch: 108 new coronavirus deaths recorded in a day in China, Death toll rises to 1016

Xi Jinping finally resurfaces after conjecture amid coronavirus outbreak

The United States on Friday (February 7) offered $100m aid to China and other countries who are fighting coronavirus. The number of deaths due to China's coronavirus epidemic jumped to 722, surpassing the toll from the SARS outbreak on the mainland and Hong Kong almost two decades ago.

Coronavirus Outbreak: US offers $100m aid to China

Xi Jinping is often called the most powerful leader since Mao. But now, that description is being contested. On WION Edit: Palki Sharma tells you how the coronavirus outbreak could threaten the Chinese President's grip on power.

WION Edit: Is Xi Jinping's grip on power under threat?

Its been more than a month since the first reports of the coronavirus trickled in. Where is Xi Jinping? The Chinese President is not the face of the Beijing's response to the outbreak. WION's Palki Sharma tells you why.

Gravitas: Wuhan virus outbreak, where is Xi Jinping?

The health officials&nbsp;on Thursday confirmed that a patient in Kerala had tested positive for novel coronavirus, the first case in the country of the virus which originated in China and has so far killed 170.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-more-japanese-evacuated-from-china-virus-epicentre-death-toll-climbs-to-170-277434">Also read: Death toll climbs to 170, the infection spreads to every Chinese region</a>

The patient was a student of Wuhan University in China, India's government said in a statement. The patient is stable and in isolation at a hospital, the statement added.

"The patient has tested positive for Novel Coronavirus and is in isolation in the hospital. The patient is stable and is being closely monitored," a PIB statement said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-outbreak-indigo-air-india-suspend-most-china-bound-flights-no-case-in-india-yet-277405">Coronavirus outbreak: IndiGo, Air India suspend most China-bound flights; no case in India yet</a>

Meanwhile, All three patients of suspected coronavirus cases reported at Delhi-based RML hospital have been discharged on Thursday after being tested negative, Smriti Tiwari, spokesperson of the RML Hospital informed.&nbsp;

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Since Monday, these three men were kept under tight health monitoring and isolation for the medical treatment after they complained of respiratory illnesses.

This week, India readied a state-carrier aeroplane to travel to Wuhan but was waiting for a nod from Chinese authorities who were trying to sequence the whole evacuation process.

"Only those nationals who don't have the virus will be airlifted, they will be brought into a quarantine facility outside Delhi," the official said, requesting anonymity.

Demands from South Asian nationals intensified after countries such as the United States and Japan began pulling out their nationals.

(With inputs from agencies)

The health officials on Thursday confirmed that a patient in Kerala had tested positive for novel coronavirus, the first case in the country of the virus which originated in China and has so far killed 170.

The health officials on Thursday confirmed that a patient in Kerala had tested positive for novel coronavirus, the first case in the country of the virus which originated in China and has so far killed 170. Also read: Death toll climbs to 170, the infection spreads to every Chinese region The patient was a student of Wuhan University in China, India's government said in a statement. The patient is stable and in isolation at a hospital, the statement added. "The patient has tested positive for Novel Coronavirus and is in isolation in the hospital. The patient is stable and is being closely monitored," a PIB statement said. Also read: Coronavirus outbreak: IndiGo, Air India suspend most China-bound flights; no case in India yet Meanwhile, All three patients of suspected coronavirus cases reported at Delhi-based RML hospital have been discharged on Thursday after being tested negative, Smriti Tiwari, spokesperson of the RML Hospital informed. Since Monday, these three men were kept under tight health monitoring and isolation for the medical treatment after they complained of respiratory illnesses. This week, India readied a state-carrier aeroplane to travel to Wuhan but was waiting for a nod from Chinese authorities who were trying to sequence the whole evacuation process. "Only those nationals who don't have the virus will be airlifted, they will be brought into a quarantine facility outside Delhi," the official said, requesting anonymity. Demands from South Asian nationals intensified after countries such as the United States and Japan began pulling out their nationals. (With inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus: First confirmed case in India, Kerala student tests positive

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-says-world-health-organization-chief-against-virus-related-evacuations-as-countries-plan-pull-outs-277084">World Health Organization</a> on Wednesday warned all countries across the globe&nbsp;to "take action" against&nbsp;the deadly coronavirus from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-news-wuhan-coronavirus-who-yet-to-decide-if-china-virus-is-a-global-health-emergency-276018">China</a>.

It called an urgent meeting for Thursday over whether the viral epidemic should be declared a global health emergency.

This can facilitate increased international coordination.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-news-wuhan-coronavirus-who-yet-to-decide-if-china-virus-is-a-global-health-emergency-276018">WHO yet to decide if Wuhan virus is a global health emergency</a>

"In the last few days the progress of the virus especially in some countries, especially human-to-human transmission, worries us," said WHO chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/air-pollution-is-the-new-tobacco-who-director-general-tedros-173879">Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.</a>

The WHO's Emergency Committee panel of 16 independent experts twice last week declined to declare an international emergency but will re-evaluate the situation on Thursday.

"We are at an important juncture in this event. We believe these chains of transmission can still be interrupted," said Mike Ryan, Executive Director of the WHO's&nbsp;Health&nbsp;Emergencies Programme.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-more-japanese-evacuated-from-china-virus-epicentre-death-toll-climbs-to-170-277434">Death toll climbs to 170, the infection spreads to every Chinese region</a>

Hundreds of foreigners are being&nbsp;evacuated from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uae-confirms-first-case-of-coronavirus-277351">Wuhan</a>, the epicentre of the outbreak.

The deadly SARS-like virus&nbsp;has claimed 170 lives in total&nbsp;and has infected more than 6,000 people in the world.&nbsp;

New cases were reported in Finland and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uae-confirms-first-case-of-coronavirus-277351">United Arab Emirates</a>.

Airlines around the world are either suspending or paring back services in and out of China, following cases of human-to-human transmission outside the country.

Chinese President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/chinese-president-xi-jinping-meets-who-director-general-to-discuss-deadly-coronavirus-277261">Xi Jinping</a> called the situation&nbsp;"grim and complex" and vowed to defeat the "devil" virus&nbsp;on Tuesday.

The World Health Organization on Wednesday warned all countries across the globe to "take action" against the deadly coronavirus from China. It called an urgent meeting for Thursday over whether the viral epidemic should be declared a global health emergency.

The World Health Organization on Wednesday warned all countries across the globe to "take action" against the deadly coronavirus from China. It called an urgent meeting for Thursday over whether the viral epidemic should be declared a global health emergency. This can facilitate increased international coordination. Also read: WHO yet to decide if Wuhan virus is a global health emergency "In the last few days the progress of the virus especially in some countries, especially human-to-human transmission, worries us," said WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. The WHO's Emergency Committee panel of 16 independent experts twice last week declined to declare an international emergency but will re-evaluate the situation on Thursday. "We are at an important juncture in this event. We believe these chains of transmission can still be interrupted," said Mike Ryan, Executive Director of the WHO's Health Emergencies Programme. Also read: Death toll climbs to 170, the infection spreads to every Chinese region Hundreds of foreigners are being evacuated from Wuhan, the epicentre of the outbreak. The deadly SARS-like virus has claimed 170 lives in total and has infected more than 6,000 people in the world. New cases were reported in Finland and the United Arab Emirates. Airlines around the world are either suspending or paring back services in and out of China, following cases of human-to-human transmission outside the country. Chinese President Xi Jinping called the situation "grim and complex" and vowed to defeat the "devil" virus on Tuesday.

World Health Organisation warns countries to 'take action' against coronavirus

A drug store in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../coronavirus-outbreak-global-health-scares-and- its-impact-on-world-economy-277136">Beijing</a> will be fined 3 million yuan ($434,530) for hiking the price of face masks by almost six times the online price amid the coronavirus outbreak, the Beijing municipal market regulator said on Wednesday.

Also read-&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-outbreak-chinese-media-official-post-fake-image-of-newly-constructed-hospital-277077">Coronavirus outbreak: Chinese media, official post fake image of newly constructed hospital</a>

The regulator has issued a notice of administrative penalty to Beijing Jimin Kangtai Pharmacy for sharply raising the price of N95 masks, it said in a statement on its website.

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Jimin Kangtai raised the price of 3M brand masks to 850 yuan per box, while the price of the same type of masks sold online was 143 yuan per box, state television said.

The Beijing municipal regulator has stepped up supervision on prices of epidemic protective equipment and punished illegal activities such as hoarding or fabricating information about price hikes. It has investigated 31 cases of price violation since January&nbsp;23, it said.

A drug store in Beijing will be fined 3 million yuan ($434,530) for hiking the price of face masks by almost six times the online price amid the coronavirus outbreak, the Beijing municipal market regulator said on Wednesday.

A drug store in Beijing will be fined 3 million yuan ($434,530) for hiking the price of face masks by almost six times the online price amid the coronavirus outbreak, the Beijing municipal market regulator said on Wednesday. Also read- Coronavirus outbreak: Chinese media, official post fake image of newly constructed hospital The regulator has issued a notice of administrative penalty to Beijing Jimin Kangtai Pharmacy for sharply raising the price of N95 masks, it said in a statement on its website. × Jimin Kangtai raised the price of 3M brand masks to 850 yuan per box, while the price of the same type of masks sold online was 143 yuan per box, state television said. The Beijing municipal regulator has stepped up supervision on prices of epidemic protective equipment and punished illegal activities such as hoarding or fabricating information about price hikes. It has investigated 31 cases of price violation since January 23, it said.

Coronavirus outbreak: Beijing drug store fined $434,530 for hiking price of masks

Xi made the remarks when meeting with visiting World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing.

WION Dispatch: Xi Meets WHO Chief To Contain Coronavirus

China is confident of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-japan-vow-to-fly-out-citizens-from-chinas-wuhan-as-coronavirus-spreads-276874">winning the battle against "demon" coronavirus</a>, country's President Xi Jinping said during a meet with the head of the World Health Organisation.

"The epidemic is a demon, and we cannot let this demon hide," Xi said adding that China is waging a battle against the "demon".

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-outbreak-chinese-media-official-post-fake-image-of-newly-constructed-hospital-277077">Chinese media, official post fake image of newly constructed hospital</a>

Xi also pledged transparency in the government's effort to contain the deadly virus.

"The Chinese government has always adopted an open, transparent and responsible attitude to the timely release of information on the epidemic to domestic and foreign countries."

Xi also said that he believes the WHO and the international community will give a "calm, objective and rational" assessment of the virus.

During the meet, WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus and Xi discussed ways to protect Chinese and foreigners in areas affected by the coronavirus and "possible alternatives" to evacuations.

Watch: Coronavirus cases confirmed in 4 continents

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Concerns continue to mount in China as the death toll due to the coronavirus crossed 100 after China's National Health Commission reported more deaths due to the disease.

Tuesday's toll of 106 dead was up from 81 the day before. The number of total confirmed cases in China surged to 4,515 as of Monday from 2,835 the previous day, the National Health Commission said.

Though cases of the virus have been confirmed in other countries, with Germany and Sri Lanka are the latest.

However, no fatalities have been reported outside China.

Wuhan, a city of 11 million, where the virus emerged late last year, is now under effective lockdown.

Tens of millions of others in Hubei live under some form of travel curbs set up to try to stifle the virus.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

China is confident of winning the battle against "demon" coronavirus, country's President Xi Jinping said during a meet with the head of the World Health Organisation.

China is confident of winning the battle against "demon" coronavirus, country's President Xi Jinping said during a meet with the head of the World Health Organisation. "The epidemic is a demon, and we cannot let this demon hide," Xi said adding that China is waging a battle against the "demon". Also read: Chinese media, official post fake image of newly constructed hospital Xi also pledged transparency in the government's effort to contain the deadly virus. "The Chinese government has always adopted an open, transparent and responsible attitude to the timely release of information on the epidemic to domestic and foreign countries." Xi also said that he believes the WHO and the international community will give a "calm, objective and rational" assessment of the virus. During the meet, WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus and Xi discussed ways to protect Chinese and foreigners in areas affected by the coronavirus and "possible alternatives" to evacuations. Watch: Coronavirus cases confirmed in 4 continents Video Embed Code: × Concerns continue to mount in China as the death toll due to the coronavirus crossed 100 after China's National Health Commission reported more deaths due to the disease. Tuesday's toll of 106 dead was up from 81 the day before. The number of total confirmed cases in China surged to 4,515 as of Monday from 2,835 the previous day, the National Health Commission said. Though cases of the virus have been confirmed in other countries, with Germany and Sri Lanka are the latest. However, no fatalities have been reported outside China. Wuhan, a city of 11 million, where the virus emerged late last year, is now under effective lockdown. Tens of millions of others in Hubei live under some form of travel curbs set up to try to stifle the virus. (With inputs from agencies)

China confident of winning battle against 'demon' coronavirus: Xi Jinping tells WHO

China can "win the battle" against the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-declares-coronavirus-emergency-halts-official-visits-to-mainland-china-276488">coronavirus that has&nbsp;killed 41 people</a> and has&nbsp;infected over 1,200 across the country, President Xi Jinping said on Saturday.

"As long as we have steadfast confidence, work together, scientific prevention and cures, and precise policies, we will definitely be able to win the battle," President Xi told a meeting of the elite Politburo Standing Committee, according to local media reports.

The country is facing a "grave situation" where the coronavirus is "accelerating its spread," Xi also said during the meeting on measures to fight the outbreak.

The number of confirmed cases in China stands at 1,287. The virus has also been detected in Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Nepal, and the United States.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/wuhan-coronavirus-dos-and-donts-symptoms-276479">Also read | Wuhan coronavirus: Dos and don'ts, symptoms&nbsp;</a>

There are fears the transmission could accelerate as hundreds of millions of Chinese travel during the Lunar New Year holiday, although many have cancelled their plans.

Airports around the world have stepped up screening of passengers from China, though some health officials and experts have questioned the effectiveness of such screenings.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-confirms-second-case-of-coronavirus-at-least-50-under-investigation-276437">Also read |&nbsp;US confirms second case of coronavirus, at least 50 under investigation</a>

Hubei province, where authorities are rushing to build a 1,000-bed hospital in six days to treat patients, announced on Saturday that there were 658 patients affected by the virus in treatment, 57 of whom were critically ill.

Watch: China tried to cover up deadly 'Coronavirus' outbreak initially

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Shanghai Disneyland was closed from Saturday. Beijing's Lama Temple, where people traditionally make offerings for the new year, has also closed, as have some other temples.

Meanwhile, in Hong Kong, the executive leader declared the virus outbreak as an emergency.

Under the measures Lam took to limit the infection spreading, all schools will remain closed until February 17; while all official visits to mainland China have also been cancelled.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

China can "win the battle" against the coronavirus that has killed 41 people and has infected over 1,200 across the country, President Xi Jinping said on Saturday.

China can "win the battle" against the coronavirus that has killed 41 people and has infected over 1,200 across the country, President Xi Jinping said on Saturday. "As long as we have steadfast confidence, work together, scientific prevention and cures, and precise policies, we will definitely be able to win the battle," President Xi told a meeting of the elite Politburo Standing Committee, according to local media reports. The country is facing a "grave situation" where the coronavirus is "accelerating its spread," Xi also said during the meeting on measures to fight the outbreak. The number of confirmed cases in China stands at 1,287. The virus has also been detected in Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Nepal, and the United States. Also read | Wuhan coronavirus: Dos and don'ts, symptoms There are fears the transmission could accelerate as hundreds of millions of Chinese travel during the Lunar New Year holiday, although many have cancelled their plans. Airports around the world have stepped up screening of passengers from China, though some health officials and experts have questioned the effectiveness of such screenings. Also read | US confirms second case of coronavirus, at least 50 under investigation Hubei province, where authorities are rushing to build a 1,000-bed hospital in six days to treat patients, announced on Saturday that there were 658 patients affected by the virus in treatment, 57 of whom were critically ill. Watch: China tried to cover up deadly 'Coronavirus' outbreak initially × Shanghai Disneyland was closed from Saturday. Beijing's Lama Temple, where people traditionally make offerings for the new year, has also closed, as have some other temples. Meanwhile, in Hong Kong, the executive leader declared the virus outbreak as an emergency. Under the measures Lam took to limit the infection spreading, all schools will remain closed until February 17; while all official visits to mainland China have also been cancelled. (With inputs from agencies)

China can 'win the battle' against coronavirus epidemic: President Xi Jinping

Senior US diplomat Alice Wells on Wednesday criticised the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/cpec-will-provide-little-benefit-to-locals-especially-those-in-volatile-province-of-balochistan-warn-analysts-272824">China-Pakistan Economic Corridor</a> (CPEC) claiming that there is no transparency in the projects.&nbsp;

Speaking at an event in Pakistan, Wells also claimed that the companies which are blacklisted by World Bank got contracts under the multi-billion project.

Wells said, there was no transparency in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/is-china-myanmar-economic-corridor-turning-out-to-be-another-cpec-275688">CPEC projects</a> and Pakistan's debt burden was growing due to the Chinese financing, as per the local media reports.

Wells also reiterated her warnings that it will increase cash-strapped Pakistan's debt burden and urged the country to rethink its involvement in it.

"By getting Chinese financing for the projects, Pakistan was buying expensive loans and as a buyer, it needed to be aware that what it was doing would take a heavy toll on its already struggling economy," Wells said.

Launched in 2015,&nbsp;CPEC is a planned network of roads, railways and energy projects linking China's resource-rich Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region with Pakistan's strategic Gwadar Port on the Arabian Sea.

The US has been critical of the CPEC. Some of the projects had already been completed but others were facing delays as Pakistan and China are working on operational and funding details.

Itw as launched when&nbsp;Chinese President Xi Jinping visited Pakistan in 2015&nbsp;and it now envisages investment of over $60 billion in different projects of development in Pakistan.

 
&nbsp;

Senior US diplomat Alice Wells on Wednesday criticised the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) claiming that there is no transparency in the projects. Speaking at an event in Pakistan, Wells also claimed that the companies which are blacklisted by World Bank got contracts under the multi-billion project.

Senior US diplomat Alice Wells on Wednesday criticised the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) claiming that there is no transparency in the projects. Speaking at an event in Pakistan, Wells also claimed that the companies which are blacklisted by World Bank got contracts under the multi-billion project. Wells said, there was no transparency in the CPEC projects and Pakistan's debt burden was growing due to the Chinese financing, as per the local media reports. Wells also reiterated her warnings that it will increase cash-strapped Pakistan's debt burden and urged the country to rethink its involvement in it. "By getting Chinese financing for the projects, Pakistan was buying expensive loans and as a buyer, it needed to be aware that what it was doing would take a heavy toll on its already struggling economy," Wells said. Launched in 2015, CPEC is a planned network of roads, railways and energy projects linking China's resource-rich Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region with Pakistan's strategic Gwadar Port on the Arabian Sea. The US has been critical of the CPEC. Some of the projects had already been completed but others were facing delays as Pakistan and China are working on operational and funding details. Itw as launched when Chinese President Xi Jinping visited Pakistan in 2015 and it now envisages investment of over $60 billion in different projects of development in Pakistan.

No transparency in CPEC projects; companies blacklisted by World Bank got contracts: Alice Wells

Foreign direct investment (FDI) in&nbsp;China&nbsp;in 2019 grew the most in two years, though outbound investment declined amid continuing capital controls.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-confirms-person-to-person-spread-of-the-new-virus-as-fourth-death-reported-275590">China confirms person-to-person spread of the new virus as fourth death reported</a>

FDI was up 5.8 per cent&nbsp;year-on-year to 941.5 billion yuan ($136.71 billion) last year, the commerce ministry said on Tuesday, the biggest rise since 2017 when it grew 7.9 per cent&nbsp;in yuan terms.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/xi-jinping-bolsters-relationship-with-myanmar-what-does-this-mean-for-india-275031">Xi Jinping bolsters relationship with Myanmar, what does this mean for India?</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../china-four-people-killed-due-to-deadly- coronavirus-275596">China</a>&nbsp;remained the second-largest recipient of FDI globally, said Chinese Vice Commerce Minister Qian Keming at a news briefing on Tuesday in Beijing.

China's outbound direct investment (ODI) declined 8.2 per cent&nbsp;to $110.6 billion in 2019, said Qian.

The structure of ODI is more "balanced" with most flows to rental and commercial services, manufacturing, distribution and retail, he said.

China's non-financial ODI rose just 0.3 per cent&nbsp;in 2018 having dropped sharply in 2017 as authorities kept a tight grip on outflows for what they termed "irrational" overseas projects.

Qian said $15 billion of investment accounting for 13.6 per cent&nbsp;of the total flowed to countries that are along the Belt and Road,&nbsp;China's ambitious plan to build a modern version of the Silk Road to link&nbsp;China&nbsp;with Asia, Europe and beyond through large-scale infrastructure projects.

Investment by Chinese firms was once a significant driver of global asset prices from property to mergers and acquisitions. But it has fallen sharply since Beijing tightened capital controls in 2016.

In yuan terms,&nbsp;China's total ODI declined 6 per cent&nbsp;to 807.95 billion yuan in 2019.

Foreign direct investment (FDI) in China in 2019 grew the most in two years, though outbound investment declined amid continuing capital controls. Also read: China confirms person-to-person spread of the new virus as fourth death reported FDI was up 5.

Foreign direct investment (FDI) in China in 2019 grew the most in two years, though outbound investment declined amid continuing capital controls. Also read: China confirms person-to-person spread of the new virus as fourth death reported FDI was up 5.8 per cent year-on-year to 941.5 billion yuan ($136.71 billion) last year, the commerce ministry said on Tuesday, the biggest rise since 2017 when it grew 7.9 per cent in yuan terms. Also read: Xi Jinping bolsters relationship with Myanmar, what does this mean for India? China remained the second-largest recipient of FDI globally, said Chinese Vice Commerce Minister Qian Keming at a news briefing on Tuesday in Beijing. China's outbound direct investment (ODI) declined 8.2 per cent to $110.6 billion in 2019, said Qian. The structure of ODI is more "balanced" with most flows to rental and commercial services, manufacturing, distribution and retail, he said. China's non-financial ODI rose just 0.3 per cent in 2018 having dropped sharply in 2017 as authorities kept a tight grip on outflows for what they termed "irrational" overseas projects. Qian said $15 billion of investment accounting for 13.6 per cent of the total flowed to countries that are along the Belt and Road, China's ambitious plan to build a modern version of the Silk Road to link China with Asia, Europe and beyond through large-scale infrastructure projects. Investment by Chinese firms was once a significant driver of global asset prices from property to mergers and acquisitions. But it has fallen sharply since Beijing tightened capital controls in 2016. In yuan terms, China's total ODI declined 6 per cent to 807.95 billion yuan in 2019.

China's 2019 FDI up 5.8 per cent, outbound investment slumps

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../facebook-to-help-in-fight-against-polio- pakistan-274718">Facebook&nbsp;Inc</a> on Saturday blamed a&nbsp;technical&nbsp;error&nbsp;for&nbsp;Chinese&nbsp;leader Xi Jinping’s&nbsp;name&nbsp;appearing as “Mr Shithole” in posts on its platform when translated into English from Burmese, apologising for any offence&nbsp;caused.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-sued-in-us-federal-court-for-alleged-anti-competitive-conduct-274773">Facebook sued in US federal court for alleged anti competitive conduct</a>

The&nbsp;error&nbsp;came to light on the second day of a visit by the president to the Southeast Asian country, where Xi and state counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi signed dozens of agreements covering massive Beijing-backed infrastructure plans.

A statement about the visit published on Suu Kyi’s official&nbsp;Facebook&nbsp;page was littered with references to “Mr Shithole” when translated to English, while a headline in local news journal the Irrawaddy appeared as “Dinner honours president shithole”.

It was not clear how long the issue lasted but Google’s&nbsp;translation&nbsp;function did not show the same&nbsp;error.

<h6><img alt="Xi Jinping Name error" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1be5e237-daa1-45a6-88d7-bf861fcf254f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%285%29_18.jpg" /> 
 
Image: Facebook translation&nbsp;of Myanmar State Counsellor Office's Burmese post to English | Facebook</h6>

"We fixed a&nbsp;technical&nbsp;issue that&nbsp;caused&nbsp;incorrect&nbsp;translations from Burmese to English on&nbsp;Facebook. This should not have happened and we are taking steps to ensure it doesn’t happen again. We sincerely apologize for the offence this has&nbsp;caused,"&nbsp;Facebook&nbsp;said in a statement.

The&nbsp;Facebook&nbsp;system did not have President Xi Jinping's&nbsp;name&nbsp;in its Burmese database and guessed at the&nbsp;translation, the company said.&nbsp;Translation&nbsp;tests of similar words that start with "xi" and "shi" in Burmese also produced "shithole", it added.

Facebook&nbsp;is blocked in mainland China. But it is not blocked in Hong Kong and mainland companies advertise elsewhere on the platform, making China&nbsp;Facebook’s biggest country for revenue after the United States. It is setting up a new engineering team to focus specifically on the lucrative&nbsp;Chinese&nbsp;advertising business, Reuters reported last week.

Facebook&nbsp;has faced numerous problems with&nbsp;translation&nbsp;from Burmese in the past. In 2018 it temporarily removed the function after a Reuters report showed the tool was producing bizarre results.

An investigation documented how the company was failing in its efforts to combat vitriolic Burmese language posts about Myanmar’s Rohingya Muslims, some 730,000 of whom fled a military crackdown in 2017 that the U.N has said was conducted with “genocidal intent”.

It also showed the&nbsp;translation&nbsp;feature was flawed, citing an anti-Rohingya post advocating killing Muslims that was translated into English as “I shouldn’t have a rainbow in Myanmar”.

Facebook Inc on Saturday blamed a technical error for Chinese leader Xi Jinping’s name appearing as “Mr Shithole” in posts on its platform when translated into English from Burmese, apologising for any offence caused.

Facebook Inc on Saturday blamed a technical error for Chinese leader Xi Jinping’s name appearing as “Mr Shithole” in posts on its platform when translated into English from Burmese, apologising for any offence caused. Also read: Facebook sued in US federal court for alleged anti competitive conduct The error came to light on the second day of a visit by the president to the Southeast Asian country, where Xi and state counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi signed dozens of agreements covering massive Beijing-backed infrastructure plans. A statement about the visit published on Suu Kyi’s official Facebook page was littered with references to “Mr Shithole” when translated to English, while a headline in local news journal the Irrawaddy appeared as “Dinner honours president shithole”. It was not clear how long the issue lasted but Google’s translation function did not show the same error. Image: Facebook translation of Myanmar State Counsellor Office's Burmese post to English | Facebook "We fixed a technical issue that caused incorrect translations from Burmese to English on Facebook. This should not have happened and we are taking steps to ensure it doesn’t happen again. We sincerely apologize for the offence this has caused," Facebook said in a statement. The Facebook system did not have President Xi Jinping's name in its Burmese database and guessed at the translation, the company said. Translation tests of similar words that start with "xi" and "shi" in Burmese also produced "shithole", it added. Facebook is blocked in mainland China. But it is not blocked in Hong Kong and mainland companies advertise elsewhere on the platform, making China Facebook’s biggest country for revenue after the United States. It is setting up a new engineering team to focus specifically on the lucrative Chinese advertising business, Reuters reported last week. Facebook has faced numerous problems with translation from Burmese in the past. In 2018 it temporarily removed the function after a Reuters report showed the tool was producing bizarre results. An investigation documented how the company was failing in its efforts to combat vitriolic Burmese language posts about Myanmar’s Rohingya Muslims, some 730,000 of whom fled a military crackdown in 2017 that the U.N has said was conducted with “genocidal intent”. It also showed the translation feature was flawed, citing an anti-Rohingya post advocating killing Muslims that was translated into English as “I shouldn’t have a rainbow in Myanmar”.

Technical error caused vulgar translation of Xi Jinping's name: Facebook

Chinese President Xi Jinping is on a two-day visit to Myanmar. China and Myanmar are marking 70 years of their ties. 33 new agreements have been signed in the visit.

China, Myanmar sign 33 agreements

China is making major investments in Myanmar - and surrounding India from all sides. Beijing is building more infrastructure investments in the Indian subcontinent.

Why China wants a foothold in Myanmar

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Myanmar State Counselor Aung San Suu Kyi officially held talks in Myanmar's capital New Pi Taw on Saturday. Emphasizing on the importance of fraternal friendship between the two countries, Xi said that both China and Myanmar have entered a new phase in national development, with bilateral relations facing new development opportunities.

Myanmar State Counselor & China's Jinping held official talks

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Saturday doubled down on his support to Myanmar's State Counselor Aung San Suu Kyi, signing a number of infrastructure and trade deals in his state visit to Myanmar. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Jinping also met Myanmar army chief, who is accused of overseeing a genocide against Rohingya Muslims.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/myanmar-china-ink-deals-to-accelerate-belt-and-road-as-xi-courts-an-isolated-suu-kyi-275025">Myanmar, China ink deals to accelerate Belt and Road project as Xi meets Suu Kyi</a>

China reaffirmed its strong support to a nation that is isolated for its treatment to Rohingya minorities. Nearly 740,000 Rohinyas flee to Bangladesh after a brutal military crackdown in Myanmar, which is described as a genoicide by the UN investigators.&nbsp;

China "firmly supports Myanmar's efforts to safeguard its legitimate rights and interests and national dignity in the international arena" and for it to advance "peace, stability and development in Rakhine State", said the joint statement released by Chinese state media.&nbsp;

Over 30 agreements were signed on the last day of Xi's visit. China now is Myanmar's largest investor.&nbsp;

Suu Kyi, whose reputation was tarnished in the West due to Rohingya crisis, said that the country will always be in China's side.&nbsp;

However, the distrust over China's intentions was apparent in Myanmar as dozens protested in Yangon against any reinstatement of a controversial Chinese-backed mega-dam.

Protesters carried signs that called for "termination" of the $3.6 billion Myitsone project.&nbsp;

The project was suspended in 2011 after a nationwide condemnation.

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Saturday doubled down on his support to Myanmar's State Counselor Aung San Suu Kyi, signing a number of infrastructure and trade deals in his state visit to Myanmar.

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Saturday doubled down on his support to Myanmar's State Counselor Aung San Suu Kyi, signing a number of infrastructure and trade deals in his state visit to Myanmar. Jinping also met Myanmar army chief, who is accused of overseeing a genocide against Rohingya Muslims. Also read: Myanmar, China ink deals to accelerate Belt and Road project as Xi meets Suu Kyi China reaffirmed its strong support to a nation that is isolated for its treatment to Rohingya minorities. Nearly 740,000 Rohinyas flee to Bangladesh after a brutal military crackdown in Myanmar, which is described as a genoicide by the UN investigators. China "firmly supports Myanmar's efforts to safeguard its legitimate rights and interests and national dignity in the international arena" and for it to advance "peace, stability and development in Rakhine State", said the joint statement released by Chinese state media. Over 30 agreements were signed on the last day of Xi's visit. China now is Myanmar's largest investor. Suu Kyi, whose reputation was tarnished in the West due to Rohingya crisis, said that the country will always be in China's side. However, the distrust over China's intentions was apparent in Myanmar as dozens protested in Yangon against any reinstatement of a controversial Chinese-backed mega-dam. Protesters carried signs that called for "termination" of the $3.6 billion Myitsone project. The project was suspended in 2011 after a nationwide condemnation.

China stands with Myanmar despite Rohingya backlash, inks dozens of deals

China and Myanmar inked dozens of deals on Saturday to speed up infrastructure projects in the Southeast Asian nation, as Beijing seeks to cement its hold over a neighbor increasingly isolated by the West.

But no major new projects were agreed during the two-day visit by President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/chinas-president-xi-jinping-arrives-in-myanmar-seeking-to-push-belt-and-road-project-274887">Xi Jinping</a>, the first of any Chinese leader in 19 years. Analysts said Myanmar was generally cautious of investments by Beijing and was also being careful ahead of elections later this year.

<img alt="Chinese President Xi Jinping and Myanmar State Counselor Aung San Suu Kyi attend a signing ceremony of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b936b964-9b73-438b-9dc5-58e9d88424e3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2812%29_3.jpg" /> 
[ Chinese President Xi Jinping and Myanmar State Counselor Aung San Suu Kyi attend a signing ceremony of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) at the Presidential Palace in Naypyitaw, Myanmar (Courtesy: Reuters) ]

Still, Xi and Myanmar leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/icj-ruling-on-urgent-measures-in-rohingya-case-on-january-23-gambia-274450">Aung San Suu Kyi</a> signed 33 agreements shoring up key projects that are part of the flagship Belt and Road Initiative, China’s vision of new trade routes described as a “21st-century silk road”.

They agreed to hasten implementation of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-president-xi-jinping-to-visit-myanmar-today-with-bri-on-agenda-274811">China Myanmar Economic Corridor</a>, a giant infrastructure scheme worth billions of dollars, with agreements on railways linking southwestern China to the Indian Ocean, a deep sea-port in conflict-riven Rakhine state, a special economic zone on the border, and a new city project in the commercial capital of Yangon.

They did not address a controversial $3.6 billion Beijing-backed mega-dam, where work has been stalled since 2011, reflecting the contentiousness of Chinese investment in Myanmar, where many are uncomfortable with the sway Beijing has over its smaller neighbor.

"While a large number of different agreements have been signed, there is no Big Bang here," said <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/the-lady-and-the-hague-myanmar-leader-suu-kyi-courts-home-audience-266663">Richard Horsey</a>, a Yangon-based analyst with the International Crisis Group.

"The overall impression is that Myanmar is being cautious about Chinese investment, especially ahead of elections planned later in the year, he said.

"China will be hoping that this is an incremental step towards realizing its mega-infrastructure goals and that further progress can be locked in over the coming months," he said.

Watch:&nbsp;Why China wants a foothold in Myanmar

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At a welcoming ceremony on Friday, Xi hailed a “new era” of relations between the countries.

“We are drawing a future roadmap that will bring to life bilateral relations based on brotherly and sisterly closeness in order to overcome hardships together and provide assistance to each other,” Xi said. He was scheduled to leave later on Saturday.

Suu Kyi called China “a great country playing an important role in the international affairs and the world economy” but urged for economic projects that avoid environmental degradation and benefit locals.

<img alt="Chinese President Xi Jinping attends the bilateral meeting with Aung San Suu Kyi at the Presidential Palace in Naypyitaw" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a9ad1453-34a0-4bf7-8271-6bda13edfddd" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%289%29_16.jpg" /> 
[&nbsp;Chinese President Xi Jinping attends the bilateral meeting with Aung San Suu Kyi at the Presidential Palace in Naypyitaw (Courtesy: Reuters) ]

Xi also met leaders from political parties in ethnic areas riven with civil conflict where Chinese infrastructure projects are underway.

Sai Kyaw Nyunt, joint-secretary of the Shan Nationalities League for Democracy, one of the ethnic politicians invited to meet Xi, said it was only a handshake.

“Our country is very small and powerless,” he said, “So they treat us that way.”

<img alt="Myanmar State Counselor Aung San Suu Kyi attends the bilateral meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Presidential Palace in Naypyitaw" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="baae0fdd-850a-466b-ab4b-b54a5486dad3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2810%29_13.jpg" /> 
[ Myanmar State Counselor Aung San Suu Kyi attends the bilateral meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Presidential Palace in Naypyitaw (Courtesy: Reuters) ]

The two countries have historically had a fraught relationship, but have moved closer since 2017 when Myanmar was internationally condemned for its treatment of minority <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/icj-ruling-on-urgent-measures-in-rohingya-case-on-january-23-gambia-274450">Rohingya Muslims</a> in Rakhine state.

More than 730,000 Rohingya were forced to flee western Myanmar after a military crackdown that the United Nations has said was executed with “genocidal intent”. China has defended the country on the global stage and is viewed as the biggest obstacle to the prosecution of its leaders at an international war crimes tribunal.

An article in Chinese state media ahead of the state visit said Myanmar had been “derailed” by its engagement with the West and only China was willing to “pull Myanmar from the sludge”.

“But after some turbulence, Myanmar realized there were double standards in the approach Western countries had taken on human rights issues and began to turn to China for diplomatic and economic help,” the article in the Global Times said.

China and Myanmar inked dozens of deals on Saturday to speed up infrastructure projects in the Southeast Asian nation, as Beijing seeks to cement its hold over a neighbor increasingly isolated by the West.

China and Myanmar inked dozens of deals on Saturday to speed up infrastructure projects in the Southeast Asian nation, as Beijing seeks to cement its hold over a neighbor increasingly isolated by the West. But no major new projects were agreed during the two-day visit by President Xi Jinping, the first of any Chinese leader in 19 years. Analysts said Myanmar was generally cautious of investments by Beijing and was also being careful ahead of elections later this year. [ Chinese President Xi Jinping and Myanmar State Counselor Aung San Suu Kyi attend a signing ceremony of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) at the Presidential Palace in Naypyitaw, Myanmar (Courtesy: Reuters) ] Still, Xi and Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi signed 33 agreements shoring up key projects that are part of the flagship Belt and Road Initiative, China’s vision of new trade routes described as a “21st-century silk road”. They agreed to hasten implementation of the China Myanmar Economic Corridor, a giant infrastructure scheme worth billions of dollars, with agreements on railways linking southwestern China to the Indian Ocean, a deep sea-port in conflict-riven Rakhine state, a special economic zone on the border, and a new city project in the commercial capital of Yangon. They did not address a controversial $3.6 billion Beijing-backed mega-dam, where work has been stalled since 2011, reflecting the contentiousness of Chinese investment in Myanmar, where many are uncomfortable with the sway Beijing has over its smaller neighbor. "While a large number of different agreements have been signed, there is no Big Bang here," said Richard Horsey, a Yangon-based analyst with the International Crisis Group. "The overall impression is that Myanmar is being cautious about Chinese investment, especially ahead of elections planned later in the year, he said. "China will be hoping that this is an incremental step towards realizing its mega-infrastructure goals and that further progress can be locked in over the coming months," he said. Watch: Why China wants a foothold in Myanmar × At a welcoming ceremony on Friday, Xi hailed a “new era” of relations between the countries. “We are drawing a future roadmap that will bring to life bilateral relations based on brotherly and sisterly closeness in order to overcome hardships together and provide assistance to each other,” Xi said. He was scheduled to leave later on Saturday. Suu Kyi called China “a great country playing an important role in the international affairs and the world economy” but urged for economic projects that avoid environmental degradation and benefit locals. [ Chinese President Xi Jinping attends the bilateral meeting with Aung San Suu Kyi at the Presidential Palace in Naypyitaw (Courtesy: Reuters) ] Xi also met leaders from political parties in ethnic areas riven with civil conflict where Chinese infrastructure projects are underway. Sai Kyaw Nyunt, joint-secretary of the Shan Nationalities League for Democracy, one of the ethnic politicians invited to meet Xi, said it was only a handshake. “Our country is very small and powerless,” he said, “So they treat us that way.” [ Myanmar State Counselor Aung San Suu Kyi attends the bilateral meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Presidential Palace in Naypyitaw (Courtesy: Reuters) ] The two countries have historically had a fraught relationship, but have moved closer since 2017 when Myanmar was internationally condemned for its treatment of minority Rohingya Muslims in Rakhine state. More than 730,000 Rohingya were forced to flee western Myanmar after a military crackdown that the United Nations has said was executed with “genocidal intent”. China has defended the country on the global stage and is viewed as the biggest obstacle to the prosecution of its leaders at an international war crimes tribunal. An article in Chinese state media ahead of the state visit said Myanmar had been “derailed” by its engagement with the West and only China was willing to “pull Myanmar from the sludge”. “But after some turbulence, Myanmar realized there were double standards in the approach Western countries had taken on human rights issues and began to turn to China for diplomatic and economic help,” the article in the Global Times said.

Myanmar, China ink deals to accelerate Belt and Road project as Xi meets Suu Kyi

Chinese president Xi Jinping is currently visiting Myanmar on a two-day tour.

Earlier today, he got a lavish welcome in Nay-Pyi-Daw, the country's capital.&nbsp;

Xi is visiting to celebrate 70 years of China-Myanmar ties, and to set-up investment in Myanmar, especially in Rakhine.

The state witnessed violence against the Rohingya Muslims a few years ago, triggering one of the biggest crises in South Asia.

Myanmar came into the limelight for human rights abuses against the Muslim minority.

Most Western nations accuse Myanmar's government of tacitly supporting the military in what they say was a genocide.

The military had launched a campaign against the Rohingyas owing to which many of them were killed and raped. More than 900 thousand fled to Bangladesh.

As a result, foreign investment has dried up in the country. After facing global scorn and isolation, Aung San Suu Kyi has turned to China for help. Jinping has obliged by promising to pump billions into Myanmar.

Ahead of President Xi's arrival, a minister from Myanmar said that he would sign agreements to build a special economic zone, as well as a port - along the Bay of Bengal.

Together, both countries are building the China-Myanmar Economic Corridor. And it's all happening under the belt and road initiative - a debt trap for developing countries.

<h6><img alt="kiiii" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a8ccd7d2-19cb-44e2-9978-b31738c53d8b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%281%29_49.jpg" /> 
Image:&nbsp;Chinese President Xi Jinping, Myanmar President Win Myint and Myanmar State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi attend a cermony marking the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Myanmar and China in Naypyidaw, Myanmar, January 17, 2020 | Reuters 
&nbsp;</h6>

India should be worried about China's moves. It could give Beijing a backdoor entry into the Indian Ocean, and thereby control over critical shopping routes in India's neighbourhood.&nbsp;

The crown jewel of China's deals with Myanmar is the Kyau-Kphyu special economic zone.

This is a 1.5 billion dollar deal, that involves a highway and oil and gas pipelines, infrastructure that will allow Beijing to tap into the rich energy reserves of Myanmar.

This Special Economic Zone will connect China's Yunnan province to Myanmar's financial centre Yangon and the Rakhine state.

By far, China is the largest foreign investor in Myanmar.

India faces a challenge from China, not just in Myanmar, but across South Asia.

More Chinese investments are being pushed in the Indian subcontinent.

And they all are part of the Belt and Road initiative.

Just before Xi Jinping left for Mynamar, Chinese state mouthpiece The Global Times carried a piece on the website that reads "will India miss the chance offered by Myanmar"?

This article argues that India and China should join hands for development projects in Myanmar.

China's plans to invest in Myanmar pose a challenge to India's security in the subcontinent.

The most worrying project is a seaport in the Bay of Bengal in Kyaukpyu, western coast of Myanmar.&nbsp; 
 
Beijing already has two ports in the region: Sri Lanka has given the Hambantota Port to China on a 99-year lease.

In Pakistan, China is building the Gwadar Port.

All this infrastructure fuels President Xi Jinping's ambitions to put China at the centre of global trade.

<h6><img alt="kii" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f15a8ce6-f11b-4189-a6b4-a2068124a917" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%282%29_38.jpg" /> 
Image:&nbsp;n this handout photograph taken and released by the Indian Press Information Bureau on November 3, 2019, India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi (R) interacts with Myanmar's State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi (L), on the sidelines of the 35th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in Bangkok | Reuters 
&nbsp;</h6>

Ports in the Indian subcontinent are of great value, for they allow Beijing to exercise control over key shipping routes.

A port in Myanmar adds to China's leverage. &nbsp;Once completed, the port in Kyaukpyu will give China a direct link to oil supplies from West Asia. 
 
However, India also heavily invests in Myanmar. According to a document by the Ministry of External Affairs, India is the 11th largest investor in Myanmar.

26 Indian enterprises have invested nearly 744 million dollars with the most investments in the oil and gas sector.

India and Myanmar's bilateral trade is valued at two billion dollars. 
 
However, India has made overtures. When Prime Minister Narendra Modi took the oath of office for the second time, only two South-East Asian countries were invited for the swearing-in ceremony: Myanmar is one of them.

The importance of Myanmar for India cannot be overstated. It's the only country that sits at the intersection of India's “Neighborhood First” and “Act East” policy. 
&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/myanmar-china-ink-deals-to-accelerate-belt-and-road-as-xi-courts-an-isolated-suu-kyi-275025">Myanmar, China ink deals to accelerate Belt and Road as Xi courts an isolated Suu Kyi</a>

Chinese president Xi Jinping is currently visiting Myanmar on a two-day tour. Earlier today, he got a lavish welcome in Nay-Pyi-Daw, the country's capital. Xi is visiting to celebrate 70 years of China-Myanmar ties, and to set-up investment in Myanmar, especially in Rakhine.

Chinese president Xi Jinping is currently visiting Myanmar on a two-day tour. Earlier today, he got a lavish welcome in Nay-Pyi-Daw, the country's capital. Xi is visiting to celebrate 70 years of China-Myanmar ties, and to set-up investment in Myanmar, especially in Rakhine. The state witnessed violence against the Rohingya Muslims a few years ago, triggering one of the biggest crises in South Asia. Myanmar came into the limelight for human rights abuses against the Muslim minority. Most Western nations accuse Myanmar's government of tacitly supporting the military in what they say was a genocide. The military had launched a campaign against the Rohingyas owing to which many of them were killed and raped. More than 900 thousand fled to Bangladesh. As a result, foreign investment has dried up in the country. After facing global scorn and isolation, Aung San Suu Kyi has turned to China for help. Jinping has obliged by promising to pump billions into Myanmar. Ahead of President Xi's arrival, a minister from Myanmar said that he would sign agreements to build a special economic zone, as well as a port - along the Bay of Bengal. Together, both countries are building the China-Myanmar Economic Corridor. And it's all happening under the belt and road initiative - a debt trap for developing countries. Image: Chinese President Xi Jinping, Myanmar President Win Myint and Myanmar State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi attend a cermony marking the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Myanmar and China in Naypyidaw, Myanmar, January 17, 2020 | Reuters India should be worried about China's moves. It could give Beijing a backdoor entry into the Indian Ocean, and thereby control over critical shopping routes in India's neighbourhood. The crown jewel of China's deals with Myanmar is the Kyau-Kphyu special economic zone. This is a 1.5 billion dollar deal, that involves a highway and oil and gas pipelines, infrastructure that will allow Beijing to tap into the rich energy reserves of Myanmar. This Special Economic Zone will connect China's Yunnan province to Myanmar's financial centre Yangon and the Rakhine state. By far, China is the largest foreign investor in Myanmar. India faces a challenge from China, not just in Myanmar, but across South Asia. More Chinese investments are being pushed in the Indian subcontinent. And they all are part of the Belt and Road initiative. Just before Xi Jinping left for Mynamar, Chinese state mouthpiece The Global Times carried a piece on the website that reads "will India miss the chance offered by Myanmar"? This article argues that India and China should join hands for development projects in Myanmar. China's plans to invest in Myanmar pose a challenge to India's security in the subcontinent. The most worrying project is a seaport in the Bay of Bengal in Kyaukpyu, western coast of Myanmar. Beijing already has two ports in the region: Sri Lanka has given the Hambantota Port to China on a 99-year lease. In Pakistan, China is building the Gwadar Port. All this infrastructure fuels President Xi Jinping's ambitions to put China at the centre of global trade. Image: n this handout photograph taken and released by the Indian Press Information Bureau on November 3, 2019, India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi (R) interacts with Myanmar's State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi (L), on the sidelines of the 35th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in Bangkok | Reuters Ports in the Indian subcontinent are of great value, for they allow Beijing to exercise control over key shipping routes. A port in Myanmar adds to China's leverage. Once completed, the port in Kyaukpyu will give China a direct link to oil supplies from West Asia. However, India also heavily invests in Myanmar. According to a document by the Ministry of External Affairs, India is the 11th largest investor in Myanmar. 26 Indian enterprises have invested nearly 744 million dollars with the most investments in the oil and gas sector. India and Myanmar's bilateral trade is valued at two billion dollars. However, India has made overtures. When Prime Minister Narendra Modi took the oath of office for the second time, only two South-East Asian countries were invited for the swearing-in ceremony: Myanmar is one of them. The importance of Myanmar for India cannot be overstated. It's the only country that sits at the intersection of India's “Neighborhood First” and “Act East” policy. Also read: Myanmar, China ink deals to accelerate Belt and Road as Xi courts an isolated Suu Kyi

Xi Jinping bolsters relationship with Myanmar, what does this mean for India?

With the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) on the agenda, Chinese President Xi Jinping will kickstart his visit to Myanmar on Friday.

Xi plans to ink several infrastructural deals on his first foreign trip of the year.

The trip comes on the occasion of the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Myanmar.

On Xi's agenda will be expanding the belt and road initiative to neighbouring Myanmar. This will involve the revival of stalled multi-billion dollar projects. However, a special focus will be on the 'China-Myanmar Economic Corridor'. The corridor, which is yet to materialise, will connect China with the Indian ocean.

Beijing will also seek to increase investment in Myanmar.

However, Chinese projects have sparked fears of environmental damage and displacement.

Xi is likely to discuss the deep-sea port project in Rakhine which was scaled down over fears of a Chinese debt trap.

Similarly, a china-backed dam project was suspended as it would have led to the displacement of tens of thousands of villagers.

Myanmar which is facing international condemnation over accusation of Rohingya genocide is increasingly becoming dependent on China.&nbsp;

China had backed Myanmar in the United Nations over the persecution of the Rohingya minority.

This is the first visit by a Chinese president to Myanmar in nearly 20 years.

In a bid to bolster strategic ties, Xi will be meeting with Myanmar Army Chief Min Aung Hlaing. He will also call upon the country's state counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi.

With the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) on the agenda, Chinese President Xi Jinping will kickstart his visit to Myanmar on Friday. Xi plans to ink several infrastructural deals on his first foreign trip of the year.

With the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) on the agenda, Chinese President Xi Jinping will kickstart his visit to Myanmar on Friday. Xi plans to ink several infrastructural deals on his first foreign trip of the year. The trip comes on the occasion of the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Myanmar. On Xi's agenda will be expanding the belt and road initiative to neighbouring Myanmar. This will involve the revival of stalled multi-billion dollar projects. However, a special focus will be on the 'China-Myanmar Economic Corridor'. The corridor, which is yet to materialise, will connect China with the Indian ocean. Beijing will also seek to increase investment in Myanmar. However, Chinese projects have sparked fears of environmental damage and displacement. Xi is likely to discuss the deep-sea port project in Rakhine which was scaled down over fears of a Chinese debt trap. Similarly, a china-backed dam project was suspended as it would have led to the displacement of tens of thousands of villagers. Myanmar which is facing international condemnation over accusation of Rohingya genocide is increasingly becoming dependent on China. China had backed Myanmar in the United Nations over the persecution of the Rohingya minority. This is the first visit by a Chinese president to Myanmar in nearly 20 years. In a bid to bolster strategic ties, Xi will be meeting with Myanmar Army Chief Min Aung Hlaing. He will also call upon the country's state counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi.

China's President Xi Jinping to visit Myanmar today with BRI on agenda

China is making major investments in Myanmar - and surrounding India from all sides. Beijing is building more infrastructure investments in the Indian subcontinent. Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you why India must challenge Xi Jinping's expansionist agenda.

Gravitas: Decoding China's powerplay in Myanmar

The people of Myanmar are eagerly awaiting the visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping, which will bring relations between the two countries closer under the Belt and Road Initiative. So, China's influence over Myanmar impacts on India?

China's influence over Myanmar impacts on India?

The people of Myanmar are eagerly awaiting the visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping, which will bring relations between the two countries closer under the Belt and Road Initiative.

Xi's visit to open a new chapter in China-Myanmar friendly exchanges?

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