China, Myanmar discuss joint crackdown on online gambling, telecom fraud

February 17, 2025

China, Myanmar discuss joint crackdown on online gambling, telecom fraud

In a bid to crack down on telecom fraud and illegal online gambling operations, the Chinese Embassy in Myanmar issued a statement saying that China and Myanmar had exchanged views on strengthening law enforcement and security cooperation to combat cross-border crimes such as telecom fraud, online gambling and human trafficking.

As per the statement, Chinese Ambassador to Myanmar Ma Jia and Chinese Assistant Minister of Public Security Liu Zhongyi on 14 February (Friday) held talks with Myanmar’s Deputy Prime Minister and Union Minister for Foreign Affairs U Than Swe and Union Minister for Home Affairs Lt-Gen Tun Tun Naung.

During the talks, the Myanmar side stressed the measures taken by the Myanmar government and its commitment to cracking down on illegal activities, including online gambling and telecom fraud. The statement highlighted that the government has introduced specific measures to combat these crimes and intends to enhance coordination with China and other neighbouring countries. Myanmar also proposed initiating talks on establishing a regular cooperation mechanism to address these cross-border threats more effectively.

Meanwhile, China commended Myanmar’s efforts in safeguarding the safety of Chinese citizens, stating that online gambling and telecom fraud pose risks to public safety and financial security. The Chinese side reaffirmed that it is willing to actively carry out bilateral and multilateral cooperation with Myanmar, Thailand and other regional partners.

The statement further emphasised China’s commitment to addressing both the symptoms and root causes of cross-border crime, promising to work closely with Myanmar and neighbouring countries to eradicate the “tumour” of online gambling and telecom fraud while also ensuring stability in regional cooperation and exchanges.