"Myanmar has made substantial shifts in its relations with major powers comprising China, Russia and the United States. They are key regional players in South-east Asia which will impact directly on peace and stability as well as economic development in Myanmar. In the first half of this year, China has made impressive diplomatic inroads throughout South-east Asia, taking advantage of the lack of policy clarity coming from the new US administration of President Donald Trump. So far, Washington has flexed its muscle over the conflicts in Syria and Afghanistan and displayed a more reconciliatory tone towards Europe. That much was clear. It was only on Thursday that US Vice-President Mike Pence said that Mr Trump would attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) Leaders' Meeting in Vietnam, the Asean-US Summit and the East Asia Summit. Meanwhile, Beijing has been able to sharpen its long-standing policy and make the necessary adjustments to ensure strong friendships and cooperation with countries in the region. Myanmar President Htin Kyaw's recent visit to China demonstrated the new dynamics of their bilateral ties, which have encountered different challenges over the years..."