Abstract

• As the development and utilization of energy has boosted development of the world economy and human society, the resource- rich countries became important on the political stage of international arena.Myanmar is not only strategically important for its location but also rich in natural resource especially energy. It is a strategic country for the region and many coutries. Likewise, it has been a crucial interest for neighbouring countries particularly China. China has been a major economic partner while it has cooperated closely in Myanmar’s oil and gas sector. Moreover, as a consequence of isolation from the international community after the 1988 military coup, Myanmar needed China’s investment in its economy. By cooperation with China, Myanmar also gained necessary income from trade and foreign direct investment (FDI). However, Myanmar’s growth pattern, with a major concentration in energy and the extractive industries created huge pressure on its environment. The successive governments managed energy cooperation and Myanmar faced troublesome condition in local community and domestic politics. Under the NLD government, plans were underway to amend existing laws, bylaws and regulations in oil and gas sector in the country. Based on circumstances, objectives of the research are to analyze how Myanmar has used oil and gas for interests in its relations with China since 1988 and to find out how Myanmar has troublesome circumstances domestically by cooperation with China.