On May 2, 2023 local time, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang met with former Chairman of the Myanmar State Peace and Development Council Than Shwe in Nay Pyi Taw.

Qin Gang appreciated Than Shwe for making important contributions to the development of China-Myanmar relations, and said that China always views and grows China-Myanmar relations from a strategic height, is always a trustworthy good neighbor, good friend and good partner of Myanmar, and always supports Myanmar in maintaining stability and promoting development. China respects Myanmar's sovereignty and territorial integrity, supports Myanmar in advancing its domestic peace process, and stands ready to continue actively providing assistance for Myanmar in safeguarding independence, maintaining political stability and realizing sustainable development, and work with Myanmar to jointly build a China-Myanmar community with a shared future.

Than Shwe said that the "pauk-phaw" friendship between Myanmar and China was forged by the leaders of the elder generations of the two countries and has been promoted by every generation of leaders of the two countries, and is deeply rooted in the hearts of the two peoples. Myanmar appreciates China's consistent good-neighborliness and friendship with Myanmar and its strong support for Myanmar's economic and social development. Than Shwe expressed hope that Myanmar and China will stay committed to carrying forward the "pauk-phaw" friendship, strengthen friendly cooperation, and work for more fruitful outcomes of bilateral relations.