BANGKOK — Confusion over what exactly happened during recent attacks on factories in Myanmar has highlighted the complex and troubled nature of the country’s relations with China amid a broad public backlash against a Feb. 1 coup.
Many in Myanmar suspect Beijing of supporting the military’s takeover, and there has long been a deep vein of resentment against China’s growing influence, but protesters insist they were not responsible for a spate of attacks on factories last weekend.
Adding to the uncertainties, China has said it is prepared to do more to protect its extensive business investments in Myanmar, which include factories, pipelines and other big infrastructure projects.
China’s state-run Global Times asserted that protesters “incited by the West” had attacked 32 factories, causing 240 million yuan (about $30 million) in damage.
Turmoil is bad for business and will deter…
