ISTANBUL

China said on Tuesday that it is “highly” concerned over the conflict in northern Myanmar, condemning the escalation of armed conflict that has resulted in casualties among Chinese citizens.

“China is highly concerned about the conflict in northern Myanmar,” Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said.

"China strongly condemns the escalation of armed conflict and the resulting casualties among Chinese citizens, and has lodged solemn representations with the relevant parties,” Beijing-based daily Global Times reported, quoting Wang as saying.

Fighting has escalated in northern Shan State, close to the Chinese border, in recent days.

The Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army, the Ta'ang National Liberation Army, and the Arakan Army have claimed control of numerous outposts, and four towns, and blocked critical trade routes to China.

The UN has also said that is alarmed by the heavy fighting in Shan State, citing reports of artillery shelling and airstrikes that resulted in civilian casualties and tens of thousands of people being displaced internally and hundreds crossing the border.