Chinese armed forces are on high alert after armed groups in Myanmar attacked military and law enforcement posts close to the country's border on Nov. 20, according to a statement from China's defense ministry.

"The Chinese army is on high alert and will take necessary measures to safeguard the country's sovereignty and safety, as well as to protect the lives and property of Chinese citizens living along the border," the statement read.

The ministry hopes that both sides in the conflict will stay calm to avoid further escalation.

According to a Xinhua report on Nov. 20, three armed groups simultaneously attacked security posts in the border towns of Muse and Kutkai in Myanmar's northeastern state of Shan. 

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China calls for restraint from all sides in Myanmar