Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with the military chief of Myanmar, General Min Aung Hlaing, during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit. Modi conveyed his expectations for fair and inclusive elections in Myanmar, emphasizing participation from all stakeholders. India reaffirmed its support for the Myanmar-led peace process, with discussions also including bilateral ties, specifically border security and development cooperation. The current conflict and regional stability in Myanmar were also addressed.
PM Modi conducted a bilateral meeting with Myanmar’s military chief, General Min Aung Hlaing, on Sunday. PM Modi expressed his hope for fair and inclusive elections in Myanmar. This meeting occurred at the SCO summit in Tianjin, China. During the discussions with General Min Aung Hlaing, PM Modi confirmed India’s backing for the peace process initiated and led by Myanmar.
India-Myanmar Relations
The Ministry of External Affairs noted that Prime Minister Modi hoped the upcoming elections in Myanmar would be transparent, fair, and inclusive, ensuring the participation of all involved parties. He emphasized that India supports Myanmar’s peace process and highlighted that peaceful dialogue and consultation are essential for progress. PM Modi reiterated that India prioritizes its relationship with Myanmar, guided by the ‘Neighbourhood First,’ ‘Act East,’ and Indo-Pacific policies.
The Ministry of External Affairs stated that both leaders reviewed the bilateral relations between India and Myanmar, discussing development cooperation, defense and security, border management, and cross-border trade. Prime Minister Modi emphasized that ongoing connectivity projects will further strengthen ties between the citizens of both nations.
Regional Stability and Security Concerns
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri informed the media that extensive discussions occurred between India and Myanmar concerning security and border issues. He highlighted that Myanmar is a significant strategic neighbor for India, sharing a 1,640-kilometer-long border with northeastern states, including Nagaland and Manipur, which have faced long-standing security challenges. Following the coup by the Myanmar army on February 1, 2021, the country has been marked by violent protests and conflicts concerning the restoration of democracy.
He further explained that amidst this instability, resistance groups have taken control of key trade routes bordering India, China, and Bangladesh. This situation has not only affected regional security but has also exacerbated trade and humanitarian crises. India remains in contact with Myanmar to ensure border security, provide humanitarian assistance, and ensure regional stability.