PM Modi Engages in Comprehensive Talks with Myanmar President

Bilateral Discussions on Trade and Security

New Delhi, Jun 1: On Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in extensive discussions with Myanmar's President U Min Aung Hlaing, emphasizing the enhancement of bilateral relations in areas such as trade, connectivity, border security, and defense.

According to Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for the External Affairs Ministry, both nations are committed to strengthening their partnership, which is rooted in a long-standing historical and cultural connection. They aim to collaborate further in trade, investment, connectivity, development, capacity building, security, and border management.

In response to inquiries regarding Aung San Suu Kyi, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri confirmed that Modi addressed the topic during their meeting, focusing on the ongoing peace process in Myanmar.

Misri reiterated India's stance on promoting lasting peace and inclusivity, stressing the importance of involving all relevant parties in discussions.

He described the dialogue as open and candid, clarifying that India's engagement with Myanmar is not meant to comment on the country's internal political dynamics.

The discussions covered a wide range of bilateral matters, including economic relations, defense, security, border management, and development assistance, as well as regional issues.

Modi reaffirmed India's commitment to respecting Myanmar's sovereignty and territorial integrity, with both leaders highlighting the necessity of preventing the misuse of their territories for activities that could threaten their security.

President Aung Hlaing assured that Myanmar's land would not be used against India's security interests.

Aung Hlaing is currently on a five-day visit to India, which follows his recent election as President after Myanmar's parliamentary elections held in December and January, amidst widespread protests against the military junta that took power in February 2021.

Myanmar shares a 1,640-km border with several Northeastern Indian states, including Nagaland and Manipur, which have faced issues related to militancy.

On Sunday, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval met with Aung Hlaing to discuss critical aspects of their bilateral relationship.

The Myanmarese leader is accompanied by a high-ranking delegation, including cabinet ministers, senior officials, and business leaders.

Aung Hlaing was initially set to attend the International Big Cat Alliance Summit in New Delhi on June 1, but that event has been postponed.

He will also visit Mumbai on June 2 for business engagements and site visits.