What is the issue?
India needs to move swiftly to build on its friendly ties with Myanmar
What are the highlights of PM’s recent visit to Myanmar?
- The trip’s timing was awkward because Myanmar’s army had launched brutal counter-attack against Rohingya rebels in Rakhine province which lies close to Mizoram.
- India chose to ignore worldwide condemnation of the assault which has sent 1,25,000 fleeing to Bangladesh.
- It issued a statement condemning “the recent terrorist attacks in northern Rakhine State, wherein several members of the Myanmar security forces lost their lives”.
- India has taken the view it must be sensitive to Myanmarese fears of secessionist ethnic groups.
- Eight MOUs were signed between both the nations during this visit.
Why Myanmar is important to India?
- India shares a 1,640-km border with Myanmar, is central to its strategic North-East considerations.
- India’s keen to keep Myanmar in its orbit, mindful of how China is courting its neighbour.
- Myanmar is in need of more diplomatic friends as it has irritants with its neighbours like Thailand and Laos.
- Thus Myanmar has been one diplomatic success for India in its backyard.
What can be done?
- India needs to build on its firmer relations by boosting its economic interests in the country.
- The Sittwe port build by India in troubled Rakhine province, but I has not been maintained India need to concentrate on that.
- India could encourage creation of a fisheries industry in the area.
- India need to push forward in many ways and the Government has been generous with foreign aid.
Source: Business Line