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.
