June 26, 2024 10:07 PM.
External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar today discussed India’s deep concern at the impact of continuing violence and instability in Myanmar on Indian border with his Myanmar counterpart.
Dr Jaishankar met with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Myanmar U Than Shwe as he transited New Delhi today. The External Affairs Minister said India is open to engaging all stakeholders in addressing this situation.
In a social media post, Dr Jaishankar said he particularly flagged illegal narcotics, arms smuggling and trafficking in persons as priority challenges. He sought cooperation for early return of Indian nationals trapped in Myawaddy.
He also pressed for credible security protection for India’s ongoing projects in the country. The Minister urged early return to the path of democratic transition in Myanmar and said India stands ready to help in any manner.
This is possibly the first time an acknowledgement is made publicly by India about its engagement with a senior leader of the military junta. In a proper international diplomatic stance, India has maintained ties with the regime because of the need for cooperation for checking activities of insurgents active in border areas.
