India promises whole-hearted support to Myanmar

New Delhi, Aug 29 (PTI) As Myanmar sets out on a new pathafter decades of military rule, India today promisedwhole-hearted support to it in "every step" of its journey asthe two countries resolved to deepen ties and activelycooperate to combat terrorism and insurgent activities in theregion. Prime Minister Narendra Modi held extensive talks withMyanmarese President U Htin Kyaw, in first top levelengagement with the new government of Aung San Suu Kyi’sNational League for Democracy, and conveyed India’s fullsupport to Myanmar’s internal peace process. The two sides inked four MoUs to boost cooperation inareas of connectivity, medicine and renewable energy, besidesresolving to deepen ties in a range of other sectors,including agriculture, banking and power. Reading out a statement to media, Modi later said bothsides recognised that each other’s security interests areclosely aligned and that both countries agreed to worktogether to combat terrorism and insurgent activities in theregion. "We recognised that our security interests are closelyaligned. And, we agreed on the need to remain sensitive toeach other’s strategic interests and concerns. "To this end, President and I agreed to work together forthe safety and security of our people. And, actively cooperateto combat the common challenges of terrorism and insurgentactivity in our region," Modi said, with Htin Kyaw by hisside. Myanmar, considered one of India’s strategic neighbours,shares a 1,640 km long border with a number of North Easternstates including militancy-infested Nagaland and Manipur.India has been raising with Myanmar the issue of several NorthEast militant outfits having training camps in that country. Referring to new Myanmarese government’s agenda ofushering a all round growth and development in the country,Modi said, "Let me assure you that at every step of the way1.25 billion people of India will stand by you- Both aspartners and as friends." Reassuring India’s support to Myanmar, Modi said Indiawants to take the relationship to "new heights", adding "Abright future for Myanmar is not just your objective. It isalso our aspiration." The Prime Minister said both sides have also agreed towork towards a long-term and a mutually beneficial arrangementfor trade in pulses. Calling Myanmar a "bridge" that connects India with SouthEast Asia, Modi said "our discussions today have enabled us toevolve a road map and an action agenda for our cooperation." The Myanmarese President on his part said his governmentwants to strengthen ties with India. China has been increasing its footprint in Myanmar andmaking huge investments in several major projects. (MORE) PTIMPBSMN