India and Myanmar reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties across sectors, including trade, connectivity, security and development cooperation, during the official visit of Myanmar President U Min Aung Hlaing to India.
The Myanmar President is visiting India from May 30 to June 3 at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. During talks held on June 1, the two leaders reviewed bilateral relations as well as regional and global developments and discussed ways to further expand cooperation.
Prime Minister Modi described Myanmar as a key partner at the intersection of India’s Neighbourhood First, Act East and MAHASAGAR policies, underscoring the strategic importance of the relationship. Both sides highlighted the need to strengthen collaboration in trade and investment, defence and security, border management, development assistance and cultural exchanges.
Connectivity projects figured prominently in the discussions, with both countries reiterating their commitment to the timely completion of the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project and the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway, which are expected to boost regional connectivity and economic integration.
In a significant educational initiative, India announced that scholarships for Myanmar students under the Mekong Ganga ICCR programme would be increased from 36 to 100 annually beginning in 2026.
The two sides also agreed to facilitate greater bilateral trade through the Rupee-Kyat settlement mechanism and welcomed the growth in transactions since the arrangement became operational in May 2024. They expressed interest in expanding cooperation in sectors such as agriculture, energy, petroleum, mining and agro-processing.
On security issues, Prime Minister Modi reaffirmed India’s support for Myanmar’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Both countries stressed that their territories should not be used for activities detrimental to each other’s security interests. President Min Aung Hlaing reiterated Myanmar’s commitment to preventing the use of its territory against India.
India also expressed support for Myanmar-led efforts aimed at achieving peace, stability, national reconciliation and socio-economic development, while offering continued assistance based on mutual respect and longstanding friendship.
During the visit, President Min Aung Hlaing paid homage at key Buddhist sites in Bodh Gaya, including the Mahabodhi Temple, reflecting the deep cultural and spiritual ties between the two countries. He also addressed the India-Myanmar Business Conclave in New Delhi and visited the NTPC Energy Technology Research Alliance (NETRA) facility in Greater Noida.
The visit concluded with both sides reaffirming their commitment to maintaining close engagement at all levels. President Min Aung Hlaing thanked India for its hospitality and extended an invitation to Prime Minister Modi to visit Myanmar at a mutually convenient date.
