Myanmar gave an assurance to External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Monday that it will not allow any insurgent group to use its territory against India.
The assurance comes in the backdrop of certain groups from the north-eastern States using Myanmar for launching attacks against India. The Indian Army had carried out a major operation against these groups in June last year along the Indo-Myanmar border.
External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, who arrived here on a daylong visit, held talks with Myanmarese leaders on key bilateral issues, including cross-border activities of certain insurgent groups. This is the first high-level visit from India after the civilian government assumed office in Myanmar.
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“Myanmar leadership acknowledged that India is a friendly country that has stood by the people of Myanmar and they looked forward to a very productive partnership with India,” MEA spokesperson Vikas Swarup told PTI.
Ms. Swaraj’s visit comes just days after the Indian Army had an encounter with the NSCN-K militants in Nagaland who were trying to enter the country from Myanmar. While reports said the Indian Army crossed over to Myanmar, it was officially denied by India.
Ms. Swaraj discussed areas of possible collaboration such as power with the Myanmarese leadership. India is already supplying 3 MW electricity to Myanmar through the Moreh-Tamu link. This can be further upgraded, Mr. Swarup said.
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Ms. Swaraj called on President U Htin Kyaw. She also held talks with Foreign Minister Aung San Suu Kyi.
Congratulating Ms. Suu Kyi on her party’s victory in the “first genuine election,” Ms. Swaraj assured her “all help.” — PTI