The Hindu Editorial Analysis- 19th February 2024 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - UPSC PDF Download

Strategic Diplomacy:

• Better Regulation of Free Movement Regime: FMR should effectively manage movement while preserving cross-border connections. Upgrading infrastructure and formalizing trade at specified entry points could alleviate certain adverse effects.
  • Considering the interests of the local population, neither the outright removal of the FMR nor the complete fencing of the border might be preferable.
• Engage with Multiple Stakeholders: India should maintain a delicate balance by nurturing amicable relations with the military government while expanding avenues for involvement with various stakeholders who support democracy.
• Balancing China's Influence: While respecting Myanmar's sovereignty, India should engage in strategic partnerships and economic collaborations to balance China's influence in the region. Joint projects and initiatives can be pursued to reinforce India's role.

Utilize Collaborative Instruments:

• Promote Two-way Trade: Address the trade imbalance by diversifying trade relations and exploring opportunities for Myanmar to export more to India. Encourage investments and explore sectors beyond traditional areas of collaboration.
  • The Government of India has proposed to invest USD 6 billion to build a petroleum refinery project in Myanmar’s Thanlyn region near Yangon.
• Accelerate Infrastructure Projects: Ensure timely completion of joint infrastructure projects, such as the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project and the Sittwe port. This will boost connectivity and economic cooperation, benefiting both nations.
• Enhanced Security Cooperation: Collaborate on counterinsurgency measures to address the challenges posed by insurgent groups along the border. Intelligence-sharing and joint operations can strengthen security in the region.

Facilitate Track II Diplomacy:

• Utilize Cultural Exchange: Foster cultural and people-to-people ties to strengthen the historical and cultural bond between the two nations. Exchange programs, joint cultural events, and educational collaborations can contribute to mutual understanding.
  • Building on this shared heritage, India is undertaking some key initiatives in the restoration of the Ananda Temple in Bagan and the repair and conservation of a large number of damaged pagodas.
• Organize Peace Conclaves: India may contemplate organizing a Peace Assembly, bringing together senior officials and informed citizens from the Quad member states and the ASEAN Troika, represented by Indonesia, Laos, and Malaysia.
  • This assembly could impartially assess the human rights issues in Myanmar, formulate a comprehensive plan, and extend practical support for progressing toward security and stability.
  • The assembly may emphasize the urgent release of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi from unjustified solitary confinement, given her pivotal role in unlocking the potential for a more promising future for the region.

Conclusion

India has a lot to gain from Myanmar and a lot to give to Myanmar as well. This reciprocal dynamic forms the bedrock of the bilateral relationship between the two nations. Progressing along these trajectories, India and Myanmar have the potential to shape a forward-looking alliance by actively engaging in collaborative efforts while underscoring their commitment to regional peace and stability.