By AMIT KUMAR
India and Myanmar pledged closer cooperation in trade, connectivity, security and development during President Min Aung Hlaing’s official visit to India. Both sides reviewed key projects and expanded economic engagement.
New Delhi, June 1, 2026 — India and Myanmar have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation across trade, connectivity, security and development. India and Myanmar issued a joint statement following high-level talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Myanmar President U Min Aung Hlaing in New Delhi.
President Min Aung Hlaing is on his first official visit to India from May 30 to June 3 at the invitation of Prime Minister Modi. The visit comes at a significant moment for regional diplomacy, with both countries seeking to strengthen economic and strategic ties amid evolving geopolitical dynamics in South and Southeast Asia.
The discussions on June 1 focused on a wide range of bilateral, regional and global issues. Prime Minister Modi described Myanmar as a key partner situated at the intersection of India’s Neighbourhood First, Act East and MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions) policies.
A major focus of the talks was connectivity. Both leaders emphasized the importance of completing the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project and the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway, two flagship initiatives expected to enhance regional trade and improve links between South Asia and Southeast Asia.
Economic cooperation also featured prominently. India and Myanmar agreed to further facilitate bilateral trade through the Rupee-Kyat settlement mechanism, which has been operational since May 2024. Both sides welcomed the steady increase in transactions under the arrangement and explored opportunities for greater investment in agro-processing, petroleum, energy and mining sectors.
In a boost to educational and cultural exchanges, Prime Minister Modi announced that Mekong Ganga ICCR scholarships for Myanmar students would be increased from 36 to 100 annually beginning in 2026.
Security cooperation remained another key pillar of the relationship. India reiterated its support for Myanmar’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, while both countries agreed on the importance of preventing the use of their territories for activities detrimental to each other’s security interests. President Min Aung Hlaing reaffirmed Myanmar’s commitment that its territory would not be used against India’s security concerns.
India also expressed support for Myanmar-led efforts aimed at achieving peace, stability, national reconciliation and socio-economic development. The Myanmar President, in turn, appreciated India’s continued assistance and constructive engagement.
Beyond political talks, the visit highlighted the deep cultural and spiritual connections between the two nations. President Min Aung Hlaing visited Bodh Gaya and offered prayers at the Mahabodhi Temple, Mahabodhi Meditation Centre and Sujata Temple, underscoring the enduring Buddhist links between India and Myanmar.
The Myanmar leader also addressed the India-Myanmar Business Conclave in New Delhi and visited NTPC’s Energy Technology Research Alliance (NETRA) facility in Greater Noida, where he reviewed India’s advances in clean energy and innovation.
The visit is expected to conclude with further business engagements in Mumbai before President Min Aung Hlaing returns to Myanmar. Both sides agreed to maintain close engagement and continue expanding their longstanding partnership for mutual benefit.
Myanmar President in India: A Visit Layered with Calculated Silences
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