India and Myanmar have discussed bilateral security cooperation and reviewed progress under bilateral dialogue mechanisms. The two-day 23rd National Level Meeting between India and Myanmar concluded in New Delhi yesterday.
Ministry of Home Affairs said that the two sides discussed cooperation in combating transnational crimes, including terrorism, insurgency, narcotics trafficking, arms smuggling, human trafficking, wildlife trafficking, cybercrime and other forms of organised crime. They also agreed to enhance intelligence sharing and operational coordination, and undertake capacity-building initiatives to address shared security challenges effectively. The meeting reaffirmed the importance attached by both countries to their longstanding friendship and close partnership and their shared commitment to further strengthen cooperation for the mutual benefit of the two countries.
They reviewed the prevailing security situation along the India-Myanmar border and reaffirmed the importance of maintaining peace, stability and security along the India-Myanmar border. Both sides underscored the importance of preventing the misuse of sovereign territory for activities inimical to their security interests.
The Myanmar side assured that its territory would not be permitted to be used against India’s security interests. The two sides shared the importance of working closely towards the completion of Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport project and the India-Myanmar-Thailand trilateral highway. The two sides agreed to continue close engagement and cooperation on security matters among relevant agencies through existing bilateral mechanisms, regular exchanges, training programmes and implementation of mutually agreed decisions.
The Indian side underlined that Myanmar occupies an important place in India’s Neighbourhood First, Act East and Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions (MAHASAGAR) policies. Home Secretary, Govind Mohan led the Indian delegation and Deputy Minister, Myanmar’s Ministry of Home Affairs, Major General Min Thu led the Myanmar delegation.
