NSA Doval, Myanmar PM discuss peace, stability in border
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, July 27 2024: Myanmar Prime Minister Senior General Min Aung Hlaing has met National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and discussed measures for forging peace and stability in the border region.

Ajit Doval was in Myanmar to lead the Indian delegation at the 4th annual meeting of the security chiefs of the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC), according to a PTI report.

Aung Hlaing, the Chairman of the State Administration Council, received Doval at his office on Friday.

During the meeting, they exchanged views on friendly ties and cooperation between the two countries, the political progress of Myanmar, preparations to hold a free and fair multiparty democratic general election, and measures for forging peace and stability in the border region, according to The Global New Light of Myanmar, a government-owned newspaper.

The discussions come at a critical time as both nations strive to ensure peace and stability along their shared 1,643-km-long border, which passes through Mizoram, Manipur, Nagaland, and Arunachal Pradesh.

Meanwhile, concerns are being raised in Manipur over the influx of Myanmarese refugees and armed militants, exacerbating the current crisis in the state.

Since the military coup in Myanmar in February 2021, there has been a steady flow of refugees seeking safety across the border into India's northeastern states.

This has placed considerable strain on local resources and heightened security challenges.

The influx of armed militants has further complicated the situation, contributing to increased violence and instability in Manipur.

The tiny northeastern state which is already grappling with the current tensions since May 3 last year, has seen an escalation in conflict due to the presence of these external armed groups.

This has led to frequent clashes, endangering civilians and disrupting daily life.

CSOs as well as several sections of the public have expressed deep concern over the situation, urging the Central government to take concrete steps to curb the movement of armed militants across the border.

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