PM Modi backs Myanmar’s election plan, hopes polls will be ‘free & fair’

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday welcomed the announcement of elections in Myanmar and hoped that the forthcoming polls would be held in a free, fair and inclusive manner, while underlining India’s commitment to a “Myanmar-led and Myanmar-owned peace process”.

Holding talks with Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, Chairman of the State Security and Peace Commission of Myanmar, on the sidelines of the SCO summit in Tianjin, Modi said New Delhi hoped the electoral process in the neighbouring country will involve “all stakeholders” and pave the way for reconciliation.

“The PM welcomed the announcement of elections in Myanmar and stated that dialogue was the only way forward to foster peace and stability in Myanmar,” Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said in a presser.

According to officials, the PM conveyed that peaceful dialogue and broad consultation remain the only viable path forward in resolving Myanmar’s internal challenges, which have intensified since the military takeover in 2021 and the subsequent postponement of elections.

The two leaders also carried out a comprehensive review of bilateral ties. Discussions spanned India’s development partnership projects, defence and security cooperation, border management and cross-border trade.

According to the officials, Modi emphasised that progress on ongoing connectivity projects would not only foster greater interaction between the people of both countries but also promote regional cooperation under India’s Act East vision.

Reiterating India’s commitment to its neighbour, Modi said New Delhi remained ready to support Myanmar’s developmental needs in a manner that strengthens bilateral friendship and regional integration.