S Jaishankar Meets Myanmar’s Deputy PM Than Shwe, Raises Concerns Over Violence and Calls for Democratic Transition

India Expresses Deep Concern Over Myanmar’s Instability in Meeting Between S Jaishankar and Deputy PM Than Shwe

New Delhi: Addressing Regional Security and Democratic Transition

India raised deep concerns about violence and instability in Myanmar, along with the threat posed by narcotics and weapons trafficking, during a meeting between External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Myanmar’s Deputy Prime Minister Than Shwe. The meeting took place on Wednesday at Than Shwe’s hotel in New Delhi, as he was transiting through the Indian capital on his way home from a foreign visit.

Discussion Highlights

Jaishankar emphasized India’s worries regarding the ongoing violence and instability in Myanmar and its impact on the India-Myanmar border. He reiterated India’s openness to engaging with all stakeholders to address the situation.

“Discussed our deep concern at the impact of continuing violence and instability in Myanmar on our border. India is open to engaging all stakeholders in addressing this situation,” Jaishankar said in a post on X.

Jaishankar also highlighted illegal narcotics, arms smuggling, and human trafficking as priority challenges that need immediate attention.

Call for Democratic Transition

In line with India’s consistent position, Jaishankar called for an “early return to the path of democratic transition in Myanmar,” expressing India’s readiness to assist in any manner. “All players in Myanmar should cease hostilities and return to the path of dialogue to find a solution,” Jaishankar stated, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and peaceful resolution.

Significance of the Meeting

This meeting marked the first publicly acknowledged visit to New Delhi by a senior member of Myanmar’s ruling junta since the military coup in February 2021. Than Shwe, who also served as Myanmar’s foreign minister and led the junta from 1992 to 2011, is a significant figure in the current regime.

Regional Security Concerns

India’s concerns reflect the broader regional security issues exacerbated by Myanmar’s instability, including the trafficking of narcotics and weapons which pose a threat to both countries. Jaishankar’s engagement with Than Shwe underscores India’s strategic interest in ensuring stability and security in its neighboring country.

India’s Stand

India has consistently advocated for a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Myanmar and the resumption of democratic processes. The meeting between Jaishankar and Than Shwe highlights India’s proactive stance in addressing regional security issues and supporting democratic transition in Myanmar.

Conclusion

The discussion between S Jaishankar and Than Shwe is a crucial step in addressing the complex challenges posed by the ongoing conflict in Myanmar. As the situation evolves, India’s role in facilitating dialogue and stability in the region remains pivotal.

For further updates on this developing story and other international news, stay tuned.

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