Mumbai, June 3: Myanmar President Min Aung Hlaing has stated that the primary objective of his visit to India is to strengthen economic cooperation, trade, and investment between the two nations. He emphasized that the historical ties between India and Myanmar have been robust, and this visit aims to give new momentum to these relationships.
President Min Aung Hlaing addressed a welcome ceremony organized by Maharashtra Governor Jagdish Mukhi and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis at Lok Bhavan in Mumbai on Tuesday.
He highlighted the significant potential for trade and mutual cooperation, given the nearly 1,600-kilometer land border and extensive maritime boundary between the two countries. During his visit, he met with President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and also toured the Jawaharlal Nehru Port in Mumbai, participating in a business conference.
The President expressed gratitude for the assistance provided by India during the devastating earthquake that struck Myanmar last year. He specifically mentioned ‘Operation Brahma,’ noting that India sent medical teams, temporary field hospitals, essential relief materials, and humanitarian aid for rescue efforts.
He also thanked the Indian government and the people of India for providing vaccines, oxygen cylinders, and food supplies to Myanmar during the COVID-19 pandemic.
On this occasion, Maharashtra Governor Jagdish Mukhi remarked that Lord Gautam Buddha serves as a strong spiritual link between India and Myanmar. He noted that while the tradition of Vipassana meditation was nearly lost in India, Myanmar preserved it, benefiting the entire world today.
The Governor added that India’s Buddhist circuit, which connects sacred sites associated with Lord Buddha, could play a crucial role in promoting tourism between the two countries. He emphasized that Myanmar holds a special place in India’s ‘Neighborhood First’ and ‘Act East’ policies, serving as a vital gateway for India to Southeast Asia and ASEAN countries. He expressed confidence that the President’s visit would further strengthen bilateral relations between the two nations.