Is India Supporting Free, Fair, and Inclusive Elections in Myanmar?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- India supports democratic transition in Myanmar.
- Free, fair, and inclusive elections are emphasized.
- PM Modi's engagement highlights bilateral cooperation.
- Peace and stability are central to India's approach.
- Myanmar leads its own peace process.
New Delhi, Dec 26 (NationPress) On Friday, India reaffirmed its commitment to supporting a democratic transition along with free, fair, and inclusive elections in Myanmar.
During a weekly media briefing in New Delhi, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized that India is dedicated to peace, stability, and the restoration of normalcy in Myanmar.
When questioned about the sending of observers for the upcoming elections in Myanmar, Jaiswal stated, "Regarding Myanmar, we advocate for a democratic transition. Elections are on the horizon, and we endorse free, fair, and inclusive elections that ensure participation from all, while India supports peace and stability for the nation."
"As for the observers, I currently have no updates but will follow up with you," he added.
In August, the Union Election Commission revealed that Myanmar is scheduled to conduct the first phase of the general election on December 28, with subsequent phases to be announced later.
This announcement followed remarks from Myanmar's State Security and Peace Commission Chairman, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, in June, indicating that elections would occur in December this year and January next year, as reported by Xinhua News Agency.
On August 31, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Senior General Min Aung Hlaing during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Tianjin, China, to evaluate bilateral relations and explore avenues for cooperation.
PM Modi reiterated India’s readiness to support Myanmar's developmental needs, highlighting the significance of India-Myanmar relations as part of its Neighbourhood First, Act East, and Indo-Pacific policies.
In a statement shared on X, the MEA noted: "PM Narendra Modi met 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, China. The leaders reviewed the ties between India and Myanmar and discussed future cooperation in sectors like trade, development partnerships, defense, security, and border management. PM Modi reaffirmed India's commitment to support Myanmar's developmental goals."
PM Modi expressed hope that the upcoming elections in Myanmar will be conducted in a fair and inclusive manner, engaging all stakeholders. He emphasized that India is in favor of a Myanmar-led and Myanmar-owned peace process, advocating for peaceful dialogue and consultation as the path forward, according to the MEA statement.