BIMSTEC Summit: PM Modi, Myanmar's Aung Hlaing discuss quake relief, bilateral ties

IANS April 4, 2025 212 views

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Myanmar's military leader Min Aung Hlaing during the BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok, focusing on earthquake relief efforts. India has been actively supporting Myanmar through Operation Brahma, dispatching medical supplies and relief materials after the devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake. The meeting marked an important diplomatic engagement, with discussions extending beyond humanitarian aid to potential bilateral cooperation. Modi emphasized India's commitment to assisting Myanmar during this critical time, showcasing the country's Neighbourhood First policy in action.

"India is doing whatever is possible to assist our sisters and brothers of Myanmar in this critical time" - PM Narendra Modi
Bangkok, April 4: Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, the head of Myanmar's military-led government, on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok, discussing efforts to strengthen bilateral ties and extend support following the devastating earthquake that struck Myanmar.

Key Points

1

First bilateral meeting between Modi and Hlaing during summit

2

India launches Operation Brahma for Myanmar earthquake relief

3

Discussions on connectivity and infrastructure cooperation

4

Diplomatic engagement amid humanitarian crisis

This marks the first bilateral meeting between the two leaders during PM Modi's third term in office.

Taking to X, PM Modi shared details of the meeting, saying, "Met Senior General Min Aung Hlaing of Myanmar on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok. Once again expressed condolences on the loss of lives and damage of property in the wake of the recent earthquake."

"India is doing whatever is possible to assist our sisters and brothers of Myanmar in this critical time," he added.

Following the 7.7-magnitude earthquake that claimed over 3,000 lives, India launched Operation Brahma, positioning itself as a first responder in line with its Neighbourhood First and Act East policies.

Under the operation, India has dispatched tonnes of medical supplies and relief materials to Myanmar.

PM Modi had earlier expressed deep sorrow over the disaster and conveyed India's condolences directly to Min Aung Hlaing, reaffirming India's commitment to assisting Myanmar during this crisis.

Apart from discussing earthquake relief, the two leaders also explored ways to enhance cooperation between their countries.

"We also discussed bilateral relations between India and Myanmar, particularly in sectors like connectivity, capacity building, infrastructure development, and more," PM Modi posted on X.

Comments:

RK

Rahul K.

Great to see India stepping up as a first responder! Operation Brahma shows our commitment to neighbors in need. 🇮🇳🤝

PM

Priya M.

While I appreciate the humanitarian aid, I hope these discussions also addressed Myanmar's political situation. Humanitarian help shouldn't mean ignoring other important issues.

AS

Amit S.

Connectivity and infrastructure development with Myanmar is crucial for our Act East policy. Smart move by PM Modi to discuss this during relief talks!

NJ

Neha J.

3000 lives lost is heartbreaking 💔 Glad India is helping but we need to think about long-term disaster preparedness in the region too.

VP

Vikram P.

"Sisters and brothers of Myanmar" - love how PM Modi emphasizes our cultural connections. This is diplomacy with heart ❤️

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