India Hosts Landmark Seminar on Myanmar's Crisis

India has invited political and military opponents of Myanmar's ruling junta to a seminar in New Delhi, organized by the Indian Council of World Affairs. The move signals India's engagement with Myanmar's pro-democracy factions amidst ongoing civil unrest and regional security concerns.

India has taken a notable step by inviting political and military opponents of Myanmar's ruling junta to attend an upcoming seminar in New Delhi, confidential sources reveal. This move is significant as India has maintained relations with Myanmar's military while many Western nations have shunned the generals.

Since Myanmar's military ousted a civilian government in February 2021, the ensuing civil war has jeopardized India's extensive border and infrastructure projects in the region. Sources confirm that representatives from the National Unity Government (NUG) and ethnic minority rebels have been invited to the seminar, which aims to discuss 'Constitutionalism and Federalism'.

Although India's motives remain unclear, the seminar is seen as a strategic engagement with Myanmar's pro-democracy factions. Former ASEAN chair Indonesia had previously indicated preliminary dialogue was possible, but there has been little progress. This event marks India's most serious effort to navigate the complexities in Myanmar since the coup.

(With inputs from agencies.)