India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway project paused due to Myanmar unrest
What's the story
The India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway project has been put on hold due to the ongoing internal conflicts in Myanmar, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar announced.
The highway is a key element of India's "Neighbourhood First" policy and is meant to strengthen ties with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
Speaking at the Advantage Assam Summit in Guwahati, Jaishankar underscored the project's potential to revolutionize regional connectivity and trade.
Project status
Highway project's progress and importance highlighted
As of July 2023, nearly 70% of the 1,400-kilometer highway had been completed. The strategic route aims to connect Moreh in Manipur, India with Mae Sot in Thailand through Myanmar.
Despite several delays and no timeline for completion, Jaishankar stressed the need for practical solutions to push the highway project forward amid Myanmar's unrest.
"We cannot allow this to block something so momentous. Practical solutions will have to be found to ensure the advancement of this initiative," he said.
Policy impact
'Neighbourhood First' policy and regional cooperation
Highlighting the achievements of India's "Neighbourhood First" policy, Jaishankar cited improved relations with Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, and Myanmar.
He also made a reference to India's role in distributing COVID-19 vaccines to neighboring countries.
The minister underscored the importance of regional cooperation for growth and mentioned the emergence of Japan and South Korea's significant economic roles in India.
Future prospects
ASEAN nations' contributions and future cooperation areas
He also emphasized Malaysia and Thailand's visa liberalization for Indians and increased air connectivity by ASEAN members.
Jaishankar reiterated India's "Neighbourhood First" policy guides its relations with neighboring countries, resulting in developments like new roads, checkpoints, rail links, waterways, power grids, fuel pipelines, and transport facilities.
He ended by identifying education and skill development among ASEAN nations as potential areas for future cooperation.