Picture of the Day, December 21, 2010

Russian President arrives in India

Russian President Dmitry Medvedev is being received by Minister of State for External Affairs Preneet Kaur (left) after his arrival at the Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi, early Tuesday
(Source: http://www.thehindu.com/news/international/article967401.ece?homepage=true)

Pictures of the day: 15 December 2010

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao arrives on 3-day state visit to India

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao being received by the Minister of State for Commerce and Industry Jyotiraditya Scindia on his arrival at the Air force Station Palam, in New Delhi on December 15, 2010 

(Source: http://netindian.in/sites/default/files/20101215Wen2.jpg)

 Đại diện chính phủ Ấn Độ đón Thủ tướng Trung Quốc Ôn Gia Bảo tại sân bay

(Source: http://vnexpress.net/GL/The-gioi/Phan-tich/2010/12/3BA2443E/)

India-China Agreement in 1954 on Trade and Inter-Course

AGREEMENT BETWEEN

THE GOVERNMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF INDIA

AND

THE GOVERNMENT OF THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA

ON TRADE AND INTER-COURSE BETWEEN TIBET REGION OF CHINA AND INDIA

The Government of the Republic of India and the Central people’s Government of the People’s Republic of China:

Being desirous of promoting trade and cultural intercourse between the Tibet region of China and India and of facilitating pilgrimage and travel by the people of China and India;

Have resolved to enter into the present agreement based on the following principles:

(1) Mutual respect for each other’s territorial integrity and sovereignty;

(2) Mutual non-aggression;

(3) Mutual non-interference in each other’s internal affairs;

(4) Equality and mutual benefit: and

(5) Peaceful coexistence

and for this purpose have appointed as their respective plenipotentiaries: 

 

The Government of the Republic of India:

H.E. Nedyam Raghavan, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of India accredited to the

People’s Republic of China,

The Central People’s Government of the

The People’s Republic of China:

H.E. Chang Han-Fu, Vice-Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Central People’s Government, 

Who, having examined each other’s credentials and finding them in good and due form, have agreed upon the following: 

ARTICLE I

The High Contracting Parties mutually agree to establish trade agencies:

(I) The Government of India agree that the Government of China may establish trade agencies at New Delhi, Calcutta and Kalimpong.

(II) The Government of China agree that the Government of India may establish bade agencies at Yatung, Gyantse and Gartok.

The Trade Agencies of both parties shall be accorded the same status and same treatment. The Trade Agents of both parties shall enjoy freedom from arrest while exercising their functions, and shall enjoy in respect of themselves, their wives and children who are dependent on them for their livelihood freedom from search.

The Trade Agencies of both parties shall enjoy the privileges and immunities for couriers, mail bags and communications in code. 

ARTICLE II

The High Contracting Parties agree that traders of both countries known to be customarily and specifically engaged in trade between the Tibet region of China and India may trade at the following places:

(1) The Government of China agree to specify (1) Yatung, (2) Gyantse and (3) Phari as markets for trade: the Government of India agree that trade may be carried on in India including places like (1) Kalimpong, (2) Siliguri and (3) Calcutta, according to customary practice.

(2) The Government of China agree to specify (1) Gartok. (2) Pulanchung (Taklakot), (3) Gyalima-Khargo, (4) Gyanima-Chakra, (5) Ranura. (6) Dongbra, (7) Pulling-Sumdo (3) Nabra, (9) Shangtse and (10) Tashigong as markets for trade; the Government of India agree that in future when in accordance with the development and need of trade between the Art district of the Tibet region of China and India, it has become necessary to specify markets for trade in the corresponding districts in India adjacent to the Art district of the Tibet region of China, it will be prepared to consider on the basis of equality and reciprocity to do so. 

ARTICLE III

The High Contracting Parties agree that pilgrimages by religious believers of the two countries shall be carried on in accordance with the following provisions:

(1) Pilgrims from India of Lamaist, Hindu and Buddhist faith may visit Kang Rimpoche (Kailash) and Mavam Tse (Mansarowar) in the Tibet region of China in accordance with custom.

(2) Pilgrims from the Tibet region of China of Lamaist and Buddhist faiths may visit Banaras, Sarnath, Gaya and Sanchi in India in accordance with custom.

(3) Pilgrims customarily visiting Lhasa may continue to do so in accordance with custom. 

ARTICLE IV

Traders and pilgrims of both countries may travel by the following passes and routes:

(1) Shipki La Pass

(2) Mana Pass

(3) Niti Pass

(4) Kungri Bingri Pass

(5) Dana Pass, and

(6) Lipu Lekh Pass.

Also the customary route leading to Tashigong along the valley of Elek Gatasangpu (Indus river) continue to be traversed in accordance with custom. 

ARTICLE V

For traveling across borers, the High Contracting Parties agree that diplomatic personnel, officials and nations of the two countries shall hold passports issued by their own respective countries and visas by the other party except as provided in paragraphs 1, 2. 3, and 4 of this article.

(1) Traders of both countries known to be customarily and specifically engaged in trade between the Tibet region of China and India, their wives and children, who are dependent on them for livelihood and their attendants will be allowed entry for purposes of trade into India or the Tibet region of China, as the case may be, in accordance with custom on the production of certificates duly issued by the local Government of their own country by its duly authorised agents and examined by the border check posts of the other party.

(2) Inhabitants of the border districts of the two countries, who cross borders to carry on petty trade or to visit friends and relatives, may proceed to the border districts of the other party as they have customarily done heretofore and need not be restricted to the passes and route specified in Article IV above and shall not be required to hold passports, visas or permits.

(3) Porters and mule-team drivers of the two countries who cross the border to perform necessary transportation services need not hold passports issued by their own country, but shall only hold certificates for a definite period of time (good for three months, half year or one year) duly issued by the local agents and produce them for registration at the border checkpost of the other party.

(4) Pilgrims of both countries need not carry documents of certification but shall register at the border checkpost of the other party and receive a permit for pilgrimage.

(5) Notwithstanding the provisions of the foregoing paragraph of this article, either Government may refuse entry to any particular person.

(6) Persons who enter the territory of the other party in accordance with the foregoing paragraphs of this article may stay within its territory only after complying with the procedures specified by the other party. 

ARTICLE VI

The present agreement shall come into effect upon ratification by both Governments and shall remain in force for eight years. Extension of the present agreement may be negotiated by the two parties if either party requests for it six months prior to the expiry of the agreement and the request is agreed to by the other party.

Done in duplicate in Peking on April 29, 1954, in Hindi, Chinese and English languages, all text being equally valid.

Plenipotentiary of the Central Government of the People’s Republic of China - CHANG HAN-FU

Plenipotentiary of the Government of the Republic of India - N RAGHAVAN 

 

TEXT OF NOTES EXCHANGED

BETWEEN THE DELEGATIONS OF INDIA AND CHINA

 

Peking, April 29, 1954

Your Excellency, Mr. Vice-Foreign Minister,

In the course of our discussion regarding the agreement on trade and intercourse between the Tibet region of China and India, which has happily concluded on Thursday (April 29) the delegation of the Government of the Republic of India and the delegation of the Government of the People’s Republic of China agreed that certain matters be regulated by an exchange of notes. In pursuance of this understanding, it is hereby agreed between the two Governments as follows:

(1) The Government of India will be pleased to withdraw completely within six months from date of exchange of the present notes the military escort now stationed at Yatung and Gyantse in the Tibet region of China. The Government of China will render facilities and assistance in such withdrawal.

(2) The Government of India will be pleased to hand over to the Government of China at a reasonable price the post, telegraph and public telephone services together with their equipment operated by the Government of India in the Tibet region of China. The concrete measures in this regard will be decided upon through further negotiations between the Indian Embassy in China and the Foreign Ministry of China, which shall start immediately after the exchange of the present notes.

(3) The Government of India will be pleased to hand over to the Government of China at a reasonable price the twelve rest-houses of the Government of India in the Tibet region of China. The concrete measures in this regard will be decided upon through further negotiations between the Indian Embassy in China and the Foreign Ministry of China which will start immediately after the exchange of the present notes. The Government of China agree that they shall continue as rest-houses.

(4) The Government of China agree that all buildings within the compound wall of the Trade Agencies of the Government of India at Yatung and Gyantse in the Tibet region of China may be retained by the Government of India; and the Government of India may continue to lease the land within its agency compound wall from the Chinese side. And the Government of India agree that the Trade Agencies of the Government of China at Kalimpong and Calcutta may lease lands from the Indian side for the use of the Agencies and construct buildings thereon. The Government of China will render every possible assistance for housing the Indian Trade Agency at Gartok. The Government of India will also render every possible assistance for housing the Chinese Trade Agency at New Delhi.

(5) The Government of India will be pleased to return to the Government of China all land used or occupied by the Government of India other than the lands within its Trade Agency compound wall at Yatung.

If there are godowns and buildings of the Government of India on the above-mentioned land used or occupied and to be returned by the Government of India and if Indian traders have stores or godowns or buildings on the above-mentioned land so that there is a need to continue leasing land, the Government of China agree to sign a contract with the Government of India or Indian traders, as the case may be, for leasing to them those parts of the land occupied by the said godowns, buildings or stores and pertaining thereto.

(6) The Trade Agents of both parties may, in accordance with the laws and regulations of the local government, have access to their nationals involved in civil or criminal cases.

(7) The Trade Agents and traders of both countries may hire employees in the locality.

(8) The hospitals of the Indian Trade Agencies at Gyantse and Yatung will continue to serve personnel of the Indian Trade Agencies.

(9) Each Government shall protect the person and property of the traders and pilgrims of the other country.

(10) The Government of China agree, so far as possible, to construct rest-houses for use of pilgrims along the route from Pulanchung (Taklakot) to Kang Rimpoche (Kailash) and Mavam Tse (Manasarowar), and the Government of India agree to place all possible facilities in India at the disposal of pilgrims.

(11) Traders and pilgrims of both countries shall have the facilities of hiring means of transportation at normal and reasonable rates.

(12) The three Trade Agencies of each party may function throughout the year.

(13) Traders of each country may rent buildings and godowns in accordance with local regulations in places under the jurisdiction of the other party.

(14) Traders of both countries may carry on normal trade in accordance with local regulations at places as provided in Article II of the agreement.

(15) Disputes between traders of both countries over debts and claims shall be handled in accordance with local laws and regulations.

On behalf of the Government of the Republic of India, I hereby agree that the present note, along with your reply, shall become an agreement between our two Governments which shall come into force upon the exchange of the present notes.

I avail myself of this opportunity to express to you the assurances of my highest consideration.

N. Raghavan

Ambassador Extraordinary

and Plenipotentiary of the

Republic of India

29 April 1954

Peking, April 29, 1954

Your Excellency Mr Ambassador

I have the honour to receive your note dated April 29, 1954 which reads:

(text omitted - Editor)

On behalf of the Central People’s Government of the People’s Republic of China, I hereby agree to Your Excellency’s note, and your note along with the present note in reply shall become an agreement between our two Governments, which shall come into force upon the exchange of the present notes. I avail myself of this opportunity to express to Your Excellency, Mr Ambassador, the assurances of my highest consideration.

 

Chang Han-Fu

Vice Minister

Ministry of Foreign Affairs,

People’s Republic of China

29 April, 1954

(Source: Swaran Singh, Three Agreements and Five Principles Between India and China, http://ignca.nic.in/ks_41062.htm; accessed 8 December 2010)

Visit of Chairman, State Peace and Development Council of Myanmar to India July 2010

Joint Statement during the visit of Chairman, State Peace and Development Council of Myanmar

July 27, 2010

At the invitation of the President of India, Smt. Pratibha Devisingh Patil, the Head of State of the Union of Myanmar, Senior General Than Shwe, Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council of the Union of Myanmar, is paying a State Visit to India from July 25- 29, 2010. The Chairman is accompanied by his wife Daw Kyaing Kyaing. Apart from his official engagements in New Delhi, Senior General Than Shwe will also visit places of economic, historical and religious interest.

2. This visit is a part of a series of high-level contacts that India and Myanmar have had over the past few years. These include visits by Vice Senior General Maung Aye, Vice-Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council of the Union of Myanmar, in April 2008 and Shri M. Hamid Ansari, Vice President of India, in February 2009.

3. In New Delhi, Senior General Than Shwe was accorded a ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhavan on 27 July 2010. He was received by the President of India, who hosted a banquet in his honour.

4. Shri M. Hamid Ansari, Vice President of India, Shri S. M. Krishna, External Affairs Minister and Smt. Sushma Swaraj, Leader of Opposition called on Senior General Than Shwe.

5. Senior General Than Shwe had a meeting with the Prime Minister of India, Dr. Manmohan Singh, which was followed by delegation level talks. The meetings and exchanges were positive and marked by cordiality on both sides.

6. India and Myanmar are close and friendly neighbours linked, inter alia, by civilizational bonds, geographical proximity, culture, history and religion. Apart from a boundary that stretches over more than 1640 kilometers and borders four North-Eastern states of India, there is a large population of persons of Indian origin in Myanmar. Bilateral relations are reflective of these multifarious and traditional linkages and the two countries live side by side as close neighbors based on the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence.

7. Recalling these shared bonds of civilization, the Head of State of Myanmar and the Prime Minister of India expressed their commitment to further strengthen and broaden the multi-dimensional relationship which now encompasses a range of areas of cooperation. Enhancing economic, social and developmental engagement will help harness the considerable potential in India-Myanmar bilateral relations, which would, in turn, contribute to the socio-economic betterment of their respective peoples.

8. Recognizing that peace and stability in the region is essential for development and for the well-being of the people of their respective countries, the two leaders agreed on close cooperation between the security forces of the two countries in tackling the pernicious problem of terrorism. They agreed that security cooperation should be given immediate attention since terrorists, insurgents and criminals respect no boundaries and undermine the social and political fabric of a nation. Both leaders reiterated the assurance that the territory of either would not be allowed for activities inimical to the other and resolved not to allow their respective territory to be used for training, sanctuary and other operations by terrorist and insurgent organizations and their operatives.

9. Understanding that continued cooperation will lead to success in fighting the insurgency issue, the two leaders agreed to strengthen cooperation and collective efforts of the two countries along the border. In this context, the two leaders welcomed the Home Secretary level talks held in Nay Pyi Taw in January 2010 and the important decisions taken in that meeting.

10. Both leaders expressed their desire for greater economic engagement. In this context, the Prime Minister of India conveyed India’s commitment to continue with developmental assistance to Myanmar. The Myanmar side expressed deep appreciation for the generous and concessionary credit facilities given by India to finance significant infrastructure and other projects. Projects that are currently underway under such aid assistance include railways, road and waterway development, power and industrial training centres, tele-communication, etc. The Indian side agreed to consider Myanmar’s request for assistance in the three areas namely: IT development, Industrial development and Infrastructure development in Myanmar which will lead to upliftment of the bilateral cooperation to a higher level.

11. Senior General Than Shwe and Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh welcomed the considerable enhancement of the connectivity between the two countries. In this context, they welcomed the progress made by M/s Inland Waterways Authority of India towards implementation of the Kaladan Multi-modal Transit Transport Project and reiterated their respective Governments’ commitment to this project. In particular, they welcomed the finalization of the contract for port development and Inland waterway with M/s ESSAR. It was also agreed that the scope of the project with respect to the road component would be revised. The road component between Paletwa and Myeikwa on the India border would be executed by the Myanmar Ministry of Construction with M/s IRCON.

12. The two leaders expressed satisfaction at the construction, maintenance and repair work by Indian Border Roads Organization of the Tamu-Kalaywa-Kalemyo Road connecting Moreh in Manipur to Myanmar and the handing over of most of the segments of the TKK Road to the Government of Myanmar.

13. To enhance road connectivity, especially through the State of Mizoram, both leaders announced the construction and revamping of the Rhi-Tiddim road at a cost of more than US$ 60 million to be financed through grant assistance from India. The Myanmar side expressed its appreciation for this gesture.

14. Both leaders emphasized the need to enhance cooperation in the area of agriculture. The Indian side announced a grant of US$ 10 million for procurement of agricultural machinery from India. The leaders expressed the hope that this machinery will help enhance productivity in Myanmar’s agricultural sector, which is the mainstay of its economy. The Myanmar side also requested for technical assistance in manufacturing of agricultural machinery.

15. The Indian side also announced a project to set up rice silos to facilitate disaster relief operations particularly in the cyclone prone delta areas, with grant in aid from India.

16. The Myanmar side expressed appreciation for India’s generous assistance in the relief and rehabilitation efforts that followed the devastating Cyclone Nargis which hit Myanmar in May 2008. He noted that the assistance from India, which included dispatch of a large medical contingent to work in cyclone affected areas as well as providing immediate medical and food supplies, supply of GI sheets, 16 electricity transformers, 20 biomass gasifiers and funds for restoration work on the holy Shwedagon pagoda, was timely and catered to Myanmar’s urgent requirements.

17. Both leaders identified the power sector as an area of growing cooperation. In this context, the two leaders agreed to cooperate in the implementation of the Tamanthi and Shwezaye projects on the Chindwin River Basin in Myanmar. They welcomed the involvement of M/s NHPC in carrying out the much required additional investigations after the signing of the MoU on Cooperation in Hydro-power Development projects in the Chindwin River Basin in September 2008. Subject to the findings of these additional investigations, the two leaders will endeavour to conclude the Memorandum of Agreement within a year.

18. The Myanmar side conveyed their gratitude for India’s line of credit of US$ 64 million in the transmission lines sector to be executed through M/s. PGCIL. Both leaders also noted the need to provide for inter-grid connectivity between the two countries. They agreed that the two countries shall cooperate in this area, including generation of electricity from renewable sources, and, where necessary, set up joint projects or corporate entities for that purpose.

19. The Myanmar side welcomed the interest of Indian companies in the mining sector. They promised all necessary assistance to enable these companies to explore such opportunities.

20. The Indian side agreed to explore possibilities for cooperation in the field of solar energy and wind energy in Myanmar. They also agreed to offer Myanmar, training in related fields.

21. Cooperation in the energy sector is poised for greater growth, especially in the area of oil and natural gas. Both leaders emphasized the importance they attach to energy security which has a direct bearing on the welfare of the peoples of the two countries. They expressed satisfaction at the ongoing bilateral collaboration in exploration and production in Myanmar’s petroleum sector and agreed to encourage further investment by Indian companies both public and private, in this sector.

22. The Myanmar side welcomed the substantial additional investment by ONGC and GAIL for the development in the upstream and downstream projects of Myanmar offshore blocks A-1 and A-3 including the natural gas pipeline under construction at Ramree in Myanmar.

23. In the field of telecom, following the successful functioning of the official Fibre link between India and Myanmar via Moreh, the two leaders agreed to upgrade the microwave link between Moreh to Mandalay under a line of credit of US$ 6 million from India. Further, a new Optical Fibre Link between Monywa to Rhi-Zawkhathar will also be undertaken with Indian assistance.

24. The Myanmar side thanked India for its continued assistance through renewal of the agreement to provide IRS-P5 and Cartosat Data through Antrix.

25. The two leaders agreed to encourage collaboration between Myanmar and India in the area of Information and Communication Technology.

26. Recalling India’s earlier assistance in supplying railway rolling stock, machineries and equipments to Myanmar, both leaders agreed to further cooperation in the railway sector. The Indian side extended a line of credit of US$ 60 million to procure railway equipment.

27. The two leaders noted with satisfaction that the project being undertaken by TATA Motors to set up a heavy turbo truck plant at Magway is proceeding well and encouraged other Indian companies to enter into the industrial sectors in Myanmar. The Myanmar side assured that current investment proposals by private Indian companies in Myanmar would be actively facilitated.

28. The two leaders welcomed the expansion of trade and commerce between the two countries manifest in the increase in the volume of trade to more than US$ 1 billion per annum. They agreed that trade at border trade points should be further enhanced to boost the immense potential that exists in bilateral trade. This would also directly benefit the North-East States of India.

29. Referring to the existing border trading points at Moreh - Tamu (Manipur) and Zawkhathar-Rhi (Mizoram) as well as the additional point agreed to be operationalised at Avankhug-Somra (Nagaland), the two sides agreed to put in place the necessary infrastructure to make these points viable and business friendly.

30. The two leaders welcomed the establishment of direct banking links between India and Myanmar following the signature of the correspondent banking relationship agreement between United Bank of India and Myanma Foreign Trade Bank, Myanma Economic Bank and Myanma Investment and Commercial Bank for providing banking arrangements relating to upgrading of border trade to normal trade. They encouraged the business community to make optimal use of this arrangement and thus enhance direct trade transactions.

31. The two leaders encouraged to conduct business meetings to be held alternately in both countries for trade promotion. They noted that such measures can help build bridges at the business level and promote business and commercial opportunities.

32. In recognition of the close and friendly tourism cooperation between India and Myanmar and cooperation under the frameworks of ASEAN+India and BIMSTEC, the two sides agreed to further promote tourist contacts. The Myanmar side thanked India for the facilities and courtesies being extended to Myanmar pilgrims visiting India.

33. Both leaders welcomed the proposal for the restoration of the historic Ananda temple in Bagan to be undertaken with the assistance of the Archaeological Survey of India, with the involvement of the Ministry of Culture of Myanmar.

34. Both leaders expressed satisfaction at the ongoing implementation of the MoU for cooperation in Buddhist studies and the related work plan agreed to between the Ministry of Religious Affairs of Myanmar and the Nava Nalanda Mahavihara University. Several hundred Myanmar Buddhist scholars and monks are currently studying in this university in various disciplines.

35. The Myanmar side expressed gratitude to India for its numerous HRD initiatives in Myanmar which included setting up of the following:

• the Myanmar-India Centre for English language Training;
• the Myanmar-India Entrepreneurship Development Centre;
• the India-Myanmar Centre for Enhancement of IT Skills; and
• the Industrial Training Centre in Pakokku.

36. The Myanmar side also indicated that the training offered by India under the ITEC and TCS schemes have been valuable for scholars and Government officials in Myanmar. The Indian side agreed to offer more opportunities for higher studies and training in Universities and training institutions in India to scholars from Myanmar.

37. The Myanmar side informed the Indian side about developments in Myanmar including the groundwork for elections scheduled towards the end of the year. The Indian side thanked the Myanmar side for the detailed briefing and emphasized the importance of comprehensively broad-basing the national reconciliation process and democratic changes being introduced in Myanmar.

38. While discussing international developments, the two sides emphasized the importance of an effective multilateral system, centred on a strong United Nations, as a key factor in tackling global challenges. In this context, they stressed the urgent need to pursue the reform of the United Nations including the Security Council, to make it more representative, credible and effective.

39. The leader of Myanmar reiterated Myanmar’s support for India’s bid for the permanent membership of the United Nations Security Council. He also conveyed its support to India’s candidature for a non-permanent seat in the UNSC for the term 2011-2012.

40. The two leaders also emphasized the importance of India and Myanmar to work together in the cause of regional cooperation. The Indian leadership offered its good wishes to Myanmar for a successful term as BIMSTEC Chair, a responsibility that it assumed in 2009. The Indian side welcomed participation of Myanmar at the 16th SAARC Summit as an Observer for the first time.

41. The two sides expressed satisfaction at the ongoing cooperation between India and Myanmar under the ASEAN-India Summit Relations and welcomed the implementation of the ASEAN-India FTA. The Myanmar side appreciated India’s support for building an ASEAN Community in 2015, and to the Vientiane Action Programme including the Initiative for ASEAN Integration and other sub-regional growth initiatives such as Mekong-Ganga Cooperation Initiative and EAS cooperation. Myanmar side recognized that ASEAN-India Framework Agreement on Comprehensive Economic Cooperation which was signed in 2003 has played a significant role in strengthening the Dialogue Partnership. Myanmar being a natural bridge between ASEAN and India, the Indian side reiterated its intention of building upon the commonalities and synergies between the two countries to advance its Look East Policy.

42. In the above context, both leaders reiterated their commitment to undertake the tri-lateral connectivity from Moreh in India to Moe Sot in Thailand via Myanmar. The Indian side agreed to take up the preparation of DPRs for roads and causeways in Myanmar to realize this project.

43. During the visit, the following documents were signed;

a. Treaty on Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters
b. MOU regarding Indian Grant Assistance for Implementation of Small Developmental projects.
c. MoU on Information Cooperation
d. Agreement on Cooperation in the fields of Science & Technology
e. MoU on Conservation and Restoration of Ananda Temple in Bagan, Myanmar

44. Senior General Than Shwe thanked the President of India and the Indian Government and people for the warm and gracious hospitality extended to him and the members of his delegation during their stay in India.

45. Senior General Than Shwe also extended a warm invitation to the President and Prime Minister of India to visit Myanmar at a mutually convenient time. The President and Prime Minister of India thanked him and accepted the invitation with great pleasure. The dates for the visit would be decided by mutual consultations through diplomatic channels.

New Delhi
July 27, 2010

(Source: http://meaindia.nic.in/mystart.php?id=530516206; accessed 8 December 2010)

Indian Prime Minister's Official Visit to Malaysia October 2010

Joint Statement on the Framework for the India-Malaysia Strategic Partnership

October 27, 2010

The Prime Minister of Malaysia, Dato’ Sri Najib Tun Razak and the Prime Minister of India, Dr. Manmohan Singh met in Kuala Lumpur on 27 October 2010. They recalled their decision during the visit of the Prime Minister of Malaysia to India in January 2010 to expand and deepen India-Malaysia bilateral relations by establishing a strategic partnership between the two countries.

The two Prime Ministers acknowledged the long history of cultural and civilization contacts between the two countries and their shared commitment to democracy and development. They also acknowledged that both sides had made a contribution in promoting economic development and stability in the Asia-Pacific and recognized each others’ responsibility in the promotion of peace, development and security of the region based on a convergence of political and economic interests and aspirations. Both leaders recalled that India and Malaysia have a mutual stake in the progress and prosperity of the other, and expressed their determination to imbue greater dynamism to the relationship through all-round cooperation and engagement. They expressed their common desire to elevate bilateral relations to the level of a long term and strategic partnership based on mutual equality and mutual understanding.

In this context, the two Prime Ministers have identified the following elements of the Strategic Partnership between the two countries:

1. The two leaders agreed to maintain regular dialogue and contact at the summit level, including at the margins of international conferences;

2. Both sides acknowledged the importance of enhancing and deepening all-round cooperation through biennial meetings of the Joint Commission headed by the Foreign Ministers of the two countries, and that the next meeting shall be held in Kuala Lumpur in the first half of 2011;

3. Both sides welcomed the steady high level exchanges between the two countries and agreed to promote more exchanges at the Cabinet level including between the Ministers in charge of Trade & Industry, Railways, Road Transport & Highways, Tourism, Energy including new and renewable energy, Higher Education and Knowledge;

4. Both sides will continue to hold biennial foreign office consultations, including on regional and strategic issues of mutual interest, between the Secretary General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Malaysia and the Secretary of the Ministry of External Affairs of India;

5. Both sides also agreed to enhance defence exchanges and cooperation through regular exchanges between the Defence Ministers, senior defence officials, Chiefs of the Armed Services and regular Service-to-Service Staff Talks and regular ships visits.

6. The two leaders agreed to explore the possibilities of joint collaboration on projects of mutual interest in the defence sector on the basis of experience gained by both sides during the successful completion of the SU 30 MKM training programme, including in the areas of industry collaboration / partnership. The Malaysian side looks forward to participation from the Indian defence industry at the soon to be established Malaysian Defence and Security Park. Both sides also agreed to support each others defence exhibitions;

7. The two leaders firmly condemn terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, and agreed to enhance cooperation in counter-terrorism including through information sharing and the establishment of a bilateral Joint Working Group on Counter-Terrorism at an early date;

8. The two leaders affirmed their commitment to further strengthen bilateral trade and investment cooperation and deepen their economic engagement as the core of the strategic partnership;

9. Both sides welcomed the conclusion of the negotiations towards a high quality and mutually beneficial Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) to further enhance trade and investment flows between the two countries, and have agreed to sign the CECA by 31 January 2011 and to implement it by 1 July 2011. Both sides shall ensure realization of the above timelines for signing as well as implementation of the CECA;

10. Noting that the expansion of mutual investment will contribute to the reciprocal economic growth of both countries, the two leaders agreed to enhance cooperation and support at the governmental level to further strengthen existing bilateral collaboration in infrastructure development and involvement in infrastructure projects particularly in the construction industry and provide business opportunities in investment through joint business and government collaboration;

11. The two sides will be signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Cooperation Relating to the Provision of Technical Assistance Services on Highway Management and Development. This MoU will further enhance the participation by Malaysian engineering and consultancy companies in the development of national highways in India;

12. The two leaders welcomed the establishment of a high-level India-Malaysia CEOs Forum that was launched in Putrajaya during the visit, to develop enhanced partnership and cooperation at the business level. The two sides will also consider specific recommendations made by the CEOs Forum to the two Governments on improvements in the business environment and on measures for enhancing investment and trade flows between the two countries in the future;

13. Both sides agreed to explore the possibilities of enhancing cooperation in the financial sector including through participation in each others’ capital markets, through the exchange of views between the Finance Ministries and the relevant agencies of both countries. The Indian side welcomes the decision of the Malaysian side to give a commercial banking license to Indian banks;

14. Both sides recognized the competitive advantage of Indian software companies in IT and ITES, and have agreed to set up a Joint ICT Talent Development Consultative Committee (JICTDC) involving stakeholders from both the governments, relevant agencies, industry players and training institutions to make specific recommendations to both the governments for IT skills training, talent development and greater engagement of Indian IT companies in Malaysia;

15. Both sides agreed to study the possibility of enhancing the scope and level of joint collaboration in the hydrocarbons sector between PETRONAS of Malaysia and ONGC Videsh Limited of India in third countries, as well as importance of identifying possible collaborative projects in the new and renewable energy sector through the establishment of a Joint Working Group between the Ministry of Energy, Green Technology & Water of Malaysia and the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy of India;

16. The two leaders recognized that underpinning the two countries relationship are vibrant and longstanding people-to-people ties. In this regard, both sides will strive to promote a quantum leap in tourism, academic, culture and people-to-people exchanges between India and Malaysia, including through the development of specific proposals for University-to-University level collaborations, vocational and English language teaching, for consideration by the two Governments. They agreed that the Joint Working Group on Higher Education shall meet in Kuala Lumpur as early as possible for that purpose;

17. Both sides welcomed the establishment of the Indian Cultural Centre in Kuala Lumpur and will encourage wider cultural exchanges between the two countries;

18. Both sides welcomed the establishment of an Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) India Chair in Development Studies at the University of Malaya, Contemporary Malaysian Studies Centre at the University of Madras and note the intention by the Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur to establish a Centre for Engineering Excellence at the University Sains Malaysia;

19. The two leaders acknowledged that the partnership has moved beyond the bilateral framework and that the two countries share a mutual interest in cooperating for peace, prosperity and security of the Asia-Pacific region and beyond;

20. Both sides recognized the central role of ASEAN in the regional processes and the importance of greater participation by India in regional initiatives in the long term interests of the region;

21. Both sides recognized the importance of concluding an ambitious and mutually beneficial ASEAN-India FTA in Services and Investments at the earliest possible time in order to give full play to the economic forces of the region in the service of the two peoples;

22. Malaysia welcomed India’s initiative to revive Nalanda University to strengthen regional educational cooperation among the Asian countries. Both sides also recognized the need to establish more centres of excellence in Asia;

23. Both sides underscored the importance of open, transparent and inclusive regional arrangements based on mutuality of interests with ASEAN as the driving force. They welcomed ASEAN-India Dialogue Relations, ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) and East Asia Summit (EAS) as important regional mechanisms that advance peace, economic growth and stability of the Asia-Pacific region. Both sides welcomed the progress on the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement in East Asia (CEPEA);

24. The two leaders agreed that a comprehensive reform of the United Nations remains a priority in order for the organization to effectively address today’s global challenges. The two leaders also agreed to work in partnership towards achieving a more representative, more efficient and more effective UN Security Council especially its expansion in both permanent and non-permanent categories;

25. Both sides reiterated their common commitment to nuclear non-proliferation objectives based on a fair, universal, non-discriminatory and verifiable regime, and express serious concern at the threat of proliferation of WMD and their means of delivery, and pledge to work together to counter such threats.

The Prime Ministers of India and Malaysia reiterated that with the exchange of visits between them in 2010, the two countries are embarking on a new stage in India-Malaysia relations through the establishment of this Strategic Partnership. Pursuant to this, the two Prime Ministers directed the concerned agencies of both governments to implement the elements outlined in the Declaration in order that form and content be given to the Strategic Partnership as soon as possible.

Putrajaya
October 27, 2010

(Source: http://meaindia.nic.in/mystart.php?id=530516603; accessed 8 December 2010)

French President Nicolas Sarkozy's official visit to India December 2010

INDIA-FRANCE: PARTNERSHIP FOR THE FUTURE

December 06, 2010

At the invitation of the Prime Minister of India, the President of the French Republic paid a working visit to India from 4 to 7 December, 2010. Mr. Nicolas Sarkozy and Dr. Manmohan Singh had detailed and useful discussions on bilateral, regional and international issues of mutual interest.

Reaffirming their shared vision and values inspired by multilateralism, justice, freedom, equality and fraternity, France and India reiterated their determination and confirmed their commitment to work together towards peace and global security.

As the Strategic Partnership between France and India enters its 12th year, the French President and the Prime Minister of India, recognizing India’s growing role on the international stage, have shown their determination to give a new impetus to the Indo-French Strategic Partnership.

1. Global and regional challenges

France and India would like to work together to make the G20 as effective as possible and help it find its place within an international system that will better reflect today’s world and challenges. Monetary instability, major macroeconomic imbalances, volatility of the price of commodities including agricultural food products, development gap especially infrastructure and lack of food security are tangible threats which our two countries refuse to ignore. The G20 has become and must remain the premier forum for international economic cooperation with a view to laying new foundations for strong, sustainable and balanced growth and the international economic system. In respect of multilateral trade, the two countries are looking forward to the ambitious, comprehensive and balanced conclusion of the Doha Development Round of Negotiations in 2011.

India and France reiterated the need for in-depth reform of the United Nations, including of its Security Council, to make it more representative of today’s world. France reaffirmed its support for India to become a permanent member of an expanded Security Council without further delay.

With the French Presidency of the G20 which has just started, India’s dual participation in the G20 and the Security Council for the 2010/2011 timeframe present an historic opportunity to step up joint work in these two bodies. Both countries will look to all members and groupings, including G20, to make clear support for reform of the Security Council.

France and India reaffirm their wish to continue and expand their dialogue and concrete cooperation in multilateral bodies, especially in UNSC during the 2011-2012 biennum, so as to address threats such as regional crises, terrorism, climate change and proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their delivery systems, as well as to promote arms control and global disarmament.

International Terrorism is a common threat that needs to be countered jointly. Today, it has become one of the core issues in our bilateral strategic cooperation. International cross-border terrorism needs to be addressed at the global multilateral level by supporting initiatives in the framework of the United Nations such as the draft Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism. We need to work together in international bodies like the FATF to counter financing of terrorism and money laundering.

France and India reaffirm their determination to work for peace, democracy and development in Afghanistan. The French President and the Indian Prime Minister welcome their countries’ contribution and efforts towards the reconstruction and security of Afghanistan. The two countries underline the need for adequate development of the Afghan National Security Forces to enable Afghanistan to defend its sovereignty and independence.

They expressed concern at the continuing existence of safe havens and sanctuaries for terrorist groups beyond Afghanistan’s borders and resurgence of terrorist groups. They agree that terrorism must be combated firmly by the international community. The two countries call on the neighbours of Afghanistan to play a constructive role conducive to the country’s stabilization and development in its regional environment.

India and France have pledged to enhance cooperation at bilateral and global level to effectively address climate change. The two countries have decided to pursue this objective by working to achieve ambitious outcomes in Cancun in the form of balanced operational decisions on mandated issues in accordance with the Bali Road Map. France and India have also reaffirmed their determination to continue to work in the framework of the bilateral working group on environment established in 2008 which is to convene in Paris in the first quarter of 2011.

Recognizing India’s non-proliferation record as well as its willingness to further contribute to global non-proliferation efforts and with a view to enhancing the international non-proliferation regime, France favors and will jointly work with India towards India’s increased participation with international non proliferation initiatives and full membership of multilateral export control regimes NSG, MTCR, AG, WA in a manner consistent with procedures and objectives of these groups.

In the context of their shared commitment to universal and general disarmament and to the reinforcement of the non-proliferation regime, India and France affirm the need for a meaningful dialogue among all states possessing nuclear weapons, in particular those holding the largest arsenals, to build trust and confidence and promote international stability, peace and security. They support international cooperative efforts to reduce the risk of terrorists acquiring nuclear weapons or material. The two countries reiterate their support to starting immediate negotiations in the Conference of Disarmament for a multilateral treaty banning the production of fissile material for use in nuclear weapons or other nuclear explosive devices.

France and India reaffirmed their commitment to diplomacy to resolve the Iranian nuclear issue, and discussed the need for Iran to take constructive and immediate steps to meet its obligations to the IAEA and the UN Security Council.

India and France also expressed concern about the situation in the Korean peninsula and urged DPRK to comply with UNSC and IAEA BoG resolutions.

France and India will continue to support the development of relations between the EU and India more so when India and EU are enhancing cooperation as reflected in the deepening of the strategic relationship as well as the entry of the Lisbon Treaty into Force. The two countries welcome the holding of the EU-India Summit on 10 December 2010 in Brussels and call for renewed efforts to achieve the mutually beneficial conclusion of the EU-India Broad-based Trade and Investment Agreement.

2. Indo-French Strategic Partnership

Civil nuclear energy

The two States welcome the entry into force on 14 January 2010 of the India-France Cooperation Agreement on the Development of Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Energy and the signing of Agreements on the protection of Confidentiality of Technical data and information relating to cooperation in the peaceful uses of nuclear energy, and concerning intellectual property rights on the development of the peaceful uses of nuclear energy which supplement it.

Noting the innovative, broad-based and dynamic nature of their partnership in the field of civil nuclear energy cooperation, France and India welcome the progress towards further strengthening cooperation between the two countries including in research and development and in setting up joint nuclear power projects. In this context the signing of the General Framework Agreement between NPCIL and AREVA represents a significant milestone.

Following India’s enactment of a civil nuclear liability legislation, both countries stand ready to further exchange views on this issue so as to ensure the appropriate framework for the sound development of their cooperation.

The “Commissariat à l’Energie Atomique et aux Energies Alternatives – CEA” for France and the “Department of Atomic Energy – DAE” for India have concluded on December 6 a Cooperation Agreement in the field of Nuclear Science and Technology for peaceful Uses of Nuclear Energy with the aim to establish a general framework to enhance their collaboration and signed a specific implementing agreement in the field of education and research.

The CEA expressed its interest in cooperating with India’s Global Centre for Nuclear Energy Partnership (GCNEP), as a means to contributing to multilateral cooperative efforts to promote peaceful uses of nuclear energy.

The fight against terrorism

Terrorism strikes not only the people and the interests of our two countries but also imperils peace and stability of our respective regions and the world. We reaffirm our irrevocable condemnation of this scourge in all its forms and our will to intensify our cooperation to counter it.

Since our Joint Statement of 25 January 2008, we have aimed at intensifying bilateral consultations and exchanges with the objective of better assessing these threats and sharing relevant information. Today, we have decided to make this cooperation a priority of the Indo-French security relationship.

With the tragic losses suffered in the November 2008 terrorist attacks in Mumbai particularly in mind, we call for the active prosecution of the authors of such crimes and their accomplices, and urge that they be brought to justice expeditiously.

In our common fight against terrorism, we will continue to enhance our operational cooperation as far as possible and will seek to ensure that the widest possible measure of mutual legal assistance is rendered, and that extradition requests are processed expeditiously.

Our two governments will coordinate their endeavours in international bodies such as the Financial Action Task Force in order to define common positions and promote concrete initiatives.

In the pursuance of our efforts to strengthen the international legal framework against terrorism, we resolve to intensify our efforts to urgently conclude the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism at the United Nations. France and India call on all countries to become part, as a matter of urgency, of all international counter-terrorism conventions.

Both sides reiterated the importance of adhering to sanctions regime against Al Qaeda and Taliban as established by UNSCR 1267 and subsequent Resolutions and the need to preserve its credibility.

Security and defence 
 
France and India reaffirm their common interest in continuing to strengthen their defence relationship, which is an important pillar of their Strategic Partnership and reflects their common determination to work for global peace and security.

The two States agree to continue and intensify their cooperation on counter piracy and maritime security. France and India recognize the need for an intensified cooperation in combating piracy in the Gulf of Aden and other areas.

The two states welcome the ongoing exercises between their Navies (Varuna) and Air Forces (Garuda) and have confirmed their interest towards extension of their cooperation through exercises between the two Armies.

The two States also welcome the on-going efforts and future prospects for joint programmes in defence industry, which would include joint research and development and transfer of technology. In this regard and as a first step, the two States expect to launch soon the SRSAM and Kaveri program. Discussions concerning the upgrading of Mirage 2000 aircraft are expected to be finalised soon.

Space Cooperation

Acknowledging the essential nature of cooperation in the field of space, which is a key sector for scientific cooperation between the two countries, India and France intend to broaden the scope of their exchanges and further develop their joint efforts in this field. In the spirit of the Framework Agreement signed between Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and French National Space Agency (CNES) on a wide range of issues related to use of space for peaceful purposes, they applaud the Space establishments of both nations for the progress made in developing the Megha-Tropiques and SARAL satellites, due to be launched in 2011 timeframe.

The two governments reaffirm their determination to pursue space cooperation in the fields of Earth Observation for climate change studies and space exploration.

India and France also acknowledged the ascending trend of the industrial cooperation over the years nurtured by space industries of both countries. In this regard, they gladly welcome the recent breakthroughs made by Astrium and Antrix Corporation in the joint development and marketing of communications satellites, following their 2005 Agreement. They also welcome continuing this promising collaboration in the coming years.

3. Bilateral cooperation

Development of economic and trade exchanges

France and India welcome the outstanding development of their bilateral economic exchanges in recent years. The two countries welcome the contracts signed in the latter part of 2010 for aircraft leasing, satellite launching, biometric technology, energy and urban transportation.

Aware of the potential for the development of their bilateral exchanges and investments, and confident about the opportunities afforded by the dynamism of their economies – ranking among the leading global economies – the two governments reiterate their objective of doubling their trade exchanges in a balanced way despite the crisis, over the period 2008-2012.

Beyond that, the liberalization of exchanges provided for by the EU-India Broad-based Trade and Investment Agreement, combined with ongoing cooperation in the field of civil nuclear energy and the resumption of aviation industry contracts, will further boost trade between the two countries.

France and India welcome the significant development of cross-investments between the two countries and large-scale investment by India-based French companies in the car industry, building materials, electrical equipment, public water utilities and rail transport. They also welcome prospects for Indian investments in France.

They welcome the private sector's involvement in boosting bilateral trade and call on the Indo-French CEOs Forum to continue to play a decisive role in identifying new avenues for cooperation and facilitating the business climate between the two countries.

Cooperation in the field of Agriculture and Food Processing

France and India recognize the strategic importance of the agricultural and food processing sector in addressing the needs for affordable, healthy, high quality and sustainable food products in both countries.

They express in particular their will to double and balance exchanges of agricultural products as part of comprehensive cooperation including food products logistics, the distribution sector and agrifood research.

The two sides expressed satisfaction at the on-going cooperation between the two countries through the Indo-French Joint Working Group on Agriculture. The areas identified for further cooperation include strengthening the post-harvest management capacities (e.g. cold chains, storage...), wine/Vineyards, research and training and exchange programmes, animal identification and tracing and genetic improvement of dairy cattle breeds.

Cooperation in the field of sustainable development (town planning, transport, housing)

Both parties expressed their commitment to the continuation of bilateral exchanges in the field of standards, best practices and capacity building in order to further enhance cooperation between Indian and French institutional structures as well as business partnerships.

Cooperation in the field of human exchanges

France and India, reiterating the importance they attach to encouraging people to people contacts and human exchanges in accordance with the joint declarations of 25 January 2008 and 30 September 2008, reaffirm their determination to cooperate closely in the field of migration, with a view to encourage legal and orderly migration of students, professionals and skilled workers to each others’ country, depending on opportunities available, to assure the return to their country of illegal migrants who have been properly identified as their nationals and to combat irregular migration.

Welcoming the preliminary talks held in New Delhi in November, 2009 and which led to beginning of negotiations on a bilateral partnership agreement on migrations under this comprehensive approach to migration, the two States agreed to swiftly launch these negotiations between the two countries based on a draft text submitted by France with a view to conclude them as soon as possible.

University and scientific cooperation

The two States reaffirm their determination to pursue efforts in order to ensure that human exchanges permeate and stimulate all areas of bilateral cooperation, including in the fields of research, education and cultural exchanges. They encouraged the trend of increasing number of Indian students studying in France and French students studying in India. More than 200 framework agreements for promoting student mobility have been signed by French and Indian higher education institutions. The five scholarship programmes established under the “Quai d’Orsay / Entreprises” scheme have helped welcome 101 Indian students to the best schools and universities in France since 2006. A total of almost 400 scholarships were awarded in 2009. France and India call for an increase in bilateral student exchanges and pledge to facilitate the academic stays of French students in India and Indian students in France.

France and India support the launch of an ambitious cooperation at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Rajasthan, which is to allow a consortium of French higher education institutions, to initiate a partnership and joint works on sustainable development and on green accounting project. This project will ultimately make it possible to incorporate the environment into the daily business of enterprises and to develop the territory and urban heritage targeted by decentralized cooperation actions.

Recognizing the essential contribution of education and scientific research to global prosperity and stability, they welcome the success of the Franco-Indian Centre for Advanced Research (CEFIPRA) which has been steering closely science and technology-related projects since 1986. They welcome the ambitious initiatives envisaged to increase its outreach and develop its partnerships. They further reiterate their common determination to strengthen Indo-French cooperation in the field of innovation. They welcomed research collaborations in the areas of solar thermal technology, ICT in health lab, systems and designs for automobiles and aerospace, robotics and control systems, art, culture and heritage restoration.

India and France recognize that with the 21st century being hailed as the century of knowledge, alliances in the knowledge economy will be critical for both countries, especially by leveraging Information and Communication Technology. Based on their shared endeavour to strengthen democracy, transparency and accountability, France and India wish to start an initiative on Democratising Information and Open Government as a way to use Information and Communication Technology to modernize the relationship between the State and the citizen.

The two governments welcome the action of the French Development Agency (AFD) which contributes through concessional financing for supporting projects in the field of renewable energies and energy efficiency, sustainable forest management and biodiversity conservation. As a key instrument of our cooperation in the field of sustainable development, the AFD’s level of intervention is to increase significantly over the next few years.

Cultural exchanges

France and India welcome the holding of the cross cultural seasons Bonjour India and Namaste France which meet the desire for understanding and exchange on the part of the Indian and French peoples. They welcome the launching of the news channel France 24 in India. They reaffirm their determination that an Indian Cultural Centre should be established at 3 Avenue de Lowendal in Paris and intend to finalize the necessary arrangements to that end.

The two governments welcome the signing of the film Co-Production Agreement which is to inspire our future joint co-operation projects in the film industry and will be viewed as an example in terms of co-production.

New Delhi
December 6, 2010

(Source: http://meaindia.nic.in/mystart.php?id=530516770; accessed 8 December 2010)

Aung San Suu Kyi urges India to play greater role in Myanmar

India must play greater role in Myanmar: Suu Kyi

Myanmar’s Aung San Suu Kyi wants India to play a “more active” role in democratisation of her country.

The 65-year-old Suu Kyi in an interview to PTI also said that India must live up to the reputation of being the biggest democracy in the world and not be dictated by its commercial interests in Myanmar.

Commenting on India’s growing economic-driven engagement with the military regime, the opposition leader said she was not against India’s engagement with Than Shwe’s ruling military regime but wanted India to play an active role in democratisation of Myanmar and have parleys with her National league for Democracy party.

“We would like India to play a more active role in trying to help in the process of democratisation of Burma and I would like the Indian government to engage more with us... who are working more with democracy,” the Nobel peace laureate said in the interview on phone from Yangon.

Speaking on India’s commercial interests in Myanmar, Ms. Suu Kyi said “India’s role in previous decades has been aided firmly by its reputation as the biggest democracy and it has taken pride in this, but, perhaps, more attention has turned towards the commercial side,” she said.

Ms. Suu Kyi said she expected the Indian government “to look beyond this commercial kind of view when it comes to Myanmar.”

Ms. Suu Kyi, who lived in India in the 1980s, was released in Yangon on November 13 after spending more than seven consecutive years in detention.

Once a strong supporter of Suu Kyi, India began engaging the Myanmar’s military ruler in the mid-1990s as security, energy and strategic needs appeared to override concerns over democracy and human rights.

India is eager to boost its investment in gas and hydro-electricity projects in Myanmar and is eyeing oil and gas fields and fears losing out to China in the race for strategic space in Asia. It also counted on the military junta’s help to counter ethnic separatists operating along their remote eastern common border. 

(Source: http://www.thehindu.com/news/international/article939246.ece; accessed on 8 December 2010)