KOHIMA: Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has said that Indo-Myanmar ties must be centered on developing the socio-economy of the border areas.
Official sources here on Wednesday said Mr Rio made this observation during the International Conference on Myanmar at Jamia Millia Islamia University, New Delhi, on Tuesday. He emphasised on the importance of cross-border economic linkages as a ground to address greater political issues common to both India and Myanmar.
”Cutting across international and historical divides, I am sure that all of you here would agree with me that peaceful and tranquil borders are best ensured through developmental efforts” the Chief Minister stated.
”Thus far, the border between the two countries is relatively safe and peaceful. There exists goodwill on both sides and more importantly, the people across the boundaries are ready to reach out to each other and co-exist. This is certainly plus point for all stake holders to exploit,” Mr Rio observed.
Mr Rio said, “As India and Myanmar are both signatories to the India-ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement, which was signed in August 2009, I would call upon both sides to work out concrete steps to facilitate this positive development, including promotion of people-to-people contacts.“
He noted that India and Myanmar shared age-old historical, cultural and “religious ties” and specially for people in North East India, common borders and cultural affinities “make Myanmar very close to the other country.”
Mr Rio said there is further scope for cooperation in the fields of tourism, education, culture, transport and communication.
“Energy cooperation, in particular, holds tremendous potential, and I urge Myanmar to consider use of the territory in the North East States for trans-shipment of oil, gas and transmission of power,” he added.
India and Myanmar have also signed an agreement for development of the Tamanthi and Shwezaye Hydro-Electric Power project in Chindwin River valley. However, he cautioned, “Even as we jointly develop our immense hydro-electric power potential, we should bear in mind the environmental impact in the sensitive areas of the region.”
He was making reference to the proposed Indo-Myanmar dam which Naga villages in Burma have opposed, citing displacement and environmental repercussions.
On border trade, Mr Rio said India and Myanmar signed a border-trade agreement in 1994, and at present two border trade points are operational at Moreh-Tamu in Manipur and at Zokhawthar–Rhi in Mizoram on the Indo-Myanmar border. (UNI)