SHILLONG: Set with an aim to foster good relations with neighbouring countries, the first India-Myanmar-Thailand (IMT) Friendship Car Rally was flagged off from Shillong by Chief Secretary K.S. Kropha at a function held on the premises of the State Convention Centre on Sunday.
The itinerary boasts of an over 19-day tour covering 5722 km. Altogether 20 vehicles will travel from Shillong to Kaziranga, Kohima, Imphal and ahead to Moreh (India-Myanmar border). The rally, which started from New Delhi on November 13, is scheduled to conclude on December 2 in Bangkok. The rally also features an “all ladies group”.
“The event will go a long way in building friendship between the people of India and neighbouring Myanmar and Thailand. The rally provides an opportunity to know firsthand the places, countries and people of the area,” Kropha said, while expressing hope, that the initiative will strengthen the bonds of friendship between the neighbouring countries. The Chief Secretary lamented that none from Meghalaya was taking part in the event. “It is a pity that we don’t have any team participating but we will certainly see to it that in future we have representation in such events.”
Commenting on the Act East Policy of the Centre, he said, “It is not only about people-to-people contact but commercial, political, diplomatic relations will be on a much stronger footing where interactions become much easier. Exchange of people and trade will gain momentum.”
Speaking on the impact of the partition on Meghalaya, he said that there was a severe impact on the economy after the partition. “We are yet to recover from the shocks of partition. Bangladesh was a ready and natural market for us. Similarly, for other parts of the North East, Myanmar is a natural access and market and from there Thailand is not too far,” he observed.
“It makes a lot of sense that the Government of India has realised and focused on improving relations and the rally is part of that endeavour,” he said.
The event is supported by the Ministry of Road, Transport and Highways (MoRTH), the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, the Ministry of External Affairs and the Ministry of DoNER. The event is organised by the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC), Kalinga Motor Sports Club Odisha and the Central Road Transport and Highway Ministry.
The rally aims to cement cultural and economic ties among India, Myanmar and Thailand and highlight the potential benefits of connectivity and integration in the region and in keeping with India’s focus on its close neighbourhood.
