| Pub. Date | : April, 2022 |
|---|---|
| Product Name | : The IUP Journal of International Relations |
| Product Type | : Article |
| Product Code | : IJIR020422 |
| Author Name | :Simron Tandi* and Madhumati Deshpande** |
| Availability | : YES |
| Subject/Domain | : Arts & Humanities |
| Download Format | : PDF Format |
| No. of Pages | : 12 |
History, ethnicity, culture, and religion have played a key role in India-Myanmar bilateral relations. Whether it is linkages to Buddhism or geographical proximity, the two countries understand the significance of their bond despite the complications. The inconsistent democracy in Myanmar has created "ups and downs" in bilateral relations while posing many challenges for India. India's policy with respect to Myanmar lacks clarity and a long-term vision unlike China's strategic framework.1 India's patient and quiet diplomacy towards Myanmar lacks long-term visions. Hence, anything short-term necessitates punctual transitions. India must adopt a realist policy but with a smidgen of idealism.2 This idealism would not be against the Indian national interest and would definitely pay off in its rivalry with China. The paper focuses on how India's relation with Myanmar is influenced by the absence of a proper democratic institution. It explores the influence of Tatmadaw's rule on the Sino-Indian energy conflict in Myanmar. The paper draws insights from the history of India-Myanmar relations to analyze India's current potentiality to outplay China in gaining diplomatic advantage and reaping greater advantages.
When it comes to India-Myanmar bilateral relations, history, ethnicity, culture, and religion have played a key role. Whether it is linkages to Buddhism or geographical proximity, the two countries understand the significance of their bond despite the complications. Every Indian Prime Minister has tried to strengthen this bond, whether by signing a Treaty of Friendship in 1951 or personally visiting the country to lay the grounds for a stronger relationship in 1987 (by Rajiv Gandhi). Both India and Myanmar are members of ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) and