India,Myanmar ink anti-terror pact

“Recognising 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 sides) 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,” a joint statement said. The leaders of both countries “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 organisations and their operatives,” the statement added.

The two countries signed five pacts after PM Manmohan Singh held talks with visiting Myanmar military ruler General Than Shwe over a range of issues,like counter-terror cooperation,enhanced energy ties and collaboration in a string of developmental projects. The two sides also signed pacts in the areas of small development projects,science and technology and information cooperation.

A memorandum of understanding on Indian assistance in restoring the Ananda temple in Bagan,a renowned Buddhist shrine and a major tourist site in central Myanmar,was also inked.

Against the backdrop of China’s growing clout in that country,India offered a bouquet of aid to Myanmar. Among the key takeaways are:

*To enhance road connectivity,especially through Mizoram,both leaders announced the construction and revamping of the Rhi-Tiddim road at a cost of more than $60 million to be financed through grant assistance from India.

*A grant of $10 million for procurement of agricultural machinery from India.

*Bilateral collaboration in exploration and production in Myanmar’s petroleum sector and further investment by Indian companies in this sector. Also,cooperation in solar and wind energy.