External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday met Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Myanmar U Than Shwe in Delhi and raised the issue of Indian nationals trapped in Myawaddy, a town in southeastern Myanmar.
Jaishankar said he also expressed concern about the impact of continuing violence in Myanmar near India’s border during the meeting and also called for an early return to the path of democratic transition.
Taking to X, Jaishankar said, “Discussed our deep concern at the impact of continuing violence and instability in Myanmar on our border.”
He said India is open to engaging all stakeholders in addressing the situation.
“Particularly flagged illegal narcotics, arms smuggling and trafficking in persons as priority challenges. Sought cooperation for early return of Indian nationals trapped in Myawaddy,” added the minister.
Jaishanakar said he also sought credible security protection for India-funded ongoing projects in Myanmar.
“Urged early return to the path of democratic transition in Myanmar. India stands ready to help in any manner,” he added.
Several Indians fell prey to an international crime syndicate operating in the Myawaddy region, located on the India-Thailand border. Indian nationals were duped by the international gang that offered them jobs in Thailand, but instead, were taken illegally to Myanmar.
Myawaddy area in southeastern Myanmar’s Kayin state bordering Thailand is not fully under the control of the Myanmarese government and certain ethnic armed groups hold sway over it.
Recently, the Indian government had cautioned citizens about employment scams in Myanmar after rescuing individuals trapped in cybercrime rings in South Asian countries like Cambodia and Laos. The move was aimed at preventing Indian nationals from falling victim to fraud or illegal business activities under the guise of job offers.
With inputs from agencies
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