Asian Highway Construction Stalled Because of Myanmar Crisis: S Jaishankar
India’s Neighbourhood Policy in ASEAN
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar recently highlighted the importance of the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral (IMTT) Highway in India’s neighbourhood policy towards the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). This highway, once completed, will be a game changer in enhancing connectivity and trade ties between India and Southeast Asia. However, the progress of the project has been hindered by the internal strife in Myanmar.
Challenges and Solutions
Mr Jaishankar emphasized the significance of the IMTT Highway project and expressed the need to find practical solutions to ensure its advancement despite the unrest in Myanmar. The highway, once operational, will link India with Southeast Asia by land, opening up opportunities for trade, business, health, education, and tourism among the three countries. As of July 2023, 70 per cent of the construction work on the 1,400-km-long highway had been completed.
Delays and Future Prospects
Despite the progress made, no timeline has been provided for the completion and operationalization of the trilateral highway. The project has faced multiple delays, with the government previously aiming to make it operational by December 2019. The completion of the IMTT Highway is crucial for strengthening India’s ties with ASEAN and leveraging the ‘Act East’ policy.
Enhancing India-ASEAN Relations
Mr Jaishankar also highlighted the steady growth and deepening of ties between India and ASEAN. He stressed the need to leverage these relationships for mutual benefit. The ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy has guided India’s approach towards its immediate neighbours, leading to the development of infrastructure projects and improved connectivity in the region.
Opportunities for Cooperation
Countries like Japan and South Korea have emerged as significant economic players in India, investing in various development projects, especially in the northeast region. Malaysia and Thailand have also taken steps to liberalize visas for Indians, while other ASEAN members have expanded air connectivity. Education and skill development are seen as potential areas for future cooperation between India and ASEAN.
Looking Ahead
Despite the challenges posed by the internal strife in Myanmar, India remains committed to enhancing its engagement with ASEAN through initiatives like the IMTT Highway. Practical solutions and cooperation among all stakeholders will be essential to ensure the successful completion and operationalization of this strategic infrastructure project, which holds immense potential for boosting regional trade and connectivity.