India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi (right) shakes hands with Myanmar's President Min Aung Hlaing before their meeting at the Hyderabad House in New Delhi on June 1, 2026 [AFP]
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Myanmar military government leader Min Aung Hlaing in New Delhi, a visit that has sparked criticism from Myanmar opposition groups and human rights advocates.
The meeting comes at a time when Myanmar remains deeply divided following years of political turmoil and armed conflict after the military takeover. Opposition groups accused India of legitimizing the military leadership by hosting the Myanmar leader at a high-profile diplomatic event.
However, Indian officials defended the decision, arguing that engagement remains the most practical path toward maintaining regional stability and addressing security concerns along the India-Myanmar border.
India shares a long and strategically important border with Myanmar and has increasingly focused on security cooperation, trade routes, and regional connectivity projects. Officials in New Delhi believe maintaining communication with all major actors inside Myanmar is necessary to protect national interests and regional security.
The visit also highlights growing geopolitical competition in Southeast Asia, where India and China continue to expand their influence through infrastructure, trade, and diplomatic initiatives.
Critics argue that engaging Myanmar's military leadership risks undermining democratic forces within the country. Supporters of the meeting counter that diplomatic isolation has failed to resolve Myanmar's crisis and that direct dialogue may offer more opportunities for progress.
The meeting is likely to draw close attention from regional governments as tensions and instability continue across parts of Southeast Asia.