By Kavita Sharma
Photo Credit: The Suncity News
Patna, May 30, 2026: Myanmar President Min Aung Hlaing arrived in Bodh Gaya, Bihar, on Saturday as part of a five-day official visit to India, a trip being viewed as an important step toward strengthening the historical, cultural, religious, and strategic partnership between the two neighboring countries.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the visit is expected to provide fresh momentum to the deep-rooted civilizational ties and people-to-people connections shared by India and Myanmar.
Upon his arrival in Bodh Gaya, President Hlaing was welcomed by Bihar Governor Lieutenant General (Retd.) Syed Ata Hasnain and senior government officials.
According to an official, President Min Aung Hlaing arrived at Gaya International Airport at approximately 9:00 AM aboard a special aircraft.
He was received by dignitaries, including representatives of the Bihar administration and senior government officials.
Following his arrival, the President and his delegation proceeded to Bodh Gaya under a tight security escort.
The convey traveled through a carefully secured route, with multiple layers of security deployed to ensure the smooth conduct of the visit.
President Min Aung Hlaing offered prayers at the Mahabodhi and Sujata temples:
During his stay in Bodh Gaya, President Hlaing offered prayers at the Mahabodhi Temple, one of Buddhism’s holiest sites and a UNESCO World Heritage monument.
His itinerary also includes a visit to the historic Sujata temple, further highlighting the shared Buddhist heritage that forms a significant pillar of India-Myanmar relations.
Their visit, scheduled from May 30 to June 2, marks President Hlaing’s first official trip to India since assuming office.
He is accompanied by a high-level delegation comprising cabinet ministers, senior government officials, and leading business representatives.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs, discussions during the visit will focus on a broad range of bilateral issues, including trade, connectivity, border management, security cooperation, and defense collaboration.
Officials indicated that both sides would review the entire spectrum of India-Myanmar relations with a view to deepening cooperation across multiple sectors.
A key highlight of the visit will be President Min Aung Hlaing’s bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi on June 1.
The two leaders are expected to review longstanding ties and explore ways to further strengthen strategic cooperation.
Discussions are likely to cover border security, peace and stability in India’s Northeastern region, infrastructure and connectivity projects, and enhanced economic engagement.
President Min Aung Hlaing will participate in the Trade Forum:
President Min Aung Hlaing will also participate in the India-Myanmar Business Forum, where business leaders and industry representatives from both countries will discuss opportunities to expand trade, investment, and commercial partnerships.
The Ministry of External Affairs has emphasized that economic cooperation is a major focus of the visit.
Myanmar occupies a crucial place in India’s foreign policy framework. The two countries share an international border of approximately 1,640 kilometers, connecting Myanmar with the Indian states of Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, and Mizoram.
As a result, Myanmar remains an important partner under India’s neighborhood First, Act East, and MAHASAGAR initiatives.
The President’s visit will conclude in Mumbai on June 2, where he is scheduled to interact with members of the business community and visit industrial establishments.
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EOM.
