After Bangladesh, Pakistan turns attention to another Indian neighbour – why Delhi can’t afford to turn a blind eye | World News

New Delhi: Islamabad hosted Myanmar Foreign Minister Than Swe for a four-day visit that started on the night of January 24. The Pakistani government welcomed him warmly. The visit is being presented by Pakistan as an opportunity to strengthen ties with Myanmar.

On Monday, Than Swe met with Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and both sides agreed on various cooperation measures. While Islamabad is increasing its involvement in Bangladesh, it is also reaching out to Myanmar. The development caught the attention of India.

According to the reports of the Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dar and Than Swe held detailed and comprehensive meetings in Islamabad. The talks focused on strengthening bilateral relations and exploring ways of cooperation. At a joint press conference, Dar described Than Swe’s visit as an important step for both countries.

Arriving visiting dignitary, Union Minister for Foreign Affairs of Myanmar HE Than Swe, along with DPM/FM Senator Muhammad Ishaq Dar @MishaqDar50A Memorandum of Understanding on Political Consultations was signed between the Foreign Ministries of Pakistan and Myanmar. This… pic.twitter.com/HwE9kOOMGI— Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) January 26, 2026

He emphasized the historical ties between Pakistan and Myanmar. He said both sides agreed to work together to strengthen cooperation in many sectors, including providing consular support to each other’s citizens.

Than Swe stressed the need to expand friendly relations, emphasizing cooperation in trade, business, investment, military-to-military coordination, culture and science. He also talked about working together to further strengthen ties in the future.

India’s concern stems from Pakistan’s previous influence in Bangladesh. Islamabad’s involvement in Dhaka has increased since the formation of the Mohammed Younis government in August 2024. As Pakistan now seeks a foothold in Myanmar, New Delhi faces a potential challenge.

Myanmar is grappling with internal conflict as armed groups clash with the military. Its borders touch the northeastern states of Manipur and Mizoram in India, so the situation here directly affects India.

Pakistan has previously used its influence in Bangladesh to try to destabilize parts of India’s northeast. A growing presence in Myanmar could expand this strategy, aided by local unrest in Myanmar. India is expected to monitor these developments closely, given their impact on regional security and stability.