Indian Diplomat Abhay Thakur Appointed as Next Envoy to Myanmar

Senior Indian diplomat Abhay Thakur has been appointed as the country’s next ambassador or top envoy to Myanmar. This was announced by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on March 26. Abhay Thakur is a 1992-batch officer of the Indian Foreign Service (IFS). He is currently working as an Officer on Special Duty in the Ministry of External Affairs. He had served as the sous-sherpa (deputy representative) for the G20 process during India’s presidency of the influential group of 20 major economies.

Crucial Time for India-Myanmar Ties

Thakur’s appointment as India’s envoy to Myanmar comes at a crucial juncture or important time. Myanmar has been witnessing widespread violent protests demanding the restoration of democracy since the military seized power in a coup on February 1, 2021.

India has called for a return of “inclusive federal democracy” to Myanmar through dialogue and constructive engagement among the key stakeholders. India wants peace and stability to return to Myanmar.

Strategic Neighbour

Myanmar is one of India’s strategic neighbours, and it shares a 1,640-km border with several northeastern states of India, including Nagaland and Manipur.

G20 Role

Abhay Thakur, in his role as Officer on Special Duty (G20), had participated in the G20 Development Working Group Meeting in Brasilia, the capital of Brazil, which currently chairs the G20. The MEA said that Thakur is expected to take up the assignment as India’s ambassador to Myanmar shortly.