Nay Pyi Taw: India said on Wednesday that it shares Myanmar's concerns over the "extremist violence" in the Rakhine state and urged all stakeholders to find a solution that respects the country's unity, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi held talks with State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi.
The two leaders also vowed to combat terror and boost security cooperation with Modi emphasising that it was important to maintain stability along the long land and maritime borders of the two countries.
Modi's first bilateral visit here comes at a time when the Myanmarese government led by Nobel laureate Suu Kyi is facing international pressure over the 125,000 Rohingya refugees that have poured across the Bangladeshi border in just two weeks after Myanmar's military launched a crackdown in the Rakhine state.
Modi, in his joint press statement with Suu Kyi after the talks, said India understands the problems being faced by Myanmar.
He said India shares Myanmar's concerns over the "extremist violence" in the Rakhine state, especially the loss of innocent lives of the people and the military personnel.
"When it comes to a big peace process or finding a solution to a problem, we hope that all stakeholders can work together towards finding a solution which respects the unity and territorial integrity of Myanmar," Modi said.
At the same time, the solution can bring about peace, justice, dignity and democratic values for all, he said.
After Modi-Suu Kyi talks, 11 agreements were signed between the two sides in areas like maritime security, strengthening democratic institutions in Myanmar, health and information technology.
Modi, in his statement, stressed on scaling up security cooperation, saying that being neighbours, the two countries have similar security concerns.
Taking a strong stance on terror, Suu Kyi said, "Together we will ensure that terror is not allowed to take roots on our soil or on the soil of neighbouring countries."
Modi also asserted that India stands by Myanmar amid the challenges the country is facing.
He said that India has decided to grant gratis (no-cost) visa to Myanmarese citizens who wish to visit the country.