Importance of Bay of Bengal
The Bay of Bengal is the largest bay in the world, surrounded by the countries of Myanmar, Bangladesh, India, and Sri Lanka, and divided by the chain of islands of Andaman and Nicobar in the east. The Bay of Bengal covers about 2.2 million km², where around one-fourth of the world’s population resides, and one-fourth of global marine trade flows, amounting to over 3 trillion USD in the total GDP of the regional countries. This makes the area a critical passage for important energy lifelines. The Bay of Bengal is an area rich in natural resources and highly suitable for a Blue Economy. It serves as a connecting hinge between the Indian and Pacific Oceans and holds strategic importance within the Indian Ocean Region. Approximately 6 million tons of fish and 50 trillion cubic feet of hydrocarbons could be harvested annually. It is also home to a diverse range of fish species, coral reefs, rivers, and biodiversity, making it a Large Marine Ecosystem (LME) region, ranked 64th in the world. Important ports in the region include Colombo, Chennai, Kolkata, Visakhapatnam, Chittagong, Mongla, and Yangon, making it a crucial area for food and energy security.
India is a leading power in the Indian Ocean and Bay of Bengal, aligned with its Neighborhood First Policy, Act East Policy, and the Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) initiative. This is evident through its proactive and assertive maritime strategies in the Bay of Bengal. The Kaladan project and Sittwe port are strategically important for India, as they would provide a maritime route connecting India’s landlocked Northeast with Southeast Asia. The strategic importance of this region is also critical for China, with the Kyauk Phyu Port and fuel pipeline project being key to its fuel imports. Large oil tankers from the Middle East pass through the Bay of Bengal daily to meet China’s energy needs. As of today, a total of 316 crude oil tankers have entered the Kyauk Phyu and Ma-De Deep Sea Port in Rakhine State.
Bangladesh is primarily focused on the sustainable exploitation of the Bay of Bengal to serve its national interests and social development through the Blue Economy. As a result, the Bay of Bengal is now referred to as the "Collective Destiny" of the region. The interactions within the bay are shaped not only by geographical conditions, religion, trade, and commerce, but also by the natural forces that offer opportunities to overcome evolving challenges and emerging threats. These interactions emphasize the strength of unity and mutual understanding among the nations in the region.
The regional countries in the Bay of Bengal are experiencing high growth rates and play a critical role between emerging India and rising China. India, in particular, is implementing a maritime strategy that positions it as a security provider for regional stability, especially in the context of evolving threats to human security. The Bay of Bengal is of significant importance to India, Bangladesh, and Myanmar due to its strategic sea lanes, natural resources, energy sector, and oil and fuel exploitation. This region also sees a mix of conflict, competition, and cooperation under political, military, and economic strategies, particularly around the unresolved grey areas at the tri-junction of Myanmar, Bangladesh, and India. 

Myanmar Waters in the Bay of Bengal
Myanmar is a country with a vast coastline, facing the Andaman Sea to the south and the northeastern part of the Bay of Bengal. The Indo-China Peninsula is divided into two by Myanmar's geographical position. To the east lies the Pacific Ocean and the ASEAN countries, while to the west is the Indian Ocean, including South Asia, effectively dividing the two major oceans and regions. Alternatively, Myanmar can be seen as a land bridge connecting these two oceans and regions. Kyauk Phyu port, Dawei port, and Thilawa Deep Sea Port, located along a coastline of 1,260 nautical miles and covering waters spanning 144,912 square miles, form the rim of the Indian Ocean. These ports are geographically significant and hold great potential as transit hubs for the development of regional trade.

Moreover, Myanmar has met several key requirements to become a major player in maritime trade in the region. For example, it has a long coastline with important ports, which could be linked to China’s 21st Century Maritime Silk Road plans, positioning them as regional business hubs. Kyauk Phyu Port is the most strategically located port within the Bay of Bengal, among Myanmar’s natural ports, and is the closest to China’s Yunnan province. Myanmar is connected to the Andaman Sea and the Bay of Bengal by three main navigational channels: the Preparis Channel, the Ten Degree Channel (between the Andaman and Nicobar Islands), and the Great Channel (between Great Nicobar and Sumatra Islands). As a result, Myanmar’s deep-sea ports and port cities are well-positioned to facilitate maritime traffic, with vessels passing through the Indian Ocean to Myanmar via either the Arabian Sea–Sri Lanka waterway or the Malacca Strait. 

Establishment of BIMSTEC...
In 1997, Bangladesh India Sri Lanka Thailand Economic Cooperation - BIST-EC was established by the Bangkok Declaration. After Myanmar became a member at the special ministerial meeting held in 1997, the name was changed to Bangladesh-India-Myanmar-Sri Lanka-Thailand Economic Cooperation (BIMST-EC). Then, Bhutan and Nepal became members at the 6th BIMSTEC Foreign Ministerial meeting held in 2004 and the name of organization was changed to the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) at the first summit of BIMSTEC.

The BIMSTEC Charter has been endorsed and approved by the heads of member countries, and BIMSTEC is an organization with legal personality, operating based on established rules and regulations. Cooperation within BIMSTEC is grounded in the principles of sovereign equality, territorial integrity, political independence, non-interference in internal affairs, non-aggression, peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, and mutual benefit. It is also stipulated that all decisions within BIMSTEC shall be made by consensus. The BIMSTEC chairmanship rotates among member countries, and Myanmar has held the position of chair twice, with Thailand currently in charge.

BIMSTEC marked its 27th anniversary on June 6, 2024 and the leaders of all BIMSTEC member States sent congratulatory messages and Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, the Chairman of State Administration Council, mentioned in his excellency’s message as “I would also like to take this opportunity to congratulate all Member States for the collective efforts exerted under the BIMSTEC framework in addressing various challenges. I believe that our solidarity and systematic cooperation, guided by the BIMSTEC Charter. I wish BIMSTEC to be a stronger and more effective organization and to have every success in future endeavors of promoting the socioeconomic livelihoods of the peoples in the Bay of Bengal Region.” And he spotlighted the importance of BIMSTEC in the region. 

The 4th BIMSTEC National Security Chiefs’ Meeting Towards Enhancing Regional Cooperation
Myanmar successfully hosted the 4th BIMSTEC National Security Chiefs' Meeting from July 24 to 26, 2024. National security chiefs from member countries participated in the meeting, where they had constructive discussions on several key issues: combating drug-related challenges; maritime security and cybersecurity threats; improving information sharing across relevant security sectors; the current security situation in the region; preparing for potential security challenges; and identifying effective methods for addressing these issues. 

Successfully hosting the event not only strengthens the legitimacy of the State Administration Council government but also enhances cooperation with regional countries in the political, economic, and security sectors. The meeting also provided an opportunity to discuss approaches for jointly combating armed conflicts and drug smuggling in the border areas. Representatives from Thailand, Bangladesh, and India, who are indeed the neighboring countries of Myanmar, participated in the discussions.

The entire BIMSTEC region has a population of 1.8 billion and it has been accounted for 22 percent of the world's population. The combined GDP of the BIMSTEC countries is over 3.6 trillion USD. Although BIMSTEC is different from other organizations as it was established by countries with different culture, language and lifestyle, all member countries are actively participating in economic, social science and technology sectors for their mutual benefits as the saying goes, “Unity is Strength”. BIMSTEC member countries include countries that are members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) as well as countries that are members of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC). And therefore, BIMSTEC can also be assumed as a connecting bridge of the two major associations in the region.

Maritime Security Sector of BIMSTEC
At the BIMSTEC 4th Summit in 2018, Indian Prime Minister Modi highlighted the importance of the maritime sector for socio-economic development and the future food security of the region and the importance of the Bay of Bengal as “our region's geographic location links global maritime trade routes and the Blue Economy is of particular importance to all of our economies.” Therefore, according to the importance of the role of maritime security in the Bay of Bengal, the role of the National Security Chiefs has included the maritime security sector and discussed and addressed it extensively.
As the Bay of Bengal is directly adjacent to the five BIMSTEC member countries and provides access to the two remaining landlocked countries, Bhutan and Nepal, it offers opportunities to connect and create multi-sectoral cooperation across the entire Indian Ocean region, positioning the Bay of Bengal as the "Heart of BIMSTEC." While the Bay of Bengal has many opportunities for socio-economic development for BIMSTEC member countries, many conventional and non-conventional threats in there are also needed to be faced and overcame together. Port and trade routes security, fisheries protection and natural disaster management processes are included in coping with that. Efforts are being made to promote the maritime security sector, which is directly or indirectly supporting all seven areas of cooperation within the BIMSTEC organization, beyond normal security measures and into proactive cooperation activities that include diplomacy.

BIMSTEC is indeed elevating trade, investment and connectivity among member countries which leads to promoting regional economic development. In doing so, the Maritime Transport Agreement (MTA) would be able to sign at the BIMSTEC summit to be held in the near future and there would be good opportunities for mutual trade between the ports of member countries, and the flow of goods in the region would be rapidly improved by this agreement. Maritime trade among the member countries of the region, as well as opportunities to trade goods through Myanmar to the ASEAN countries and Asian countries, would also be flourished by centrally passing through the Bay of Bengal. Along with the development of maritime trade routes, the roles of navies in each respective country for maritime security would also become more important. Today, Myanmar Navy together with the navies of BIMSTEC countries are actively cooperating in Navy To Navy Staff Talks, CORPAT, Maritime Security Conclave, Maritime Security Exercise and other maritime security issues in the Bay of Bengal and Andaman Sea within the Indian Ocean. 

BIMSTEC Towards Myanmar’s National Maritime Interests
Myanmar has a great and solid basic for economic development through maritime trade as if the abundance of its natural resources, a reasonable population ratio, a long coastline and good ports can be used effectively. There are many fish resources, natural gas resources, also numerous highly valuable mineral resources beneath the shallow seabed of Myanmar together with great opportunities like presence of good ports like Kyauk Phyu and Dawei Deep Sea Port and being close to the world's trade routes. Moreover, there are very beautiful and attractive islands, underwater coral reefs, and many scuba diving sites with amazing underwater scenery for maritime or nautical tourism, so-called “smokeless industry”. Although the sea provides opportunities and interests for the respective countries, the waterways can become vulnerable entrances that can be easily penetrated by force in the absence of properly established defense measures for maritime security. 

As everything that happens in the Bay of Bengal impacts Myanmar’s seas, it is closely related to the strategic importance of the Bay of Bengal. Therefore, it is crucial to seize the opportunity provided by the geographical advantage of being adjacent to both the Bay of Bengal and the Andaman Sea, which connect Asia and South Asia. Additionally, Myanmar serves as a land bridge, acting as an intermediary between ASEAN and BIMSTEC countries. To further develop the maritime trade sector, regional maritime networks must be connected, enabling communication between the ports of regional countries. This can be achieved by upgrading key port cities such as Sittwe and Kyauk Phyu on the Rakhine coast, Pathein and Yangon in the Delta region, and Mawlamyine, Dawei, Myeik, and Kawthaung on the Tanintharyi coast. Such development will reduce dependence on border trade, which is currently limited by security restrictions.
Today, eastern coast ports of India such as Visakhapatnam, Kolkata and Chennai ports; Chittagong port of Bangladesh; Hanbantota port of Sri Lanka; Yangon, Pathein and Sittwe ports of Myanmar could be connected as a route for coastal shipping sector which all countries are the members of BIMSTEC in the Bay of Bengal. Although international maritime trades are conducted under the regulations of International Maritime Organization (IMO), Coastal Shipping Agreement is much simpler than the process of IMO which can be negotiated by bilateral consensus and new coastal maritime trade routes will be implemented quickly and simply. Therefore, a wish for Myanmar Navy, Myanmar Coast Guard and Maritime Police to actively involve in the maritime security sector while safeguarding maritime interests of the Bay of Bengal, which is connected to the Myanmar Sea together with the cooperation of BIMSTEC and to contribute to Myanmar’s national maritime interests by a guarantee for a safe and secure maritime domain…..

IN the early days of diplomacy, nations forged their relationships through formal letters, emissaries, and discreet negotiations conducted behind closed doors. Today, however, the landscape has dramatically shifted. World leaders now convey diplomatic messages with the simplicity of a tweet, and global policy discussions unfold in real-time across social media platforms. The internet has ushered in a new era of diplomacy – often referred to as ‘Twitter diplomacy’ or ‘digital diplomacy’ – which is revolutionizing how countries interact with one another and connect with their citizens.

The Power of Twitter Diplomacy 

Consider a single tweet: 280 characters sent from a smartphone can now influence millions of people around the world in seconds. No leader has demonstrated this more dramatically than former US President Donald Trump, who used Twitter not just as a platform to communicate domestic policies but as a tool for global diplomacy.

From directly addressing North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to announcing US foreign policy decisions, Trump showed how a tweet could bypass traditional diplomatic channels, instantly shaping international discussions.

But it’s not just the US that has embraced digital diplomacy. Around the globe, leaders like Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi have harnessed the power of social media to connect directly with citizens and international audiences. In 2023, during the G20 Summit held in New Delhi, Modi utilized platforms like Twitter (X) and Instagram to promote India’s presidency of the G20, share key initiatives, and highlight the importance of global cooperation on issues like climate change and sustainable development. His active engagement on social media allowed him to shape narratives around India’s leadership role in addressing global challenges while fostering dialogue and collaboration among member countries.

Public Diplomacy and Crisis Management

One of the key strengths of digital diplomacy is its ability to reach not only foreign governments but also global citizens. Public diplomacy – winning the hearts and minds of people in other countries – has taken on new meaning in the digital age. Social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram are now crucial tools for embassies and government officials to promote cultural diplomacy and create positive narratives about their nations.

For instance, South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation actively uses social media to promote its cultural diversity and initiatives, engaging with global audiences through posts that highlight its rich heritage, traditional music, and significant events like the annual Nelson Mandela Day celebrations. In contrast, China utilizes platforms like Weibo to promote its Belt and Road Initiative, sharing stories of infrastructure projects and cultural exchanges. Meanwhile, Bhutan leverages social media to highlight its unique approach to Gross National Happiness, sharing insights into its cultural values and sustainable development efforts, fostering goodwill and understanding through shared cultural experiences.

In times of crisis, social media can also serve as an essential tool for diplomatic communication. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the World Health Organization and various government officials used platforms like Twitter to coordinate international responses and provide timely updates on health guidelines. Similarly, in the aftermath of natural disasters or terrorist attacks, social media allows governments to disseminate information, request aid, or offer assistance quickly.

The Hazards and Hurdles

Nevertheless, for all its advantages, social media also introduces significant risks to the world of diplomacy. One of the most pressing concerns is the spread of misinformation and disinformation. Fake news can inflame conflicts, deepen misunderstandings, and even destabilize governments. A significant example occurred during the conflict between Israel and Hamas in 2021 when misinformation circulated on social media about the events leading to the violence.

False narratives and misleading images were shared widely, inflaming tensions and polarizing opinions internationally. This misinformation complicated diplomatic efforts by various countries seeking to mediate the conflict, illustrating how social media can quickly escalate diplomatic crises and hinder constructive dialogue in sensitive geopolitical situations.

Another challenge is the informal and often unpredictable nature of digital diplomacy. Traditional diplomacy is built on careful negotiation and tact, but social media allows for impulsive, unfiltered statements that can escalate tensions. A single tweet can lead to diplomatic fallout if misinterpreted or seen as inflammatory. In an era where world leaders have instant access to millions of followers, a moment of poor judgment can have far-reaching consequences.

Shaping Global Opinions and Soft Power

While challenges persist, the capacity of social media to influence international relations is profound. For instance, during the negotiations surrounding the Iran nuclear deal (Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action) in 2015, social media became a battleground for narratives. Key diplomats, including US Secretary of State John Kerry, utilized platforms like Twitter to provide real-time updates and to counter misinformation about the negotiations. This online engagement allowed for greater transparency and helped to rally support from both domestic and international audiences. Furthermore, after the deal was reached, social media was instrumental in disseminating messages of hope and collaboration, as well as in addressing concerns from sceptics in various countries. This example highlights how social media can serve as a vital tool in diplomacy, shaping perceptions and facilitating dialogue during critical negotiations.

The Next Chapter of Diplomacy in a Digital Era As social media continues to evolve, so too will the nature of diplomacy. Future diplomats will need to master not just the art of negotiation but the skill of digital communication. Social media platforms will increasingly become critical arenas for public diplomacy, crisis management, and even negotiations.

On the other hand, the world must also consider the need for international laws and diplomatic protocols to keep up with the pace of digital change. What measures can be taken to ensure world leaders’ responsible online communication? How can the spread of misinformation be controlled without infringing on free speech? As digital diplomacy becomes more entrenched in global politics, these are questions that will need answers.

Conclusion

Diplomacy in the digital age is fast, direct, and powerful. Social media has transformed global politics, creating new opportunities for engagement and new risks. Leaders now have the power to shape international relations with the click of a button, and the world is watching. In this rapidly changing landscape, diplomacy will need to adapt, ensuring that even in the digital age, dialogue and cooperation remain at the heart of international relations.

Refs:

• Cohen, E (2019). Digital Diplomacy: The Impact of Social Media on International Relations. Routledge.

• Bachmann, A, & Weber, R (2018). “The Role of Social Media in Shaping International Relations.” International Studies Quarterly, 62 (2), 283-295.

• Gilboa, E (2019). “The Impact of Social Media on Diplomacy: From Information to Action.” The Hague Journal of Diplomacy, 14 (2), 178-201.

• Peters, M (2020). “Navigating Digital Diplomacy: Opportunities and Challenges.” Foreign Affairs, 99 (3), 56-64.

• Kampf, R, & Lentz, B (2021). “Digital Diplomacy and the Role of Social Media in Global Governance.” Global Policy, 12 (1), 55-63.

• Krook, M L, & Restrepo, M (2020). “Digital Politics: New Media, New Power in Global Governance.” International Studies Review, 22 (4), 870-895.

• Miskimmon, A, O’Loughlin, B, & Roselle, L (2020). Strategic Narratives: Communication Power and the New World Order. Routledge.

• Stevens, D (2021). “Social Media, Foreign Policy, and International Relations.” Journal of International Affairs, 74 (1), 145-162.

• Müller, P (2022). “The Digital Transformation of Diplomacy: Challenges and Perspectives.” European Journal of International Relations, 28 (1), 20-40.

• Walsh, K C (2023). “Digital Diplomacy: How Social Media Shapes Foreign Policy.” Global Affairs, 9 (1), 47-64.

Source- The Global New Light of Myanmar

Introduction

Peace treaties have been essential tools in global diplomacy, marking the end of conflicts and establishing frameworks for reconciliation. Historically, these treaties shaped borders dictated terms of surrender, and laid the groundwork for rebuilding nations. However, the nature of peace treaties has evolved significantly in the 21st Century, reflecting changes in international law, geopolitics, and the complexity of modern warfare. This article explores the evolution of peace treaties in the 21st Century, focusing on the changing actors, mechanisms, and challenges shaping these agreements.

The Historical Framework

Peace treaties in previous centuries often followed similar patterns. For instance, the Treaty of Westphalia (1648), which ended the Thirty Years’ War, established the modern concept of state sovereignty, emphasizing the principles of non-interference in internal affairs and the balance of power between European states. Similarly, the Treaty of Versailles (1919) concluded World War I by imposing heavy reparations on Germany, redrawing national borders, and creating the League of Nations in an effort to prevent future global conflicts. The Cold War era added new dimensions, where ideological struggles and superpower rivalry influenced treaties, but the actors were still predominantly nation-states. For example, military pacts like NATO and the Warsaw Pact reflected these rivalries, serving as deterrents while promoting the interests of their respective blocs. Similarly, arms control treaties, such as the SALT agreements, were negotiated under pressure to limit nuclear proliferation amidst fears of mutual destruction.

With the end of the Cold War, peace processes took on new forms, focusing on the integration of former adversaries into international systems, as seen with treaties following the breakup of Yugoslavia, most notably the Dayton Agreement (1995). However, the 21st Century has introduced unique geopolitical dynamics that have altered the way peace treaties are negotiated and implemented.

21st Century Peace Treaties: New Actors and Complexities

The 21st Century introduced new dimensions into the art of peacemaking, primarily due to the rise of non-state actors, globalization, and technological advancements. Unlike previous centuries, where peace treaties typically involved state actors, today’s agreements often need to address insurgent groups, terrorist organizations, and multinational corporations.

For example, the Afghanistan Peace Agreement of 2020 involved negotiations between the United States and the Taliban – an in-surgent group rather than a recognized state government. The complexities of this agreement highlight the challenge of dealing with non-state actors whose motivations are often ideological or extremist in nature. The inclusion of such groups in the peace process is a significant evolution in treaty-making and raises questions about legitimacy, enforcement, and compliance.

Additionally, peace treaties now have to consider global networks. The use of cyber warfare, economic sanctions, and international legal mechanisms can either enforce or undermine peace agreements. These factors add layers of complexity that make treaty enforcement more difficult than in the past.

The Role of International Organizations

Another defining feature of modern peace treaties is the increasing involvement of international organizations like the United Nations and the European Union and regional bodies such as the African Union. The Colombian Peace Agreement of 2016, for instance, which ended a 50-year conflict with the FARC rebels (The Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia), was brokered with significant international oversight, including the involvement of the UN and neighbouring countries.

These organizations now often act as guarantors or mediators of peace agreements, providing neutral platforms and ensuring that the terms are monitored and adhered to. While this offers a higher chance of stability, it also requires multilateral cooperation, which is challenging to maintain in a geopolitically polarized world.

Geopolitical Influences and Major Powers

The influence of global powers continues to shape the nature of peace treaties. The 21st Century has seen a shift towards a multipolar world, where the dominance of the United States is being contested by rising powers such as China and Russia. This contest often leads to proxy conflicts, where peace agreements become strategic tools in a broader geopolitical struggle.

For example, peace agreements in the Middle East, such as those involving Syria, have been heavily influenced by external powers like Russia, the US, and Iran. These agreements often reflect the interests of these powers rather than the local populations, leading to fragile outcomes that are susceptible to collapse.

The Minsk Agreements (2014-2015), designed to resolve the conflict in Eastern Ukraine, show how peace treaties are often negotiated under the influence of great power politics. Despite being signed, these agreements have largely failed to bring lasting peace, in part due to the competing interests of Russia and Western nations, illustrating the challenges of reaching consensus in a fragmented world order.

The Role of Technology in Modern Peace Agreements

One of the most significant changes to peace treaties in the 21st Century is the role of technology. Cybersecurity, disinformation campaigns, and technological warfare are now central considerations in any peace process. Conflicts no longer take place solely on the battlefield; they unfold in cyberspace, affecting the terms and conditions of modern treaties.

For instance, agreements now frequently contain clauses addressing the misuse of technology, ensuring the prevention of cyber attacks or regulating the use of social media to inflame tensions. The rise of autonomous drones, artificial intelligence in warfare, and cyber sabotage has made peace treaties much more complex, as they now need to cover these technological dimensions alongside traditional military terms.

Future Trends: What Lies Ahead for Peace Treaties?

Looking forward, peace treaties in the 21st Century will likely continue to evolve to meet new global challenges. Climate change, resource scarcity, and migration crises are likely to become focal points of future conflicts, influencing the nature of peace agreements. The South China Sea, for example, is becoming a strategic area of interest due to territorial disputes and natural resources, and future peace agreements may need to include clauses about resource-sharing, navigation rights, and conflict resolution. Moreover, as the world becomes more interconnected, peace processes will increasingly require cooperation across multiple sectors, from civil society to the private sector. Technology companies, for instance, may play a role in ensuring that communication networks are not used to spread disinformation or incite violence during peace negotiations.

Conclusion

The evolution of peace treaties in the 21st Century reflects the complexity of modern conflicts, the changing nature of global power dynamics, and the rise of new actors and technologies. While traditional treaties focus on land, sovereignty, and ceasefires, modern agreements must address a broader range of issues, from ideological insurgencies to cybersecurity. As the world continues to shift towards multipolarity, the success of peace treaties will depend on the ability to adapt to these new challenges, ensuring that peace remains sustainable in an increasingly complex global landscape.

References;

1.  C V (2020). The Peace of Westphalia and the Origins of Sovereignty. Journal of International Law and Politics, 52 (1), 123-145.

2.  MacMillan, M (2001). Paris 1919: Six Months That Changed the World. New York: Random House.

3.  Acharya, A (2001). Constructing a Security Community in Southeast Asia: ASEAN and the Problem of Regional Order. New York: Routledge.

4.  Glaser, B S (2019). The South China Sea: A Battleground for International Law and Geopolitical Rivalry. International Journal of Marine and Coastal Law, 34 (2), 1-25.

5.  Reuveny, R. (2007). Climate Change and Conflict: The Security Risks of Global Warming. Social Forces, 85 (3), 1169-1194.

6.  Zartman, I W (2005). Peacemaking in International Conflict: Methods & Techniques. Washington, DC: United States Institute of Peace Press.

Source- The Global New Light of Myanmar

THE Central Conference on Work Relating to Foreign Affairs was held in Beijing on 27-28 December 2023. Chinese President Xi Jinping attended the conference and delivered an important address. Xi Jinping presented a systematic review of the historic achievements and valuable experience of major-country diplomacy with Chinese characteristics in the new era, gave a profound exposition on the international environment and historical mission of China’s external work on the new journey, and made comprehensive plans for China’s external work for the present and coming periods. I would like to introduce the conference to friends from all walks of life in Myanmar and share some views on promoting the development of China-Myanmar relations.

It was pointed out at the conference that building a community with a shared future for mankind is the core tenet of Xi Jinping’s Thoughts on Diplomacy. The goal is to build an open, inclusive, clean and beautiful world of lasting peace, universal security and shared prosperity, and the pathway is promoting global governance that features extensive consultation and joint contribution for shared benefit; the guiding principle is to apply the common values of humanity, the basic underpinning lies in building a new type of international relations, the strategic guidance comes from the implementation of the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative, and the platform for action is high-quality Belt and Road cooperation. On this basis, we seek to bring countries together to meet challenges, achieve prosperity for all and usher in a bright future of peace, security, prosperity and progress for our world. 

To build a community with a shared future for mankind, China calls for an equal and orderly multipolar world and a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization. An equal and orderly multipolar world is one in which all countries, regardless of size, are treated as equals, hegemonism and power politics are rejected, and democracy is truly promoted in international relations.The purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter must be observed by all, the universally recognized basic norms governing international relations must be upheld by all, and true multilateralism must be practised. 

A universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization is one that meets the common needs of all countries, especially developing countries, and properly addresses the development imbalances between and within countries resulting from the global allocation of resources. It is important to resolutely oppose the attempt to roll back globalization and abuse the concept of security, oppose all forms of unilateralism and protectionism, firmly promote trade and investment liberalization and facilitation, overcome the structural problems hindering the healthy development of the world economy, and make economic globalization more open, inclusive, balanced and beneficial to all. 

China and Myanmar, linked by mountains and rivers, enjoy a profound “Pauk-Phaw” friendship. During President Xi Jinping’s historic visit to Myanmar in 2020, the two sides agreed to work together to build a China-Myanmar community with a shared future. This year marks the 70th anniversary of China, Myanmar and India jointly advocating the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence. We are willing to implement the spirit of the Central Conference on Work Relating to Foreign Affairs, carry forward the wisdom and experience of China-Myanmar friendly exchanges, practice the Principle of Amity, Sincerity, Mutual Benefit and Inclusiveness in Neighbourhood Diplomacy, and work with Myanmar to continue to implement the outcomes of President Xi’s historic visit to Myanmar, strengthen exchanges of experience in governance, forge synergy in implementing GDI, GSI and GCI, and deepen cooperation and pursue tangible progress in building a China-Myanmar community with a shared future. 

We are willing to work with Myanmar to build the Belt and Road and the China-Myanmar Economic Corridor with high quality so as to benefit the peoples of the two countries with more practical cooperation fruits. We support Myanmar in pursuing a development path suited to its national conditions and will continue to play a constructive role in supporting the peace process in northern Myanmar and jointly maintaining peace and stability along the China-Myanmar border. We will always adhere to the people-centred development approach, deepen China-Myanmar law enforcement and security cooperation, and jointly crack down on cross-border criminal activities such as telecom and online fraud to safeguard people’s lives and properties. We are willing to work with Myanmar to deepen cooperation among Lancang-Mekong, China-ASEAN and other regional mechanisms to create a better homeland for all. 

At the beginning of the New Year, I wish the people of Myanmar a harvest of peace, prosperity and happiness. 

Source- The Global New Light of Myanmar