A high-level delegation from Myanmar, led by President U Min Aung Hlaing, arrived in India this week as part of an official visit aimed at strengthening bilateral relations. The delegation touched down at Gaya International Airport, where they were received by Bihar State Governor Lt-Gen (Retd) Syed Ata Hasnain, Myanmar’s Ambassador to India U Zaw Oo, the Military Attaché Brig-Gen Zaw Moe Lwin, the Myanmar Consul-General, and other officials. A Guard of Honour was also present to welcome the delegation.

During their visit to the Bodh Gaya Cultural Region, President U Min Aung Hlaing and his entourage paid homage at the Mahabodhi Mahavihara Temple, a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site. The group offered alms, including water, oil, flowers, and robes, at the Mahabodhi Pagoda. A venerable Sayadaw representing the President presented robes to a Buddha image, and the delegation made donations, including cash for the overall renovation of the pagoda. They also visited the Maha Bo tree and presented a Maravijaya Buddha Image. Following this, they fed fish at Mucalinda Lake and proceeded to the Sujata Temple, where they offered additional tributes and cash donations.

The delegation later visited the Mahabodhi Dhamma Yeiktha Myanmar Monastery to pay respects to Abbot Sayadaw Dr. Bhaddanta Candamuni. There, the President and accompanying Union ministers took the Five Precepts, offered robes and other requisites, and provided cash donations to support nine religious needs. The group also attended a sermon delivered by the Sayadaw and shared merits from the religious observances.

In the afternoon, the Myanmar delegation departed Gaya Airport by special aircraft bound for New Delhi. Upon arrival at Palam Airbase, they were warmly received by Indian Minister of State for External Affairs Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh, along with the Indian Ambassador to Myanmar, military officials, and diplomatic staff.

The President’s visit is expected to include meetings with Indian President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, as well as engagements with Cabinet ministers, state governors, and representatives from business sectors. The agenda emphasizes fostering cooperation across various areas, including economic, religious, cultural, and social domains, intending to deepen and broaden the ties between Myanmar and India. Additionally, the delegation plans to tour prominent infrastructure projects in India during their stay.