India has launched a two-week United Nations peacekeeping operations training program for 30 Myanmar military officers in Naypyidaw, reaffirming New Delhi’s continuing defence and strategic engagement with its eastern neighbour.

The course is being conducted by the New Delhi-based Centre for United Nations Peacekeeping (CUNPK), with a three-member Indian training team leading the sessions in Myanmar’s capital. According to the Indian Embassy in Myanmar, this marks the ninth UN peacekeeping training collaboration between India and Myanmar.

Indian Ambassador to Myanmar Abhay Thakur inaugurated the program and highlighted India’s longstanding role in international humanitarian and peacekeeping missions that contribute to global stability and conflict resolution.

Addressing participants, Ambassador Thakur emphasized the deep historical, cultural, and strategic ties between India and Myanmar.

“Myanmar and India share a unique and profound bond, one that is deeply rooted in centuries of shared history, vibrant cultural exchanges, and an unbreakable geographical proximity,” he stated.

He noted that Myanmar occupies a central place in India’s key foreign policy frameworks, including the “Neighbourhood First,” “Act East,” and Indo-Pacific strategies.

“This relationship is not merely strategic; it is a testament to our shared destiny and common future,” the ambassador said.

The training curriculum has been specifically designed to strengthen Myanmar officers’ preparedness for participation in complex UN peacekeeping operations around the world.

According to the Indian Embassy, the program covers areas such as conflict de-escalation, graduated escalation management, operational planning in volatile environments, rules of engagement, and the protection of civilians under international humanitarian law.

The course also provides practical training in mission planning and execution in challenging operational theatres where peacekeepers often face humanitarian crises and armed conflict situations.

India has been one of the largest contributors to UN peacekeeping missions since 1950, with more than 290,000 Indian peacekeepers having served in over 50 UN missions globally.

The ambassador said India remains committed to sharing its extensive peacekeeping experience and expertise with partner nations.

The Centre for United Nations Peacekeeping operates as a joint initiative of India’s Ministry of External Affairs, Ministry of Defence, and the Indian Armed Forces.

Beyond troop contributions, India has also played a major role in shaping global discussions and policies surrounding UN peacekeeping operations and international conflict management.

The latest training initiative underscores India’s broader effort to deepen strategic partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region while promoting regional cooperation, defence engagement, and international peacekeeping capabilities.