The Embassy of India in Myanmar, based in Yangon, announced on January 17 that Indian Ambassador to Myanmar, Abhay Thakur, visited Sittwe, a city currently experiencing military tensions between the Arakan Army (AA) and the Myanmar junta, on January 16.

Mr. Shreeshanil Mukundan, Managing Director of India Ports Global Ltd (IPGL), along with officials from the Consulate General of India in Sittwe and Embassy staff, visited the city to review the operations of the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project, according to reports.

During the visit, they met with U Htein Lin, the Chief Minister of Rakhine State under the Myanmar junta, and discussed local community support programs and future collaboration initiatives, according to reports.

They also met with the Indian diaspora in Sittwe and visited the India in Myanmar – Consulate General of India in Sittwe, according to reports.

Residents of Sittwe reported that during the days of the Indian Ambassador to Myanmar’s visit, the Myanmar junta forces carried out airstrikes, naval attacks, and heavy artillery shelling around Sittwe, including areas near the Indian port, as well as Rathedaung, Ponnakyun, and Pauktaw Townships.

In the final stages of the Arakan war, the Arakan Army (AA) has completely taken control of areas including Paletwa, Maungdaw, Buthidaung, Rathedaung, Ponnakyun, Kyauktaw, Mrauk-U, Minbrar, Myaybon, Pauktaw, Rambre, Thandwe, Taunggoke, Ann, and Gwa Townships.

The Arakan Army (AA) has only three remaining townships to capture Sittwe, Kyaukphru, and Manaung. Due to the ongoing military tensions in these areas, residents of Arakan report that junta forces are intentionally targeting civilian areas during their attacks.

On December 29, the Arakan Army (AA) stated that it is always ready to resolve Myanmar’s internal issues through political means rather than military approaches. The AA also emphasized its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of foreign investments, projects, and personnel in the region.