External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met with United Nations Special Envoy of the Secretary General on Myanmar, Julie Bishop, to discuss crucial issues concerning Indo-Myanmar relations. Key topics of discussion included border stability, the refugee situation, transnational crime, and economic support to Myanmar.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Jaishankar stated:
“Glad to meet UN Special Envoy of the SG on Myanmar Julie Bishop this evening in Delhi. Discussed our border stability, refugee situation, transnational crime out of Myanmar, and providing economic support. Exchanged views on the political situation.”
Concerns Over Bishop’s Business Ties
Bishop’s visit to India comes at a time when civil society organizations are calling for an investigation into a potential conflict of interest concerning her involvement with a China-linked rare-earth mining company operating in Myanmar.
An open letter addressed to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and the UN General Assembly, signed by 260 Myanmar and international organizations, criticizes Bishop’s business engagements. The activist group Justice For Myanmar (JFM) has accused her of maintaining ties with Energy Transition Minerals (ETM), an Australian-listed company where she serves as a strategic advisor.
One of ETM’s key partners is Shenghe Resources, a Chinese rare-earth conglomerate with a 9% stake in ETM and a seat on its board. The company has played a crucial role in Myanmar’s rare-earth mining sector, which has been linked to environmental degradation and allegations of funding Myanmar’s military, according to reports from Myanmar Now.
Bishop Denies Conflict of Interest
Julie Bishop has strongly denied allegations regarding a conflict of interest, stating that her advisory role at ETM does not interfere with her duties as UN Special Envoy.
Bishop was appointed as the UN’s Myanmar Special Envoy in April last year, following the controversial tenure of her predecessor, Singaporean diplomat Noeleen Heyzer. Heyzer was criticized for her approach to Myanmar’s junta after meeting with military leader Senior-General Min Aung Hlaing in August 2022.
As geopolitical tensions in the region grow, India remains committed to maintaining stability and fostering positive relations with Myanmar. The outcome of Jaishankar’s discussions with Bishop could play a key role in shaping the future diplomatic course between India, Myanmar, and the international community.
