New Delhi (Sputnik) — In a major boost to the 'Act East Policy', India is all set to take over the operations of Sittwe Port in the neighbouring country of Myanmar.
"The infrastructure at Sittwe Port in Myanmar, constructed with India's assistance, is ready for operation", Minister of State for Shipping and Road Transport Mansukh L. Mandaviya said in a written reply to a question in Rajya Sabha, the Upper House of Parliament.
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The project would encourage investment and trade and also open alternate routes for connectivity to India's north-east region, Mansukh L. Mandaviya added.
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On 22 October 2018, India and Myanmar signed a bilateral agreement for operationalisation of the port at Sittwe and inland water transport terminals at Sittwe and Paletwa in Myanmar.
India has been pushing for greater connectivity with countries of south-east Asia to counterbalance China's Belt and Road Initiative.