Islamabad : Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) and Myanmar Institute of Strategic and International Studies (MISIS) have signed a Letter of Cooperation (LoC) to strengthen research collaboration and dialogue between the two institutions.
The LoC was signed by Sohail Mahmood, Director-General, ISSI, and U Thant Kyaw, Chairperson, MISIS, in a virtually held ceremony. Speaking on the occasion, U Thant Kyaw extended his gratitude to Myanmar Embassy in Islamabad and Pakistan’s Embassy in Yangon for their support. He stated that the signing of the LoC will be another milestone in mutual research and collaboration following the October 2024 Working Protocol (WP). This will expand opportunities for ideas exchange and foster a collaborative environment, maximizing engagements. He acknowledged the joint research efforts and introduced the MISIS researcher. He noted that the world is changing at an unprecedented level, affecting both the developed and developing nations including Myanmar and Pakistan.
Sohail Mahmood emphasised that the signing of the LoC further formalises the framework for institutional cooperation between ISSI and MISIS, building on the WP. He noted that the changing international landscape will lead to new developments in South Asia, East Asia, and the wider world, making our exchanges and mutual cooperation crucial in analysing these developments.
He expressed satisfaction with the progress on joint research by both institutions, setting the stage for deeper cooperation. He also acknowledged the valuable support of the two Embassies. He highlighted Myanmar Ambassador Wunna Han's efforts as Chair of the ASEAN Committee Islamabad (ACI). He concluded by saying that the signing of the LoC will open up new opportunities to further deepen this partnership.
Ambassador Wunna Han while commenting on the progress made after the signing of WP, expressed gratification over the signing of the LoC within just six months and commended the efforts for joint research. Ambassador Wunna also stressed the need for stronger ties between Myanmar and Pakistan, as well as enhanced collaboration between the two think-tanks including through exchange of visits. The dynamic geopolitical landscape, he noted, will require both countries to remain vigilant and proactive in managing their relationships with key neighbours.
Ambassador Anwar Zeb, speaking on behalf of the Embassy of Pakistan in Myanmar, said that Pakistan and Myanmar enjoyed cordial relations and emphasised that the timing for concluding LoC is ideal for further collaboration. He expressed his optimism that the ongoing efforts will lead to mutually beneficial outcomes and continued goodwill on both sides. He said the successful collaboration between ISSI and MISIS stands as a testament to the strong partnership between Pakistan and Myanmar, and signals a positive direction for future cooperation.