Compared to the relations with its Western neighbors Pakistan and Afghanistan, India’s relationship with the fragile democracy of 170 million people in Bangladesh and the gradually reforming Myanmar has been neglected in international debates about India’s apparent regional and global ambitions. However, in light of the apparent Indian competition with China for strategic partners in Asia, improving ties with Bangladesh and Myanmar have gained significance in the considerations of Indian and international foreign policy makers. The quality of the relationship with India will be a key factor for the economic and democratic development of Bangladesh and Myanmar, potentially connecting more than 1.4 billion people. As the largest democracy in the world India projects itself as the “natural partner” of a democratic Bangladesh and a reforming Myanmar. India’s foreign policy has a growing regional perspective and both countries are important components to India’s so-called “Look East” policy as New Delhi seeks to foster closer cooperation with its neighbors to bring about economic development and prosperity.

This publication is based on discussions at the first annual dialogue on “ The Future of Bay of Bengal “ held in Kolkata on March 3-4, 2014 organised by Friedrich Ebert Stiftung India.