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The Centre for Policy Research (CPR) invites you to a talk on:
Strategic Opportunities for India in Myanmar: Countering China’s Influence and Supporting Democracy
Speaker:
Dr. Miemie Winn Byrd, Professor, Daniel K. Inouye Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies (DKI APCSS), Honolulu
Moderator:
Amb. Gautam Mukhopadhaya, Senior Visiting Fellow CPR and Former Ambassador of India to Syria, Afghanistan and Myanmar
Monday, 13th January 2025, 11:30 AM IST
The talk will be held in a hybrid mode at the CPR Conference Room (Dharam Marg, New Delhi) and online via Zoom. Register below to attend.
About the talk:
Dr. Miemie Winn Byrd will deliver a lecture on Myanmar’s ongoing internal conflict, with a focus on the geopolitical implications of China’s strategic misstep in backing the military junta — a regime opposed by nearly 90% of Myanmar’s population. This alignment has significantly undermined China’s influence in Myanmar, creating a pivotal opening for India, Myanmar’s western neighbour and a major power, to play a constructive role.
The lecture will explore how India can leverage this opportunity to advance Myanmar’s democratic aspirations, foster sustainable economic development, and enhance regional stability. By situating Myanmar’s conflict within the broader context of shifting power dynamics in Southeast Asia, Dr. Byrd will discuss the potential for transformative change and the strategic implications for key regional actors.
About the speaker:
Dr. Miemie Winn Byrd is a distinguished scholar, retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel, and expert on U.S.–Myanmar relations and Southeast Asian security dynamics. She serves as a Professor at the Daniel K. Inouye Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies (DKI APCSS), focusing on the intersection of economics, security, and development. With over 28 years of military service, Dr. Byrd held key positions, including that of Deputy Economic Advisor at U.S. Pacific Command and linguist for U.S. delegations to Myanmar and ASEAN forums.
Beyond her military career, she has extensive experience in auditing and financial management with firms like Ernst & Young and played a vital role in founding the Suu Foundation at the request of Nobel Laureate Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, supporting Myanmar’s healthcare and education sectors.
Dr. Byrd’s notable publications include Combating Corruption in the Asia-Pacific Region and Women’s Contributions to Security in the Asia-Pacific Region, where she examines regional stability, governance, and women’s roles in advancing security. Her work bridges academic rigor with practical policy applications, making her a leading voice on Southeast Asia’s critical issues.
