But underscoring the pragmatic aspect of what has been driving India’s position on Myanmar, the PM said it was necessary to “cooperate” with the government in Myanmar. “We have to recognize that Myanmar is our next door neighbour and sometimes it doesn’t serve the objective you have in mind by going public with condemnations. We have to be mindful of the fact that India’s north-eastern borders are with Myanmar and there are insurgent groups who sometimes take advantage of the situation to indulge in nefarious activities.”

On Pakistan, Singh referred to the peace process with Pakistan slowing down because of that country’s internal dynamics. Asked if the return of Benazir Bhutto would speed that up, his view was that it was too early to tell. “The new political order in Pakistan is yet to take shape.” Yet he expressed optimism that with “hard work”, a headway in the peace process would be possible.

Responding to questions on WTO and whether India had radically altered its position on the Doha round by limiting its dispute to agriculture issues, the PM said: “Talks are on in Geneva and changes are taking place everyday. We are making a constructive effort to find an equitable solution for all members. We don’t want the Doha development round to forget the ‘development’ aspect of the round. It’s premature to say anything, but we have every reason as a developing, poor country to try and ensure that the multilateral trading system functions well.”