10. Conclusion -
India-Myanmar-ASEAN Connectivity could be realised through enhanced physical infrastructure development, effective institutional arrangements and empowered people. Myanmar is located at a strategic geographical location in the Southeast. As it is costly for ASEAN countries to reach the Indian Ocean through the Malacca Straits, Myanmar can serve as a gateway and development of EWEC and SWEC corridors will be beneficial for the region. The other projects such as Dawei and Kyaukphyu deep sea ports, KMMTTP and highway projects will heavily shorten the overall distance and will save money and time for ASEAN, India and China for their trade through Myanmar. The improvements in transportation infrastructure network will deliver numerous benefits and ensure that all economies across the region have competitive access to international markets through an efficient, reliable and thriving regional network. It will also integrate national markets to promote economic efficiency and private sector development. Improvements in the modes and infrastructures in terms of their capacity will result in reduced transport costs, which in turn will increase trade, and help change the location of economic activities. However, the current projects being implemented through Myanmar are faced with delays due to political instability, and the effects of the international financial crisis. Building an enhanced regional connectivity requires not only the infrastructure development but also the development of new strategies and institutions, more effective implementation of existing and future initiatives (ADB, 2011). ASEAN-India must turn ambitious plans for better regional connectivity into reality in order to tap their full economic potential.