The head of Burma's military government, Senior General Than Shwe, has met India's prime minister during a rare trip out of his country. The two sides have signed three agreements on security, cultural exchanges and hydro-electric power. It is the first visit by a Burmese head of state to India in nearly 25 years. The visit has been condemned by Burmese pro-democracy groups in India, who say it encourages military dictatorship and repressive rule in Burma. General Than is leading a delegation of eight cabinet ministers for six days of talks. Earlier on Monday he was given a ceremonial welcome at the colonial-era presidential palace in Delhi, where he was greeted by Indian President Abdul Kalam and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. General Than's rare journey out of Burma is going ahead despite his prime minister, Khin Nyunt, being ousted last week. India, which once openly supported Aung San Suu Kyi, has been quietly wooing the Burmese military leadership in recent years. Analysts say India is keen to engage Burma to offset China's influence in the region. | China has been making major investments in Burma, including a port that could be used as a naval base similar to the one being built in Pakistan. |
Delhi has pushed trade and investment initiatives with Burma since the 1990s as part of its "Look East" policy. Delhi also wants Burma's help in combating rebels operating in the north-east of India. |