Saturday, March 26 2005 16:43 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Yangon: : Carrying forward the new momentum in bilateral ties, India and Myanmar today (March 26, 2005) emphasised that a stable security environment in the border area was a subject of mutual interest and a shared goal.

Visiting External Affairs Minister K Natwar Singh, who called on the Head of State and Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council Than Shwe, welcomed the resolve of the Myanmar leadership to continue cooperating actively with India in this regard.

Recalling his visit to India in October last year, Than Shwe expressed satisfaction with follow up action taken by authorities in both countries since his trip.

Both sides had then voiced their firm determination to maintaining peace, stability and tranquillity along the entire length of their common border.

Myanmar had also reiterated that it would not allow insurgent activities against India from its soil. New Delhi has been concerned over northeast insurgent groups operating from Myanmar.

Significantly, the top Myanmar leadership was present when Singh called on Than Shwe. The high-level presence was indicative of the importance attached by Myanmar to the Minister's visit, the Indian embassy here said.

Those present were vice senior Gen Maung Aye, who is also vice chairman of the State Peace and Development Council (SPDC), Gen Thura Shwe Mann, member of the SPDC, Prime Minister Lt Gen Soe Win, Lt Gen Thein Sein, secretary-1 SPDC and Foreign Minister U Nyan Win.

Reaffirming Myanmar's interest in deepening cooperation with India, Than Shwe said Singh's visit would help sustain the momentum in bilateral interaction.

Conveying the greetings and good wishes of the Indian leadership, Singh reiterated that New Delhi valued its relationship with Myanmar bilaterally, as well as in the regional and sub-regional frameworks.

Both sides agreed that the implementation of joint infrastructure projects such as Kaladan multi-modal transport project and the 1,200 MW Tamanthi Hydro-electric Project on the Chindwin river in Myanmar would contribute to development and progress along the India-Myanmar border.