India, Myanmar discuss mechanisms to strength security

New Delhi, Mar 10 : India and Myanmar have expressed strong desire that the common border between the two countries should be a region and symbol of peace and harmony so that the benefits out of various infrastructure projects and economic cooperation between the two countries can be fully realized.

Both sides have agreed to work closely for achieving these objectives and, in this context, discussed various institutional mechanisms to strengthen security cooperation.

The understanding was reached at the 14th National Level Meeting between India and Myanmar which began here last Friday and concluded today.

The Indian delegation was led by the Union Home Secretary, Madhukar Gupta, and the Myanmar delegation was led by their Deputy Minister for Home Affairs, Brigadier General Phone Swe.

At this meeting, various issues of mutual concern including those related to security, drug trafficking and border management were discussed.

Later, the leader of the Myanmar delegation called on the Home Minister, Shivraj Patil.

Patil recalled the strong and close bonds between the two countries and emphasized the importance of strengthening cooperation in the areas of security and border management as well as in the context of India's 'Look East' policy.

Myanmar is a close and friendly neighbour with whom India shares a border of around 1650 kms.

India-Myanmar bilateral relations are reflective of the multi- dimensional and traditional linkages between the two countries.

ANI