India favours release of Suu Kyi

New Delhi, Mar 7: Barely hours before President APJ Abdul Kalam leaves for his visit to Yangon, India today said it did care for democracy in Myanmar and the release of Nobel Laureate Daw Aung San Suu Kyi would contribute to democratisation of that country.

''She (Suu Kyi) enjoys great respect in India and she also has an international standing. Her release will be helpful in the process of democratisation'' of that country, ''Foreign Secretary Shyam Saran told mediapersons while briefing on the President's six-day tour of Myanmar and Mauritius.

''It is important for both India and Myanmar to remain engaged but it does not mean that New Delhi is not concerned about democracy,'', said Mr Saran, who had served as ambabasor during the crucial phase of the bilateral relations.

He admitted that the issue of Myanmar came up during discussions between Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and US President George W Bush during the latter's three-day historic visit to India.

Elaborating on the role of the pro-democracy leader, Mr Saran said she could contribute ''in emergence of Myanmar as a democratic country'' in the comity of nations.

''The Indian government has welcomed the commitment of leadership of Myanmar for restoration of democracy. It has also welcomed the National Convention process, but it should be as inclusive as possible for its credibility.'' However, the Foreign Secretary was categorical that India could not ignore its ''important neighbour which is a gateway for us to the ASEAN.'' During his three-day stay in Myanmar, Dr Kalam will meet Senior General Than Shwe and other leaders and discuss the whole range of bilateral issues, including New Delhi's assistance in setting up a remote sensing centre at Yangon.

India is also expected to stitch an agreement with Myanmar on upgradation of a deep sea port on the Arakan coast.

The issue of insurgency and expansion of defence ties will also be deliberated.

UNI