Khurshid on 3-day visit to Myanmar from Friday

The three-day visit of Khurshid will also be a precursor to the discussions which will take place during the Myanmar President's trip here for ASEAN-India Commemorative Summit from December 20, official spokesperson in the Ministry of External Affairs said today.

Asked about a meeting with Suu Kyi, he said a request for it has been put through Indian mission there with the Opposition leader's office and a response was awaited.

The main agenda of Khurshid's visit is to take part in the International Buddhist Conference, which is co-sponsored by India, he said, adding he will also hand over a 16-ft statue of Lord Buddha, which will be installed at the Shwedagon Pagoda on December 16.

The External Affairs Minister will visit Nay Pyi Taw and Yangoon, he said.

In Nay Pyi Taw, Khurshid is expected to call on the President and will also meet various other interlocutors, he said, adding his programme was still being finalised.

Khurshid, who assumed charge over two months ago, is travelling to Myanmar on his first bilateral visit. He travelled to Laos last month for 9th ASEM conference.