Situation in Afghanistan, Iran to figure in Indo-US talks

Burns, who is arriving here after his visit to four other Asian nations, including China, will hold talks on key bilateral, regional and international issues, official spokesperson in the Ministry of External Affairs Syed Akbaruddin said today.

Issues relating to the 18-nation East Asia Summit (EAS), the democratic reforms in Myanmar and Afghanistan are expected to figure in the discussions, he said.

Asked if Iran will also figure in talks, he said since Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister recently visited India, it is normal to exchange views on various issues relating to that country.

The two sides are also expected to review their bilateral relations, including the progress in implementing the India-US civil nuclear deal, energy security and cooperation in developmental projects.

Burns would met with "senior Indian government officials to discuss regional priorities and review progress across the breadth of the strategic partnership, including measures to strengthen our bilateral economic engagement, and deepen our security and defense cooperation," the US State Department has said ahead of the visit.

Burns, on a five-nation Asia tour, comes here after visiting Japan, South Korea, China and Myanmar.