UN envoy Ibrahim Gambari says he is encouraged by India's commitment to support the United Nations' efforts to learn more about Burma's recent crackdown on pro-democracy protesters.
Gambari made the comment Tuesday after meeting with Indian leaders in New Delhi.
During his two-day visit, Indian leaders told Gambari they support the cause of democracy and the efforts of the UN, but also noted their opposition to coercive measures and condemnation.
India has cultivated close commercial and military ties with Burma in recent years to meet India's huge energy needs, and help it battle separatist rebels along its borders in the northeastern part of the country.
On Monday, Burmese officials agreed to allow the U.N. special investigator for human rights, Paul Sergio Pinheiro, into Burma. Pinheiro reports to the UN Human Rights Council.
Burma's Foreign Ministry has suggested (in a letter sent to the UN Secretary-General on Friday) that the visit will take place before Southeast Asian leaders meet November 17th.
Gambari will leave India today for Beijing, the next leg of his six-nation tour of Asian nations to address the ongoing crisis in Burma. He has been to Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia on this trip, and will also visit Japan.
The UN envoy will make his second visit to Burma next month.
Information for this story is provided by AP, AFP, and Reuters.
