The commander in chief of Burma's army has gone to China for a six-day visit with leaders of Burma's biggest ally.
A delegation of more than 30 officials is accompanying Deputy General Maung Aye, who is second in command of Burma's military government. The group includes top members of the ruling State Peace and Development Council, among them fourth-ranking leader, Lieutenant General Thiha Thura Shwe Mann, and Foreign Minister Win Aung.
The visit comes as international pressure mounts on Beijing to persuade the military state toward democratic reforms. China is Burma's main international sponsor and trading partner. It has been unwilling to apply pressure on Burma to release opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi, who has been detained since May 30th.
Information for this report is provided by AFP and AP.