A 23-member parliamentary delegation from Myanmar led by U Khin Aung Myint, Speaker of Amyotha Hluttaw (Upper House) called on President Pranab Mukherjee at the Rashtrapati Bhavan here today.
Welcoming the delegation, Mukherjee said: "Relations between India and Myanmar are rooted in our history; generations of our people have travelled, lived and worked together. Both countries have shared close cultural, religious, business and trade relations. It is in mutual interest to strengthen these ties."
"Both the Parliaments have a big role in steering and supporting cooperation for the mutual benefit of the people. India stands ready to support Myanmar's efforts in whichever way it can," he added.
The President said over the past year there have been a series of high level exchanges with Myanmar.
"Such exchanges between the representatives of people help increase understanding and enhance friendship," he said.
The Leader of the Myanmar parliamentary delegation recalled the close ties between the early generation leaders of India and Myanmar. He said when General Aung San was assassinated, Prime Minister Nehru described it as a loss for the whole of Asia.
"Myanmar which was reviving multiparty democracy has much to learn from India. India has shown 'brotherly sprit' by assisting and providing training in parliamentary matters," he said.
He also pointed out that despite a large land and maritime border between the two countries, there has never been any problem between the two countries any where on these borders.
He expressed the confidence that the visit of this delegation to India will further advance relations between the two countries.
