We have a strong interest in a stable Myanmar: PM

Ahead of his meeting with his Myanmarese counterpart, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Tuesday hoped the ongoing dialogue between the military junta and pro-democracy leaders will have a "satisfactory outcome".

"Myanmar is our neighbour. What goes on there has an important bearing on our own country. As you know that a number of insurgent groups take advantage of the instability in Myanmar to indulge in unlawful activities in our north-east," the prime minister told reporters on board his special aircraft.

"Therefore, we have a strong interest in a stable, prosperous, peaceful Myanmar," he said.

"We had supported the role of the United Nations in bringing about a national reconciliation between government of Myanmar and (pro-democracy leader) Aung San Suu Kyi and I sincerely hope that dialogue, which is progressing, will reach a satisfactory outcome," said Dr Singh, who will be meeting his Myanmarese counterpart Thein Sein.

The meeting will take place on the sidelines of the Association of South-Eeat Asian Nations Summit amid intense pressure on the south-east Asian grouping to take action against Myanmar.

The Indian side is expected to press for early democratisation of the military-ruled country.

India, while seeking early steps towards democracy, has been opposing any coercive action against Myanmar, citing its multi-faceted interests in the neighbouring country.

New Delhi has noted that as a "close and friendly neighbour" it wanted any initiatives to be "mindful of the need" to ensure that the country is "peaceful and stable".