Indian PM celebrates ties with Myanmar

By Abdul Gani

GUWAHATI, India (AA) – Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised a "centuries old" cultural link with his country's eastern neighbor as he welcomed Myanmar's State Counselor Aung San Suu Kyi on Tuesday.

After a meeting between the two, Modi emphasized the $1.75 billion India provides in assistance to Myanmar as well as plans to support agriculture and power supply projects.

“As you lead Myanmar to become a modern, secure, economically prosperous and better connected nation, India and its friendship will stand with you in full support and solidarity,” Modi told Suu Kyi.

During the meeting, Modi said that the Archaeological Survey of India will soon begin work on restoring two temples and inscriptions of 19th century Kings Mindon and Baygyidaw, which were destroyed in an earthquake earlier this year.