As Burma's top leader, General Than Shwe, prepares for a visit to his close ally China. While Beijing has long been supportive of Burma's military government, its leader may hear some strong words from his hosts this week.
Senior General Than Shwe, the heard of Burmas military government, touches down in Beijing for a four-day visit Tuesday.
China is one of Burma's closest backers, and the general is expected to seek reassurances from President Hu Jintao and Premier Wen Jiabao of continued economic and diplomatic support.
He also may seek their approval for Burma's November elections.
Burma's government portrays the elections as a key step in shifting to civilian rule after nearly five decades of military domination.
But many Western governments and human rights groups describe the elections as a sham and say the military shows little sign of relinquishing control.
VOA News
