New Delhi, June 1 -- President Droupadi Murmu on Monday received Myanmar President U Min Aung Hlaing at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, as part of the latter's visit to India and described Myanmar as India's "gateway to Southeast Asia", underlining the strategic importance of ties between the two neighbouring countries.

According to an official release issued by the President's Secretariat, Murmu welcomed President Hlaing and said India and Myanmar share deep cultural, civilisational and spiritual ties that date back centuries.

She noted that the bilateral relationship is built on a strong foundation of mutual understanding and friendship.

Calling Myanmar an important partner in India's "Neighbourhood First", "Act East" and "MAHASAGAR" policie...