Foreign Secretary Ranjan Mathai will hold talks with US Deputy Secretary of State William J Burns in New Delhi today. Mr Burns, who arrives in New Delhi after his visit to four other Asian nations, including China, will hold talks on key bilateral, regional and international issues.

External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Syed Akbaruddin said, issues relating to East Asia Summit, the democratic reforms in Myanmar and Afghanistan are expected to figure in the discussions. Asked if Iran will also figure in talks, he said since Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister recently visited India, it is normal to exchange views on various issues relating to that country.

The two sides are also expected to review their bilateral relations, including the progress in implementing the India-US civil nuclear deal, energy security and cooperation in developmental projects.

US State Department sad, Mr Burns will meet senior Indian government officials to discuss regional priorities and review progress across the breadth of the strategic partnership, including measures to strengthen bilateral economic engagement, and deepen security and defence cooperation.