(AFP) The attacks on the US and their economic impact, along with political developments in Rangoon, will top the agenda when Burma's leader visits here this week, an official said today.

Senior General Than Shwe is due to begin a three-day trip tomorrow at the invitation of Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad.

Six senior ministers and the chief of military intelligence, Lieutenant-General Khin Nyunt, will accompany Burma's most powerful leader, a senior government official told AFP.

Than Shwe would arrive early tomorrow and hold talks with Mahathir ahead of a meeting of delegations. Two memorandums of understanding (MoUs) - on tourism and information exchange - would be signed.

The official said Than Shwe was expected to brief Mahathir on the political situation in Burma.

Landmark talks

Democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi has been under house arrest for a year, but has embarked on landmark talks with the military.

The political atmosphere in Rangoon has thawed since the talks began, leading to the release of nearly 200 opposition figures including senior members of her National League for Democracy (NLD).

The official said UN envoy Razali Ismail was expected to make more frequent visits to Burma to "build up the momentum" to pave the way for democratic reforms.

During a four-day visit to Rangoon in August, the envoy met twice with Aung San Suu Kyi to discuss the progress of the talks.

The official said Mahathir and Than Shwe may discuss how best to cooperate to deflect the negative economic impact of the terrorist attacks on the US.

General's itinerary

Mahathir, who is eyeing the energy market in Burma, would propose "some ideas" and technology to solve the country's chronic electricity shortages, the official said.

The first day of Than Shwe's visit will conclude with a dinner hosted by Mahathir. On Wednesday, he is due to tour the Multimedia Development Corporation and the world's tallest buildings - the Petronas Twin Towers.

On Thursday the general is scheduled to visit the island resort of Langkawi before leaving for home later in the day.