One of the most senior members of the military council which rules Burma has arrived in Thailand for a visit which could significantly improve the often-troubled relationship between the two countries.

General Khin Nyunt, the influential head of intelligence, is expected to discuss ways of reducing the flow of narcotics into Thailand from Burma and of improving economic ties.

He will also meet King Bumiphol Adulyadej, an honour usually given only to heads of state.

He was welcomed with a full guard of honour, and provided with levels of security rarely seen in the Thai capital to prevent the general's entourage from being disrupted by protests.

Clearly, both countries are determined to put their relationship back on track after some angry exchanges of words and gunfire earlier this year.

Key talks

Khin Nyunt is being treated like a head of state, even though officially he is only the third-ranking general in the ruling council - recognition that he could be the key figure in bringing Burma out of its current international isolation.