Official sources said Dhaka might also ask for assurance from the Myanmar authorities that they would not encroach upon Bangladesh's maritime boundary and exclusive economic zone in exploring hydrocarbons in the Bay of Bengal if the matter comes up at the talks.

Foreign Secretary Hemayetuddin will lead the Bangladesh side at the consultation while his Myanmar counterpart U Kyaw Thu, who is deputy for.eign minister, will lead his country's team. Hemayet leaves here for Yangon tomorrow.

Talking to diplomatic correspondent yesterday, the foreign secretary said, "Our consultations are basically aimed at improving bilateral relations with our neighbour Myanmar and strengthening economic cooperation."

Bangladesh side would focus on strengthening the border trade ensuring all facilities, including banking, to discourage informal trade, he added.

According to official estimates, bilateral official trade between the two countries stood at only of $36.61 million in fiscal 2004-05 with the balance heavily tilting towards Myanmar. Bangladesh imported goods worth $ 32.43 million against its export of $ 4.18 million during the period.

Dhaka will also request Yangon to take effective steps for quick and smooth repatriation of the remaining 21,172 Rohingya refugees camped in Cox's Bazar since the early 90s.

Hemayet said Dhaka will also emphasise construction of the proposed Bangladesh-Myanmar road and seek to know Yangon's latest position in this regard.

Earlier, this issue was discussed at communications secretary level. The proposed road is seen as vital for establishing greater links with Thailand and China. Besides, easing Myanmar's visa regime for Bangladeshi businessmen and other travelers would be discussed.

The foreign secretary will hold a meeting with businessmen in Yangon tomorrow and call on the foreign minister of Myanmar.

On regional issues, he said since Myanmar is also a member of BIMSTEC and ARF (ASEAN Regional Forum), issues concerning them would also be discussed. Myanmar supported Bangladesh in getting observer status at the ARF.

Hemayet will return home on May 21.