Myanmar's former dictator sees erstwhile foe Aung San Suu Kyi as the country's "future leader" and has pledged to support her even though she is currently barred by the constitution from becoming president, his grandson said on Saturday.
Than Shwe, who headed a military junta until he stepped down in 2011 and who many believe remains powerful behind the scenes, made the remarks during secret talks with the democracy icon on Friday, his grandson, Nay Shwe Thway Aung, said.
"It is the truth that she will become the future leader of the country," Than Shwe was quoted as saying by his grandson at the meeting with Suu Kyi, the first between the two.