United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon says he is encouraged by last week's meeting between Burma's President Thein Sein and opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi.

In a statement released Monday, Mr. Ban noted that both sides voiced satisfaction with discussions aimed at “finding common ground on issues that would benefit the country.” He also expressed hope that the meeting would be followed by further steps on the path to national reconciliation.

Aung San Suu Kyi had her first meeting with the new Burmese president Friday in Naypyidaw. She said she was encouraged by the talks, but did not give details.