Posted by Kyaw Myaing on 2/27/2002, 9:38 pm Here is an excerpt from the Report of the US State Department on conditions in Burma. ""Measuring Progress toward Democratization During the review period (March 2001 to September 2001), Burmas military regime continued the policy of discussion with the NLDs General Secretary, Aung San Suu Kyi, which it had adopted in October 2000 on the advice of UN Special Representative Razali Ismail. This process has contributed to some mutual understanding. While none of the substance of the current talks has been revealed by either side, a series of confidence building gestures has resulted in the release of approximately 180 political prisoners, including all of the NLDs Central Executive Committee members with the exception of Aung San Suu Kyi, who remains under house arrest. The regime has also halted its virulent attacks on Aung San Suu Kyi and the NL, which had become a staple of newspaper coverage in Burma. In addition, the military government has allowed the NLD to reopen 21 party offices in Rangoon Division and to resume some normal party activities. These included a public meeting held on September 27, 2001 to commemorate the founding of the NLD, which was attended by Ambassadors and Chiefs of Mission from the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, France, Norway and other countries. The NLD, for its part, has moderated its public criticism of the regime. The regime has also gradually increased access to Aung San Suu Kyi. Since March, visitors have included select members of the NLDs central executive committee, UN Special Rapporteur for Human Rights Paulo Pinheiro, the ILO delegation, UN Special Envoy Razali Ismail, representatives of the European Union and U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Ralph Boyce. Aung San Suu Kyi is also now in regular, weekly contact with fellow NLD members, including NLD Chairman, U Aung Shwe, and NLD Vice Chairman, U Tin Oo. In her meetings, Aung San Suu Kyi has emphasized that she is hopeful regarding the current talks, but has not revealed any of the substance of the discussions. She has also indicated that she will not emerge from confinement unless she is allowed to fully and freely resume all her duties as the NLDs General Secretary. The United States welcomes this confidence building process but urges the regime to move from confidence building to genuine political dialogue with Aung San Suu Kyi aimed at returning the country to democracy and civilian rule. Critical next steps include release of the over 1,000 political prisoners still in jail, Aung San Suu Kyis full release from house arrest, full and free operation of NLD party headquarters "" This report was released on 11 February 2002 by the State Department. Regards and metta, Kyaw Myaing
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