Monday, September 12, 2011

US optimistic on political change in Burma, says NLD

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Monday, 12 September 2011 23:45 Mizzima News

Chiang Mai (Mizzima) – US government special envoy to Burma and policy coordinator Derek J. Mitchell told leaders of the National League for Democracy (NLD) party on Monday that there was progress in Burmese politics.

“Mr. Derek Mitchell said that he saw prospects of progress in gradual change in Burma, and he believed he would see better results soon,” NLD spokesman Ohn Kyaing said.

US Burma envoy Derek Mitchell, third from right, and Aung San Suu Kyi at a Rangoon press conference after their private meeting at her residence. Photo: Mizzima

Mitchell met Aung San Suu Kyi at her University Avenue residence for about 40 minutes and the latter briefed reporters for about 15 minutes after the meeting. Suu Kyi said there are some signs of change and progress and she exchanged views with Mitchell, Ohn Kyaing said.

Ohn Kyaing said there was no discussion of U.S. economic sanctions during the meeting.

“Aung San Suu Kyi said to reporters that the US was likely to continue its assistance on social and education even after democratic change in Burma in replying to reporters' questions,” Ohn Kyaing said.

After meeting with Suu Kyi, the envoy met NLD Vice Chairman Tin Oo, NLD central executive committee member Win Tin and members of the Committee Representing People’s Parliament (CRPP), which is comprised of 1990 general election contenders.

In the meeting, Tin Oo briefed Mitchell on NLD party activities, Ohn Kyaing said. CRPP Secretary Aye Thar Aung briefed the envoy on cease-fire group leaders and the need for a federal union. Zomi National Congress (ZNC) chairman Pu Cing Tsing Thang reportedly discussed the release of political prisoners in order to promote national reconciliation.

Mitchell also visited the Free Funeral Services Society and the Thukha free clinic led by former film star Kyaw Thu and the HIV/AIDS shelter in South Dagon Township directed by Phyu Phyu Thin on Sunday.

He met Foreign Minister Wunna Maung Lwin and Upper House Speaker Khin Aung Myint at Naypyitaw on Friday.

Mitchell’s visit will end on Wednesday when he will meet reporters at Mingaladon Airport at 7:30 a.m.

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