Kerry Presses Myanmar on Democratic Reform

[DagonKhan]

 

Kerry Presses Myanmar on Democratic Reform

U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry warned the leaders of Myanmar on Saturday that improved relations with the United States will require a significant speed-up in its democratic transition and a halt to what Washington sees as backsliding on commitments to improve human rights.

 

After hailing Myanmar's decision to end decades of direct military rule that resulted in the easing of some U.S. sanctions and a 2012 visit by President Barack Obama, Washington has become alarmed at worsening conditions in Myanmar, including anti-Muslim discrimination, violence and infringements on press freedom.

 

Continues here:- http://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/kerry-presses-myanmar-democratic-reform-24912562

[spidermike007]

Very funny post. From what I have been told, all the easing of sanctions was about, was the US bowing to pressure from the Chinese. They wanted to be able to get lower cost supplies and equipment to their massive mining, and other concessions. So, the govt. made up the whole reform thing, and the US went along with it. Very small concessions on the part of the govt. Than Shwe and the generals are still calling the shots, and still earning billions on their heroin and other franchises.


Spidermike
Sent from my iPad using Thaivisa Connect

[DagonKhan]

Very funny post. From what I have been told, all the easing of sanctions was about, was the US bowing to pressure from the Chinese. They wanted to be able to get lower cost supplies and equipment to their massive mining, and other concessions. So, the govt. made up the whole reform thing, and the US went along with it. Very small concessions on the part of the govt. Than Shwe and the generals are still calling the shots, and still earning billions on their heroin and other franchises.


Spidermike
Sent from my iPad using Thaivisa Connect

 

You might like this story then:-

 

 

 

Secretary of State beds down with blacklisted businessman

US Secretary of State John Kerry touted the significance of what remains of his country's sanctions regime against Myanmar on Sunday, describing it as a sign that Washington is keen to avoid rushing its engagement with Nay Pyi Taw.

 

But the strength of his message, which talked up the importance of targeted sanctions, was tempered by the fact he spoke at a hotel owned by a blacklisted business tycoon where Mr Kerry and other members of his delegation had been staying since arriving in the capital yesterday.

 

 

Continues here:- http://www.mmtimes.com/index.php/national-news/11311-secretary-of-state-beds-down-with-blacklisted-businessman.html

 

You couldn't make it up...
 

[spidermike007]

Yes, great stuff. If only there were some sincerity behind at least some of the US Foreign policy. Certainly none, where Burma is concerned.

US Assistant Secretary of State for Democracy, Human Rights and Labor Tom Malinowski, met with individuals who are on the SDN list in June. He said that many appeared "very eager" to take steps to have themselves and their companies removed from the list.

Mr Malinowski, who did not reveal which SDN-listed individuals he met during his trip, said the legal process for getting removed from the list includes demonstrating responsible business practices and showing that an individual or entity has cut ties with the military.

We are very eager to get removed. Please do not stand in the way of us earning millions, on the backs of the Burmese peasants. Pretty please.


Spidermike
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