Aung San Suu Kyi arrested
- Thread starter Desert_Sky
- Start date
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oktobergirl
Refugee
finally the petition is out there!
Altho I think the release will come when the leading countries truly boycott all Burmese exports.
NOW!
Altho I think the release will come when the leading countries truly boycott all Burmese exports.
NOW!
FizzingWhizzbees
ONE love, blood, life
I saw an item on the news today about Kofi Annan expressing concern for her safety.
Also, Japan has decided to freeze all aid to Burma today. The BBC has more at http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/asia-pacific/3019732.stm
Also, Japan has decided to freeze all aid to Burma today. The BBC has more at http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/asia-pacific/3019732.stm
sue4u2
Rock n' Roll Doggie VIP PASS
Received a newsletter today. I hope these actions will help to move things forward to her release. I have a problem with the last statement concerning Bush waiving the ban at his choosing. Just not sure what it means. I also posted this on U2 News. It's the first newsletter I've received since the attack on Suu Kyi and her group on May 30th.
FROM THE FREE BURMA COALITION:
US to freeze assets of Myanmar leaders
WASHINGTON (AFP) - Washington is preparing new sanctions against Myanmar that would freeze personal assets of members of its ruling military junta and ban remittances from its nationals working in the United States, a senior administration official said.
The proposed measures, announced Wednesday by US Assistant Secretary of State James Kelly, are part of efforts by the administration of President George W. Bush to step up pressure on Myanmar's ruling junta and bring about the release of jailed pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi.
"We are preparing an executive order for the president to freeze the assets of (junta) members, and ban remittances to Burma from the United States," Kelly told members of the House Subcommittee on East Asia and the Pacific. "We are supportive of legislation that would place restrictions on travel-related transactions."
He did not elaborate, and White House and State Department officials were unable to say when the order will be signed.
Members of Myanmar's military regime insist Suu Kyi, who won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1991, was put under temporary "protective custody" at an undisclosed location after May 30 clashes, which broke out when she and her supporters toured northern regions. According to British officials, she is being held at the Insein prison complex on the outskirts of Yangon, the capital. But Kelly said the junta's claim that the pro-democracy caravan had provoked the incident was "nonsense."
He insisted Suu Kyi had fallen victim of "a premeditated attack" that was launched on her by "government-affiliated thugs" and left many injured and some dead. Kelly said the US government was appalled by reports that Suu Kyi was being detained without access to visitors. "We again call for her immediate release and that of the leadership of her party, the National League for Democracy," he stated. "We call for the formulation of a concrete plan to restore democracy in Burma." The upcoming measures seek to build on sanctions already in effect, or are expected to be enacted against Myanmar soon, according to administration officials. The State Department has already slapped new restrictions on visas issued to officials from the Southeast Asian nation, and Congress is about to follow suit.
Earlier this month, the US Senate passed a bill that bans import of goods manufactured both in Myanmar and by offshore companies owned by the junta.
It also calls from freezing Myanmar government assets in the United States, requires Washington to oppose loans for Myanmar in international financial institutions, coordinate its visa ban with the European Union,
and offer greater support for local democracy activists.
In a letter to Secretary of State Colin Powell last week, Republican Senator Mitch McConnell, a sponsor of the bill, urged Powell to further downgrade diplomatic relations with Myanmar by sending its ambassador back to Yangon and not allowing him back until Suu Kyi and all other political prisoners were free.
McConnell also said the administration must persuade Asian countries to join the United States in this campaign.
"Bidding for despots is never a safe bet, and I would encourage those countries -- including Japan, India, Malaysia, China, and Thailand -- to rethink the dangers inherent to cooperating with an illegitimate regime," he said.
The message was echoed by Assistant US Trade Representative Ralph Ives, who called on members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations "to act decisively to address the problems in (Myanmar) that affect the region."
A companion bill targeting Myanmar has been introduced in the House of Representatives.
Kelly said the administration would support efforts to restrict imports from Myanmar as long as the president was given the authority to waive the ban at the time of his choosing. ???
In any case, I pray it help and soon.
FROM THE FREE BURMA COALITION:
US to freeze assets of Myanmar leaders
WASHINGTON (AFP) - Washington is preparing new sanctions against Myanmar that would freeze personal assets of members of its ruling military junta and ban remittances from its nationals working in the United States, a senior administration official said.
The proposed measures, announced Wednesday by US Assistant Secretary of State James Kelly, are part of efforts by the administration of President George W. Bush to step up pressure on Myanmar's ruling junta and bring about the release of jailed pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi.
"We are preparing an executive order for the president to freeze the assets of (junta) members, and ban remittances to Burma from the United States," Kelly told members of the House Subcommittee on East Asia and the Pacific. "We are supportive of legislation that would place restrictions on travel-related transactions."
He did not elaborate, and White House and State Department officials were unable to say when the order will be signed.
Members of Myanmar's military regime insist Suu Kyi, who won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1991, was put under temporary "protective custody" at an undisclosed location after May 30 clashes, which broke out when she and her supporters toured northern regions. According to British officials, she is being held at the Insein prison complex on the outskirts of Yangon, the capital. But Kelly said the junta's claim that the pro-democracy caravan had provoked the incident was "nonsense."
He insisted Suu Kyi had fallen victim of "a premeditated attack" that was launched on her by "government-affiliated thugs" and left many injured and some dead. Kelly said the US government was appalled by reports that Suu Kyi was being detained without access to visitors. "We again call for her immediate release and that of the leadership of her party, the National League for Democracy," he stated. "We call for the formulation of a concrete plan to restore democracy in Burma." The upcoming measures seek to build on sanctions already in effect, or are expected to be enacted against Myanmar soon, according to administration officials. The State Department has already slapped new restrictions on visas issued to officials from the Southeast Asian nation, and Congress is about to follow suit.
Earlier this month, the US Senate passed a bill that bans import of goods manufactured both in Myanmar and by offshore companies owned by the junta.
It also calls from freezing Myanmar government assets in the United States, requires Washington to oppose loans for Myanmar in international financial institutions, coordinate its visa ban with the European Union,
and offer greater support for local democracy activists.
In a letter to Secretary of State Colin Powell last week, Republican Senator Mitch McConnell, a sponsor of the bill, urged Powell to further downgrade diplomatic relations with Myanmar by sending its ambassador back to Yangon and not allowing him back until Suu Kyi and all other political prisoners were free.
McConnell also said the administration must persuade Asian countries to join the United States in this campaign.
"Bidding for despots is never a safe bet, and I would encourage those countries -- including Japan, India, Malaysia, China, and Thailand -- to rethink the dangers inherent to cooperating with an illegitimate regime," he said.
The message was echoed by Assistant US Trade Representative Ralph Ives, who called on members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations "to act decisively to address the problems in (Myanmar) that affect the region."
A companion bill targeting Myanmar has been introduced in the House of Representatives.
Kelly said the administration would support efforts to restrict imports from Myanmar as long as the president was given the authority to waive the ban at the time of his choosing. ???
In any case, I pray it help and soon.
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sue4u2
Rock n' Roll Doggie VIP PASS
Red Cross: Myanmar Holding Prisoners
The Associated Press
Thursday, July 3, 2003; 10:53 AM
YANGON, Myanmar - The military regime in Myanmar has at least 30 prisoners from a clash that triggered a crackdown on the opposition and to the jailing of Nobel Peace Prize winner Aung San Suu Kyi, the Red Cross said Thursday.
A team from the International Committee of the Red Cross visited prisons in the north of the country and registered 30 inmates, checked their health and proposed they write letters to their families, said Michel Ducraux, a representative of the organization in Myanmar.
Such letters, which prison authorities would be allowed to read, would serve to assure their relatives they were in good health, Ducraux said.
Myanmar's military leaders have not disclosed the number of opposition prisoners held since the May 30 clash and has refused international appeals to release Suu Kyi.
The details of the clash are in dispute. Myanmar's military junta claims opposition followers and government supporters fought when Suu Kyi's motorcade drove through a crowd.
But the opposition and other witnesses say it was a government ambush.
Red Cross officials were not permitted to visit Suu Kyi, who received the Nobel prize in 1991 for her nonviolent promotion of democracy in the country also known as Burma.
The Red Cross was able to see Tin Oo, vice chairman of Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy party, who was in good health, Ducraux said.
He said the Red Cross would keep trying to see Suu Kyi, but stressed that the organization "considers everybody as important as anyone else."
? 2003 The Associated Press
The Associated Press
Thursday, July 3, 2003; 10:53 AM
YANGON, Myanmar - The military regime in Myanmar has at least 30 prisoners from a clash that triggered a crackdown on the opposition and to the jailing of Nobel Peace Prize winner Aung San Suu Kyi, the Red Cross said Thursday.
A team from the International Committee of the Red Cross visited prisons in the north of the country and registered 30 inmates, checked their health and proposed they write letters to their families, said Michel Ducraux, a representative of the organization in Myanmar.
Such letters, which prison authorities would be allowed to read, would serve to assure their relatives they were in good health, Ducraux said.
Myanmar's military leaders have not disclosed the number of opposition prisoners held since the May 30 clash and has refused international appeals to release Suu Kyi.
The details of the clash are in dispute. Myanmar's military junta claims opposition followers and government supporters fought when Suu Kyi's motorcade drove through a crowd.
But the opposition and other witnesses say it was a government ambush.
Red Cross officials were not permitted to visit Suu Kyi, who received the Nobel prize in 1991 for her nonviolent promotion of democracy in the country also known as Burma.
The Red Cross was able to see Tin Oo, vice chairman of Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy party, who was in good health, Ducraux said.
He said the Red Cross would keep trying to see Suu Kyi, but stressed that the organization "considers everybody as important as anyone else."
? 2003 The Associated Press
sue4u2
Rock n' Roll Doggie VIP PASS
July 04, 2003
Amnesty: Act Now, end the crackdown in Myanmar
Amnesty International is gravely concerned by recent serious human rights violations in Myanmar. More than 100 members and supporters of the National League for Democracy, including party head Daw Aung San Suu Kyi are missing and/or injured after a violent incident on 30 May 2003. Please consider signing the petition at Amnesty.org to end the crackdown in Myanmar.
http://web.amnesty.org/pages/mmr-040603-petition-eng
Amnesty: Act Now, end the crackdown in Myanmar
Amnesty International is gravely concerned by recent serious human rights violations in Myanmar. More than 100 members and supporters of the National League for Democracy, including party head Daw Aung San Suu Kyi are missing and/or injured after a violent incident on 30 May 2003. Please consider signing the petition at Amnesty.org to end the crackdown in Myanmar.
http://web.amnesty.org/pages/mmr-040603-petition-eng
mellyinsf
The Fly
finally some good news for suu kyi
Myanmar Says Suu Kyi Detention Is Not 'Indefinite'
Mon July 28, 2003 12:05 AM ET
JAKARTA (Reuters) - Myanmar's foreign minister said on Monday that pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi would not be detained indefinitely and indicated that the military junta was working on her release.
Asked during a visit to Indonesia if comments he made on Sunday that there was no time frame for Suu Kyi's release meant she would be held indefinitely, minister Win Aung said:
"I did not say indefinite, time frame means you are asking me about whether it is tomorrow, the day after or next week, like that. We are working on it."
Win Aung was speaking after talks with his counterpart Hassan Wirajuda and before meeting President Megawati Sukarnoputri.
Officials have said the minister would convey Myanmar's views on Suu Kyi during talks with the leaders of Indonesia, currently chairing the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN).
Myanmar is facing mounting international pressure over the Nobel Peace Prize laureate, detained since a deadly May 30 clash between her supporters and a pro-government group.
Myanmar Says Suu Kyi Detention Is Not 'Indefinite'
Mon July 28, 2003 12:05 AM ET
JAKARTA (Reuters) - Myanmar's foreign minister said on Monday that pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi would not be detained indefinitely and indicated that the military junta was working on her release.
Asked during a visit to Indonesia if comments he made on Sunday that there was no time frame for Suu Kyi's release meant she would be held indefinitely, minister Win Aung said:
"I did not say indefinite, time frame means you are asking me about whether it is tomorrow, the day after or next week, like that. We are working on it."
Win Aung was speaking after talks with his counterpart Hassan Wirajuda and before meeting President Megawati Sukarnoputri.
Officials have said the minister would convey Myanmar's views on Suu Kyi during talks with the leaders of Indonesia, currently chairing the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN).
Myanmar is facing mounting international pressure over the Nobel Peace Prize laureate, detained since a deadly May 30 clash between her supporters and a pro-government group.
mellyinsf
The Fly
THE PRESURE IS ON
Below is an article only written one hour ago. I hope people will not forget about Burma. Hopeful news is coming out day by day.
US puts pressure on Burma over Suu Kyi
The United States has imposed tough new sanctions on Burma's crippled economy to put more pressure on the military government to release opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi.
President George W Bush says in a statement that the international community must make it clear that the people of Burma deserve to live in dignity and freedom under leaders of their own choosing.
Mr Bush says the move is a clear signal to Burma's generals that they must release Aung San Suu Kyi, who was arrested in May.
The sanctions include a ban on all imports from Burma and are aimed especially at the crucial textiles trade in an economy teetering on the brink of collapse.
Below is an article only written one hour ago. I hope people will not forget about Burma. Hopeful news is coming out day by day.
US puts pressure on Burma over Suu Kyi
The United States has imposed tough new sanctions on Burma's crippled economy to put more pressure on the military government to release opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi.
President George W Bush says in a statement that the international community must make it clear that the people of Burma deserve to live in dignity and freedom under leaders of their own choosing.
Mr Bush says the move is a clear signal to Burma's generals that they must release Aung San Suu Kyi, who was arrested in May.
The sanctions include a ban on all imports from Burma and are aimed especially at the crucial textiles trade in an economy teetering on the brink of collapse.
sue4u2
Rock n' Roll Doggie VIP PASS
So glad to see this. Now that Thailand and Indonesia have come around, maybe things will move faster. They were saying last month that it's an internal issue and wouldn't get involved.
Reuters
Tuesday, July 29, 2003; 10:13 AM
More good news:
Red Cross Meets Suu Kyi; Myanmar Slams Sanctions
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A61363-2003Jul29.html
Another article I just finished reading:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A64688-2003Jul29.html
Reuters
Tuesday, July 29, 2003; 10:13 AM
More good news:
Red Cross Meets Suu Kyi; Myanmar Slams Sanctions
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A61363-2003Jul29.html
Another article I just finished reading:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A64688-2003Jul29.html
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sue4u2
Rock n' Roll Doggie VIP PASS
Just when I think things are progressing, these thugs show just how stupid they can be. This is so (insert word here) 
Myanmar Wants 'Cool Down' Before Suu Kyi Release
Reuters
Friday, August 1, 2003; 8:44 AM
By Nopporn Wong-Anan
BANGKOK (Reuters) - Myanmar's military rulers are isolating democracy icon Aung San Suu Kyi to prevent political anarchy which could destroy the country, and will free her when the situation cools, Foreign Minister Win Aung said on Friday.
"We don't have any intention to prolong that arrangement. We are waiting for the cool down," he told reporters without giving any kind of timetable for her release.
"The only concern for us is not to let the country fall down into total collapse," Win Aung said on the sidelines of a regional foreign ministers' meeting in Bangkok.
"When the political situation is uprising and anarchy, we are preventing that," he added, speaking English.
Myanmar's military, which has ruled since a 1962 coup, has so far ignored Western sanctions and an unprecedented public rebuke from its Southeast Asian neighbors for holding Suu Kyi, 58.
She has been kept in a secret location -- for her own protection, the government says -- since a May 30 clash between her supporters and pro-government youths while she was touring central Myanmar.
"We don't have any kind of intention of animosity against Daw Aung San Suu Kyi. That is why we have not taken any legal action against her and her party," Win Aung said.
Some Yangon-based diplomats and Myanmar exile groups say the military orchestrated the violence in which they say dozens of opposition supporters were killed.
The government denies this and says four people died. It blames Suu Kyi for fueling chaos in the country.
Human rights group Amnesty International said on Wednesday that rights abuses in the former British colony had risen sharply since Suu Kyi's arrest.
THAI MEDIATION OFFER
Thailand, fearing an influx of economic migrants from its western neighbor, has proposed that key Western and Asian countries meet the Myanmar junta to hammer out a "road map" for democratic transition in the country.
Win Aung and his Thai counterpart, Surakiart Sathirathai, discussed the Thai plan during a 90-minute bilateral meeting. "I am now taking these suggestions and discussions with me back home because they are things that cannot be discussed in an hour," Win Aung later told reporters.
Win Aung had been lukewarm on the Thai plan during his visit to Indonesia this week, saying "home-grown solutions" were best.
Surakiart said he would invite the United Nations special envoy to Myanmar, Razali Ismail, to Bangkok in two weeks to discuss a timetable for the international forum, which could include the United States, Britain, China, member states of the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) and Japan.
"This forum will give everyone an opportunity to work together and not just read their prepared statements," Surakiart said.
Myanmar Wants 'Cool Down' Before Suu Kyi Release
Reuters
Friday, August 1, 2003; 8:44 AM
By Nopporn Wong-Anan
BANGKOK (Reuters) - Myanmar's military rulers are isolating democracy icon Aung San Suu Kyi to prevent political anarchy which could destroy the country, and will free her when the situation cools, Foreign Minister Win Aung said on Friday.
"We don't have any intention to prolong that arrangement. We are waiting for the cool down," he told reporters without giving any kind of timetable for her release.
"The only concern for us is not to let the country fall down into total collapse," Win Aung said on the sidelines of a regional foreign ministers' meeting in Bangkok.
"When the political situation is uprising and anarchy, we are preventing that," he added, speaking English.
Myanmar's military, which has ruled since a 1962 coup, has so far ignored Western sanctions and an unprecedented public rebuke from its Southeast Asian neighbors for holding Suu Kyi, 58.
She has been kept in a secret location -- for her own protection, the government says -- since a May 30 clash between her supporters and pro-government youths while she was touring central Myanmar.
"We don't have any kind of intention of animosity against Daw Aung San Suu Kyi. That is why we have not taken any legal action against her and her party," Win Aung said.
Some Yangon-based diplomats and Myanmar exile groups say the military orchestrated the violence in which they say dozens of opposition supporters were killed.
The government denies this and says four people died. It blames Suu Kyi for fueling chaos in the country.
Human rights group Amnesty International said on Wednesday that rights abuses in the former British colony had risen sharply since Suu Kyi's arrest.
THAI MEDIATION OFFER
Thailand, fearing an influx of economic migrants from its western neighbor, has proposed that key Western and Asian countries meet the Myanmar junta to hammer out a "road map" for democratic transition in the country.
Win Aung and his Thai counterpart, Surakiart Sathirathai, discussed the Thai plan during a 90-minute bilateral meeting. "I am now taking these suggestions and discussions with me back home because they are things that cannot be discussed in an hour," Win Aung later told reporters.
Win Aung had been lukewarm on the Thai plan during his visit to Indonesia this week, saying "home-grown solutions" were best.
Surakiart said he would invite the United Nations special envoy to Myanmar, Razali Ismail, to Bangkok in two weeks to discuss a timetable for the international forum, which could include the United States, Britain, China, member states of the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) and Japan.
"This forum will give everyone an opportunity to work together and not just read their prepared statements," Surakiart said.
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foray
Rock n' Roll Doggie
This alarms and saddens me. How could anyone do this to such a gentle spirit.
foray
foray
sue4u2
Rock n' Roll Doggie VIP PASS
I'm so impressed with John McCains efforts to keep this in the forefront with all else that is going on. This is the latest newsletter from the Free Burma Coalition:
August 6, 2003 Wednesday
US Senators turn up heat on Thailand over Myanmar links
STEPHEN COLLINSON
Agence France Presse
Political heavyweights in the US Senate are turning up the heat on Thailand, accusing it of deserting and suppressing democrats from military-rule Myanmar, and warning they expect more from a long-time US ally.
Rising opposition in Congress to Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's stance towards Thailand's neighbor, viewed in Washington as a pariah state, has prompted some Senators to threaten US financial aid to Thailand next year.
And criticism is expected to mount as President George W. Bush prepares to travel to Bangkok for the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum in October, congressional sources said.
Arizona Senator John McCain is leading the charge, after firing off a letter to Thaksin, dated August 1. "As a friend of Thailand, I write to express my deep concern over recent actions by Thai authorities along your border with Burma," McCain wrote in the letter, obtained by AFP.
He cited "credible, first-hand reports" that the Thai government had taken steps to curtail activities of Myanmar democracy activists in border areas.
The reports also suggested the Thais were hampering assistance to refugees from Myanmar, and intimidating members of ethnic groups opposed to the military regime in Yangon, McCain wrote.
He also alleged that Thailand had taken steps to silence Myanmar
democracy activists on its territory, and imposed pressure on ethnic Karen, Karenni, and Shan groups to sign peace agreements with the Yangon junta.
McCain said several humanitarian organisations had reported that Thai authorities had tried to restrict food and medicine supplies to ethnic refugees fleeing oppression within Myanmar.
"Thailand has been an ally of the United States for decades," McCain wrote. "We are fellow democracies, and our cooperation in many areas remains strong.
"But the actions of Thai authorities against Burmese refugees, political exiles and ethnic groups raises serious questions about your government's commitment to the values that serve as the underpinning of any democracy."
Myanmar exile groups claim that Thailand has in recent weeks closed offices of dissident groups, arrested activists and prepared a plan to repatriate Myanmar refugees into the hands of the Myanmar military.
The criticism comes two months after Thaksin visited Bush at the White House -- for talks both men used to express concern over Yangon's treatment of democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi, arrested on May 30.
But McCain's Republican colleague Mitch McConnell warned last month in a Senate floor speech that Thailand appeared to be wavering in support of the Nobel laureate.
"The Thai Prime Minister should have departed the United States with a firm understanding that protection of freedom in Burma was a top priority for both Congress and the administration," he said.
"Unfortunately, I don't think he got the message," said McConnell, who has tried to pile pressure on both Myanmar, and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen in recent months.
In the same debate, McCain, who has maintained an interest in Southeast Asia since serving in the Vietnam War, warned "we expect more in particular from our ally Thailand."
Their comments were endorsed by fellow Republican Sam Brownback, another key voice on Asia issues.
Thailand has in recent weeks pushed its "roadmap" for democracy in Myanmar, a fellow member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.
The plan contains steps intended to secure the release of Aung San Suu Kyi and movement towards political reform.
But Thaksin's opponents here have blasted the roadmap as a ruse to ease fierce international pressure on the junta over the issue.
So far, however, the US government, which recently stiffened sanctions against Myanmar, has been accepting of the initiative, though hardly vocal in support.
"We welcome all efforts by the Thai government to secure the prompt release of Aung San Suu Kyi and support democractic change in Burma," a State Department official said on condition of anonymity Tuesday.
That's not enough for Thailand's critics in Congress, who have inserted a threat to Thailand's assistance from the United States in 2004 draft spending bills.
The stipulation, if passed into law, would require the US Secretary of State to certify that Thailand supports democracy in Myanmar, is "taking action to sanction" the regime in Yangon, is not hampering the delivery of humanitarian assistance to people in Thailand who have fled Myanmar, nor is it forcibly repatriating refugees.
US assistance to Thailand requested in fiscal year 2003 spending bills, though low-level, still numbered 10.75 million dollars, mainly contained in anti-drugs aid, military training programs and development aid.
August 6, 2003 Wednesday
US Senators turn up heat on Thailand over Myanmar links
STEPHEN COLLINSON
Agence France Presse
Political heavyweights in the US Senate are turning up the heat on Thailand, accusing it of deserting and suppressing democrats from military-rule Myanmar, and warning they expect more from a long-time US ally.
Rising opposition in Congress to Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's stance towards Thailand's neighbor, viewed in Washington as a pariah state, has prompted some Senators to threaten US financial aid to Thailand next year.
And criticism is expected to mount as President George W. Bush prepares to travel to Bangkok for the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum in October, congressional sources said.
Arizona Senator John McCain is leading the charge, after firing off a letter to Thaksin, dated August 1. "As a friend of Thailand, I write to express my deep concern over recent actions by Thai authorities along your border with Burma," McCain wrote in the letter, obtained by AFP.
He cited "credible, first-hand reports" that the Thai government had taken steps to curtail activities of Myanmar democracy activists in border areas.
The reports also suggested the Thais were hampering assistance to refugees from Myanmar, and intimidating members of ethnic groups opposed to the military regime in Yangon, McCain wrote.
He also alleged that Thailand had taken steps to silence Myanmar
democracy activists on its territory, and imposed pressure on ethnic Karen, Karenni, and Shan groups to sign peace agreements with the Yangon junta.
McCain said several humanitarian organisations had reported that Thai authorities had tried to restrict food and medicine supplies to ethnic refugees fleeing oppression within Myanmar.
"Thailand has been an ally of the United States for decades," McCain wrote. "We are fellow democracies, and our cooperation in many areas remains strong.
"But the actions of Thai authorities against Burmese refugees, political exiles and ethnic groups raises serious questions about your government's commitment to the values that serve as the underpinning of any democracy."
Myanmar exile groups claim that Thailand has in recent weeks closed offices of dissident groups, arrested activists and prepared a plan to repatriate Myanmar refugees into the hands of the Myanmar military.
The criticism comes two months after Thaksin visited Bush at the White House -- for talks both men used to express concern over Yangon's treatment of democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi, arrested on May 30.
But McCain's Republican colleague Mitch McConnell warned last month in a Senate floor speech that Thailand appeared to be wavering in support of the Nobel laureate.
"The Thai Prime Minister should have departed the United States with a firm understanding that protection of freedom in Burma was a top priority for both Congress and the administration," he said.
"Unfortunately, I don't think he got the message," said McConnell, who has tried to pile pressure on both Myanmar, and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen in recent months.
In the same debate, McCain, who has maintained an interest in Southeast Asia since serving in the Vietnam War, warned "we expect more in particular from our ally Thailand."
Their comments were endorsed by fellow Republican Sam Brownback, another key voice on Asia issues.
Thailand has in recent weeks pushed its "roadmap" for democracy in Myanmar, a fellow member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.
The plan contains steps intended to secure the release of Aung San Suu Kyi and movement towards political reform.
But Thaksin's opponents here have blasted the roadmap as a ruse to ease fierce international pressure on the junta over the issue.
So far, however, the US government, which recently stiffened sanctions against Myanmar, has been accepting of the initiative, though hardly vocal in support.
"We welcome all efforts by the Thai government to secure the prompt release of Aung San Suu Kyi and support democractic change in Burma," a State Department official said on condition of anonymity Tuesday.
That's not enough for Thailand's critics in Congress, who have inserted a threat to Thailand's assistance from the United States in 2004 draft spending bills.
The stipulation, if passed into law, would require the US Secretary of State to certify that Thailand supports democracy in Myanmar, is "taking action to sanction" the regime in Yangon, is not hampering the delivery of humanitarian assistance to people in Thailand who have fled Myanmar, nor is it forcibly repatriating refugees.
US assistance to Thailand requested in fiscal year 2003 spending bills, though low-level, still numbered 10.75 million dollars, mainly contained in anti-drugs aid, military training programs and development aid.
mellyinsf
The Fly
This is a very interesting development. With all the mess going on in the world and US involvement seemingly everywhere, I am glad to see Mccain so outspoken.
sue4u2
Rock n' Roll Doggie VIP PASS
I received this newsletter today, from the Free Burma Coalition, asking for everyone's help. I went to the site and sent the message, I hope you will feel so compelled.
To: Burmacampaign@topica.com
Sent: Friday, August 22, 2003 3:29 AM
Subject: EU BURMA SANCTIONS - URGENT ACTION
Dear Friend,
STOP GERMANY BLOCKING EU SANCTIONS!
Aung San Suu Kyi and the National League for Democracy are calling for economic sanctions against Burma. Foreign investment and trade has pumped billions of dollars into the brutal dictatorship, helping them to cling on to power.
Following the massacre of up to 100 democracy activists and arrest of Aung San Suu Kyi in May the US responded to the call for sanctions and now has a ban on all investment and trade with Burma.
BUT THE EUROPEAN UNION HAS DONE NOTHING
Members of the EU have decided to have a common foreign policy on Burma. This means they all have to agree on action taken on Burma together. Each month EU foreign ministers meet to discuss foreign policy issues.
You are not allowed to know the content of the discussions, or even the agenda, unless they decide to make it public.
The Burma Campaign UK has learnt that at these meetings Germany and a small number of other countries are blocking economic sanctions against Burma, and because they say no to sanctions the whole of Europe is paralysed.
TAKE ACTION NOW AND ASK YOUR FRIENDS TO DO THE SAME!
Germany is the most significant opponent of economic sanctions against Burma. If Germany changes its position there is a strong possibility other countries will follow.
We need as many people as possible to send the message below to Frau Claudia Roth who is Germany's Commissioner for Human Rights. Cut and paste the message into the text box provided at this URL:
http://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/www/de/aussenpolitik/menschenrechte/beauftragte/kontakt_html
Then just fill in your first and second names in the boxes 'Name' and 'Vorname'. Also add your e-mail address. Press 'Abschicken' and your message will be sent to Claudia Roth.
Message to be cut and pasted:
Dear Frau Roth,
Aung San Suu Kyi and the National League for Democracy have called for economic sanctions against Burma's regime. However the European Union common position on Burma comprises only soft measures. These are being
ignored by the regime. The only meaningful policy option now open to the EU is tough targeted economic sanctions. But we need consensus between EU partners on this issue. The most significant of EU partners to oppose economic sanctions is Germany. Germany is a powerful and influential force within Europe. I therefore ask the German government to join urgently with those European governments who want to impose economic
sanctions on Burma.
Please do all you can to give Aung San Suu Kyi and the people of Burma the support they desperately need at this crucial time.
Many thanks
To: Burmacampaign@topica.com
Sent: Friday, August 22, 2003 3:29 AM
Subject: EU BURMA SANCTIONS - URGENT ACTION
Dear Friend,
STOP GERMANY BLOCKING EU SANCTIONS!
Aung San Suu Kyi and the National League for Democracy are calling for economic sanctions against Burma. Foreign investment and trade has pumped billions of dollars into the brutal dictatorship, helping them to cling on to power.
Following the massacre of up to 100 democracy activists and arrest of Aung San Suu Kyi in May the US responded to the call for sanctions and now has a ban on all investment and trade with Burma.
BUT THE EUROPEAN UNION HAS DONE NOTHING
Members of the EU have decided to have a common foreign policy on Burma. This means they all have to agree on action taken on Burma together. Each month EU foreign ministers meet to discuss foreign policy issues.
You are not allowed to know the content of the discussions, or even the agenda, unless they decide to make it public.
The Burma Campaign UK has learnt that at these meetings Germany and a small number of other countries are blocking economic sanctions against Burma, and because they say no to sanctions the whole of Europe is paralysed.
TAKE ACTION NOW AND ASK YOUR FRIENDS TO DO THE SAME!
Germany is the most significant opponent of economic sanctions against Burma. If Germany changes its position there is a strong possibility other countries will follow.
We need as many people as possible to send the message below to Frau Claudia Roth who is Germany's Commissioner for Human Rights. Cut and paste the message into the text box provided at this URL:
http://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/www/de/aussenpolitik/menschenrechte/beauftragte/kontakt_html
Then just fill in your first and second names in the boxes 'Name' and 'Vorname'. Also add your e-mail address. Press 'Abschicken' and your message will be sent to Claudia Roth.
Message to be cut and pasted:
Dear Frau Roth,
Aung San Suu Kyi and the National League for Democracy have called for economic sanctions against Burma's regime. However the European Union common position on Burma comprises only soft measures. These are being
ignored by the regime. The only meaningful policy option now open to the EU is tough targeted economic sanctions. But we need consensus between EU partners on this issue. The most significant of EU partners to oppose economic sanctions is Germany. Germany is a powerful and influential force within Europe. I therefore ask the German government to join urgently with those European governments who want to impose economic
sanctions on Burma.
Please do all you can to give Aung San Suu Kyi and the people of Burma the support they desperately need at this crucial time.
Many thanks
sue4u2
Rock n' Roll Doggie VIP PASS
Just saw the article in U2News of the involvement of Bono and Chris Martin and others... Hallelujah.
*got to get back to work*
*got to get back to work*
u2sangel
War Child
Here is the link to send an email to the UN to help free her! http://www.burmacampaign.org.uk/actions/un.htm email them!
Sherry Darling
New Yorker
10-4, u2angel! 
SD
SD
Popmartijn
Blue Crack Supplier
Hello,
Here's some news from the BBC website (http://news.bbc.co.uk), although the article suggests nothing can be confirmed.
C ya!
Marty (who also saw attention given to Aung San Suu Kyi during VMA commercials)
Here's some news from the BBC website (http://news.bbc.co.uk), although the article suggests nothing can be confirmed.
C ya!
Marty (who also saw attention given to Aung San Suu Kyi during VMA commercials)
sue4u2
Rock n' Roll Doggie VIP PASS
This is rather alarming, I hope she is really OK:
Suu Kyi Said to Recover From Surgery
By AYE AYE WIN
The Associated Press
Saturday, September 20, 2003; 9:20 AM
YANGON, Myanmar - Detained pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi was recovering well after undergoing surgery, her physician said Saturday.
The 58-year-old Nobel laureate underwent what was described as a "major" three-hour operation Friday at the private Asia Royal Cardiac and Medical Center in the capital, Yangon. Her physician, Tin Myo Win, declined to specify the nature of the operation. But doctors familiar with the case called it a common gynecological procedure.
"Her recovery is very satisfactory," and her blood pressure and pulse are stable, said Tin Myo Win, who led the operating team.
Suu Kyi, who won the 1991 Nobel Peace Prize for her nonviolent promotion of democracy, has been detained at an undisclosed location by the military government since the end of May, when she and her followers were caught in a violent clash in northern Myanmar with government supporters.
Her detention, accompanied by a crackdown on her National League for Democracy party, has drawn international condemnation and calls for her immediate and unconditional release.
Her hospitalization late Wednesday brought a mix of concern about her condition and relief that her location was finally known. The only outsiders known to have seen her were a special U.N. envoy and representatives of the International Red Cross.
The hospital where she is staying is being guarded by about a dozen undercover police and military intelligence officers. Her doctor said that Suu Kyi is expected to remain hospitalized for seven to 10 days.
He said he did not know whether her two adult sons had been informed of her condition. Her husband, British academic Michael Aris, died several years ago.
The military seized power in 1988 after crushing a pro-democracy uprising in Myanmar, also known as Burma. It held elections in 1990, but refused to recognize the results after Suu Kyi's party won.? 2003 The
Suu Kyi Said to Recover From Surgery
By AYE AYE WIN
The Associated Press
Saturday, September 20, 2003; 9:20 AM
YANGON, Myanmar - Detained pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi was recovering well after undergoing surgery, her physician said Saturday.
The 58-year-old Nobel laureate underwent what was described as a "major" three-hour operation Friday at the private Asia Royal Cardiac and Medical Center in the capital, Yangon. Her physician, Tin Myo Win, declined to specify the nature of the operation. But doctors familiar with the case called it a common gynecological procedure.
"Her recovery is very satisfactory," and her blood pressure and pulse are stable, said Tin Myo Win, who led the operating team.
Suu Kyi, who won the 1991 Nobel Peace Prize for her nonviolent promotion of democracy, has been detained at an undisclosed location by the military government since the end of May, when she and her followers were caught in a violent clash in northern Myanmar with government supporters.
Her detention, accompanied by a crackdown on her National League for Democracy party, has drawn international condemnation and calls for her immediate and unconditional release.
Her hospitalization late Wednesday brought a mix of concern about her condition and relief that her location was finally known. The only outsiders known to have seen her were a special U.N. envoy and representatives of the International Red Cross.
The hospital where she is staying is being guarded by about a dozen undercover police and military intelligence officers. Her doctor said that Suu Kyi is expected to remain hospitalized for seven to 10 days.
He said he did not know whether her two adult sons had been informed of her condition. Her husband, British academic Michael Aris, died several years ago.
The military seized power in 1988 after crushing a pro-democracy uprising in Myanmar, also known as Burma. It held elections in 1990, but refused to recognize the results after Suu Kyi's party won.? 2003 The
verte76
Blue Crack Addict
I saw this too. I hope she's OK.
Klaus
Refugee
from BBC:
sue4u2
Rock n' Roll Doggie VIP PASS
I pray she is getting the proper medical attention she needs. Without knowing what the surgery was for specifically and with the sanctions aganist the Myanmar military and the inability to get any real reports out of Burma, it's impossible to know if she's being treated properly. I hate too think about the conditions of hospitals there. We can only hope.
Last edited:
verte76
Blue Crack Addict
Good grief, I hate to think about hospitals there too. They won't tell us anything. 
sue4u2
Rock n' Roll Doggie VIP PASS
This is a portion of the article I read in the Washington Post today:
They have said only that she would continue to rest at home and the government would ensure she got good medical care, but Suu Kyi's doctor said no one would be allowed to visit her without the generals' permission.
One person almost certain to be allowed to see Suu Kyi is U.N. envoy Razali Ismail, a Malaysian diplomat due to arrive in Yangon Tuesday on his 11th visit in a so far vain effort to revive reconciliation talks between the NLD and the military.
Saturday,
U.S. and European diplomats were turned away from her house, which the military put under tight security, setting up road blocks and checking cars.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A12117-2003Sep28.html
They have said only that she would continue to rest at home and the government would ensure she got good medical care, but Suu Kyi's doctor said no one would be allowed to visit her without the generals' permission.
One person almost certain to be allowed to see Suu Kyi is U.N. envoy Razali Ismail, a Malaysian diplomat due to arrive in Yangon Tuesday on his 11th visit in a so far vain effort to revive reconciliation talks between the NLD and the military.
Saturday,
U.S. and European diplomats were turned away from her house, which the military put under tight security, setting up road blocks and checking cars.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A12117-2003Sep28.html
Seabird
War Child
Not again!
sue4u2
Rock n' Roll Doggie VIP PASS
While reading an article about this year's winner of the Nobel Peace Prize, I once again thought about Suu Kyi, who is not reallyvery far from my thoughts on any given day.
This is a really good read from the Washington Post:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A18107-2003Oct12.html
And I hope this talk will do some good.
Bush to Raise Suu Kyi Issue with Thai Leader
Reuters
Thursday, October 16, 2003; 5:35 AM
BANGKOK (Reuters) - The United States will continue to press Myanmar to release democracy icon Aung San Suu Kyi and will raise the issue with Thailand next week, the Bangkok Post quoted President Bush on Thursday as saying.
It said Bush told a group of Asian editors he was "displeased" with the continued detention of the opposition leader, held in a secret place from May 30 until she was put back under house arrest following surgery last month.
"We will continue to press for freedom in Burma. Aung San Suu Kyi is a great figure. She is an heroic woman. This country honors her and will continue to press for her freedom," Bush was quoted as saying.
"The wishes of the people need to be honored and we will continue to speak out. I will talk to the Thai prime minister about this.
The United States has tightened sanctions on Myanmar since Suu Kyi was detained, but Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, like most other regional leaders, refuses to follow suit, preferring to pursue a policy of persuasion.
Thaksin told reporters on Thursday he would plead harder for Suu Kyi's release, but he would not do anything that might be seen as interfering in Myanmar's internal affairs.
"We all want to see democracy in Myanmar and I will explain to the U.S. president what Myanmar is doing."
Bush begins a week-long trip to Asia in Japan on Friday, then goes on to the Philippines, Thailand -- where he will attend the October 20-21 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) in Bangkok -- Singapore, Indonesia and Australia.
*Is it getting better, or does it remain the same?*
This is a really good read from the Washington Post:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A18107-2003Oct12.html
And I hope this talk will do some good.
Bush to Raise Suu Kyi Issue with Thai Leader
Reuters
Thursday, October 16, 2003; 5:35 AM
BANGKOK (Reuters) - The United States will continue to press Myanmar to release democracy icon Aung San Suu Kyi and will raise the issue with Thailand next week, the Bangkok Post quoted President Bush on Thursday as saying.
It said Bush told a group of Asian editors he was "displeased" with the continued detention of the opposition leader, held in a secret place from May 30 until she was put back under house arrest following surgery last month.
"We will continue to press for freedom in Burma. Aung San Suu Kyi is a great figure. She is an heroic woman. This country honors her and will continue to press for her freedom," Bush was quoted as saying.
"The wishes of the people need to be honored and we will continue to speak out. I will talk to the Thai prime minister about this.
The United States has tightened sanctions on Myanmar since Suu Kyi was detained, but Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, like most other regional leaders, refuses to follow suit, preferring to pursue a policy of persuasion.
Thaksin told reporters on Thursday he would plead harder for Suu Kyi's release, but he would not do anything that might be seen as interfering in Myanmar's internal affairs.
"We all want to see democracy in Myanmar and I will explain to the U.S. president what Myanmar is doing."
Bush begins a week-long trip to Asia in Japan on Friday, then goes on to the Philippines, Thailand -- where he will attend the October 20-21 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) in Bangkok -- Singapore, Indonesia and Australia.
*Is it getting better, or does it remain the same?*
sue4u2
Rock n' Roll Doggie VIP PASS
Keeping fingers crossed!!!
Thai PM Says Expects Myanmar to Free Suu Kyi 'Soon'
Reuters
Sunday, October 19, 2003; 1:50 AM
BANGKOK (Reuters) - Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra told President Bush on Sunday he expects Myanmar's military rulers release opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi soon.
"I think Myanmar will release Aung San Suu Kyi soon," Thaksin said he told Bush in a meeting on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum in Bangkok.
"Since they have allowed her to go back home, they will soon return freedom to her. Right now, they say they are keeping her for her own safety," Thaksin said told reporters.
On Saturday, the United States and Japan pressed Thailand and its neighbors to use every means to promote democratic change in Myanmar and to bring about the release of Suu Kyi, the democracy icon who has been in detention and then house arrest since May 30.
One other article there also:
Bush Presses for Democracy in Myanmar
The Associated Press
Sunday, October 19, 2003; 12:28 PM
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A48912-2003Oct19.html
Thai PM Says Expects Myanmar to Free Suu Kyi 'Soon'
Reuters
Sunday, October 19, 2003; 1:50 AM
BANGKOK (Reuters) - Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra told President Bush on Sunday he expects Myanmar's military rulers release opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi soon.
"I think Myanmar will release Aung San Suu Kyi soon," Thaksin said he told Bush in a meeting on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum in Bangkok.
"Since they have allowed her to go back home, they will soon return freedom to her. Right now, they say they are keeping her for her own safety," Thaksin said told reporters.
On Saturday, the United States and Japan pressed Thailand and its neighbors to use every means to promote democratic change in Myanmar and to bring about the release of Suu Kyi, the democracy icon who has been in detention and then house arrest since May 30.
One other article there also:
Bush Presses for Democracy in Myanmar
The Associated Press
Sunday, October 19, 2003; 12:28 PM
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A48912-2003Oct19.html
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