Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton today stressed that the United States is prepared to support a peaceful institutionalization of democracy in Burma during an interview with Ed Henry of Fox News.
During the interview, Ms. Clinton said the United States is following closely what’s happened in Burma over the last several decades.
“It’s been heart-wrenching and heartbreaking. And then when Aung San Suu Kyi was finally released from house arrest, we began communicating with her, seeking her advice, began talking to others in the country, and particularly in the new government, the new parliament, as well as the executive, and we sensed some changing attitudes and openings that encouraged us but obviously have to be tested.” -Ms. Clinton
She noted that the United States had the first special envoy to Burma that was a position created by the Congress. She said the U.S. had members of the Senate go to Burma.
“I know that both Senator Webb and Senator McCain have gone, others probably as well. And the information coming back was there is an opening. Now, let’s not get carried away.” -Ms. Clinton
She emphasized that there is still a lot to be done and it has to be tested. She said she is to go and meet with Aung San Suu Kyi.
She stressed that the United States likes to see more political prisoners released. She added they would like to see a real political process and real elections. They would like to see an end to the conflicts, particularly the terrible conflicts with ethnic minorities.
