Prospects for Reconciliation with Opponents in Burma - 2002-11-20

The military government of Burma claims that progress has been made in reviving reconciliation talks with democratic opponents in the country. In a statement issued on Wednesday, the military leadership in Rangoon expressed gratitude for the efforts of Razali Ismail, the UN special envoy to Burma, for his attempts to revive dialogue between the two sides and thanked him for his patience and perseverance. Mr. Razali, who concluded his five-day talks in Burma last week, expressed disappointment and discouragement regarding his visit. Washington has also stated that it is dissatisfied with the results of Mr. Razali's visit. Mr. Razali, who is from Indonesia, stated in a press conference in his country that he will continue his efforts to establish dialogue between military leaders and opponents in Burma. He also mentioned that he expects the military government of Burma to release 200 political prisoners by the end of the current year. In 2000, Mr. Razali arranged a dialogue between Aung San Suu Kyi, the opposition leader, and the Burmese army. However, since then, no substantial negotiations have taken place between the parties.