Press Statement
Sean McCormack, Spokesman
Washington, DC
June 16, 2005
Burma - 60th Birthday of Aung San Suu Kyi
On Sunday, June 19, Aung San Suu Kyi will spend her 60th birthday under house arrest, isolated from her family, friends and the Burmese people. Aung San Suu Kyi continues to be a beacon of hope and inspiration for those who yearn for freedom in Burma and throughout the world. Despite the Burmese junta's misguided efforts to silence her, Aung San Suu Kyi's message of freedom and democracy has only become stronger as she continues to stand up to Burma's oppressors.
On the eve of Aung San Suu Kyi's birthday, the United States urges the international community to work together to end the repression of this brutal regime. The appropriate way to honor Aung San Suu Kyi is by championing the cause of all political prisoners, and by supporting the brave democrats of Burma, who struggle daily in the cause of freedom.
Countries in the Community of Democracies should stand united in sustained support for a free Burma. Along with the international community, the United States calls upon Burma's military rulers to release Aung San Suu Kyi, U Tin Oo, Hkun Htun Oo and all other political prisoners immediately and unconditionally, and to include Burma's democratic opposition and ethnic minorities in a meaningful dialogue that leads to genuine national reconciliation and the establishment of democracy.
This is a critical time for Burma. While the winds of reform and democracy are blowing throughout the world, respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms in Burma continue to deteriorate. Burma is the only country where a Nobel Laureate is under house arrest for simply acting as a democratic leader. The United States.looks forward to the day when Aung San Suu Kyi can celebrate her birthday in a democratic and free Burma.
2005/626
Released on June 16, 2005
