Burma's government has rejected U.S. allegations that it has failed demonstrably to meet its obligations to fight drug trafficking.
A statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs says the U.S. statement is appalling and patently untrue. It says Burma has made concerted and sustained efforts that have dramatically reduced opium production.
Earlier this week, in the White House's annual assessment of major drug trafficking and producing nations, President Bush said Burmese officials have done little to combat the narcotics trade.
But the Burmese government says it is actively engaged in cooperation with China, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand and Vietnam in combating drug production and distribution.
It also says the annual joint Burmese and U.S. opium yield survey confirms a downward trend in poppy cultivation and opium production.