Burma's foreign minister says his country is curbing crime, reducing poverty and embarking on a seven-step political plan to transition to a democratic government.
Speaking before the United Nations General Assembly Wednesday, Nyan Win said Burma's "much yearned for democratic union is now within sight."
Burma's military-ruled regime has long been criticized for human rights abuses, stifling political controls and the continuing detention of Nobel Peace Laureate Aung San Suu Kyi.
Foreign Minister Win blamed rebels for creating a law and order problem that has impeded political and economic reforms, but said the government has embarked on a new plan for stability and prosperity.
He asked the international community to refrain from what he called "unwarranted pressures" that could delay the country's progress.
Information for this report is provided by AP.