US officials are calling on the Burmese regime to exercise restraint in the face of pro-democracy protests and to open a dialogue aimed at establishing a democratic government.
Today's (Monday's) statement by US Deputy Spokesman Tom Casey urges the Burmese regime to engage in a "genuine dialogue" on democratic transition with pro-democracy leaders and ethnic minority groups.
Leaders from the United Nations and the European Union also called for restraint by Burma's government and urged the release of pro-democracy political detainees and prisoners in Burma, including pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi.
And (in a statement today) the Tibetan spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, offered his support for Buddhist monks leading a peaceful movement for democracy in Burma, saying he fully supports the Burmese call for freedom and democracy.
The Dalai Lama appealed to practicing Buddhists among Burma's military rulers to act in accordance with the sacred non-violent and compassionate teachings of their faith.
The Buddhist clergyman also offered prayers for the early release from house arrest of Burma's pro-democracy leader, and fellow Nobel peace laureate, Aung San Suu Kyi.
And in Ireland, Foreign Minister Dermot Ahern today praised Burmese people's appeal for "genuine democracy".
Information for this story is provided by US Department of State, afp, ap, reuters, ireland.com
