Burma's military government is disputing an allegation from pro-democratic opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi that Rangoon is not interested in political reconciliation.
Ms. Aung San Suu Kyi made the allegation to reporters earlier this week. But Friday, a government spokesman told reporters her allegation is senseless and does nothing to promote the reconciliation process.
Just a few months ago, the opposition leader said she was optimistic about political change in Burma. This week she said that if the military government is truly interested in the welfare of the country, it should start cooperating with her National League for Democracy party.
The United Nations brokered historic talks between the government and the opposition in late 2000, but negotiations have failed to move past the confidence-building stage.
Information for this report is provided by AP, AFP and Reuters.