President Bush has renewed sanctions against the Burmese government, saying the country is a threat to U.S. national security.
The White House issued a statement Friday, saying Mr. Bush granted a one-year extension to limits first imposed against Burma in 1997. The measures prevent U.S. direct investment in the country, which has been under military rule since 1988.
Friday's statement also accused the Burmese government of committing large-scale repression of political opponents.
The Associated Press reports the Burmese government has responded to the move with surprise, calling it "too complicated to understand."
Information for this report is provided by AP.