Burma has dismissed U.S. criticism of its political reforms, saying Sunday its seven-step program will lead to a sustainable democracy.
A government statement said the transition to democracy is not a race, and that Burma has the support of other, unspecified nations in trying to achieve its goal.
The statement said that what is happening today in the Middle East is no doubt a good example of wrong decision, bad analysis and a not so wise approach causing a lot of bloodshed, hardship and chaos.
Last week, U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell said Washington would continue to exert pressure on the junta until Aung San Suu Kyi and her National League for Democracy were allowed to participate fully in a reformed political process.
Information for this report is provided by AFP.