A coalition of groups campaigning for democracy in Burma has called on the European Union to maintain its opposition to Rangoon's participation in an October summit of Asian and European leaders.
The International Campaign for Democracy in Burma urged EU ministers to take what it called a "collective decision" later this week and agree to keep Burma out of the talks.
The European Union opposes Burma's presence at the Asia-Europe meeting because of its poor human rights record and its refusal to release pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi from house arrest.
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations says Burma should be allowed to participate as a new member of the bloc.
Information for this report is provided by AFP.