Diplomats attending an Asian-European meeting in Japan say there were no immediate results from an unprecedented meeting today-Friday between the European Union and Burma.
Foreign ministers from the EU and Burma met on the sidelines of the Asia-Europe talks in Kyoto.
The Europeans say they told Burmese Foreign Minister Nyan Win that Burma must free opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi and improve its human-rights record before the EU will consider lifting its tough sanctions against Burma.
Benita Ferrero-Waldner, the EU's external relations commissioner, said the fact that the two sides had a frank discussion was an accomplishment in itself.
Outside the forum, at least 50 Burmese demonstrated, calling for further pressure on Burma to allow democratic reforms and free its political detainees.
Information for this report is provided by AP and AFP.