Burma Criticizes US For Putting It On Financial Blacklist - 2003-11-21

Burma has denounced the United States for putting it on a financial blacklist of countries that are not doing enough to combat money laundering.

On Wednesday, the U.S. Treasury Department designated Burma and two of its commercial banks of engaging in money laundering.

In a statement issued today, the ruling military accused wealthy nations of hampering, in its words, "countries of peaceful evolution like Burma by their constantly negative attitude, irresponsible actions and unrealistic expectations."

Under the U.S. Patriot Act, adopted to fight terrorism, U.S. treasury officials can force American banks to halt many of their financial dealings with designated money launderers.

Information for this report is provided by AP and AFP.