Reconsider Bruma's admission:
groups urge Asean

BANGKOK: A network of Asean-based supporters of human rights and democracy today urged Asean to reconsider its decision to proceed with admitting Burma as a full member at its July Summit.

The Alternative Asean Network on Burma (ALTSEAN-BURMA) said that Asean, in the interests of logic, consistency and dialogue, should also delay Burma's admittance until peace was restored to the country. Yesterday, Asean Foreign Ministers decided to delay Cambodia's entry and to admit Laos and Burma at the Summit later this month.

ALTSEAN-BURMA Coordinator Debbie Stothard said: "We applaud Asean's call for dialogue in Burma which was made earlier this month, however Asean needs to back it up with a clear signal to ensure that Burma's military junta will take it seriously.

"A delay in Burma's membership will give Burma's Slorc regime some time to seriously consider and positively respond to Asean's call for dialogue.

"The Cambodian crisis is an ominous reminder to us all that membership should not be taken lightly and intending members should prove their sincere commitment to peaceful resolution of conflicts.

"In many ways, the situation in Burma parallels Cambodia. War continues to rage in parts of the country. A total of more than 200,000 refugees are gathered on its borders with Thailand, Bangladesh and India. Forced relocations and forced labour is rampant. The overwhelming rate of drug production and HIV/AIDS infection under the irresponsible administration of the Slorc continues to pose a threat to this region.

"If Asean is willing to recognise the elected representatives of Cambodia, logically, it should do the same for Burma.

"What Burma's democracy movement and ethnic nationalities ask for is tripartite dialogue. This extremely reasonable request is enthusiastically supported by Asean-based activists and the international community.

"Asean should not squander the opportunity to facilitate this essential process." emphasised Ms Stothard.