UN Security Council discusses Burmese affairs

DVB ( July 17,2003 )

While we are on air, according to a report which has just come in, the UN Security Council has discussed the Burmese political condition today. Although it was not a decision making discussion, the discussion itself is a victory for the opposition, said Dr. Thaung Tun, the UN representative of the NCGUB. Moreover, it is quite extraordinary that China hasn’t protested as many people expected. Dr. Thaung Tun told DVB about the discussion as follows:

Dr Thaung Tun : We learnt that the discussion on Burma was led by the US. The discussion based on what was said at the meeting of the countries who have been interested in Burma. Based on the findings of Mr. Razali Ismail, what the US government said were the political condition in Burma is deteriorating with an alarming rate. It voiced its concerns over Daw Aung San Suu Kyi’s safety. They also said that it necessary that Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and NLD members are released as soon as possible. They also explained what the US has done in terms of punitive measures in response to the situation in Burma. The UK and France also expressed their concerns and they also discussed the punitive measures taken by the US. China didn’t give its reactions, we learnt. I think it is very extraordinary that China didn’t give its reactions.

DVB : …What kinds of effects would the discussion in the Security Council have in the future of Burma?

Dr Thaung Tun : It is a very extraordinary thing. The acceptance of the Security Council members for the general discussion as the first step means that the UN is preparing to take more steps in the political affairs of Burma…If the political situation in Burma is not improving but deteriorating, punitive measures are likely to be intensified.