Myanmar Reforms Spurred by Hague’s Visit

In an organised first hand visit to foster reforms in Myanmar,the British Foreign Secretary William Hague is aiding the citizens of Myanmar for some sanctions to be relaxed in the country but he was told to set out condition for the lifting of sanctions.

Tagged a landmark visit as it was the first time a British Foreign Minister would visit Myanmar since the military took over power in 1962.

Britain who was the colonial power for Myanmar is being seen as a major backer of the diplomatic initiatives of Myanmar since the reforms were initiated last year by an army-backed civillian government.

Britain has maintained a tough stand on human rights issues in the former Burma, but expressed guarded optimism after the release on Oct. 12 of 230 political prisoners, with freedom for remaining hundreds a key demand by the West for the lifting of sanctions.

Hague arrived in Naypyitaw, the capital built in secret six years ago, where he met with Myanmar foreign minister Wunna Maung Lwin, and will also hold talks with president and former junta general Thein Sein on Thursday.

He will travel to the main city, Yangon, and is due to hold talks on Friday with Oxford-educated pro-democracy leader and Nobel peace laureate Aung San Suu Kyi.
His trip follows one late last year by U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, who promised concrete support from Washington if Myanmar released more political prisoners and made more concessions, including dialogue with ethnic separatists.