Speed up reforms, Kerry urges
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US Secretary of State John Kerry has backed the leaders of Myanmar but said that improved relations will depend on further reforms and a greater democratic transition. US Congressmen have been concerned at worsening religious strife in Myanmar, as well as
Officials said these issues were raised in meetings on Saturday with President Thein Sein and other Myanmar leaders. He also urged that push ahead to amend the constitution and ensure that elections next year are free and fair. Kerry said the US wanted to work with Myanmar to help it overcome difficulties in the transition. “As Myanmar tackles the challenges ahead, I want the people of Myanmar to know that they have the support and friendship of the United States,” Kerry said. In the meeting with Thein Sein, Kerry discussed bilateral issues, assistance that the US could provide, and raised a question on the condition of local journalists imprisoned recently, spokesperson Ye Htut said. “We also discussed the Rakhine issue, peace talks, and the situation on improving human rights in Myanmar, which are the challenges we are facing in making reforms,” he said.
