Burma -- The National Convention

We regret the failure of the Burmese military junta, the State Peace and Development Council, to take actions that would have made it possible for all elements of Burmese society, including all democratic representatives and all ethnic groups, to participate in the ongoing constitutional convention. A convention that does not include all of these groups cannot make any real progress towards democracy or national reconciliation, nor can it help Burma repair its international reputation. An assembly, such as the convention now under way, that lacks participation by delegates of the democratic opposition is not truly representative of the peoples of Burma and lacks legitimacy.

We repeat our call for the immediate and unconditional release of Aung San Suu Kyi and U Tin Oo and all other political prisoners.

We have heard a growing chorus of voices from the international community calling for credibility in the process of national reconciliation in Burma. We note that a number of countries, including countries in the region, have expressed their support for democratic reform in Burma. United Nations Secretary General Kofi Annan has also expressed his concern and called for the release of National League for Democracy leaders, Aung San Suu Kyi and U Tin Oo, and the lifting of restrictions on the party's activities.

We urge the authorities in Burma to react positively to the concerns of the international community before yet another opportunity to bring peace, security, and prosperity to Burma is lost.

2004/576