Fassino: increasing possibilities for a dialogue on Myanmar

“A window of opportunity with regards to the Myanmar dossier seems to be opening up as a result of the recent encouraging events. The new inclusive approach inaugurated by US President Obama; the subsequent Myanmar authorities’ availability to dialogue and further bilateral meetings; the forward looking stance taken by Aung San Suu Kyi in her letters addressed to Senior General Than Shwe; the ASEAN Chair’s and Member States’ active engagement in the Myanmar dossier: all these events represent opportunities not to be missed.”

So has declared the European Union Special Envoy for Burma/Myanmar, Mr. Piero Fassino, upon completion of his recent mission to Thailand, Philippines and Vietnam.

“Especially in view of 2010 elections –underlined the EUSE Fassino- every step towards a free, transparent and credible electoral process needs to be encouraged.
The EU, which considers the Myanmar dossier as a priority, will continue to seek co-operation with the United States, ASEAN members and every country interested in supporting an all inclusive dialogue leading to a democratic transition in Myanmar.”

The EU Envoy met in Bangkok with Thai Foreign Minister Khasit; in Manila he met with Foreign Minister Romulo; in Vietnam he met with Deputy Foreign Minister Dao Viet Trung and paid a courtesy call on the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs Pham Gia Khiem.
In each capital the EUSE also met with local Member of Parliaments, representatives of international organizations, diplomatic missions and NGOs.