*EPF410 02/13/2003
Text: Burma Activist Loved By People While Defamed By Government
(Aung San Suu Kyi wins major award) (210)

Following is the text of Richard Boucher's Feb. 13 statement:

(begin text)

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Office of the Spokesman
February 13, 2003

STATEMENT BY RICHARD BOUCHER, SPOKESMAN

Burma - Support for Aung San Suu Kyi

Aung San Suu Kyi was recognized once again last week, receiving a major award for her "heroic efforts to bring freedom to Burma." At the same time, in Burma, local members of a government-affiliated organization have been handing out pamphlets defaming her, her family, and her struggle. In addition, the ruling military regime, the State Peace and Development Council, has arrested democratic activists, denying them the peaceful expression of their political views.

While the world community looks forward to reconciliation and democracy for the people of Burma, the regime there seems to be looking backward. The United States once again calls on the military regime to release all political prisoners immediately and unconditionally and to engage in a real dialogue regarding constitutional issues. We continue to support the efforts of United Nations Special Envoy Razali Ismail to foster change. It is time for the people of Burma to be given hope for the future.

(end text)

(Distributed by the Office of International Information Programs, U.S. Department of State. Web site: http://usinfo.state.gov)

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