Minister Bot's remarks on ASEM and Myanma

Minister Bot's remarks on ASEM and Myanmar

October 7 (Press Releases) - During a press conference in Hanoi, Minister Bot, acting as president of the European Union, explained the EU's position on the ASEM-summit and Myanmar. The Minister congratulated Vietnam on the way the country organised the meeting.

According to Minister Bot, the summit underlines the ties the EU and Asia cherish: economic and political. More and more the countries of Europe and Asia should be able to find each other on global issues and challenges. And stability in the Asian countries of course adds to stability in the world.

It is of major importance this ASEM summit takes place, Bot said. Within the EU, some member states have been hesitant about taking part. Main objective for the EU-presidency was to find common ground in order to go ahead with the summit, and at the same time address the issue of the political and human rights situation in Myanmar.

Asia and Europe should build on their relationship, not withstanding the lack of change in Myanmar, Bot said. Europe and Asia have been pushing for changes in that country, the diplomatic endeavours of Asian countries are highly appreciated.

At a foreign ministers meeting, September 3rd, the EU stated that Myanmar should meet three conditions, in order to avoid EU-sanctions imposed:
- Aung San Suu Kyi should be released from house arrest.
- The National League for Democracy (NLD) must be accepted as a political party and take part in the National Convention.
- During the National Convention, an open and genuine debate should be allowed.

Today, October 7th, these conditions have not been met, said Minister Bot.

As a result the EU will, at a meeting on October 11th, impose stricter sanctions on the regime in Myanmar.

This means:

1. An expansion of the visa ban.
2. Prohibiting EU registered companies from financing state-owned Myanmar enterprises.
3. EU member states shall vote against extending loans by international organizations to Myanmar.
4. The European Commission will produce specific proposals to address illegal logging, decreasing export of teak from Myanmar.
5. On the other hand, the EU will expand assistance to the people of Myanmar, namely in the areas of health and education, as defined in consultation with groups like the National League for Democracy, and as managed through the UN system or non governmental organizations.

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