Today marks the beginning of a new chapter in the relationship between the United States and Myanmar. Since I announced a new U.S. opening toMyanmar in November, President Thein Sein, Aung San Suu Kyi and the people of Myanmar have made significant progress along the path to democracy. The United States has pledged to respond to positive developments in Myanmar and to clearly demonstrate America's commitment to the future of an extraordinary country, a courageous people, and universal values. That is what we are doing.
Obama |
Today, I am nominating our first
U.S. Ambassador to Myanmar in 22 years, Derek Mitchell, whose work has
been instrumental in bringing about this new phase in our bilateral
relationship. We also are announcing that the United States will ease
its bans on the exportation of financial services and new investment in Myanmar. Opening up greater economic engagement between our two
countries is critical to supporting reformers in government and civil
society, facilitating broad-based economic development, and bringing Myanmar out of isolation and into the international community.
Of course, there is far more to be
done. The United States remains concerned about Myanmar’s closed
political system, its treatment of minorities and detention of
political prisoners, and its relationship with North Korea. We will
work to establish a framework for responsible investment from the
United States that encourages transparency and oversight, and helps
ensure that those who abuse human rights, engage in corruption,
interfere with the peace process, or obstruct the reform process do not
benefit from increased engagement with the United States. We will
also continue to press for those who commit serious violations of human
rights to be held accountable. We are also maintaining our current
authorities to help ensure further reform and to retain the ability to
reinstate selected sanctions if there is backsliding.
Barack Obama and His Family |
Americans for decades have stood with the Myanmar people in their
struggle to realize the full promise of their extraordinary country. In
recent months, we have been inspired by the economic and political
reforms that have taken place, Secretary Clinton’s historic trip to
Naypyidaw and Yangon, the parliamentary elections, and the sight of
Aung San Suu Kyi being sworn into office after years of struggle. As an
iron fist has unclenched in Myanmar, we have extended our hand, and are
entering a new phase in our engagement on behalf of a more democratic
and prosperous future for the Myanmar people.
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