Brown pledges Burma support
Monday, 15 Oct 2007 15:18
Gordon Brown said support would be given if Burma returns democracy
Gordon Brown has pledged Britain's support for Burma if the south-east
Asian country makes steps to return democracy.
The prime minister said he would push for tough sanctions against the ruling junta in a meeting with EU ministers today.
This morning Mr Brown met with Burmese activists and representatives from advocacy group Avaaz.
Commenting on the need for democracy, he said: "I want to be clear if this process of change begins we stand ready - as the international community - to support the recovery of Burma with aid and other support."
The prime minister announced in a statement that he has written to key political and financial leaders to propose an economic initiative for Burma backed by groups including the UN and EU.
This proposal is conditional, he said, "on progress with reconciliation and democracy".
In the meantime "the UK will press for tough sanctions including on individuals and commodities like timber, gems and metals".
Mr Brown's statement follows violent suppression of peaceful protests against Burma's military last month.
Reports have emerged from the country that ten people died in the crackdown and thousands of monks have been detained.
Last week the UN security council issued a formal statement supporting democracy in Burma.