"Opening Up Greater Economic Engagement Between Our Two Countries is Critical..."
The following statement was issued today by President Barack Obama:
Today marks the beginning of a new chapter in
the relationship between the United States and Burma. Since I announced a new
U.S. opening to Burma in November, President Thein Sein, Aung San Suu Kyi and
the people of Burma have made significant progress along the path to democracy.
The United States has pledged to respond to positive developments in Burma 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.
Today, I am nominating our first U.S. Ambassador
to Burma 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 Burma. 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 Burma out of isolation and into the international
community.
Of course, there is far more to be done. The
United States remains concerned about Burma’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.
Americans for decades have stood with the
Burmese 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 Rangoon, 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 Burma, 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 Burmese people.
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