Over the past two weeks, hundreds of people have taken part in some of the largest demonstrations held in Burma in a decade.
The protests were sparked by the military regime’s decision to raise fuel prices by 500 per cent. In response, the regime has launched a severe crackdown on protestors. Over 150 people have been arrested, including almost all the leading pro-democracy activists, and demonstrators have been savagely attacked by police and pro-junta mobs.
Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Press Statement
07 September 2007
Undersecretary Vernetti voices his regret over the failure of the National Convention in Burma
The Undersecretary for Foreign Affairs, Gianni Vernetti, has voiced his regret over what is, essentially, the failure of the National Convention in Burma, the aim of which was to open a true process of national reconciliation and democratisation in the country.
Undersecretary Vernetti also expressed his concern over the arrests of Burmese citizens during the peaceful demonstrations that began throughout the country on 15 August. He commented that the continuing detention of the winner of the Nobel Peace Prize, Aung San Suu Kyi, and other opposition leaders and political prisoners was a further cause for concern.
It is to be hoped that the Government of Burma will engage in an inclusive process of dialogue, national reconciliation and democratisation. Italy continues its constant monitoring of the situation, in close coordination with its European Union partners. Our country is ready to support any international or multilateral initiative that might play a part in promoting a climate of dialogue in Burma.
