10 countries to attend Myanmar's 'road map' forum in Bangkok

Asian Political News, Dec 15, 2003

BANGKOK, Dec. 9 Kyodo

Ten countries from Asia and Europe have agreed to attend a forum here next week on Myanmar's ''road map to democracy,'' Thai Foreign Minister Surakiart Sathirathai said Tuesday.

The one-day meeting is aimed at giving Myanmar the opportunity to explain to the international community its plans on national reconciliation and transition to a democracy, he said.

''This is the first time that Myanmar agreed to come and speak about its issues in another country. It is an important step, but it's impossible to expect any concrete progress in the first meeting,'' Surakiart told reporters.

Indonesia, Italy as well as U.N. special envoy to Myanmar Razali Isamail are among those expected to attend the forum, while the United States has not been invited, according to Surakiart.

Myanmar Prime Minster Gen. Khin Nyunt announced in August a seven-stage ''road map to democracy'' that includes the resumption of a national convention aimed at producing a democratic constitution. But he gave no specific dates for the process.

The road map has received little support from the outside, although neighboring Thailand has been pressing at international meetings for some recognition of the plan to eventually make Myanmar democratic.

The junta called a general election more than a decade ago, but then refused to vacate office when the National League for Democracy led by Aung San Suu Kyi won in a landslide over junta-supported candidates.