Asean calls for release of Suu Kyi

Thailand, as the Chair of Asean on Wednesday, expressed its "deep disappointment" over Burma's ruling on its opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi.

The ten-member grouping which Burma is a member called for immediate release of all political prisoners including 64-year-old Aung San Suu Kyi.

The call came a day after Burma's court sentenced Aung San Suu Kyi another 18 months for breaching condition of her house arrest after an American John Yettaw swam across the Inya Lake to stay two nights at her resident in Rangoon in May.

A statement from Thai Foreign Ministry said the Asean reiterated the calls made by the 42nd Foreign Ministers' Meeting and the 16th Asean Regional Forum held in July 2009 in Phuket, for the immediate release of all political prisoners, including Aung San Suu Kyi, to enable them to participate in the 2010 General Elections.

The Asean said that only the release of political prisoners would contribute to national reconciliation among the people of Burma, meaningful dialogue and facilitate the democratization of Burma. 

"Only free, fair and inclusive general elections will then pave the way for Myanmar (Burma)'s full integration into the international community," the statement said. 

Asean member countries wish to see Burma, a fellow Asean member, be at peace, prosperous and well respected in the international community, it said. 

"We stand ready to cooperate with the Myanmar Government in its efforts to realize the seven steps to democracy and remain constructively engaged with Myanmar (Burma) in order to build the Asean Community together.  We also continue to support the ongoing good offices of the United Nations Secretary-General and urge Myanmar's full cooperation with the United Nations," the statement said.