Britain’s PM urges suspension of sanctions against Myanmar

British Prime Minister David Cameron has said economic sanctions against Myanmar should be suspended.

Speaking alongside pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi during a landmark visit to the country, Cameron said that measures should be put on hold in recognition of the reforms taking place.

The EU is expected to review its sanctions against Myanmar next week.

“It shouldn’t be as poor as it is, it shouldn’t have suffered under the dictatorship for as long as it has, and things don’t have to be that way, and there is the real prospect of change,” Cameron said.

“I am very much committed to working with you and trying to help make sure that your country makes those changes,” he added.

The package of political and economic reforms is being spearheaded by Myanmar’s civilian government, which took office a year ago when a military junta ceded power.

Cameron also met with the country’s president during his visit, the first by a British Prime Minister since Myanmar obtained independence from Britain in 1948.

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