China leads move to soften UN text on Myanmar

[icymist]

UNITED NATIONS: China led a drive at the UN Security Council to soften a Western-sponsored statement condemning Myanmar's military crackdown, amid agreement on the need to end the violence and free political prisoners.

Experts from the body's 15 members huddled behind closed doors for nearly three hours in "a constructive atmosphere," said a delegate from Ghana, which chairs the council this month.

In the end the sponsors -- Britain, France and the United States -- agreed to come up with a revised text taking account of the amendments.

"They intend to circulate a revised text some time this evening, which we would then refer to our capitals for consideration and instructions," Albert Yankey of Ghana told AFP.

The diplomatic wrangling came as the military maintained its grip in Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, after violently quelling the largest anti-government rallies in 20 years.

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[icymist]

1. Myanmar junta appoints minister to deal with Suu Kyi (Related article)

YANGON — Myanmar's military government has appointed a minister to act as a liaison in future dealings with detained opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi, according to a government announcement reported by state-run radio and TV Monday night.

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