LOC16:08
13:08 GMT
BRUSSELS, May 12 (KUNA) -- President of the European Commission Jose Manuel
Barroso Saturday met the visiting Speaker of the Lower House of the Parliament
of Myanmar, U Shwe Mann.
During the meeting the Speaker explained at length the peaceful transition
underway in Myanmar and the commitment of the authorities to national
reconciliation and democratic values, according to a statement issued by
Barroso's office.
On his part, Barroso expressed the European Union's support to the
undergoing political and economic reforms and assured the Myanmar official of
his personal and of the European Commission's support to the democratic
process in Myanmar.
He encouraged further action concerning the release of political prisoners,
rule of law and inter-ethnic dialogue.
The EU recently suspended its sanctions on Myanmar and pledged a new
package of EUR 150 million in development assistance for 2012/2013 and the
opening of a diplomatic presence in Myanmar. (end)
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