Suu Kyi meets with British Foreign Minister

13 September 2016
Suu Kyi meets with British Foreign Minister
Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson meets Aung San Suu Kyi at Lancaster House, London on 12 September 2016. Photo: Foreign & Commonwealth Office

British Foreign MinisterBoris Johnson has welcomed MyanmarForeign Minister and State Counsellor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi on her first visit outside of Asia since her party’s election success in November 2015.
Mr Johnson and Aung San Suu Kyi had a meeting at Lancaster House, London, where they discussed the early priorities and challenges facing Myanmar’s new Government and the Foreign Secretary reiterated the UK’s commitment to supporting democratic reform in Myanmar, according to an official press release.
Following the meeting, the Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson said:
‘It’s a great pleasure to meet Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and congratulate her in person on her victory in the November 2015 elections and forming Myanmar’s first civilian government for over 50 years.
The Myanmar transition to democracy is an historic achievement. The courage and sacrifice of the Myanmar people, not least of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi herself, has led to a major shift from military dictatorship to a more civilian, democratic and accountable government. The UK is pleased to have played an important role in bringing about Myanmar’s emergence from decades of repression and isolation. We remain committed to supporting Myanmar’s extraordinary reforms and we welcome a democratic, stable and prosperous Myanmar that can contribute to stability and security in South East Asia and beyond.’
They also discussed the Panglong Peace Conference and plans for the peace process. The Foreign Secretary welcomed early progress in freeing political prisoners as well as the establishment of the Rakhine Commission, led by Kofi Annan, which is an important step in beginning to tackle the desperate situation of the Rohingya community there.