Chiang Mai (Mizzima) – Canada’s Governor-General David Johnston said on Wednesday that he looks forward to engaging with newly appointed Burmese Ambassador Kyaw Tin on issues of human rights, democratic development and the rule of law.
Ambassador Kyaw Tin is the first Burmese full ambassador appointment to Canada since 2004. Kyaw Tin, who has 30 years experience in foreign affairs service and has previously worked in the Burmese embassy in Ottawa, recently held the position of director-general of the political department of the Burmese Foreign Affairs Ministry.His appointment 'will provide us with more opportunities to communicate our key interests and concerns', the Canadian governor-general said in a speech, AFP reported.
Earlier, the Canadian government has stated: ‘Canada’s policy towards Burma is a direct reflection of the severe problems that the military government has created for its people. Foremost among these concerns is the mistreatment of the people of Burma, who are deprived of fundamental human rights and denied a voice in the way they are governed'.
Burma and Canada have had a diplomatic relationship since 1958. Burma’s previous ambassador to Canada, Tin Win, was recalled to Burma in 2004. Tin Win was closely affiliated with military intelligence chief Khin Nyunt, and lost his position as ambassador following the latter’s arrest and the dismantlement of the intelligence service.
Canada is one of a group of international governments that have pledged their support of the launch of a commission of inquiry into possible human rights abuses and war crimes in Burma.
On February 22, pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi received an honorary degree in law from Carleton University in Canada.
