New York

11 August 2009

Statement attributable to the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General on Myanmar

The Secretary-General is deeply disappointed by the verdict in respect of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi. The Secretary-General strongly deplores this decision. The Secretary-General urges the Government to immediately and unconditionally release Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and to engage with her without delay as an essential partner in the process of national dialogue and reconciliation. Unless she and all other political prisoners in Myanmar are released and allowed to participate in free and fair elections, the credibility of the political process will remain in doubt.