Students call for genuine dialogue

88 generation students have called for unconditional dialogue between the Burmese military regime and opposition leaders, according to a statement released yesterday.

The statement urges the Burmese government to release detained National League for Democracy leader Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, stop their harassment of students and monks, and create a constructive environment for dialogue without preconditions.

"We have paid for this opportunity with the blood and sweat of so many of our people, monks and students. We need truthful dialogue without the tricks being played to fool the people of Burma and the world," a student said.

Junta leader senior general Than Shwe has said that he will meet personally with Daw Aung San Suu Kyi if certain conditions are met, including the cessation of demands for sanctions. An NLD statement released on 9 October welcomed the possibility of talks, but also said that they would not accept any preconditions.

by Moe Aye, from the DVB