Press Releases

Washington, DC—Senator Jim Webb, chair of the East Asian and Pacific Affairs Subcommittee, issued the following statement regarding today’s cloture vote on a joint resolution to renew the sanctions in the 2003 Burmese Freedom and Democracy Act.  In 2009, Senator Webb was the first Member of Congress to visit Burma in more than ten years, and remains the only American official ever to meet with the country’s now-former top leader, General Than Shwe. He also met with political leader Aung San Suu Kyi--who at that time remained under house arrest--and obtained the release of American prisoner John Yettaw.

“As the Senate votes on H.J. Res. 66, a joint resolution to renew the sanctions in the 2003 Burmese Freedom and Democracy Act, it is important to acknowledge that over the past year Burma has undergone a series of changes that may have the potential to point toward a new direction for the country, after years of isolation and repression.  On November 7, 2010, Burma held its first election in 20 years.  With limited international observation, most will argue that the election was neither free nor fair. Yet, it cannot be denied that the election process initiated a new political dialogue in the country, with candidates participating from more than 37 political parties. 

“The election resulted in a new governmental system and opportunities for engagement. Burma is now in the midst of a key transitional period that has yielded greater opportunities for interaction with government leaders and civil society, and restructuring of government and military institutions. The release of Aung San Suu Kyi from house arrest after the election has also been an important benchmark in this process. Her repeated interactions with government leaders are a significant step forward in encouraging a democratic process and reconciliation within the country.   

“There are clear indications of a new openness from the government, and the United States should be prepared to adjust our policy toward Burma accordingly.   In reauthorizing this legislation, it should be noted that the 2003 Burmese Freedom and Democracy Act gives the President the authority to waive the prohibitions on any or all imports from Burma if doing so is in the national interest of the United States.  I am hopeful that there will be opportunities to closely examine any substantive improvements in our relations during this transitional period, and to take advantage of all of the tools at our disposal to facilitate Burmese economic development, political reconciliation, and ultimately greater progress toward democratic governance.”