Andrew Mitchell in Burma - audio slideshow

Andrew Mitchell reflects on his visit to Burma

During his trip Andrew Mitchell met with Aung San Suu Kyi as well as the president and other senior leaders from Burma's government and opposition and ethnic parties. He called for the release of all political prisoners and urged free and fair by-elections.

Speaking after a visit to a school in Rangoon with Aung San Suu Kyi, Mr Mitchell said:

"Aung San Suu Kyi is an inspiration and a personal hero to many across the world. It is an immense honour to have met her. Her commitment to bringing real democracy and national reconciliation to Burma is a beacon of hope for the future. As I saw today on the visit we made to a school in Rangoon, she represents the hopes and dreams of Burma's people."

The Coalition Government has pledged to scale up its aid to the people of Burma following the UK's aid reviews earlier this year.

Development programmes currently focus on tackling malaria, improving maternal health and supporting the rural poor. But Andrew Mitchell has indicated that the programme could be enhanced in response to future change in Burma, including building up government accountability to its people, and its ability to deliver basic services. This would also pave the way for wealth creation and a stronger role for the private sector.

Pictures: Charlotte Morgan/DFID and Julian Simmonds/Daily Telegraph

For more information see http://www.dfid.gov.uk/News/Latest-news/2011/andrew-mitchell-meets-aung-san-s...

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• Aung San Suu Kyi
• Burma
• Andrew Mitchell
• Uk aid