“The conversation between Aung San Suu Kyi and President Thein Sein represents a positive development for Myanmar. I particularly congratulate Aung San Suu Kyi on taking this courageous step. Both the opposition and the political leadership of Myanmar are now called upon to continue this dialogue in a substantive manner in order to initiate a process of national reconciliation. The German Government will lend our full support to all efforts in Myanmar to achieve this goal. In doing so we will maintain contact with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and our partners in the EU.
The German Government has taken note of President Thien’s announcements regarding reform; we will be following the situation with interest and anticipation. What is needed is comprehensive reform which noticeably improves political, economic and social conditions for the people. In this regard, the German Government calls on the Government in Myanmar above all to improve the human rights situation – clearly and for the long term. The release of all political prisoners remains a pressing concern.”