Media Release
19 June, 2009
Daw Aung San Suu Kyi
Today is Daw Aung San Suu Kyi's birthday.
I again restate Australia's grave concern at her treatment at the hands of the Burmese military regime.
The Burmese regime has detained Aung San Suu Kyi for 13 of the last 19 years. The Australian Government calls again for her immediate and unconditional release, and the release of the more than 2000 other political prisoners in Burma.
This would be a first step towards meaningful change in Burma, and towards ending Burma's isolation.
Aung San Suu Kyi's arrest and current trial under the oppressive state protection law give every appearance of being a device to extend her detention.
This trial stands condemned by the international community. Australia welcomes the strong statements in this respect from the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) and its member governments.
The regime intends to resume Aung San Suu Kyi's trial later this month. The Australian Government and the international community will continue to watch closely and urge the regime to drop its spurious charges.
Australia stands with Aung San Suu Kyi and hopes she will celebrate her next birthday in freedom.
Media inquiries:
- Mr Smith's office 02 6277 7500
- Departmental Media Liaison 02 6261 1555