McConnell presses U.S. Secretary Rubio on Burma; Rubio reaffirms support for democracy, but action must be taken: BRI
At a U.S. Senate hearing, Mitch McConnell questioned U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio about delays in implementing Burma-related funding and concerns over U.S. support for Myanmar’s pro-democracy movement. Rubio reaffirmed that the United States supports democratic civilian rule in Myanmar rather than continued military rule and said the administration is seeking democratic partners to help shape the country’s future. The Burma Research Institute (BRI) welcomed Rubio’s statement but urged the U.S. government to take concrete actions, including engaging with Myanmar’s democratic leadership, releasing frozen funds, addressing military atrocities, and pressing for the release of political prisoners, including Aung San Suu Kyi.