At 9/28/07 BBC article: India's lack of action on behalf of the people of Burma seen as "disgusting"
From this BBC article that outlines world response to pro-democracy movement/recent protests & marches in Burma:
" INDIA
Relationship: It has close economic and diplomatic ties with Burma. It has expressed concern over the current crisis but generally maintains a careful silence over the situation, describing it as an internal affair of Burma. Former Defence Minister George Fernandez has described India's current position as "disgusting".
Interests: India is concerned above all with protecting its oil interests in Burma, signing a new deep-water exploration deal in the same week that protests got under way. India also sells arms to the military regime in Rangoon. But as the world's most populous democracy, India is under pressure from the West and from activists at home to take a stronger stand in support of democratic forces in Burma.
Comment: "As a close and friendly neighbour, India hopes to see a peaceful, stable and prosperous Myanmar, where all sections of the people will be included in a broad-based process of national reconciliation and political reform." Indian Foreign Minister Pranab Mukherjee"
Read the rest of the article here.
I think India is missing a good opportunity to act as a positive world citizen by not coming to the aid of a democratic movement that is highly influenced by ancient Indian religious philosophy (Buddhism started in India).
I wonder what the Sri Lankan government is doing to help the Burmese people. Will take a look tonight.
- Sujewa
" INDIA
Relationship: It has close economic and diplomatic ties with Burma. It has expressed concern over the current crisis but generally maintains a careful silence over the situation, describing it as an internal affair of Burma. Former Defence Minister George Fernandez has described India's current position as "disgusting".
Interests: India is concerned above all with protecting its oil interests in Burma, signing a new deep-water exploration deal in the same week that protests got under way. India also sells arms to the military regime in Rangoon. But as the world's most populous democracy, India is under pressure from the West and from activists at home to take a stronger stand in support of democratic forces in Burma.
Comment: "As a close and friendly neighbour, India hopes to see a peaceful, stable and prosperous Myanmar, where all sections of the people will be included in a broad-based process of national reconciliation and political reform." Indian Foreign Minister Pranab Mukherjee"
Read the rest of the article here.
I think India is missing a good opportunity to act as a positive world citizen by not coming to the aid of a democratic movement that is highly influenced by ancient Indian religious philosophy (Buddhism started in India).
I wonder what the Sri Lankan government is doing to help the Burmese people. Will take a look tonight.
- Sujewa
