Statement by Mr. Gambari on behalf of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi

As you know, I have just completed a mission to Myanmar from 3 to 8

November, where I met today with Daw Aung San Suu Kyi. In my capacity
as Special Adviser to the Secretary-General for Myanmar, I was
authorized by Daw Aung San Suu Kyi to make the following statement on
her behalf:
• I wish to thank all those who have stood by my side all this time,
both inside and outside my country. I am also grateful to the
Secretary-General of the United Nations, Mr. Ban Ki-moon, for his
unwavering support for the cause of national reconciliation, democracy
and human rights in my country.

• I welcome the appointment on 8 October of Minister Aung Kyi as
Minister for Relations. Our first meeting on 25 October was
constructive and I look forward to further regular discussions. I
expect that this phase of preliminary consultations will conclude soon
so that a meaningful and timebound dialogue with the SPDC leadership
can start as early as possible.

• In the interest of the nation, I stand ready to cooperate with the
Government in order to make this process of dialogue a success and
welcome the necessary good offices role of the United Nations to help
facilitate our efforts in this regard.

• In full awareness of the essential role of political parties in
democratic societies, in deep appreciation of the sacrifices of the
members of my party and in my position as General Secretary, I will be
guided by the policies and wishes of the National League for
Democracy. However, in this time of vital need for democratic
solidarity and national unity, it is my duty to give constant and
serious considerations to the interests and opinions of as broad a
range of political organizations and forces as possible, in particular
those of our ethnic nationality races.

• To that end, I am committed to pursue the path of dialogue
constructively and invite the Government and all relevant parties to
join me in this spirit.

• I believe that stability, prosperity and democracy for my country,
living at peace with itself and with full respect for human rights,
offers the best prospect for my country to fully contribute to the
development and stability of the region in close partnership with its
neighbours and fellow ASEAN members, and to play a positive role as a
respected member of the international community.

I am now scheduled to return to New York to brief the
Secretary-General on all the aspects of my mission. I will therefore
not be able to take any questions at this time.