Pressure on Burma’s Military Government U.S. Announces Suspension of All Trade Contacts

Burma’s military government’s bloody crackdown on protesters continues to raise concerns. U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai announced Monday (March 29) the immediate suspension of all U.S. engagement with Burma under the 2013 Trade and Investment Framework Agreement until the return of a democratically elected government.

In a statement, Daicey said, “The United States strongly condemns the brutal violence against civilians by Burmese security forces. The killing of peaceful protesters, students, workers, labor leaders, medical personnel and children shakes the conscience of the international community.”

“These acts are a direct attack on the country’s transition to democracy and on the efforts of the Burmese people to achieve a peaceful and prosperous future.” Dyche said.

“The United States supports the efforts of the Burmese people to restore a democratically elected government, which is the foundation for economic growth and reform in Burma.” Dyche said.

On Saturday (March 27), Burmese protesters experienced their bloodiest day since last month’s coup against the junta, with at least 114 people, including minor children, dead. Some protesters said the military was killing people like birds and chickens.

Defense ministers from 12 countries, including the United States, Britain and Germany, issued a rare joint statement on the evening of the 27th condemning the killings by the Burmese military.

“As defense ministers, we condemn the use of lethal force against unarmed people by the Burmese armed forces and related security services,” The joint statement said.

“A professional military should follow international norms of conduct and has a responsibility to protect the people it serves, not harm them. We urge the Burmese Armed Forces to stop the violence and work to restore the respect and credibility that the Burmese people have lost for them as a result of their actions.” The statement added.