1. Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Choi Jong Kun met with Ambassador of Myanmar to Korea Thant Sin on the afternoon of February 16 and discussed the situation in Myanmar.

2. Vice Minister Choi expressed deep concern over the current political situation in Myanmar, called for an immediate release of those detained including State Counsellor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, and stressed that force should not be used on peaceful protesters.

° Recalling the Korean government’s active support for Myanmar’s democratic transition, the Vice Minister emphasized that democracy and constitutional order should be restored in Myanmar in a peaceful manner in adherence with a lawful and democratic process, respecting the aspirations of the people of Myanmar for democracy, as demonstrated in the general elections held last November.

3. Vice Minister Choi stated that the Korean government stands ready to contribute actively to the resolution of the situation in Myanmar in close cooperation with the international community, and at the same time, requested Myanmar’s special attention and assistance regarding the safety of the Korean citizens and companies in the country.