Myanmar PM calls for end to sanctions

UNITED NATIONS, Sept. 28 (UPI) -- International sanctions imposed on Myanmar are unjust and are hurting its development, the country's premier said Monday at the United Nations.

Speaking to the General Assembly in New York, Myanmar Prime Minister Thein Sein said democratic reforms are being put in place and called for an end to the measures, saying, "As sanctions are indiscriminate and of themselves a form of violence, they cannot legitimately be regarded as a tool to promote human rights and democracy."

The country's ruling military junta has long been criticized for its human rights record and crushing of political dissent, personified by the years long house arrest of pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi. U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has announced a new policy of engaging Myanmar, but added that sanctions would remain.

"Sanctions are being employed as a political tool against Myanmar and we consider them unjust," Sein said. "I would like to state that such acts must be stopped."

The Myanmar leader promised that under a new constitution, multiparty general elections will be held in 2010, followed by the convening of a parliament and the formation of a government "along the lines of a presidential system."