YANGON, Myanmar, Jan. 5 (UPI) -- Myanmar opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi said she expected the country would have fully democratic elections in her lifetime.
British Foreign Minister William Hague chose Myanmar for his first overseas visit for the new year. His visit marks the first for a sitting British foreign minister in more than 50 years.
Myanmar in 2010 had its first general elections in nearly 20 years and released Suu Kyi from a lengthy house arrest. She told the BBC that she felt the country would have complete democratic elections in her lifetime.
Her National League for Democracy won elections in the 1990s but ruling military authorities never recognized the results.
Hague said he secured assurances from Myanmar's leaders that they would release political prisoners but would judge the government by its actions. Authorities there disputed the term "political prisoner" during talks with Hague.
The U.S. State Department said Washington had unwavering support for a democratic Myanmar but wanted more reforms.
Suu Kyi last year said she would return to political activity nearly a year after she was freed from prison.
On Wednesday, Myanmar celebrated the 64th anniversary of independence from Britain.
