Myanmar junta accuses Thailand of ‘meddling’

BANGKOK, May 25 (TNA, Agencies) – The trial of Myanmar’s pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi resumed on Monday as Myanmar accused neighbouring Thailand of meddling in its internal affairs.
 
Thailand as the rotating chair of the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) last week issued a statement expressing “grave concern” over the trial, saying “the honour and the credibility of the (Myanmar government) are at stake.”
 
The ruling junta rejected the statement and issued its statement on Monday through the New Light of Myanmar, state television nd radio accusing Thailand of interfering in the country’s internal affairs.
 
“This statement issued by the alternate ASEAN chairman — which is not in conformity with ASEAN practice, incorrect in facts, interfering in the internal affairs of Myanmar — is strongly rejected by Myanmar,” it said.
 
“It is sadly noted that the alternate ASEAN chairman failed to preserve the dignity of ASEAN, the dignity of Myanmar and the dignity of Thailand,” said the statement.
 
Mrs. Suu Kyi, who has been in detention without trial for more than 13 years, is being tried on charges of violating the terms of her house arrest after an American, John W. Yettaw, swam to her home on May 4 and stayed for two days.
 
The Nobel Peace laureate pleaded not guilty last Friday. If found guilty, the 63-year-old Suu Kyi faces up to five years in prison. (TNA)
 Political News : Last Update : 11:52:11 25 May 2009 (GMT+7:00)