December 10, 2015

Top US general in Asia ready to engage with Myanmar

WASHINGTON, Dec 8–The U.S. Army's senior commander in Asia is ready to establish a closer, personal relationship with Myanmar’s armed forces and government, according to reports.

General Vincent Brooks, speaking in Washington, told a defense writers' group, that the US is interested in forming stronger bonds within Myanmar, in part to counter the influence of the Chinese military, which is exerting its power into the region.

He said military forces within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations were also calling for more engagement with Myanmar, following the election victory of the National League for Democracy, and what appears to be a peaceful transition of power.

However, he said any high level contacts would have to wait for the approval of administration officials.

The political victory of pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi and other factors "have caused us to be ready to move forward," he said, according to a Reuters report. (Courtesy of Mizzima)

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