Campaigners in London will today join activists worldwide in a day of action against China over its Burma policy. A demonstration will be held at the Chinese Embassy in London from 12.30-1.30pm. The day of action coincides with 19th anniversary of the SLORC military coup, which brought in the current brutal regime.
“China funds the Burmese regime, arms the regime, and protects it from international pressure,” said Myo Thein, Campaigns Officer at Burma Campaign UK. “It is hypocritical of China to argue against a Security Council resolution on Burma, saying it is interfering in their internal affairs, when China interferes more in the internal affairs of Burma than any other country in the world.”
Protests and other actions are taking place in around 20 countries around the world. China is facing increasing international pressure following its veto of a Security Council resolution on Burma in January 2007. The resolution was non-binding and contained no sanctions. In an apparent reward for China’s veto of the resolution, the regime recently agreed to sell gas to China instead of India, despite India offering billions of dollars more for the gas.
“China is mistaken in thinking that the dictatorship will best serve its interests,” said Myo Thein. “We will see increasing economic problems and political instability as long as the regime defies the will of the people. China should back the democracy movement if it wants a stable, peaceful and prosperous neighbour.”
For more information contact Myo Thein or Mark Farmaner on 020 7324 4710.