Burmese Junta Silences Protestors

It was over a week ago in Burma that pro-democracy protestors, lead by Buddhist monks, took to the streets by the thousands against the repressive junta government. In recent days, security forces locked down on the protestors using tear gas, jail, and ammo as means to stifle the peaceful protests.

The international community largely condemns the Burmese government's use of violence against its own people. On Tuesday at his UN address, President Bush announced stronger sanctions against the country. China however, as the main weapons supplier to the Burmese goverment, is criticized for not taking a stronger stance against their neighboring government.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Jiang Yu said on Thursday:

"China hopes that all parties in Myanmar exercise restraint and properly handle the current issue so as to ensure the situation there does not escalate and get complicated."

Although China's stance may seem less then satisfactory it is not at all surprising considering China's repeated reluctance to interfere in other state's internal affairs. On a positive note, ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Nations) denounced the junta's actions, demanding a halt to the violence against peaceful violators.

Since the crackdown began on Wednesday, the 26th, the junta has removed foreign press from the country as well as cut internet access. We will keep you updated on any developments as the struggle between a repressive government and its people continues.