No turning back on transition to democracy: Myanmar

New Delhi, Jan 25 (PTI) Assuring the international community that there will be no "no turning back or derailment" in its democratic transition, Myanmar today hoped for "concrete and tangible" results in terms of lifting of sanctions and restrictions by the US and the European Union (EU). Asserting that the reform process that has started was "irreversible", Myanmar Foreign Minister U Wunna Maung Lwin said, "At this critical juncture of national transition, the international community can best assist Myanmar by providing encouragement and support." "The reform process that we have started is irreversible. There will be no turning back or derailment in the road to democracy," Maung Lwin said while delivering a lecture on "Myanmar: A Country in Democratic Transition" at the Indian Council of World Affairs (ICWA) here. Briefing about various aspects of reforms including political, economic and national reconsolidation, the minister said "the reform process will be incremental, systematic and dynamic. Our transition to democracy is indeed not without challenges. We are prepared and resolute to overcome all these challenges and continue our endeavour until we achieve our stated goal." He also expressed his deep appreciation of his nation's neighbours and friends, particularly India, for the "understanding and valuable support" in this vital period. Asked about his country's relations with India and China, he said "Myanmar is between the two promising developing countries. It has historical as well as traditional ties. We have very cordial relations with our neighbours. It is said that you can choose friends but you cannot choose neighbours." PTI