Calling for release of democracy leader, Annan sends top envoy back to Myanmar

Reiterating his call to Myanmar's government to release detained democracy leader Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and other party officials without delay, United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan is sending his special envoy back to the South Asian country next week to seek ways to revive the national reconciliation process.

A spokesman said today Mr. Annan expects Razali Ismail to discuss with Prime Minister General Khin Nyunt and other Government leaders ways to revive the process, which came to a standstill after Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, was detained on 30 May.

"The Secretary-General remains concerned about the well-being of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and other NLD (National League for Democracy) leaders and reiterates his call that they should be released without further delay," the spokesman said.

"He expects his Special Envoy to meet with Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, find out her condition and work with Government officials towards her immediate and unconditional release," he added.

Mr. Annan has called for Daw Aung San Suu Kyi's release ever since her latest detention. Mr. Razali will visit Myanmar from 30 September to 2 October 2003 - his 11th mission.