英语新闻阅读：美国务卿克林顿将于下月访问缅甸

英语自学网

　　In a major new diplomatic initiative, U.S. President Barack Obama says he
will send Hillary Clinton to Burma next month, for the first visit to the
isolated country by a U.S. secretary of state in more than 50 years.
        　　Mr. Obama made the announcement on the Indonesian island of Bali, saying
the U.S. is responding to what he called "flickers of progress" from the Burmese
government, which is still heavily influenced by the military. He specifically
mentioned steps taken to open a dialogue with opposition leader Aung San Suu
Kyi, the release of some political prisoners and the opening of the politcal
environment.
        　　Mr. Obama said he had spoken by phone with Aung San Suu Kyi for the first
time earlier and confirmed that she supports American engagement "to move the
process forward."
        　　The president said that on her trip, Secretary Clinton will explore what
the U.S. can do to support progress on political reform, human rights and
national reconciliation.
        　　Mr. Obama said the U.S. still has ongoing concerns about Burma's closed
political system, its treatment of minorities, holding of political prisoners
and relationship with North Korea. He said Burma will need to go further with
reforms to have a new relationship with the U.S.