TOKYO: US President Barack Obama today urged Myanmar to release detained democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi and other political prisoners, urging the regime to take a path to “true security and prosperity.” “We are now communicating directly with the leadership to make it clear that existing sanctions will remain until there are concrete steps towards democratic reform,” he said of the military-ruled country also called Burma.

“We support a Burma that is unified, peaceful, prosperous and democratic. And as Burma moves in that direction, a better relationship with the United States is possible,” Obama said in a speech delivered in Tokyo.

Obama called for the “release of all political prisoners, including Aung San Suu Kyi, an end to conflicts with minority groups, and a genuine dialogue between the government, the democratic opposition and minority groups on a shared vision for the future.” “That is how a government in Burma will be able to respond to the needs of its people. That is the path that will bring Burma true security and prosperity.”