    [Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 43, Number 39 (Monday, October 1, 2007)]
    [Page 1258]
    [Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    <R04>
    Statement on the Situation in Burma

    September 27, 2007

        The world is watching the people of Burma take to the streets to
    demand their freedom, and the American people stand in solidarity with
    these brave individuals. We feel admiration and compassion for the monks
    and peaceful protesters calling for democracy. Every civilized nation
    has a responsibility to stand up for people suffering under a brutal
    military regime like the one that has ruled Burma for too long. I call
    on all nations that have influence with the regime to join us in
    supporting the aspirations of the Burmese people and to tell the Burmese
    junta to cease using force on its own people, who are peacefully
    expressing their desire for change. By its own account, the junta has
    already killed at least nine nonviolent demonstrators, and many others
    have been injured and arrested as they seek to express their views
    peacefully. I urge the Burmese soldiers and police not to use force on
    their fellow citizens. I call on those who embrace the values of human
    rights and freedom to support the legitimate demands of the Burmese
    people.