Only the European Union seems concerned to exercise further constraints on the military junta; Obama may now actually loosen the noose, in exchange for the release of democratic party leader, Aung San Suu Kyi. This is despite the Bush government’s claim last year that its ban on importation of Burmese gems was “working.”
Simon Roughneen, this article’s author, doesn’t mention a mining project which, in recent years, has been one of the most significant money-spinners earners for Burma’s ruthless rulers. And continues so to be. The Monywa copper mine is operated by Ivanhoe Mines, in which Rio Tinto secured a major equity share in 2007.
When demanding further sanctions from Europe or North America, it’s worth remembering that Ivanhoe is based in Canada, while Rio Tinto is headquartered in London.
See http://www.minesandcommunities.org/article.php?a=9432.