Myanmar's 'road map' to be discussed

Myanmar's 'road map' to be discussed

THAILAND: Thailand will host a 10-nation meeting to discuss Myanmar's proposed "road map" toward democratic reform in Bangkok this month, officials and reports said on Thursday.

The Nation newspaper said Austria, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia and Singapore had been invited to send representatives to the talks due to be held on Dec. 15.

Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra confirmed Thailand was expecting up to 10 countries to attend the meeting, which will be a forum for Myanmar to explain the road map, including "free and fair" elections and a new constitution.

"Thailand wants all participants to engage in constructive discussion, brainstorming on a possible solution for Myanmar and also to listen to Myanmar's ideas," he told reporters. "Myanmar welcomes and is open to suggestions."

Foreign ministry spokesman Sihasak Phuangketkeow said that apart from ministers from "like-minded" countries such as Singapore, experts, including United Nations special envoy to Myanmar Razali Ismail, would also be invited. -- AFP