When I was in London a Kachin youth criticized me for not condemning the Burmese military for their offensive in Kachin State. I answered "condemnation is not the solution." We want to build reconciliation, not condemnation.

Human beings the world over need freedom and security that they may be able to realize their full potential.

I think sometimes if you are alone, you are freer because your time is your own.

People ask me about what sacrifices I've made. I always answer: I've made no sacrifices, I've made choices.

I still oppose "Visit Myanmar Year," and I would ask tourists to stay away. Burma is not going to run away. They should come back to Burma at a time when it is a democratic society where people are secure - where there is justice, where there is rule of law. They'll have a much better time. And they can travel around Burma with a clear conscience.

Burmese political culture lacks an understanding of negotiated compromise. We have to build up that kind of culture.

I'm feeling a little delicate.