Among the basic freedoms to which men aspire that their lives might be full and uncramped, freedom from fear stands out as both a means and an end. A people who would build a nation in which strong, democratic institutions are firmly established as a guarantee against state-induced power must first learn to liberate their own minds from apathy and fear.

People need security of the mind. Why do they want democracy? Because it can give them freedom and security in a balanced way.

More people, especially young people, are realising that if they want change, they've got to go about it themselves – they can't depend on a particular person, ie me, to do all the work. They are less easy to fool than they used to be, they now know what's going on all over the world.

What does Burma have to give the United States? We can give you the opportunity to engage with people who are ready and willing to change a society.

We cannot be caught in the bond of suspicion. We have to carry out what we should be doing with a firm determination.

The struggle for democracy and human rights in Burma is a struggle for life and dignity. It is a struggle that encompasses our political, social and economic aspirations.

It is not power that corrupts but fear.