Democracy acknowledges the right to differ as well as the duty to settle differences peacefully. Authoritarian governments see criticism of their actions and doctrines as a challenge to combat.

I've always been strongly on the side of non-violence. Also, I think that if you use the wrong means, the ends themselves get distorted.

I've always said that the most important thing is job creation. Jobs will earn people money and build self-confidence.

In Burma, we need to improve education in the country - not only primary education, but secondary and tertiary education. Our education system is very very bad. But, of course, if you look at primary education, we have to think in terms of early childhood development that's going back to before the child is born - making sure the mother is well nourished and the child is properly nurtured.

Justice is a dream. But it is a dream that we are determined to realize.

I think by now I have made it fairly clear that I am not very happy with the word hope. I don't believe in people just hoping.

I always say that one has no right to hope without endeavor.