To view the opposition as dangerous is to misunderstand the basic concepts of democracy. To oppress the opposition is to assault the very foundation of democracy.

I don't think any country can survive as a prosperous and dignified country unless there is rule of law.

The people of my country want the two freedoms that spell security: freedom from want and freedom from fear.

India and Burma have been close friends since the days we were struggling for independence. And I'm a great admirer of Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru, and all those leaders of India's independence movement. I would like to believe the aspirations and hopes we shared in the past will continue to bind us in the future.

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.

I am not unaware of the saying that more tears have been shed over wishes granted than wishes denied.

The important thing is fear should not control your actions. It should not dictate what you do.