China opposes strong UN action against Myanmar

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BEIJING, Oct 9 (AFP): China said Tuesday it opposed any strong world pressure against close ally Myanmar over the bloody repression of democracy demonstrations, warning that it could exacerbate tensions there.
"Sanctions or pressure will not help to resolve the issues (in Myanmar)," foreign ministry spokesman Liu Jianchao said.
China, which has strong ties with Myanmar's military government and is its main protector at the United Nations, is leading efforts to water down a UN Security Council resolution on the unrest in the Southeast Asian country.
At least 13 people were killed and over 2,100 detained last month as authorities violently crushed weeks-long demonstrations led by Buddhist monks.
During the junta's crackdown, China called for the generals to show restraint but refused to condemn the violence used to quash the protests.
On Tuesday, Liu extended praise to both the junta and UN envoy Ibrahim Gambari for helping restore calm.
"The situation in Myanmar has calmed down, the result of concerted efforts by the government of Myanmar and efforts of the international community. We hope this can be maintained," Liu said.
He again declined to condemn the violence, and instead called for a "prudent and responsible" response by the Security Council and efforts to further mediation between the junta and pro-democracy forces.
The text of the UN resolution is currently being debated in New York amid a world outcry for action against Myanmar.
The United States, France and Britain are pushing for a resolution to condemn the regime, but diplomats have said China is heading a drive to soften its tone.
Beijing has consistently maintained the unrest in Myanmar is an internal matter.