House approves resolution extending sanctions against Myanmar
By APWednesday, July 22, 2009
House approves sanctions against Myanmar
WASHINGTON — The House has voted to renew sanctions meant to penalize the junta that runs the Southeast Asian country of Myanmar, also called Burma.
The resolution approving the reauthorization of the sanctions now goes to the Senate for consideration.
The resolution renews sanctions targeting imports from the military government in Myanmar. It also maintains a ban on importing jade and other gems from Myanmar. The legislation was first enacted in 2003.
Democratic Rep. Joe Crowley of New York said in a speech Tuesday that Myanmar’s junta has destroyed 3,000 villages and forced 1 million people to flee as refugees.
U.S. lawmakers are pushing for the unconditional release of Nobel Peace Prize laureate Aung San Suu Kyi.
