WIREDGOV

Parliament calls on the Council to suspend EU restrictive measures against Burma/Myanmar, except the arms embargo in a resolution adopted on Friday. The 1 April elections, which were deemed fair by observers, are a sign that Burma/Myanmar is on the path to democratic change", the resolution notes.

The restrictive measures should be lifted for an initial period of one year, during which political and economic reform in the country should be closely monitored, says the text.

Parliament also calls on the Council and the Commission to consider allowing Burma/Myanmar privileged access to the EU market, so as to help the country fight poverty and to ensure that EU measures benefit broad swathes of the population

The General Affairs Council will discuss Burma/Myanmar and the EU's current restrictive measures against it, at its next meeting on 23 April.

Political prisoners and military's role in politics

Parliament calls on the Burma/Myanmar government to release all remaining political prisoners unconditionally and without delay, and to allow international human rights bodies free access to Myanmar’s prisons.

It also urges the government to amend the constitution to remove the military’s role in civilian politics, with a view to the 2015 general elections.

Invitation to Ms Aung San Suu Kyi

Finally, Parliament reiterates its invitation to Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, to visit it order to be officially presented with the Sakharov Prize, which she was awarded in 1991 for her efforts to promote democracy and freedom in Burma/Myanmar.

The resolution was adopted with 523 votes in favour, 4 against and 13 abstentions.