JAPAN WELCOMES CONCLUSION TO BURMA POLICY REVIEW

C O N F I D E N T I A L TOKYO 002284 SIPDIS DEPT FOR EAP/J, EAP/MLS E.O. 12958: DECL: 09/28/2019 TAGS: PREL PGOV BM JA SUBJECT: JAPAN WELCOMES CONCLUSION TO BURMA POLICY REVIEW REF: STATE 100518 Classified By: Political Minister Counselor Rob Luke for reasons 1.4 (b ) and (d). ¶1. (C) On September 29, Embassy Political Officer delivered reftel points to MOFA First Southeast Asia Division Deputy Director Takuma Sakaguchi. Poloff reaffirmed Washington's fundamental interests, including a unified, peaceful, prosperous, and democratic Burma, the release of Aung San Suu Kyi (ASSK) and all political prisoners, and the initiation of credible, time-bound political dialogue among the regime, the democratic opposition, and ethnic minority leaders. Sakaguchi stated that Japan welcomed the results and that he and others in the Japanese Government are anxious to learn more about the review, particularly USG efforts to engage the Burmese regime. ¶2. (C) Japan has long seen the policy review as a potential opportunity to effect change in Burma. Japanese Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama is following the situation more closely than his predecessors, Sakaguchi noted. The PM also understands the "geo-political" dynamics inherent in Burma policy and will take a practical approach. Many Democratic Party of Japan members are also expressing interest, Sakaguchi added. ¶3. (C) Sakaguchi stressed the importance of keeping partners and the international community informed of any results stemming from U.S. dialogue with the Burmese military regime. He highlighted the need to consult closely with Japan, the European Union, and Australia, and to work with China and India. ¶4. (C) Sakaguchi inquired about the extent to which changes to ASSK's house arrest would factor into Washington's approach to sanctions. He also conveyed his view that ASSK appears to be more flexible than in the past on issues related to sanctions and dialogue with the regime. ROOS