Ups and Downs in 2007... "The year 2007 brought high hopes to the Burmese people when protesters led by monks took to the streets demanding democratic change. But the hopes were short lived. The brutal crackdown unleashed by the military regime killed not only innocent people but also the people?s hope for change. However, the people of Burma, tired of their life under a repressive regime, have pressed the fast forward button for change, and I believe they won?t let up that pressure. Regional players and allies of the regime have failed to back this indefatigable will for change. They have also seen many ups and downs since Burma joined Asean in 1997..."