Slorc targets Asean activists

[altsean@xxxxxxxxxx]

A L T S E A N - B U R M A
ALTERNATIVE ASEAN NETWORK ON BURMA
*tel: [662] 275 1811/693 4515 *fax: [662] 693 4515 *e-mail: altsean@xxxxxxxxxx
________________________________________________________________________________

SLORC TARGETS ASEAN ACTIVISTS

On July 23, a representative of the Slorc Embassy in Manila met with a
Philippines trade unionist in attempt to undermine support for the
Federation on Trade Unions Burma (FTUB).

U Than Tun, a counselor with the Embassy in Manila, made several calls to
the trade unionist to ask for a meeting. The trade unionist from the BAGONG
KAPISANAN NG MGA MANGGAGAWA SA PNR-ITF (Railwaymen's Union of the
Philippines) finally agreed and met with U Than Tun at a coffee-shop.

During the meeting, U Than Tun displayed photos of activists connected to
the FTUB and asked the trade union representative not to assist FTUB because
it was an "illegitimate organization". The diplomat revealed that he had
information about the organization's activities and knew of plans to
establish an FTUB office in Manila.

The trade unionist responded that his organization supported workers rights
and were acting in consonance with the ITF since it belonged to that
organization.

This meeting has resulted in a proposal to organize a protest meeting
between ITF affiliates and U Than Tun.

It would appear that the Slorc has decided to attempt dialogue with Asean
activists while neglecting dialogue with the democracy movement in Burma.
Of course, the objective of such efforts is to undermine support by
Asean-based activists for Burma's democracy movement.  It is a heartening
sign that Asean-based activism on Burma continues to be a threat to the
Slorc despite membership in Asean.

Please keep us informed of any similar approaches by Slorc personnel and we
will update you as developments occur.

Debbie Stothard