The administration unequivocally supports the initiation of a credible dialogue among the regime, the democratic opposition, and ethnic minority groups to discuss a shared vision for Burma's future.

I think it is also hubris for the United States to think that we can move that document. I think we can encourage rethinking about it, but it is up to the Burmese themselves.

This afternoon the East Asian and Pacific Affairs Subcommittee will examine American policy toward Burma.

I was one of those who resisted lifting the trade embargo against Vietnam, for a number of years.

She welcomes the U.S. approach, but she believes that there should be a parallel dialogue with the opposition.

For me, that is my bottom line on the process that is now in place.

I think we shouldn't get too hung up on the process. I think the elections may or may not be free and fair. I doubt they'll be fully free and fair.

Does our State Department have indications that the NLD and other opposition groups are prepared to support the elections process?

We should, I think, as U.S. policy, not be dependent on any individual or group, however benign, on the development of our foreign policy.

I'd like to go back to an important point that Professor Williams made, that Burma's problems began in ethnic conflict, and will continue until the underlying issues are addressed.

What is the view of the administration with respect to the elections process, the constitution, and the potential timing of implementing legislation, and the timing of the elections following the implementing legislation?

We should also negotiate with the Burmese on the basis that their primary national goal of the unity of the Union is a shared goal of the United States.