Minister of Foreign Affairs Villy Søvndal has urged Danish companies to take advantage of the EU's decision to suspend sanctions against Burma.
The EU's 27 foreign ministers are expected to suspend sanctions for a year today, with the proviso of a review in six months, paving the way for foreign investment in a country that's rich in natural resources but seriously underdeveloped after decades of isolation and neglect.
Although Aung San Suu Kyis NLD opposition party has boycotted today's opening of parliament in protest at the wording of the constitution, Mr Søvndal said: "Over the past year we've seen the militray regime take cautious steps towards progress. Last month's by-elections were very encouraging, so it's important for us to reward any moves towards democracy. We hope that Ms San Suu Kyi will reach some form of agreement with President Thein Sein "
He noted that a number of political prisoners are still in detention, which is why the EU will review its decision after six months, but stressed that the move is in accordance with recommendations from Aung San Suu Kyi who's asked for an easing of sanctions, not a complete annulment.
"It's important for Danish companies to check out the enormous possibilities in Burma," Mr Søvndal said. "It's virgin territory and the potential is enormous, but we still have to ensure that international environment and labour market standards are adhered to." '
In the wake of the military regime's recent democratic reforms, Denmark has doubled its aid commitment to DKK100m a year and agreed to open a Programme Office in the country