File Photo: US Secretary of State John Kerry
More than 70 US lawmakers say conditions in Myanmar have taken a sharp turn for the worse and want Secretary of State John Kerry to warn its government that could seriously damage bilateral relations.
The House members, both Democrats and Republicans, say sectarian violence has spread, and that President Thein Sein's government seems to be catering to and stoking anti-Muslim sentiment. They also voice concern about military abuses in ethnic minority regions, the recent jailing of journalists, and the need for constitutional reform.
They are calling on Kerry to sanction those complicit in abuses and atrocities, and not make further concessions to the reformist government unless there's serious progress.
Kerry is expected to visit Myanmar this month for a regional security meeting.
The Associated Press obtained the lawmakers' letter earlier today.