Mr. Paulo Sérgio PINHEIRO
SR on Myanmar
Thank you, Mr. President.
The EU would like to welcome your report and to thank you for the important work you have accomplished during the past six years. Again, the EU would like to stress the importance of a full and unconditional cooperation between States and the Special Procedures. We regret that the government of Myanmar has not invited you to visit the country and refused to cooperate with you. The EU strongly encourages the Myanmar to extend its full and unreserved cooperation to the Special Rapporteur.
1. In your report, you note that the situation regarding the exercise of fundamental human rights freedoms and freedoms remains grave. You refer, inter alia, to the harassment, arbitrary arrest and imprisonment of members of political parties and human rights defenders. Since the submission of your report in February, have you noticed any significant developments in the political or human rights situation? 
2. On 16 May 2006 several Special Rapporteurs (including yourself) released a statement calling for an end to counter-insurgency operations in Northern Karen State and Eastern Pegu Division. What is your assessment of the current situation in these areas?
3. What is your assessment of the Burmese Government's attitude to you and your office following UN Under Secretary General Gambari's visit in May? 
4. In your report you refer to forced labour practices and forced recruitment involving children. Could you inform us about any new developments in this regard?  
Thank you, Mr. President.