This is a note to wish you a happy 65th birthday. Here in Dublin we are throwing a celebration concert to mark the event, even though we know you cannot attend. The concert, on June 19th, will also be broadcast live into Burma in the hope that some of your people will be encouraged by our support.

Indeed, you and the rest of the 2100 political prisoners currently detained in Burma have been forced to surrender many of lifes pleasures to remain committed to the democratic future you aspire to for Burma. Thousands of your colleagues have been tortured, imprisoned and murdered by the military dictatorship.

Sadly, the present Junta has oppressed the people through forced labour, ethnic cleansing, and the complete impunity of army officers, who can rape and loot the population without hindrance. They have exploited more child soldiers than any other regime on the planet.

Nevertheless, please be sure that you have many supporters here in Ireland, and we look forward to the day when real elections can be held in your country, and your people enjoy the dignity of freedom.