As pointed out on the Energy Filter at the Financial Times , gas and energy interests complicate any potential international intervention in Burma/Myanmar.  Major stakeholders in the troubled nation's energy reserves include Chevron, Total (a French energy company), and more recently, Chinese and Indian energy groups.

President Bush has issued some strong words about the issue, but has not provided any hint of material support.  Also, as James Joyner points out at Outside the Beltway, McCain Calls for ‘Strong Action’ Against Burma ‘Thugs’ but McCain's clarification of 'Strong Action' simply means increased political and diplomatic pressure on China.   In my view, it does not seem that realistic or productive to assign responsibility for a resolution to a single nation when multiple international firms are contributing to the economy of Burma / Myanmar and indirectly supporting its military leadership.

In fact, the entire concept of international intervention  seems suspect when four of the five permanent veto holders in the United Nations Security Council have energy interests in the region, and Russia is trying to develop a nuclear reactor for the ruling government - perhaps arming them with nuclear weapons.  Even as the recent crackdown had begun, India's Oil Minister was in Burma to sign contracts expanding India's investments in the nation.

Since the internet has been disconnected in Burma, its hard to say what exactly has gone on since the protests began being violently surpressed.  Regardless of the lost lives or assaults on free speech and the communication of ideas, its business as usual for the energy companies and the nations that support them.  Let's get the word out and tell the world the truth about Burma!!!  If you add a post or blog to spread awareness of the issue, contact underground and I'll add a link to your story!

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Copyright (C) 2007 Alain Georgette / Copyright (C) 2006 Frantisek Hliva. All rights reserved.