US concerned over Suu Kyi's safety

The United States has expressed deep concern over health and well being of Myanmar's pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi, who according to US administration has begun a hunger strike, and urged the military junta to release her immediately.

"The United States has learned that Burma's (Myanmar) pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi is on a hunger strike to protest her illegal detention by that country's military regime," state department deputy spokesman Philip Reeker said.

"We are deeply concerned for her safety and well-being. The Burmese authorities have full responsibility for her health, having placed her in so-called 'protective custody' since a May 30 premeditated attack on her convoy," he said in a statement.

The United States called for her immediate release as well as the release of her National League for Democracy colleagues and all political prisoners in the country.

"We urge the Burmese authorities to enter into a serious political dialogue with all of Burma's political parties for an amicable solution," the spokesman said.

Noting the Nobel laureate's struggle against the ruling military rulers, he said, "This courageous leader of the National League for Democracy and proponent of non-violent political change, has placed herself at risk on many occasions in pursuit of democracy and respect for basic human rights in Burma."

Suu Kyi was arrested on May 30 together with dozens of her supporters, after pro-government forces allegedly attacked her convey during a provincial tour, killing several opposition members and sparking international condemnation of the regime and calls for her release.