House OKs Bill to Ease Burma Aid Restriction

21 September 2012

The House of Representatives has backed legislation that eases another restriction on the US providing aid to Burma. The bill, which still has to pass the Senate, would allow the US to provide financial aid to the country through the World Bank, the Asian Development Bank and the International Monetary Fund. The measure was approved late Wednesday, hours after Congress presented Burmese opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi its highest honor. During her visit, Suu Kyi has endorsed the easing of remaining sanctions. Currently legislation requires the U.S. to veto such lending to Burma.—AP