Ban speaks at Myanmar parliament

UN General Secretary Ban spokes on Monday  in Myanmar parliament to the legislators of the long isolated country for their advances to the democratic process.  Ban said Myanmar has the potential to move ahead with peace and prosperity..Ban is scheduled to meet pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi in the largest city of Yangon on Tuesday to discuss future UN aid.

Un Secretary General Ban Ki-moon spoke at Myanmar's parliament in Naypyidaw on Monday. It was the first speech in the parliament by a foreign dignitary.Ban said Myanmar will quickly catch up with its Asian neighbors and the fast-changing world. He also said the country has the potential to become a 21st century model for peace, democracy and prosperity.He called on the country to stay on the path of democracy.

He also urged the international community to go even further in lifting and suspending sanctions on Myanmar.
He said the country needs a substantial increase in aid and investment.

Ban met earlier with President Thein Sein to push for reconciliation with ethnic minority groups. He also asked the president to attend the UN General Assembly in September to explain the country's democratic progress.