US Extends Sanctions Against Myanmar

Amid news of ethnic violence and fears of democratic reforms failing

The Obama administration extended by one year targeted US sanctions against Myanmar, a move aimed at preventing backsliding on democratic reforms.

But the administration on Thursday also eased some of the US visa restrictions imposed against Myanmar's former military regime in recognition of the nation's shift from authoritarian rule.

The actions come as expectation mounts that Myanmar's reformist President Thein Sein will visit the White House this month.

It would be the first such visit by a Myanmar leader since 1966.