Hilary Clinton announces US easing of Burma import ban

US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has said the US will ease its import ban on Burma that had been a key plank of remaining American economic sanctions.
"In recognition of the continued progress toward reform and in response to requests from both the government and the opposition, the United States is taking the next step in normalizing our commercial relationship," Ms Clinton said.
She made the announcement during a meeting with President Thein Sein on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly.
"We will begin the progress of easing restrictions on imports of Burmese goods into the US," she said.
"We hope this will provide more opportunities for your people to sell their goods into our market."
The announcement follows the Obama administration's resumption of normal diplomatic relations and the suspension of a US investment ban.
"We are very grateful for the actions of the United States," Thein Sein said.
Wednesday's third ever face-to-face between Ms Clinton and Thein Sein was warm, a US State Department official said, speaking on condition of anonymity.
It began with the Burmese leader handing Ms Clinton a letter to President Barack Obama.
Ms Clinton offered US help in Burma's efforts for peace with its different ethnic minorities and in clearing mines from the country.
She also urged the end of Burma's military relations with North Korea.