Suu Kyi: France’s revolutionary spirit inspired political struggle
Myanmar pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi (R) is welcomed by French President François Hollande at the Elysee presidential Palace in Paris, on June 26, 2012.
Myanmar's pro-democracy activist Aung San Suu Kyi said Tuesday that France's revolutionary spirit inspired her during years of house arrest.
Suu Kyi met new French President Francois Hollande in Paris, where she is wrapping up a 17-day European tour. She returns to Myanmar, otherwise known as Burma, at the end of the week on June 29.
Reuters reported Suu Kyi said "I try to read a little bit of French everyday so I am always in touch with France and the thoughts and ideas that have made France one of the foremost champions of liberty."
"It would be difficult for me to say in a few short (words) what France means to me (but) the revolutionary spirit of France has always been inspirational to me in my political struggle," she told reporters during a joint news conference with Hollande.
More from GlobalPost: Aung San Suu Kyi visiting France on last leg of European tour
Agence France Presse reported the Nobel Peace laureate called for investment in her country but stressed it should not be at the expense of current political reforms.
Hollande affirmed France will support "all actors" in Myanmar's reforms and he would host President Thein Sein if he wanted to visit.
The 67-year-old has already visited Britain, Switzerland, Ireland, Norway, where she received her 1991 Nobel Peace Prize.
More from GlobalPost: Burma rebooted
The article you just read is free because dedicated readers and listeners like you chose to support our nonprofit newsroom. Our team works tirelessly to ensure you hear the latest in international, human-centered reporting every weekday. But our work would not be possible without you. We need your help.
Make a gift today to help us reach our $25,000 goal and keep The World going strong. Every gift will get us one step closer.