US House Renews Burma Sanctions

Posted July 21st, 2011 at 9:30 am (UTC-5)
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The U.S. House of Representatives has renewed sanctions against Burma.

Lawmakers adopted the measure by a voice vote on Wednesday.

The sanctions have been renewed annually since they were first passed in 2003 in response to alleged human rights violations in Burma and a lack of democratic reforms.

The sanctions ban the import of certain goods from Burma, including gems, and restricts visas issued to Burmese government officials.

The U.S. Senate is also expected to renew the measure, sending the legislation to President Barack Obama to sign into law.

Earlier this year, President Obama extended a separate set of sanctions that bar U.S. investment in Burma.