United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon will travel to Burma later this week to observe the country's transition from military dictatorship to democracy.

Mr. Ban said Tuesday he will visit Burma on the invitation of President Thein Sein. The U.N. chief said his visit comes at a “critical moment” as Burma — also known as Myanmar – begins to embrace a series of democratic reforms introduced by the new civilian-led government.

“Myanmar is only at the beginning of its transition. Many challenges lie ahead, many concerns have yet to be addressed. Yet I am convinced that we have an unprecedented opportunity to help the country advance toward a better future.”

This will be Mr. Ban's third trip to Burma, and his first since the new government launched its political reforms. He will hold talks with President Thein Sein and opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi, who won a seat in parliament during by-elections earlier this month.

Meanwhile, Canada announced Tuesday it is suspending sanctions against Burma in recognition of its moves toward democracy.

Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird said that sanctions on imports, exports and financial transactions will be dropped, but that an embargo on sales of arms and military technology will stay in place.

The European Union announced Monday it is suspending most sanctions against Burma for a year. The temporary suspension gives the 27-member bloc leverage to pressure the Burmese government to adopt more reforms.

British Foreign Secretary William Hague said Monday that Burma has made “great progress,” but he noted ongoing human rights issues, including political prisoners and fighting in Kachin state.

EU foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton said she will travel to Burma later this week to deliver the messages from the European Council and also to open the European Union office there.