The Myanmar government Tuesday expressed explicit opposition to Taiwan authorities' move for a referendum on joining the United Nations, the state-run Myanmar Radio and Television quoted a statement of the Foreign Ministry as reporting in a night broadcast.

"Myanmar is concerned at the undesirable escalation in cross-Strait tensions that could stem from Taiwan's continued push for the referendum as it could affect the peace and stability of the region," the statement said, reiterating Myanmar's "categorical opposition to the Taiwan authorities' any move for 'Taiwan Independence' including the attempt to hold the referendum on joining the United Nations".

"As a close and friendly neighbor of the People's Republic of China, Myanmar consistently adheres to the 'One China Policy' and always regards Taiwan as an integral part of the People's Republic of China", it added.

(Xinhua News Agency March 19, 2008)