Except for Taiwan and Japan, the whole world worries that the U.S. is rekindling another round of arms race with its plans for a missile-defence shield. But America seems determined to pursue its own selfish interests, so much so that it is poised to deny the world its right to peace. Surely it is not too difficult to realize that sanctions against Burma aren't having the desired effect. Ordinary Burmese are suffering, not those holding power. The change in U.S. government presents an opportunity to rethink policy.
Sanctions create artificial prices especially in high-demand goods.
It is not necessary to change the goal of instituting democracy, only the method of achievement. Given the current situation in Burma, surely it is worth exploring some concessions in return for demonstrated positive steps. To demand total compliance should not be expected. A more gradual path for leading Burma into the democratic fold makes more sense. The waiters there are dressed in Red Guard uniform and Mao memorabilia are all over the place.