(ROME) - The European Union's special envoy for Myanmar, Piero Fassino, on Monday welcomed the military regime's decision to sign a charter that commits it to respecting ideals of democracy and human rights.

"The announcement of the ratification by Myanmar of the ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) charter which commits member countries to respect human rights and democratic conduct is a positive and substantial move," Fassino said in a statement.

"We hope that the Myanmar authorities are now going to take consistent steps towards talks with the opposition, the release of Aung San Suu Kyi and other political prisoners, as well as proper respect for the civil and human rights of all the people of Myanmar."

Fassino, an Italian, added that the EU "appreciates" the growing role taken by ASEAN and intends to support initiatives aimed at strengthening democracy and stability in Southeast Asia.

The EU special envoy has carried out numerous trips to the region in the past few months and has stepped up contacts with ASEAN members.

In the charter, ASEAN members commit "to strengthen democracy, enhance good governance and the rule of law, and to promote and protect human rights and fundamental freedoms."

ASEAN has been widely criticised for its policy of "constructive engagement" regarding Myanmar, which is under EU and United States sanctions over its human rights record.

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