Pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi thanked Canada and other countries for maintaining sanctions on Myanmar, saying they were aiding its transition to democracy.

"Canada has helped us greatly with regard to our movement towards democracy," she

said in a speech by video link to Carleton University on Wednesday, according to the Canadian Press.

She added that Myanmar's new civilian leaders were responding to the economic pressure from Canada and other Western powers by agreeing further reforms.

"The way in which you can continue to help us is to keep up your awareness of what is happening in Burma," said Suu Kyi, an international symbol of peaceful democratic protest followingyears of house arrest.

"Don't be too optimistic. Don't be too pessimistic. Try to see things as they are and try to keep contact with the ordinary people of Burma.