Russia has put a price tag of half a billion dollars on plans to build a nuclear "research" center in Burma, one of the world's poorest countries, where electricity is a luxury for most inhabitants. Rangoon's new diplomatic friend North Korea set a precedent for a destitute country managing to find the means to develop nuclear capabilities. But many Burma watchers take the view that on the issue of nuclear power there is little comparison between the North Korean and Burmese regimes. The former is run by a dynastic demagogue, while the latter is controlled by self-enriching generals who rarely dip into their pockets to pay for anything.
Russia, Burma Discuss Joint Nuclear Project, But Deal Not Yet Done
