Burmese politicians and activists shocked by the assassination of an adviser to leader Aung San Suu Kyi gathered on Monday at a cemetery for an emotional funeral ceremony.

The highest-ranking American diplomat to visit Burma in 14 years offered improved relations if the country's military regime moves toward democracy.

Detained Burmese opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi was today set to meet senior US State Department officials.

A senior US diplomat said America was pushing China, India and Japan to use their influence to increase pressure on Burma’s military leaders after the brutal crackdown on pro-democracy protesters.