Yangoon, Dec. 4 (ANI): The Burmese Supreme Court has decided to hear detained opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi’s appeal against the 18-month extension of her house arrest. The Nobel peace prize laureate was found guilty of violating the terms of her house arrest after she allowed an American citizen to stay when he swam across a lake to her villa.

The conviction of Suu Kyi, 64, who has been held for fourteen of the past 20 years, provoked an international outcry over what was perceived to be a crude effort to sideline her from elections scheduled for next year, The Telegraph reports.

But Friday’s decision to hear her case on December 21 seems to be the Military Junta’s effort to appear to be seen to be going through the legal process.

Nyan Win, a spokesman for Suu Kyi’s National League for Democracy, confirmed that the court had agreed to allow the appeal, but had no knowledge of any other details.

As the US is engaging with the military regime while maintaining sanctions, the EU has said it wishes sustained dialogue with Burma.

Last month Suu Kyi held talks with US Assistant Secretary of State, Kurt Campbell, and made a rare appearance before the media.

He is the most senior US official to visit Burma in 14 years and signalled a slight thaw in relations.

The EU ambassador for the region, David Lipman, held talks with the reclusive Burmese leader, Than Shwe.

“We had a good discussion about future relations between the European Union and Burma [Burma] and we are looking forward,” said Ambassador Lipman.

“I think the government would like to engage with the European Union. They are already engaging with the United States.” (ANI)