Premier of Burma, Now Visiting U.s., Says Israel is “wonderful”

“Love” for the people of Israel and warm appreciation of their “energetic” labors in building their land were expressed here by U Nu, Prime Minister of Burma, who is now visiting the United States. Mr. Nu had spent a week in Israel on his way westward, and had refused to visit Egypt after the latter country’s diplomats had indicated in advance that they wanted him to stop in Cairo but skip Israel territory.

One of the three most powerful of Asian leaders in the neutralist bloc–the two others being India’s Pandit Nehru and Indonesia’s Premier Satsroamidjojo–Mr. Nu has been an outspoken friend of Israel since the Jewish State was founded.

“I had a very nice visit in Israel,” he told the Jewish Telegraphic Agency correspondent. “I spent seven days there. Israel is wonderful.” Asked for his impressions of Israel, Mr. Nu declared: “I was particularly impressed by the energetic labors of the Israeli people. They are turning stones into building materials. They are digging up the land, erecting cities, constructing roads, making gardens out of wilderness. You know, I love people who are brave. What the Israelis are doing is brave, wonderful, courageous.”

The Burmese statesman said he was particularly impressed with the work being done in the collective settlements, the Kibbutzim. He had been through a number of kibbutzim, part of the time escorted by Israel’s Prime Minister Moshe Sharett. He had spent one night in Dganiyah. And his total impression, he reported, was one of a “brave” people dedicated to constructive activities.

Mr. Nu revealed that, while he was in London, he had a visit from Israel’s Ambassador to Rangoon, David Hacohen. “I had asked Mr. Hacohen to see me in London, and he was good enough to come there to speak with me. We had a useful talk.” He did not elaborate on the subject of his conversation with Mr. Hacohen.