It said the minister, Aung Kyi, a retired general, would act as “liaison minister” but did not elaborate on what this responsibility would involve. State television said the appointment came after a recommendation by a United Nations envoy, Ibrahim Gambari, during a visit to Myanmar last week. (Source: New York Times)

The New Light of Myanmar did not mention the UN Security Council, but analysts have said that the regime is trying to make a few token gestures to ward off a harsh Council statement, or possible sanctions. (Source: AFP)

On Friday, Gambari said that Council unity was "key to really getting Myanmar authorities to move along the lines that we all want, which is a peaceful, democratic Myanmar, with full respect for human rights." (Source: AFP)