Ban Ki Moon's breath-holding contest with Burma

A bit of breath-holding is in order today as international aid agencies test Burma's promise to allow the agencies to move freely in cyclone-damaged areas. After UN Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon's visit with Burmese officials a few days ago, the junta agreed to allow international aid agency personnel greater access to the areas hit hardest by Cyclone Nargis. My guess is that what develops over the next few days will be a mixed bag given the military government's propensity for playing not-so-subtle cat and mouse games with the international community. But let's hope that the desire to save face pushes the junta to do the right thing.