Myanmar's government today released two photos showing Aung San Suu Kyi, 81, in traditional attire. She is seen smiling, shaking hands, and conversing with an International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) official in a simple room with wooden floors and walls.

The ICRC confirmed its representative met with Suu Kyi, having "the opportunity for a private conversation" with the former Myanmar leader.

Aung San Suu Kyi meets with a representative from the International Committee of the Red Cross in a photo released on 3/8. *Photo: Myanmar Government*

This meeting follows widespread concerns about Suu Kyi's declining health and a campaign by her son, Kim Aris, who demanded proof of her survival from Myanmar authorities.

Myanmar authorities also released two other photos, reportedly showing Suu Kyi's 81st birthday celebration on 19/6. She appears in a white shirt, cutting a pink-frosted cake inscribed with "Happy Birthday Aunt Suu" and the date.

Kim Aris welcomed the ICRC official's visit, calling it a positive step. He expressed hope it would facilitate direct contact with his mother.

"This may be a first step, but it cannot be the last", Reuters quoted him, adding he awaits independent confirmation of his mother's health and safety.

Last December, the Myanmar government declared Suu Kyi "healthy". Following a meeting of Southeast Asian foreign ministers in Bangkok last month, Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow urged Myanmar to grant access to Suu Kyi for verification.

Suu Kyi has been detained since the February 2021 coup led by General Min Aung Hlaing. She faces charges including violating the official secrets act, corruption, and electoral fraud.

Photos released by the Myanmar government show Suu Kyi cutting a birthday cake in June. *Photo: Office of the President of Myanmar*

Initially sentenced to 33 years across various trials, her term was later reduced. She now faces approximately 18 years in prison.

Global leaders and democracy activists have repeatedly called for her release. In late April, Min Aung Hlaing announced a one-sixth reduction of her sentence during an amnesty for thousands of prisoners, transferring Suu Kyi to house arrest.

This is not Suu Kyi's first period of detention. Previous military governments held her under house arrest on three occasions, totaling 15 years, from 1989 to 2010.

By Vu Hoang (According to Al Jazeera, CNN, AFP, Reuters)