Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has challenged Myanmar's leaders to expand its reforms on her historic visit to the Southeast Asian nation.

Clinton is the first U.S. diplomat to visit the country in 50 years.

***CBN News Sr. International Correspondent Gary Lane has covered the persecution of Christians in Myanmar for several years. Read his latest blog entry about the Burma Army's latest attacks on Christians.

Clinton said America is ready to improve its relationship with the civilian government of the country, also known as Burma.

But that can only happen, the secretary warned, if it stays on a path to democracy by releasing political prisoners and ending ethnic violence.

Clinton stated that the country must also break military ties with North Korea.

On Thursday, Clinton is scheduled to meet with opposition leader and Nobel peace laureate Aung San Suu Kyi.

It is the first time the two women have met in person, although they have spoken by telephone. Clinton has often called Suu Kyi a personal inspiration.

Meanwhile, Myanmar's military continues a new wave of persecution against Myanamar Christians.

Earlier this month both Christian Solidarity Worldwide and The Voice of the Martyrs confirmed Burmese Army attacks in Kachin State.