YANGON, Myanmar - Myanmar's opposition National League for Democracy (NLD), led by veteran politician Aung San Suu Kyi, said on Tuesday it wanted talks with Western nations on how to modify sanctions against the country, a move signaling its greater flexibility.

"The NLD calls for discussions with the United States, the European Union, Canada and Australia with a view to reaching agreement on when, how and under what circumstances sanctions might be modified," the party statement said.

The statement comes a day after NLD Vice-Chairman Tin Oo said the party recommended maintaining Western sanctions against the country.

Suu Kyi, who was released from house arrest on Nov 13, had backed the sanctions as part of her fight against the country's government.

But soon after her release, Suu Kyi indicated she might recommend the lifting of the embargoes, which prompted a flurry of diplomatic activity and attracted wide attention in the West.

Around the same time, Myanmar launched a drive to attract investment, touting its tourism potential and abundant supplies of gemstones, timber, oil and gas, much of which has remained intact because of sanctions.

Many experts see the sanctions as Suu Kyi's best, and perhaps only, bargaining chip - one she might continue to hold to remain relevant in Myanmar's fast-changing political landscape.

Suu Kyi and the NLD have no official political role in Myanmar having boycotted the Nov 7 election. It has since been officially disbanded for refusing to take part, despite repeated court appeals.

Myanmar's newly-elected parliament convened last week and chose Thein Sien as the new president of the country.

Reuters