Obama to Burma: Supportive, but cautious

President Obama spent only six hours in Burma, applauding the nation's moves toward democracy, but taking pains to remind its military leaders that they have taken only initial steps.

Speaking at the University of Yangon, Obama noted that the United States "now has an ambassador in Rangoon, sanctions have been eased, and we will help rebuild an economy that can offer opportunity for its people, and serve as an engine of growth for the world."

"But," he added, "this remarkable journey has just begun, and has much further to go. Reforms launched from the top of society must meet the aspirations of citizens who form its foundation. The flickers of progress that we have seen must not be extinguished -- they must be strengthened; they must become a shining North Star for all this nation's people."

Among the goals for Burma: No political prisoners, freedom of assembly, eliminating media censorship, and the power of the vote for Burmese citizens.

Huge crowds lined the street for the first-ever visit of U.S. president to Burma, also known as Myanmar.

The U.S. has hopes for better relations with Burma, another key country in a growing Asian rivalry with China.

Notes of caution were also sounded as Obama visited Burmese democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi, who has spent more than a decade under house arrest by the nation's military regime.

"The most difficult time in any transition is when we think that success is in sight," Suu Kyi said with Obama at her side. "We have to be very careful that we're not lured by the mirage of success."