New York- A three-member delegation from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) on Wednesday called on the UN Security Council to adopt binding measures demanding democracy in Myanmar (Burma). The delegation said the situation in Myanmar, ruled by a military junta, is "rapidly deteriorating."

"We urge the council to adopt a binding resolution that will require the Burmese military to implement a plan for national reconciliation and transition to democracy with particular phases and time frame," said Djoko Susilo of Indonesia.

The delegation is part of ASEAN inter-parliamentary caucus dealing with issues in Myanmar.

Loretta Etta Rosales of the Philippines said the military regime has drafted at least 70,000 child soldiers in the fight against ethnic groups demanding autonomy in Myanmar. The conflict has sent thousands of refugees streaming into neighboring countries.

Rosales said the ethnic conflict is threatening peace and security in the region and the world.

Thailand's former Senator Jon Ungphakorn said Myanmar has become a "hot potato" for Southeast Asia, requiring international efforts to end the military dictatorship in that country.

The delegation was at UN headquarters to discuss possible action now that the UN Security Council has put the situation in Myanmar on its agenda of discussion. It also urged continued UN mediation for a substantive political dialogue by parties concerned in Myanmar to work out a unified international strategy towards that country.

The military regime in Myanmar has turned down repeated appeals for democratization, national reconciliation and release of political prisoners, including Daw Aung Suu Kyi, head of the opposition National League for Democracy