The ability to accept diversity and to live together harmoniously was essential to achieve internal peace, Mr Clinton said in the comments to members of government organisations, political parties and civil society groups.

Mr Clinton said the reform process underway in Myanmar had been praised around the world.

“The whole world cheers every piece of good news and is sick every time they read about sectarian violence,” he said.

“Because everywhere on earth, people are tired of people killing each other because of their differences.”

The former US president also said his Clinton Foundation was ready to work with the government to support Myanmar’s education, health and business sectors.

“Our Clinton Foundation would like to work closely with Myanmar, which is gradually changing for the good,” he said, adding that he would be discussing the assistance that could be provided with President U Thein Sein.

“I would like to help Myanmar’s education, health and business sectors to develop,” Mr Clinton said.

Mr Clinton established the foundation in 2001 to provide assistance to health care and social welfare in countries throughout the world.

Among those at the peace center event was U Ko Ko Gyi, a leader of the 88 Generation Student group’s Peace and Open Society organization, who said that while Mr Clinton’s perspectives were accurate, the social and political situation in the country were more complicated than might appear.

On the issue of national reconciliation, U Ko Ko Gyi said he welcomed Mr Clinton’s suggestion that efforts to achieve peace and national unity should involve civil society groups and those affected by war, as well as high-level organisations.