Myanmar ? Myanmar’s military junta rejected a U.N. statement calling for negotiations with the opposition, insisting Friday that it would follow its own plan to bring democracy to the country.

The impoverished country’s main opposition party, however, urged the ruling generals to comply with U.N. demands for negotiations with pro-democracy forces and ethnic minorities, and the release of political prisoners.

State-run TV and radio issued a statement Friday arguing that conditions inside Myanmar – a reference to the anti-government protests that were violently suppressed by troops on Sept. 26 and 27 – were not the concern of the outside world.

“Myanmar’s current situation does not affect regional and international stability,” said the statement, attributed to Col. Thant Shin. “However, we deeply regret that the U.N. Security Council has issued a statement contrary to the people’s desires.”

“The government of Myanmar will continue to implement the seven-step roadmap together with the people,” the statement said, referring to the junta’s plan that promises a new constitution and an eventual transition to democratic rule.