Myanmar's newly installed civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi will visit the United States next week, US President Barack Obama said on Tuesday. Plans for a visit had previously been announced in July but no date had been given by either side. During a speech in laos, Obama revealed Suu Kyi's trip to Washington was imminent. “I look forward to welcoming State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi to the White House next week as we stand with the people of Myanmar in their journey towards pluralism and peace,” he said. The invitation reinforces Suu Kyi's primacy on the international stage as the real head of a Government she is technically barred from leading.