SINGAPORE — President Barack Obama has attended a meeting with the head of Myanmar's repressive government without directly interacting with the military leader.

Obama and Gen. Thein Sein were among nearly a dozen leaders who met Sunday during a gathering of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. The two men did not come in contact with each other during the time reporters and photographers were allowed in the room.

Myanmar, also known as Burma, ranks high among nations that suppress human rights for their citizens.

A joint statement by the United States and the Asian group made no mention of Burmese human rights activist Aung San Suu Kyi, who has been under house arrest.

White House press secretary Robert Gibbs said Obama would call for her release during the meeting.