Myanmar pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi freed

Waving and smiling, the Nobel Peace Prize winner appeared outside the crumbling lakeside mansion where she had been locked up by the military rulers, to huge cheers and clapping from the waiting crowds.

“We must work together in unison,” she told thousands of waiting people, suggesting she has no intention of giving up her long fight for democracy in what is one of the world’s oldest dictatorships.

“I’m glad that you are welcoming me and supporting me. I want to say that there will be a time to come out. Do not stay quiet when that time comes.”

Many people hugged each other with joy at the sight of the 65-year-old dissident, known in Myanmar simply as “The Lady.”

Wearing a lilac top and purple longyi — Myanmar’s sarong-like traditional dress — she appeared in good health after her latest stretch of detention.

(...) World leaders were quick to welcome her release, with U.S. President Barack Obama hailing her as “a hero of mine” and Prime Minister Stephen Harper called her “an unwavering champion of peace, democracy and respect for human rights.”

Ban Ki-moon, United Nations secretary general, described Suu Kyi as “an inspiration” to the world, but said the junta must free all political prisoners.

Although she has been sidelined and silenced by the regime — occasionally released briefly only to be put back in confinement — for many in the impoverished nation she still embodies hope of a better future.