The chorus among world leaders that India and China help in defusing the escalating crisis in Myanmar grew loud with US President George W Bush [Images], saying that countries having influence with the military regime tell its leaders to halt the crackdown on protestors.

"I call on all nations that have influence with the regime to join us in supporting the aspirations of the Burmese people and to tell the junta to cease using force on its own people, who are peacefully expressing their desire for change," Bush said in a statement.

At the White House, the spokesperson was asked if Bush was reaching out directly to countries like China and India, the two most influential neighbors of Myanmar, with a view to applying pressure on the regime in Yangon.

"Obviously, we've, working through Gambari, the UN envoy, who is working with the international community. He's on his way there. He'll be there tomorrow," Dana Perino, the press secretary, replied.

As the crackdown against the protestors in Myanmar escalated, world leaders wanted regional powers like India to play a role to belp in bringing democracy in the troubled nation.

Condemning the violence in Myanmar, Bush said every civilised nation "has a responsibility' to stand up for the people of Myanmar.

"The world is watching the people of Burma take to the streets to demand their freedom, and the American people stand in solidarity with these brave individuals. We feel admiration and compassion for the monks and peaceful protesters calling for democracy," Bush said referring to Myanmar's old name.

"Every civilized nation has a responsibility to stand up for people suffering under a brutal military regime like the one that has ruled Burma for too long."