Australia opens its arms to Myanmar’s president
PRESIDENT Thein Sein yesterday became Myanmar’s first head of state to visit Australia since 1974, winning aid and defence concessions as he reaps new fruits of his liberalisation policies.
As the once pariah country approaches the second anniversary of a quasi-civilian regime led by the ex-general taking power, Canberra said it was increasing its support to recognise the reforms.
“As a close neighbour, Australia will benefit from a more open and prosperous Myanmar that is fully integrated into the region,” said Prime Minister Julia Gillard of the country also known as Burma.
“Australia’s commitment to expand its constructive engagement with Myanmar recognises the unprecedented process of change underway there towards political freedom and the new opportunity this brings to help promote the prosperity of Myanmar and its people.”
While Canberra said its arms embargo would remain, it announced an easing of restrictions on defence co-operation including humanitarian and disaster relief activities, as well as peacekeeping.
It will also appoint a defence attache to Myanmar and a trade commissioner.
Gillard said A$20 million (US$20.7 million) would be provided over two years for “strengthening democratic institutions, promoting human rights, improving economic governance and advancing the rule of law”.
It will include funding for the Myanmar Human Rights Commission and a visit by Myanmar ministers to Australia to draw on the experience of mining experts.
Mining is considered vital to the Asian nation’s future, but