This Article is From Jun 21, 2011

SM Krishna in Myanmar on bilateral agreements with his counterparts

Nay Pyi Taw: External Affairs Minister SM Krishna arrived here today in Myanmar's new capital for talks with the top leaders of the newly-elected civilian government on issues like security, trade and economy.

Krishna, who stayed overnight in Yangon, the old capital of Myanmar, was welcomed at the Nay Pyi Taw airport by Dr Myo Myint, Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs and Party besides other officials.

Foreign Secretary Nirupama Rao and Indian Ambassador to Myanmar V S Seshadri are accompanying Krishna, who is here on a three-day visit.

A number of bilateral agreements are also likely to be signed at the end of a meeting with his counterpart.

Krishna will also call on the country's Vice President Thiha Thura U Tin Aung Myint Oo.

Sources said besides security cooperation, trade and economy will also be the focus of the talks. Bilateral trade has expanded significantly from USD12.4 million in 1980-81 to USD 1.2 billion in 2009-10.

The trade turnover had shot up in 2009-10, doubling just in two years. India is the fourth largest trading partner of Myanmar after Thailand, Singapore and China. India is also the thirteenth largest investor with an investment estimated at USD 189 million in five projects.

However, China is the biggest investor in Myanmar with investments totalling to about USD 9.6 billion. Sources said India is keen to increase the trade relations with Myanmar and help the country in carrying out various infrastructure projects besides providing technical training to its youth.

The sources said the minister's visit is an opportunity to engage with the new civilian government which took over in March.

Earlier in the day, Krishna inaugurated three of the10 rice silos being constructed in Yangon with India's assistance. The rice silos are specially designed keeping in mind the high humidity factor in the country and the frequent spells of rain.


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