The 1st meeting of “Myanmar-Japan Joint Initiative” was held today between the representatives of both public and private sectors of Japan and Myanmar*, at the Ministry of National Planning and Economic Development, Nay Pyi Taw, under the Co-Chairs of H.E. Dr. Kan Zaw, Minister for National Planning and the Economic Development of the Government of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar and H.E. Mr. Mikio NUMATA, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to the Republic of the Union of Myanmar.

“Myanmar-Japan Joint Initiative” is a forum to identify and prioritize concrete measures for improving investment and trade environment in Myanmar. Concerned parties from both public and private sectors of two countries held candid dialogue in a wide range of areas related to the business and investment, including visa issuance, trade policy, taxation and daily business climate.

The participants agreed to continue to hold meetings under this Joint Initiative in the future, as appropriate, according to the request from each party, and to make public its progress and outcome in a proactive manner.

Since its opening in November 2012, MPC has been playing a pivotal role for inclusive dialogues for peace building in this country.

* Participants from Japanese side: the Embassy of Japan in Myanmar, the Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Yangon (JCCY), Yangon Japanese Association, Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Myanmar Office and Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) in Yangon.

Participants from Myanmar side: relevant ministries of the Government of Myanmar, including the Ministry of National Planning and Economic Development, the Republic of the Union of Myanmar Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry (UMFCCI), and the concerned industry associations.