1. The 6th Meeting on “Myanmar-Japan Joint Initiative (MJJI)” was held today in Nay Pyi Taw, with participation of representatives from both public and private sectors of Japan and Myanmar, under the auspices of the Meeting Co-Chairs, H.E. Dr. Kan Zaw, Union Minister for National Planning and Economic Development and H.E. Mr. Tateshi Higuchi, Ambassador of Japan to Myanmar.

2. “Myanmar-Japan Joint Initiative”, started in May 2013, is a forum to discuss among stake-holders from the two countries of both public and private sectors on concrete measures for expediting improvement of investment climate of Myanmar.

3. At today’s general meeting, participants revisited outcomes and discussed future challenges. In particular, they addressed issues related to tax, business environment and labour, and agreed to further continue discussions. They also consented to establish mechanisms for vitalization of MJJI and smooth information sharing system among parties.

4. Furthermore, following the proposal made at the previous meeting, Japanese side explained the overview of “Myanmar Industrial Development Vision (MIDV)” , which compiled Japan’s ideas on necessary policies for Myanmar’s future industrial development.

5. MIDV is a vision to realize Myanmar’s balanced development between urban and rural areas, being formulated based on the coordination of Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry among other related ministries in Japan. In detail, it proposes ‘Urban-Rural Synergy Strategy’ to create a virtuous cycle of development of foreign capital-led labour intensive industries in urban areas and of agriculture, fishery and forestry industries and local industries such as high value-added textiles in rural areas. Myanmar side welcomed the proposal and agreed to continue a dialogue to reflect MIDV into concrete policies. Also, a seminar for more detailed discussions on MIDV was held separately from MJJI in the morning.