The Government of Japan, under its Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP) Scheme, has extended assistance of US$18,369 for the cost of shipping four fire engines donated by the local government in Shiga Prefecture of Japan, through Japan-Myanmar Association for Culture & Economic Exchange (JMACE) for “the Project for Strengthening of Myanmar Fire Services Department in Yangon Region”.

The handover ceremony of 4 fire engines took place in Yangon Regional Fire Services Department on 15 January 2018. Ms. Tomoko YOSHIHIRO, Counsellor of the Embassy of Japan, U Tin Moe, Director General for Myanmar Fire Services Department (MFSD) and Mr. Satoshi IHATA, President of JMACE, attended the ceremony.

The life-saving activities of MFSD will be more effective through the project. Moreover, MFSD will also be able to respond quickly and effectively to disasters, utilizing the vehicles. This is expected to be of great assistance in creating a safe living environment for the people and to contribute to the urban development of Myanmar.

The Government of Japan has assisted 833 various grass-roots projects in Myanmar under the GGP scheme since 1993: the number consisting of 406 education projects, 199 healthcare projects, 139 public welfare and environment projects, 54 infrastructure projects and 35 other projects. It is anticipated that these assistances will further strengthen the existing friendly relations between Japan and Myanmar.