Myanmar’s Thein Sein to visit PH

MANILA, Philippines – President Thein Sein of Myanmar will be in Manila for a state visit from December 4 to 6.

The historic visit is upon the invitation of President Benigno S. Aquino III, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said Monday, November 25.

Aquino and Thein Sein will meet to discuss issues of mutual concern, particularly in the areas of trade and investment, agriculture, energy, cultural exchanges and information cooperation, among others.

They will also discuss regional issues, including Myanmar’s historic chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) next year. (READ: Myanmar takes lead role in ASEAN)

The last time a head of state from Myanmar visited the Philippines was in 2005 when Prime Minister Soe Win visited Manila. This is Thein Sein’s first visit to the Philippines since his assumption to office in 2011.

Thein Sein is a former military leader and is considered by some of his constituents as a moderate and reformist in the post-junta government. (READ: Myanmar: Prison, parliament and the Internet)

The two leaders had their first bilateral meeting in Nay Pyi Taw on June 07, 2013, when Aquino attended the World Economic Forum (WEF) on East Asia hosted by Myanmar.

The Philippines will host the WEF along with the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation Summit in 2015. 

Myanmar recently donated 7 tons of relief goods and US$100,000 to the victims of Super Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan).

The Philippines and Myanmar established diplomatic relations in 1956 and will celebrate the 60th anniversary of their relations in 2016. – Rappler.com