Myanmar president to visit Yolanda-hit areas

MANILA, Philippines - Myanmar President U Thein Sein is expected to arrive in the country today for his state visit and meet with President Benigno Aquino III.

 

Secretary Sonny Coloma of the Presidential Communications Operations Office said the Philippines and Myanmar will hold bilateral talks and sign agreements on cooperation on trade and investments, food security and agriculture, renewable energy, information cooperation and visa exemption of ordinary passport holders.

 

Coloma said an agreement to expand business opportunities and trade relations will also be signed by representatives from the chambers of commerce and industry of both countries.

 

"After the signing of agreements, the Ministry of Social Welfare, Relief, and Resettlement of Myanmar and the Department of Social Welfare and Development shall have an exchange of notes on the turnover of Myanmar’s donation for the victims of the Central Visayas earthquake and Typhoon Yolanda," Coloma said.

 

He said the Myanmar president will also visit some areas hit by the recent typhoon, Cebu and the International Research Institute in Los Baños, Laguna to explore possible investment opportunities in the agriculture sector.

 

Sein and his official party are also scheduled to participate in a wreath-laying ceremony at Luneta Park on Thursday to honor Dr. Jose Rizal.

 

He would also join President Aquino and the Cabinet in a State luncheon.