Myanmar seeks to establish diplomatic ties with Angola

Myanmar seeks to establish diplomatic ties with Angola

Published on Friday, 16 August 2013 17:57

The Myanmar's Parliament has agreed to establish diplomatic relations with the Republic of Angola on August 15, according to sources in parliament.

The proposal was submitted by President Thein Sein. Thant Kyaw, Foreign Deputy Minister, reported to the Union Assembly to seek approval for carrying out new diplomatic ties with Angola.

Myanmar now has a diplomatic presence in 112 countries including Angola. In section 206 of the Constitution stipulates that the president can establish diplomatic relations with foreign countries with the Union Assembly's agreement.

Thant Kyaw urged to the Union Assembly to agree to establish a bilateral relationship between Myanmar and Angola.

Angola gained its independence from the Portuguese in 1975. A brutal civil war ensued which lasted several decades and claimed millions of lives only ending after a ceasefire in 2002. Since then Angola has become one of the fastest growing economies in Africa, with an average GDP growth of 20 percent between 2005 and 2007.

The country is rich in natural resources with diamonds and oil being the country's dominant exports, accounting for up 60 percent of Angola's economic growth. China is also Angola's biggest trade partner and export destination as well as the fourth-largest importer.

Source: http://www.news.myanmaronlinecentre.com/2013/08/17/myanmar-seeks-to-establish-diplomatic-ties-with-angola/