Minister Creighton meets Foreign Minister of Myanmar (Burma) - first ministerial meeting between the two countries

Minister Creighton meets Foreign Minister of Myanmar (Burma) - first ministerial meeting between the two countries.

Minister for European Affairs, Ms. Lucinda Creighton T.D., met Mr. Wunna Maung Lwin, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Myanmar (Burma) earlier today.

Minister Creighton is attending the 19th ASEAN-EU Meeting of Asian and European foreign ministers in Brunei.

The Minister had lengthy discussions with Mr. Wunna Maung Lwin on a range of issues including the significant political and economic reforms occurring in Myanmar (Burma). 

Speaking after the first formal ministerial meeting between the two countries, Minister Creighton said: "Myanmar/Burma is in the process of undergoing an important transformation.   In addition to the welcome political progress the government is continuing with a string programme of economic reform.   Ireland has always remained ready to respond positively to genuine progress towards democratisation. "

"I am very hopeful that recent developments will facilitate increased cooperation between the European Union and Burma as it continues its journey of reform."

During the meeting Minister Creighton enquired about progress after the recent flooding.

"Ireland has a strong humanitarian relationship with the people of Myanmar/Burma and has funded organisations working in the country for a number of years, giving €6 million over four years to NGOs and missionaries working on long term and emergency responses."

Earlier the Minister met the Sultan of Brunei, His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah.

Minister Creighton also met Ministers from Singapore, The Philippines, Indonesia and Thailand. The Minister took the opportunity to brief her colleagues on the Irish economic situation and encouraged them to invest in Ireland's recovery.

Last night Minister Creighton addressed an influential economic society in Singapore.

Press Office
26 April, 2012