Central Committee for implementing Myanmar-China Border Economic Zone holds first meeting

The Central Committee for implementing the Myanmar-China Border Economic Zone held its first coordination meeting at the Ministry of Commerce in Nay Pyi Taw yesterday. Central committee Chairman Union Minister for Commerce Dr. Than Myint delivered the opening address.

The Union Minister said China is implementing the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road to commercially connect with countries around the world. The Myanmar-China border economic zone is part of the One Belt One Road initiative by China to create economic corridors.

The Myanmar-China economic zone was discussed between Chinese officials and the State Counsellor during her state visit to China in August 2016 and an MoU was signed in May 2017.

The benefits from establishing this economic zone include increased investment from home and abroad, a wider range of regional business opportunities and local employability, development of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) resulting in increased productivity, and increased trade between Myanmar and China, said the Union Minister.

The MoU states that a location should be designated for the economic zone and Kanpiketi near Kachin State and China’s border, Muse in Shan State and Chinshwehaw region are in consideration. The Union Minister implored the attendees to engage in discussions about the MoU’s future operations.

Later, central committee secretary Deputy Minister U Aung Htoo and joint-secretary Director-General of the Department of Trade U Yan Naing Htun gave explanations.

Next, central committee Vice-Chairmen Kachin State Chief Minister Dr. Khet Aung, Shan State Chief Minister Dr. Lin Htut and U Kyauk Htechan, Chairman of the leading body of Kokang Self-Administered Zone, presented their respective region’s investment and economic development, creation of job opportunities for local residents, and implementation of the three designated locations considered in the MoU.

This was followed by the attending deputy ministers, state and region ministers for planning and finance asking questions and affirmations concerning the establishment of the economic zone. Central committee Vice-Chairman Dr. Khet Aung delivered the closing speech.

Myanmar News Agency

Ref; The Global New Light of Myanmar