Following a successful bilateral meeting in April, Japan and Myanmar are already forging ahead to strengthen bilateral relations further rather than resting on their laurels.
Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda described his April 21 meeting with Myanmar President Thein Sein in Tokyo as "historic," and announced that Japan will reinstate full financial assistance to the country to support its fledgling democratic transition, boost economic development and encourage national reconciliation.
Standing next to Noda after their meeting, Thein Sein, 67, told reporters the two countries have "turned a new page in (bilateral) ties." His trip to Japan was the first by a Myanmar head of state in 28 years.