Japan has started issuing multiple-entry visas to Myanmar nationals as part of efforts to increase tourism and expand bilateral exchanges, the Foreign Ministry said.

A multiple visa will be valid for up to three years, allowing a bearer to stay in Japan for up to 15 days in a single visit. Myanmar nationals had been required to obtain single-entry visas to enter Japan.

The two countries are marking the 60th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic relations this year.

In a meeting with Myanmar President Thein Sein in December in Tokyo, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe pledged about ¥63 billion in new loans to develop a special economic zone, upgrade a railway network and promote other infrastructure projects in Myanmar.

The two governments also signed a bilateral investment treaty to boost Japanese investment in the Southeast Asian country.