I welcome the announcement today of the election of His Excellency U Htin Kyaw as President of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar. I congratulate the people of Myanmar on this historic step in its ongoing political transition.
I also wish to acknowledge the role of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and her long struggle for a democratic Myanmar. Her ongoing unifying role in Myanmar’s political and economic development will be vital.
I recognise too the leadership of outgoing president, His Excellency U Thein Sein, in Myanmar’s remarkable reform process since 2011 and in facilitating a peaceful transfer of responsibility to the National League for Democracy.
Australia will continue to work with Myanmar to support its ongoing development and reform for the benefit of all the people of Myanmar.