IMF steps up engagement with Myanmar

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A staff team led by a senior official of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has been visiting Myanmar between Jan. 31 and Feb. 6 to discuss matters regarding improving the relations between the Washington-based global lender and the Southeast Asian nation.

Anoop Singh, director of the Asia and Pacific Department of the IMF speaks during an IMF press conference during the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank spring meetings in Washington D.C.,the United States, on April 20, 2012. (Xinhua/Fang Zhe)

The IMF team, which was led by Anoop Singh, Director of the IMF 's Asia Pacific Department, with the purpose of strengthening engagement between the two sides, met with senior government officials of Myanmar and had discussions with civil society representatives and development partners, said the IMF in a statement Tuesday.

"Myanmar has embarked on a historic set of reforms to modernize and open up its economy. Managed well, these reforms will facilitate strong and inclusive growth that reduces poverty," said Singh in the statement. "The government has made rapid strides over the last two years and important macroeconomic reforms such as the managed float of the exchange rate are already bearing fruit. The government recognizes there is still a long way to go and further policy reform will be essential to deliver sustained inclusive growth."

In addition to regular staff visits, the IMF will enhance its capacity building program including through increased support from the Thailand-based technical assistance office. It also aims to open a resident representative office in Myanmar, according to Singh.