Australia has had diplomatic relations with Myanmar since 1952. Myanmar, one of the poorest countries in the region, is undergoing an unprecedented, complex and challenging set of reforms: a transition to democracy; economic reform; and peace negotiations to end decades of conflict with the country’s ethnic armed groups.
Australia is working to broaden and deepen the bilateral partnership with Myanmar through strengthening government-to-government ties, growing trade and investment and expanding people-to-people links. This is underpinned by Australia’s development assistance that aims to support Myanmar’s reform process by improving the quality of education; promoting peace and stability; and promoting inclusive economic growth and government management.