Australia to assist Myanmar in reform process

Australia has vowed to assist Myanmar in its political reform process and a wide range of sectors, including education and health, media reported Wednesday.

It was pledged by visiting Governor-General of Commonwealth of Australia Quentin Bryce when she met Myanmar President U Thein Sein in Nay Pyi Taw Tuesday, reported Xinhua.

Quentin offered to provide scholarships to outstanding Myanmar university students, technical assistance for capacity building of lectures, teaching aid in basic education schools, access to modern teaching methods, construction of schools in rural and border areas in the country.

Quentin also pledged Australia's assistance for Myanmar's maternal and child welfare undertakings and farm sector development, encouraging big investment by Australian entrepreneurs.

The pair also discussed expanding women's employment opportunities and women's participation in the peace making process.

They also touched on efforts for reaching UN Millennium Development Goals. Quentin arrived in Nay Pyi Taw Monday on a state visit to Myanmar at the invitation of U Thein Sein.

On Tuesday, President U Thein Sein met visiting Governor of New South Wales (NSW) of Commonwealth of Australia Marie Bashir.

The pair focused on promoting cooperation between Myanmar and NSW, scholarship programmes for outstanding Myanmar medical students to study in the province and aid for Myanmar's health and education.