Australia aiding Myanmar breakthrough

The engagement of the Australian government, corporates and aid agencies is playing a key role in the development in Myanmar as the country reaches a critical point in its history.

World Vision Australia CEO Tim Costello has just returned from a week-long visit to Myanmar where he found that the country was showing signs of a remarkable transformation.

“The last time I was in Myanmar it was in the wake of Cyclone Nargis in 2008,” World Vision Australia CEO Tim Costello said. “What I saw then was utter devastation, what I experienced was extreme frustration and despair. Now, the picture is very different; Myanmar has reached a critical juncture in which we are beginning to see unprecedented changes, concessions and reforms.”

Mr Costello was travelling with Bruce Buchanan, the CEO for Jetstar Group, who were criticised in 2009 for providing flights into the country. Jetstar is a supporter of World Vision Australia through its StarKids fundraising program and the two men visited World Vision projects in Myanmar.

Mr Costello said the engagement of Jetstar in Myanmar has provided a critical link to the country that not only helped aid agencies but also provided new opportunities for the country to develop and grow.

He said such corporate engagement was critical to the transformation that is now at its beginning in Myanmar. Mr Costello also highlighted recent concessions by the Australian Government.

The Federal Government announced this month plans to ease travel restrictions for some of Myanmar’s tourism officials and former ministers. Other countries have also begun relaxing their policies towards the Government of Myanmar in recognition that the country is taking important steps towards democracy.

“The Myanmar Government is increasingly displaying a willingness to work with humanitarian agencies, and for that reason, the time is right for a renewed focus on the region,” Mr Costello said. “The people of Myanmar need us to respond.”

World Vision has been working in Myanmar for more than two decades. With the cooperation of the Myanmar Department of Health, World Vision began its work there by focussing on health and in particular HIV and AIDS. The organisation has now expanded its work into broader community development projects, covering education, health, sustainable livelihoods, food security and child protection.

For an interview with World Vision Australia CEO Tim Costello, please callChloe Adams on +61 427 413 816.