Myanmar President Thein Sein formally opened the 22nd World Economic Forum in Naypyitaw on Thursday with a call for increased investment in the country as it continues on its way toward democratic reform.
“We are working hard to move from military rule to democracy,” said the president to a congregation of delegates from around the globe. “[We are also working hard] to reform the economy away from a centralized economy to one based on a free economy.”
He urged increased investment in Myanmar through public and private enterprises, but warned that companies “be practical and steer clear of obstruction.”
Thein Sein also said that he was honored to be part of this “special moment in Asian history” as the greater region experiences unprecedented growth and that he hoped Myanmar could join the success of its neighbors.
“I would like nothing more than the young people of Myanmar to share in the greater prosperity of this region,” he said.
