After decades of isolation, Myanmar has started to undertake major reforms toward a democratic system and market-based economy. As part of its phased approach to reengagement with the country, ADB has developed an interim country partnership strategy (ICPS) for Myanmar for the period 2012–2014.

ADB has not had operations in Myanmar since 1988, although the country, as a member of the Greater Mekong Subregion program, has participated in ADB-assisted regional activities over the last 20 years.

The ICPS, 2012–2014, provides the framework for reengagement activities and mandates a highly consultative process to establish the foundation for a full country partnership strategy (CPS) at the end of the interim period.

The interim strategy supports the government’s development goals and priorities, and addresses the critical development constraints identified by ADB’s preliminary needs assessment of key sectors transport; energy; agriculture and natural resources; education; and urban development, including water and sanitation. It is also closely aligned with ADB’s Strategy 2020.

ADB’s medium-term goal in Myanmar is to assist the government in promoting sustainable and inclusive economic development and job creation in support of poverty reduction.

In the interim strategy period, ADB will emphasize three program objectives.

• Build human and institutional capacity in ADB’s areas of focus and strength to help lay the foundation for medium-term engagement and effective development processes.
• Promote an enabling economic environment, which is needed to achieve macroeconomic stability, promote trade and investment, diversify the economy, create jobs, improve financial intermediation, and increase agricultural productivity.
• Create access and connectivity for rural livelihoods and infrastructure development by promoting enhanced access to markets and basic social services, improving rural infrastructure to boost farm productivity and incomes, lowering transaction costs, enhancing opportunities for domestic and cross-border trade and investment, and improving access to reliable and sustainable utility services.