President U Htin Kyaw arrives in Sochi for Russia-ASEAN summit

19 May 2016
President U Htin Kyaw arrives in Sochi for Russia-ASEAN summit
President of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, U Htin Kyaw (front L) takes part in a Russian traditional Bread and Salt welcome ceremony upon his arrival at Sochi International Airport in Sochi, Russia, 18 May 2016. Photo: EPA

Myanmar's President U Htin Kyaw has arrived in Sochi for participation in the Russia-ASEAN summit on May 19-20 Russia’s TASS news agency reported on 18 May. It is the first visit of the president of Myanmar to Russia.
Russian president’s aide Yuri Ushakovwas quoted as saying that U Htin Kyaw was scheduled to meet Vladimir Putin today. The two leaders are expected to focus on trade, economic and investment cooperation. "Energy is one of the most promising spheres for application [of reciprocal efforts]," Ushakov said noting active development of humanitarian ties.
The summit is expected to adopt a declaration that will lay the basis for an action plan of Russia-ASEAN cooperation in the political, economic and cultural spheres, as well as in the sphere of security, according to the report.