ILO Lifts All Restrictions on Burma
By SAMANTHA MICHAELS / THE IRRAWADDYThe UN agency lifts restrictions on Burma, citing progress in the fight against forced labor, in a move Burma’s government hopes will boost foreign investment.
US Diplomat, Parliamentarians Observe Govt-Karenni Rebel Peace Talks
By SAW YAN NAING / THE IRRAWADDYObservers including an official from the US Embassy and members of Parliament attend union-level peace talks between the government and Karenni rebels.
EU Officials Discuss Aid, Trade, But Warn Naypyidaw on Arakan Crisis
By LAWI WENG / THE IRRAWADDYEU officials discussed trade relations and aid support with Burmese officials, but warned that the Arakan crisis would be a “test case” for government reforms.
Suu Kyi Celebrates 68th Birthday among NLD Faithful
By KYAW PHYO THA / THE IRRAWADDYA cloudy June morning doesn’t deter the sunny mood of supporters gathered to celebrate the birthday of Burma’s democracy icon.
Tourism Surge Tests Mandalay’s Endurance
By NYEIN NYEIN / THE IRRAWADDYTourists flocking to the former royal capital have put a strain on a service sector not ready to cope with the influx.
Burma Business Roundup (June 8)
By WILLIAM BOOT / THE IRRAWADDYBurma expects tourist 700 percent surge; Rangoon businesses stuck with diesel; BASF considers investment; Indonesia helps Burma’s electricity grid; China says oil pipeline is complete.
Burma’s Tech Sector Not Yet Up to Speed for Foreign Investment: Intel
By SIMON ROUGHNEEN / THE IRRAWADDYThe country’s tech entrepreneurs will likely have to wait some time before attracting significant seed money from abroad, Intel’s venture capital wing says.
Unilever Plans Second Plant in Burma With First Barely Open
By JARED FERRIE / REUTERS WRITERThe consumer goods giant draws up plans for a second factory in Burma even before production starts at its first plant there.













