USAID administrator to make official visit: embassy

Shah’s visit followed US State Department Senior Advisor Judith Cefkin’s visit during February 3-8. Cefkin was in the country for six days, having discussions on developments in the peace and national reconciliation process, political, economic and social reform, and ways the United States may continue to assist in promoting the stability and development of the country.

“While in country, he will attend meetings and site visits that will focus on USAID’s commitment to using innovation, science, technology, and private-public partnerships to deepen development impact under USAID’s New Model for Development,” an Embassy official confirmed on Tuesday, adding that Shah’s visit builds upon the joint US-Myanmar Partnership for Democracy, Peace, and Prosperity.

During his two-day visit, on Thursday Shah will deliver a speech entitled “The Power of Partnerships to Accelerate Rural Development” at the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) Office Complex in Mayangone Township, Yangon.

Shah made his first visit to the Southeast Asian country from March 7-8 last year, highlighting the progress that the agency has made in Myanmar, as well as with the American private sector, universities and non-governmental organisations to provide humanitarian, democracy, human rights, governance, and economic development assistance to the country.

USAID has been supporting the Myanmar government with humanitarian assistance, disaster risk reduction, peace processes, food security, and health issues for many years. In 2012, it provided US$6.2 million in humanitarian assistance to Rakhine, Kachin, and Shan states. It also involves with activities in nutrition, food, water, sanitation, and hygiene areas for displaced and vulnerable populations in conflict-affected areas.