16 Mar 2013

Key pledges Myanmar aid for as long as required

6:41 am on 16 March 2013

Prime Minister John Key says New Zealand will continue giving aid to Myanmar to assist in what he calls its remarkable political and social reforms for as long as it is needed.

Mr Key made the pledge following his meeting with Myanmar President Thein Sein in Auckland on Friday.

John Key and Thein Sein at a joint media conference.

John Key and Thein Sein at a joint media conference. Photo: RNZ

He says the aid will be a combination of money, educational support and technical assistance in areas such as agriculture.

Mr Key says everyone needs to have a degree of patience because the reforms taking place in Myanmar are a significant change.

Last year, Mr Key announced $7 million towards humanitarian aid and the construction of dairy farm capabilities in Myanmar.

Mr Sein thanked the Prime Minister and New Zealanders for their ongoing support.