The United States on Wednesday eased sanctions to allow its companies
to invest in and provide financial services to Myanmar but will require
them to make detailed disclosures about their dealings, the White House
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President Barack Obama directed the U.S. Treasury Department to issue
two general licenses, one giving general permission for investment in
Myanmar and the other allowing financial services.
--
United States "deeply concerned about the lack of transparency in
Burma's investment environment and the military's role in the economy."

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The rules require U.S. individuals and entities making new investments
of more than $500,000 to submit annual reports to the State Department
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including state-owned enterprises must also be reported, while those
investing in the Myanma Oil and Gas Enterprise must notify the State
Department within 60 days.
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and encourage civil society to partner with our companies toward
responsible investment," the departments of State and Treasury said in
a fact sheet explaining the policies.
--

White House spokesman Tommy Vietor told reporters the new investment
"does not authorize investment with Burmese Ministry of Defence, state
or non-state armed groups, or entities owned by the foregoing."
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The moves fulfil a May 17 announcement made by U.S. Secretary of State
Hillary Clinton to ease U.S. sanctions on investment and financial
services in recognition of Myanmar's startling political reforms over
--

Clarification of the rules for investment could prompt a rush of U.S.
companies into the country.
--

The British government's trade promotion body, UK Trade & Investment,
opened an office in Myanmar's commercial capital, Yangon, on Wednesday.
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4. [53]IBTimes UK
[54]Police to investigate alleged 1980s paedophile ring
5. [55]IBTimes UK