Mizzima awarded global JTI certificate for reliable news on Myanmar

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Mizzima Mizzima, one of Myanmar ’s most prominent news outlets and a press freedom advocate, obtained the Journalism Trust Initiative ( JTI ) certification from global audit firm Bureau Veritas , JTI says in a press statement 5 January.  Operating in clandestine mode within Myanmar and supported by an exiled team, Mizzima strives to fulfil its role as reliable source of news and information for the Myanmar public. “Your Journalism Trust Initiative certification affirms what audiences already know: that principled, transparent journalism matters. Congratulations on this achievement and on your continued contribution to informing citizens about Myanmar,” says Benjamin Sabbah , director of Journalism Trust Initiative “Myanmar’s ongoing conflict has created an intensely contested media landscape, where mis- and disinformation are increasingly deployed to reinforce state propaganda and the prevailing “official” narrative. Although Mizzima is already regarded as one of the most trusted ...
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Australia, Myanmar agree defence cooperation

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Monday, 18 March 2013 11:55 AFP

Australia boosted its aid and eased restrictions on defence cooperation with Myanmar on Monday as Thein Sein became the country's first head of state to visit Canberra since 1974.

Myanmar President Thein Sein meets with Australia's Prime Minister Julia Gillard. (Photo: Julia Gillard via Twitter)

As the once pariah country approaches the second anniversary of a quasi-civilian regime led by ex-general Thein taking power, Canberra said it was increasing its support to recognise reforms made.

"As a close neighbour, Australia will benefit from a more open and prosperous Myanmar that is fully integrated into the region," said Prime Minister Julia Gillard of the country formerly known as Burma.

"Australia's commitment to expand its constructive engagement with Myanmar recognises the unprecedented process of change underway there towards political freedom and the new opportunity this brings to help promote the prosperity of Myanmar and its people.

"It also recognises President Thein Sein's leadership in driving these critical reforms."

While Canberra said its arms embargo would remain, it announced an easing of restrictions on defence cooperation including humanitarian and disaster relief activities, as well as peacekeeping.

It will also appoint a defence attaché to Myanmar as well as a trade commissioner.

Gillard said Aus$20 million (US $20.7 million) would be provided over two years for "strengthening democratic institutions, promoting human rights, improving economic governance and advancing the rule of law".

Thein said he was proud to be the first head of state to visit since 1974.

"My visit to Australia is one that I have looked forward to for a very long time," he said.

"This is because I know that Australia and Myanmar are destined to be good partners and more importantly the people of Myanmar and Australia are destined to be good friends.

"I hope that you appreciate that what we are undertaking has no equal in modern times. This is not just a simple transition ... but a transition from military rule to democratic rule," he added.

Myanmar has surprised observers with a series of reforms following the end of nearly half a century of military rule in 2011, leading Western nations to start rolling back sanctions.

Australia last year lifted all its remaining targeted travel and financial sanctions against the country.
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Related articles:

  • Australia pledges $1 million to Burmese emergency fund
  • Thein Sein postpones Australia, NZ visit
  • Australia lifts remaining sanctions

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