OREANDA-NEWS. The Council conclusions welcome the peaceful transfer of power in the country and the consolidation of democracy following the credible elections that took place in November 2015 and note that the new government has an historic opportunity to consolidate democracy and to achieve peace, national reconciliation and prosperity.

The European Union has a strategic interest in strengthening its relationship with Myanmar/Burma and that the joint communication "Elements for an EU strategy vis-vis Myanmar/Burma: a special partnership for democracy, peace and prosperity" lays out a plan for a coherent, ambitious and forward-looking EU engagement and intensified cooperation with the country in its transition process.