The Philippines and Myanmar on December 5 signed six agreements on bilateral cooperation in food security, renewable energy, information, visa exemption for Filipinos to Myanmar, trade, and investment.

The agreements were signed in the witness of President Aquino and visiting Myanmar President U Thein Sein who is on a three-day state visit to the Philippines from December 4.

On this occasion, the two sides agreed to continue discussions on the establishment of a joint trade committee and the amendment of the 1979 Aviation Agreement in order to consolidate bilateral trade and tourism ties.

The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and the Union of Myanmar Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry also signed an agreement on establishing a business forum between them.

During his talks with the Myanmar counterpart, President Benigno Aquino applauded recent historical developments in Myanmar such as organising the general election and dialogues with the opposition, and opening the door for foreign investment.

These have opened up a new chapter in the history of Myanmar, said the host, adding that the Philippines will actively help Myanmar in its current reform.

He thanked Myanmar for providing 150,000 USD for Filipino victims of typhoon Haiyan, which hit the country early last month.

The two Presidents discussed efforts to promote reconciliation with extreme armed groups in both countries.

President Benigno Aquino said he has appointed a resident defence attaché to Myanmar to strengthen defence cooperation between the two countries.

President Thein Sein called on the Philippines to assist Myanmar in health, education, economic and human resources development.

This is the first visit to the Philippines by President Thein Sein since he took office in 2011. He is scheduled to leave the country on December 6 after touring areas affected by typhoon Haiyan.-VNA