Online published on 10 February, 2014.
The release of political prisoners by the Burmese government and the successful holding of by-elections were two major landmarks of 2012 that led to improvements in relations between the US and Myanmar. The confirmation of Derek Mitchell as the new US Ambassador to Myanmar and the lifting of American investment sanctions followed by the suspension of import bans from the country were significant results of the improving relationship. The rapprochement of bilateral relations culminated in the first ever visit by a sitting US president to Myanmar.
