Myanmar simplifies visa procedure for foreign journalists covering ASEAN summit

YANGON (Xinhua) - Myanmar has simplified entry visa procedures for foreign journalists seeking to cover the upcoming ASEAN Summit to be hosted by the country this month, the Information Ministry said Thursday.

A one-month multiple entry visa for the foreign reporters who are not based in Myanmar has been introduced.

Under the new scheme, the one-month multiple entry visa can be extended twice.

Journalists are advised to re-apply for a new visa after three months at the Myanmar embassies which issued their first visa.

Foreign correspondents based in Myanmar will be allowed to extend their visa every six months, according to the new plan.

The 24th ASEAN Summit, the first of its kind to be held in Myanmar within 17 years of its ASEAN membership, is scheduled to take place at the Myanmar International Convention Center in Nay Pyi Taw on May 10-11.

Myanmar takes the rotating chair of ASEAN this year for the first time after joining ASEAN in 1997.