After 2 Years, Foreign Tourists Can Enter Myanmar From Next Month

JAKARTA - Myanmar will resume international flights from April 17, the military said on Saturday, ending a two-year entry ban on foreign tourists.

Myanmar has closed its borders since March 2020 at the start of the coronavirus outbreak to prevent an increase in infections. Last year's coup sparked violent protests and a military crackdown sent the economy, including Myanmar's tourism industry, into a slump.

"We will open all international flights on April 17," said the National Central Committee for the Prevention, Control and Treatment of Corona Virus Disease.

In a statement, the committee said the decision was made to boost the tourism business sector, and make it easier for visitors to come to Myanmar.

Tourists must quarantine for a week, undergo two PCR tests, and must receive a complete vaccine.

Myanmar's tourism has been battered during the pandemic that has killed nearly 20,000 people in the country.

The escalation of violence after the junta takeover has also damaged business, many international companies withdrew from the country.

More than 1,600 people have been killed by security forces and more than 11,000 arrested since the coup.