Globally it is clear that the political problems resulting from natural resources are much more common in countries with weak political institutions and a lack of checks and balances. Myanmar is blessed with an abundance of natural resources.
They range from exquisite gemstones and precious metals, to fertile land, luscious forests, life-giving river systems and one of the world's oldest oil and gas industries. But such a blessing comes with a big responsibility - to ensure these precious resources are managed responsibly for future generations.
Resource management, land management, land use planning and management of the impacts of all land uses are critical. Such management ensures the environment and resources remain productive for the future and that sustainable development – meeting present needs while not compromising the future - occurs.