Abstract

• After 2011, Myanmar-Japan relations promote again and open up new chapter of friendship relations. The “Containment and Engagement” focus on the phenomena of individual approaches to the instruments, regions and targets. Japanese ODA policy was used as a tool for democratic transition of Myanmar and to reduce China’s influence on Myanmar as target. The rise of China’s influence in Indo-Pacific and political change of Myanmar are push factors for promoting bilateral relations under civilian government. After democratization, Myanmar government continues to practice non-aligned, independent and active foreign policy and promote relations with all countries including Japan to reduce dependent on China. Japanese government used this opportunity to promote relations with Myanmar. Containment of China’s effects is more or less effective under the civilian government for opening new historic friendship relationship.