(Yangon, 1 May 2012) – "Speaking to more than 200 participants at a ceremony in Yangon, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon chaired the launch of the UN Global Compact in Myanmar today, underscoring heightened interest in corporate responsibility as the country is going through a process of political and economic reforms. ?In order to deliver prosperity and opportunity widely, Myanmar needs strong and inclusive markets,? the Secretary-General said in his keynote remarks to participants, which also included nearly 50 representatives of the international community, including foreign investors. ?Business has to be the backbone of growth. However, investment and business activity must be sustainable and responsible – upholding the highest standards of business ethics.? The meeting with business and government representatives came on the last day of the Secretary-General?s three-day visit to Myanmar. At the event, 14 companies and the Myanmar Chamber of Commerce formally joined the Global Compact in a signing ceremony..."