Land Area 667,000 Population Approx. 54.3 million (2004 Provisional) Capital Nay Pyi Taw (Former Capital: Yangon) Political System Interim Military Government Major Languages Myanmar Major Religion Buddhism(Approx. 90%) Currency Kyat Flag Description: Red signifies bravery and unity, blue depicts peace and stability, and white represents purity. The crest of the paddy stalk honors the farmers, the pinion symbolizes the workers and the surrounding 14 stars represent the spirit of the union, manifested by the equality of the 7 Divisions and the 7 States. Keys to development: A policy of economic deregulation and tourism resource development The Union of Myanmar is a multi-ethnic country made up of more than 130 national races. It is also an agro-based nation which over half of its workforce is engaged in agriculture and about 60% of its GDP is derived from agricultural production. Its domestic economic activities have been slumping as a result of a closed socialist economic policy which began in 1962. However, growth in the tourism industry seems promising as the numerous historical sites from its ancient Buddhist kingdom and its lush natural landscape hold the potential to be tourist attractions. Cultural exchanges at various levels have always been active between the peoples of Myanmar and Japan, which have traditionally maintained a friendly bilateral relationship.