LAUSR

ABSTRACT After obtaining its independence in 1948, Burma established a welfare state and a national economic development plan (Pyidawtha), but foreign aid was required to facilitate the implementation of this plan. The United States and the United Kingdom did not provide the required financial assistance to Burma during the post-war years, even though Burma urgently needed assistance to advance the Pyidawtha plan and was unexpectedly facing a drastic decrease in paddy export income. Following the instability and crisis in socioeconomic reform and development, Burma requested additional assistance from China and other sources. Although Burma faced pressure from the left wing, particularly from the Burmese Communist disturbance, Burma became increasingly interested in cooperating with China. China established a policy giving Burma a Chinese diplomatic exit and provided, along with the Soviet Union, timely economic aid.