Obama-mania is in the air in Myanmar as the country eagerly awaits his historic visit on Monday - the first by a sitting U.S. president in the once-reclusive country.<br/> <br />Myanmar's semi-civilian government has introduced sweeping political and economic reforms over the past year.<br/> <br />Many hope Obama's visit will reinforce the process.<br/> <br />This shop owner says she's very happy because more businessmen are likely to invest in the country after the visit.<br/> <br />Obama is due to meet President Thein Sein at the Yangon State Government Office, away from capital Naypidaw.<br/> <br />He will also meet opposition leader Aung Sang Suu Kyi at her Yangon home, where she was held under house arrest for nearly two decades - a highly significant move according to one analyst.<br/> <br />SOUNDBITE) (English) PROFESSOR AT CHULALONGKORN UNIVERSITY THITINAN PONGSUDHIRAK:<br/> <br />"The fact that he is going to Yangon instead of Naypyidaw, or not including Naypyidaw says something. This is a support more for Aung San Suu Kyi than Thein Sein. But certainly, overall support for Myanmar's democratic transition."<br/> <br />The U.S. eased tough sanctions on Myanmar this year in recognition of the reforms and the visit could also herald a new era for U.S. business interests.<br/> <br />SOUNDBITE) (English) PROFESSOR AT CHULALONGKORN UNIVERSITY THITINAN PONGSUDHIRAK:<br/> <br />"This is a catch-up time for the U.S., and especially for U.S. businesses. I think the president's visit will be utilised by the private sector of the Americans to try to pursue their economic and commercial interest."<br/> <br />Obama will address the Myanmar public here at Yangon university as part of his Southeast Asian trip, which will also take in Thailand and Cambodia.
