BANGKOK/YANGON -- Lunar New Year became a national holiday in Myanmar this year, providing a respite for citizens hammered by years of instability and unrest while also showing the military government's increasingly close ties with China.
On the streets of Yangon's old town during the holiday period, bright red Chinese-style decorations stood out against the historical cityscape. Though the temperature was cool after sunset, the area heated up as pedestrians filled the streets and temples.
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