The Japanese foreign minister announced the suspension of aid projects to Myanmar, as Tokyo is believed to maintain a soft stance with Naypyidaw.

"Japan is the largest provider of economic aid to Myanmar and we have not planned any new projects yet. We have made a clear stance," Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi said during the national session.

The move came after the Japanese government was criticized by its allies for maintaining a soft stance on the violence in Myanmar, while the US and Western countries repeatedly imposed sanctions against fish.

The protester besides the obstacle on the streets of Yangon, Myanmar, on March 30.

Foreign Minister Motegi said that suspending Official Development Assistance (ODA) loans would put more pressure on the open Myanmar military government to be economic sanctions.

Japan has close relations and is one of the most supportive countries for Myanmar.

Burmese people have been demonstrating almost daily against the military since the February 1 coup, prompting State Counselor Aung San Suu Kyi and senior officials in the civilian government to be arrested.

The Association for Supporting Political Prisoners (AAPP) says the number of civilians who have died since Myanmar took over power has risen to more than 500.