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Obama urged Myanmar to use its "diversity as a strength, not a weakness."

"I believe deeply that this country can transcend its differences, and that every human being within these borders is a part of your nation's story."

He met briefly with representatives of civil society organizations, including an advocate for Burma's Rohingya population.

However, some aid organizations questioned whether now is the right time for Obama to add legitimacy to Thein Sein's government.

Burmese exile leaders and human rights advocates have expressed concerns that the visit is too soon, and may not yield the additional reforms that a presidential visit can deliver if it happens at the right time.