Internal Developments Gamone Dam Opens in Bago Division The Gamone dam in Bago Division was opened on 1 May and it was constructed by the Irrigation Department of the Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation. Gamone dam, with a 4,400-foot long and 116-foot high earthen dyke, is situated on Gamone Creek and its benefited area is 15000 acres.The Gamone Dam is the 145th one of the facilities constructed from 1988 to date in the nation as well as the 36th one in Bago Division. The 12 formerly constructed dam in Bago Division (West) benefit over 336,000 acres.Up to now, the government has built 36 dams including Gamone Dam in Bago Division at a cost of over K 20,000 million. The facilities are irrigating over 570,000 acres of crops. Especially in Bago Division in which many streams originate from the Bago Yoma mountain range running from north to south in the region, and which face water shortage in summer, many small and medium dams have been built to change and develop the socio-economic life of the farmers. The dams have also prevented floods, enabling farmers to grow crops in low-lying areas during monsoon and providing water for summer paddy. Gamone Dam is situated between Minhla and Bawbin dams in Bago Division (West) and so it will irrigate fields in Bago Division (West). Nankathu Creek Bridge Inaugurated in Ingapu The opening of the Alinyaung Bridge across the Nankathu Creek constructed by Ingapu Township, Union Solidarity and Development Association was held at the bridge near Suchaung Village, Northern Kwinkauk Village-tract, Ingapu Township, Ayeyawady Division on 1st May. The wooden bridge with reinforced concrete piles and steel beams lies on the road linking Kwinkauk Region and Konpyin Village-tract. The bridge is 266 feet long, 13 feet wide and 22 feet high. Gonbo Bridge Opened in Gangaw District, Magway Division The ceremony to open Gonbo Bridge on Sakku-Pauk-Kyaukhtu-Kangyi-Mindat Road in Kyaukhtu Township, Gangaw District, Magway Division was held at the pandal near the bridge on 8 May. Present were Minister and Deputy Minister for Construction, Chairman of Magway Division Peace and Development Council, departmental heads, officials and local people. Minister for Construction said; "Since 1988, over 4000 miles long roads and bridges have been built. Gonbo Bridge is of bailey iron frame plus wood. Considering requirements in the future, the bridge will be upgraded into a reinforced concrete one. Nowadays, local people in Magway Division, can go to southern part of Chin State, Mindat and Matupi from Pakokku through Pauk and Kyaukhtu. Gonbo Bridge is an important one for Chin State." Gonbo Bridge, 440 feet long, is built of wood and iron frame bailey one. It was constructed with wooden piles. Foreign Relations State Visit of the State Peace and Development Council Senior General Than Shwe and wife to the Lao People's Democratic Republic At the invitation of President of the LPDR His Excellency Mr. Khamtay Siphandone and wife Madame Thongvan, Chairman of the State Pace and Development Council of the Union of Myanmar Senior General Than Shwe and wife Daw Kyaing Kyaing paid a state visit to the Lao People’s Democratic Republic from 5 May to 7 May. Senior General Than Shwe Discusses with President of LPDR The Senior General and President of the Lao People's Democratic Republic Mr. Khamtay Siphandone had discussions at the meeting hall of the Party headquarters in Vientiane at 3 pm on 5 May. At the meeting, the leaders of both countries exchanged views on nation-building experiences and discussed matters related to bilateral cooperation and international issues on a constructive and sympathetic basis. Senior General said he was delighted at the allround progress made in the friendship and cooperation between Myanmar and Laos. The Senior General also expressed his wish to promote mutual cooperation between the two countries. President of the LPDR Mr. Khamtay Siphandone, in his pronouncement, also said that under the auspices of the State Peace and Development Council Chairman Senior General Than Shwe, Myanmar enjoyed the prevalence of peace with the development in economy and improvement in the living standard of Myanmar people, adding that he and the people of the LPDR took pride in such achievements like Myanmar people. He expressed his thanks for the assistance Myanmar rendered to the nation-building and development tasks of the LPDR. He also expressed his desire to further enhance the trade with Myanmar as well as extend communication through the border areas of the two countries and promote mutual cooperation. Myanmar-Laos Joint Press Statement Released The following joint press statement was released during the state visit of Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council Senior General Than Shwe and wife Daw Kyaing Kyaing to the Lao People's Democratic Republic at the invitation of President of Lao People's Democratic Republic Mr. Khamtay Siphandone and wife Madame Thongvan. 1. H.E Senior General Than Shwe, Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council of the Union of Myanmar and Spouse Daw Kyaing Kyaing paid a state visit to the Lao people's Democratic Republic from 5 to 7 May 2003 at the invitation of H.E Khamtay Siphandone, President of the Lao People's Democratic Republic. 2. H.E. Khamtay Siphandone, President of the Lao People's Democratic Republic met with H.E Senior General Than Shwe, Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council of the Union of Myanmar in an atmosphere of cordial friendship and mutual understanding. 3. H.E Samane Vignaket, President of the National Assembly of the Lao People's Democratic Republic and H.E Bounnhang Vorachith, Prime Minister of the Lao People's Democratic Republic paid courtesy calls on H.E Senior General Than Shwe, Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council of the Union of Myanmar respectively. 4. During his visit to the Lao People's Democratic Republic, H.E Senior General Than Shwe laid a wreath at the Unknown Soldiers Monument and visited the Kaysone Phomvihane Museum, important historical and cultural places in Vientiane Municipality and Champassaek Province. 5. During their disucssions, the two leaders expressed their satisfaction at the growing bonds of traditional and neighbouring friendly relations existing betsween the two countries and peoples of Laos and Myanmar. The two leaders highly valued the success of cooperation and mutual assistance in the spheres of politics, security, economy, trade and socio-culture, bringing about tangible benefits to the peoples of the two countries. 6. They expressed their appreciation of the successful conclusion of the 6th Meeting of the Laos-Myanmar joint commission for Bilateral cooperation held under the co-chairmanship of the two ministers of Foreign Affairs. 7. During the visit, the two Heads of State witnessed the signing of the agreement on the Promotion and the Protection of Investment between the Lao People's Democratic Republic and the Union of Myanmar. 8. The two Heads of State exchanged views on regional and international issues of mutual interests and concurred that while the international and regional situation continues to undergo swift and complex changes, the tendency for peace and cooperation for development still prevails. The two leaders stressed the need to enhance cooperation on security and other areas, bilaterally and mutilaterally, for the maintenance of peace, stability, security and prosperity of the two countries as well as of the region and the world at large. Both leaders shared the view that peace, stability and security in Iraq should be restored quickly. Independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity and right to self-determination of the Iraqi people must be upheld. Both leadrs shared the view that United Nations should play a central role in the reconstruction of Iraq. 9. The President of the Lao People's Democratic Republic highly appreciated the visit to the Lao People's Democratic Republic of the Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council of the Union of Myanmar and viewed it as an impetus to further enhancing friendly relations and cooperation between the peoples of Laos and Myanmar as well as an important contribution to the strong cohesiveness in the ASEAN family. Both sides agreed to pursue regular exchange of high level visits. 10. The Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council of the Union of Myanmar expressed his sincere gratitude to the President of the Lao People's Democratic Republic, the Government and the Laos people for the warm, cordial and gracious hospitality extended to him and his spouse as well as to the Myanmar delegation. 11. H.E Senior General Than Shwe, Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council of the Union of Myanmar extended an invitation to H.E Khamtay Siphandone, President of the Lao PDR and his spouse to pay a visit to the Union of Myanmar. The President of the Lao PDR accepted the invitation with pleasure. The dates of the visit will be arranged through diplomatic channels. Agreement Signed Between Myanmar and Laos Aceremony to sign an agreement between the Government of the Union of Myanmar and the Government of the Lao People's Democratic Republic was held at the Head-quarters of the Party Central Committee in Vientiane on 5 May. Minister for Foreign Affairs of Myanmar and Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Planning and Cooperation Committee of Lao People's Democratic Republic signed the Agreement between the Government of the Union of Myanmar and the Government of the Lao People's Democratic Republic for the Promotion and Reciprocal Protection of Investments. Senior General Receives Former Japanese Prime Minister Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council Prime Minister of the Union of Myanmar Senior General Than Shwe received member of the House of Representative of Japan former Prime Minister Mr. Yoshiro Mori and party at the Credentials Hall of the Pyithu Hluttaw in Yangon on 30 April. Japanese Former Prime Minister Calls on Minister U Win Aung, Visits Japanese School and Drugs Elimination Museum Member of the House of Representatives former Prime Minister of Japan Mr. Yoshiro Mori and party called on Minister for Foreign Affairs U Win Aung at the ministry in Yangon on 30 April. The Japanese former Prime Minister visited the Japanese School at the corner of Ahlon Road and Diplomatic Road in Ahlon Township, Yangon. Principal Mr. Enomoto explained facts about the school and courses being conducted at the school. The former Prime Minister and party also visited the Drugs Elimination Museum. Myanmar Delegation Back From Indonesia The Myanmar delegation led by Minister for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement arrived back Yangon by air on 8 May, after attending the Sixth East Asia and Pacific Ministerial Consultation on Children held in Bali, the Republic of Indonesia, from 5 to 7 May. The Myanmar delegation attended the opening of the ministerial consultation on 5 May, with addresses by Indonesian President Ms. Megawati Sukarnoputri and UNICEF Executive Director Ms. Carol Bellamy. The Myanmar delegation then attended the first day session. In his address at the ministerial consultation on 6 May, the minister elaborated on a reduction in mortality rate of mothers and infants as well as under-five children in Myanmar, the reduction in the outbreak of contagious diseases to children owing to feeding vaccines to them, potable water supply projects, measures taken for prevention of HIV/AIDS and other health care services, all-round development of the children, implementation of the national level project in Education for All, tasks being carried out for an increase in enrolment of school-going-aged children at primary schools, extended opening of basic education schools and appointment of more teachers, long-term plan and others for educational sector, protecting children against social problems in accord with child laws, measures being taken for children to enjoy childrights in conjunction with UN agencies, international organizations and internal social organizations, and prevention of trafficking in women and children and taking action. The Myanmar delegation also attended the last day's session on 7 May. The ministerial consultation made Bali Consensus and future tasks. The ministerial consultation was attended by ministers, deputy ministers and leading delegations from 27 nations in the region, representatives of UN agencies, international organizations, sponsor nations and organizations, NGOs, the Secretary-General of the ASEAN and party, and children and young representatives from other nations totalling over 250. The seventh one will be held in Cambodia in 2005. News in Brief MV Hannara of ROK Arrives at Nanthida Jetty Minister for Transport welcomed the training ship mv Hannara of Korean Maritime University at Nanthida jetty in Yangon on 11 May.Cadets of the Myanmar Maritime University waved the flags of the two countries to welcome the water craft approaching the jetty. Deputy Minister and the ambassador boarded the ship to extend greetings to the professor, students and crew. Opening of Yangon Equestrian and Country Club A ceremony to open Yangon Equestrian and Country Club jointly established by Myanmar Equestrian Federation and COA International Co. Ltd of the Republic of Korea took place at the club at the corner of Pyidaungsu Road and Pinlon Road in Dagon Myothit (North) on 11 May attended by Chairman of Myanmar National Olympic Council Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council General Khin Nyunt. Chairman of Myanmar Olympic Committee Minister for Sports, President of Yangon Equestrian and Country club and Managing Director of COA International Co. Ltd of Korea Mr. Lee Young Su formally opened the club. Yangon Equestrian and Country Club was built with the help of COA International Co Ltd of Korea and completed in April 2003. General News Surveillance of SARS at Airports The outbreak of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) occurs in 26 countries all over the world. Although there has been no local transmission of the disease found in Myanmar, the disease breaks out in neighboring countries. So, in accordance with the guidance of the National Health Committee chairman, preventive measures against the disease have been taken in advance in Myanmar. Surveillance works have been done for preventing the spread of the disease through those who have contracted the virus, at the international airports, international ports and border checkpoints starting from 20 March. The passengers are to fill in the Surveillance Form on board who are arriving at Yangon and Mandalay international airports. At the health counter of the arrival lounge, the forms are collected and necessary information is asked. The signs of the disease are checked and body temperature is taken. Physicians check the travelers with the temperature of 38 C and above those with signs of the disease at a separate room at the airport. Travelers with no sign of the disease are allowed to enter the country. The staff at the immigration counter also check the traveler’s passports to know the countries they transited. If travelers is found coming from the SARS-infected country, he is taken to the special health room and specialists again check him. If a traveler is suspected of infection of SARS, he is sent to the designated hospitals and put under surveillance. If a traveler coming from the infected area and showing no sign of the disease, he is allowed to enter the country and his address is asked. Health staff daily inspects him whether he shows the symptoms of the disease or not. In carrying out the surveillance works, all staff at Yangon International Airport are using masks and gloves. Opium Refinery Exposed in Mongton Township A combined team acting on information that narcotic drugs were being refined near Nakaungmu village-tract in Mongton Township launched a raid on the refinery on 30 March. On arrival at Kyanu village, the combined team encountered an armed group which opened fire on it. After combing the village, the authorities arrested the culprits involved in the illegal trafficking of narcotic drugs together with drugs, and arms and ammunition. The combined team then raided an opium refinery in the vincinity and exposed 12 opium-refining huts, narcotics, and precursor chemicals used in the production of narcotic drugs. Seizures made during the raids at the Kyanu village and the opium refinery were 12 opium-refining huts, 14.8 kilos of heroin, 8.4 kilos of morphine, 33.8 kilos of heroin grade-2, 26.4 kilos of heroin grade-3, 383.8 kilos of raw opium, 42 kilos of opium residues, 720.7 litres of chemical liquid, seven assorted arms and ammunition, and 19 kinds of paraphernalia, together with 42 culprits. The revelations of the culprits enabled the combined team to search the houses of Sai Yi, escape culprit of Nakungmu village in Mongton Township, and Lawho on 25 April. The authorities arrested Sai Yi, key player in the refining of heroin, and Oktama, together with another four drug traffickers, 0.8 kilos of raw opium, seven assorted arms and ammunition, banks account books and cheques, proceeds realized from the illegal sales of narcotic drugs, five motorcycles and two cars. With the confession of Sai Yi, 96.1 kilos of heroin, 1,035 litres of chemical liquid, 11 kinds of paraphernalia, and arms and ammunition were seized again from his house, No. 270, Ward 4, Nakaungmu Village, on 28 April. Chemical precursors used in the illegal production of narcotic drugs were smuggled into the country from Painlon of Thailand, and arrangements are under way to be able to arrest drug culprits at large. 20 Women Engineers for Building Yenwe Bridge Honoured Myanmar Engineering Association on 2 May honoured 20 women engineers for building Yenwe Bridge in Nyaunglewbin Township, Bago Division. The women engineers were included in the special bridge construction group 5 of Public Works, the Ministry of Construction. The women engineers were organized in the special bridge construction group 5 under the leadership of Senior Engineer Daw Si Than. The group was able to successfully build the Yenwe Bridge on Yangon-Mandalay Highway. The 20 women engineers were presented certificates of honour by the President of the Myanmar Engineer Association Prof. Dr. Sein Myint. No SARS Case Found in Myanmar 38th Meeting of the National Health Committee Meets The 38th meeting of the National Health Committee took place at the NHC meeting hall of the Ministry of Health on 4 May. Chairman of National Health Committee Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council General Khin Nyunt attended the meeting and discussed matters on implementation of the tasks coordinated at the leaders of ASEAN Countries' special meeting on SARS and the leaders of ASEAN Countries' and China's special meeting on SARS held in Bangkok, Thailand. In his address, General Khin Nyunt said the National Health Committee Special meeting was to discuss matters to be undertaken by Myanmar regarding the discussions of Special ASEAN Leaders' Meeting on SARS and Special ASEAN-China Leaders' Meeting on SARS held in Bangkok, Thailand on 29 April. The meeting was also to discuss the tasks to be implemented with momentum for prevention against Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), he said. As soon as the WHO released a warning on SARS, tasks to guard against SARS were laid down at the 37th meeting of the National Health Committee and a national level project for prevention against SARS was drawn, he said. Leading Committee for Control and Prevention against SARS, Work Committee and sub-committees at different levels were formed, he added.Although Myanmar has not been struck by the outbreak of SARS, it is a killer disease due to its severeness and infection. Therefore, Myanmar is carrying out preventive measures on the deadly disease effectively to prevent the infection in the country, he added. He said Myanmar has to lay down plans systematically and continue to implement the matters regarding the Joint Declaration of Special ASEAN Leaders' Meeting on SARS and Joint Statement of Special ASEAN-China Leaders' Meeting on SARS held in Thailand. Though there is no SARS case in Myanmar, rumours were spread as if there was outbreak of the disease in the country, he said. Destructive acts that shocked the people and acts to seek self-interest are to be warded off effectively, he added.He called on departmental personnel in cooperation with social organizations and the national people to take part in the efforts to combat SARS in Myanmar as a national task.The Minister for Health reported on arrangements being made for control and treatment of SARS. The 37th Meeting of NHC passed the resolutions on SARS. They are:- (A) Arrangements are to be made for prevention of SARS paying serious attention to not letting the disease, which infected in neighbouring countries, reach Myanmar. (B) Systemtic measures are to be taken in educating the people of the killer epidemic avoiding misunderstanding on it, especially arrangements are to be made for educating and prevention of health staff. In accord with the instructions of the Chairman of the National Health Committee and resolutions of the meeting, the Ministry of Health is taking measures for control of the disease in cooperation with other ministries and social organizations. To ensure that there is no local transmissions of the disease, the surveillance work is done at the airports and the border checkpoints that are the international entrances. In doing so, the respective officials are providing supervision in doing the surveillance work.In addition, discussions and courses for staff of Yangon International Airport and Mandalay International Airport are being conducted to ensure that they are to cooperate in control of the killer epidemic. Directives on surveillance work were given in detail to the heads of the State and Divisional Health Department in border areas in order to prevent the local transmission of the disease through border entrances. Officials met with the hotel managers of Yangon and Mandalay and gave necessary directives for cooperation needed at the hotels where the tourists are checking in. Of the tourists, if a tourist is found to have come from SARS-infected country, he is kept in quarantine at the hospital and arrangements have been made to do surveillance work on him. Discussions for members of social organizations, surgeons from abroad and academicians organizations were conducted to ensure the cooperation of those organizations in control of the disease. Educative measures are being taken for the public to make them know about the disease avoiding misunderstanding on it. Systematic measures are being taken as well as regional cooperation to control the disease in the country. Myanmar health delegation led by Minister for Health attended the special meeting on SARS of ASEAN + 3 Ministers of Health held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on 26 March.To ensure there has been no local transmission of the disease in Myanmar, the Government is cooperating with social organizations as well as with WHO in taking preventive and education measures. Deputy Minister for Health reported on forming of subcommittee for SARS. He said although there has been no local transmission of SARS in Myanmar, starting from 19 March after WHO had informed Myanmar of the disease, plans for prevention and control of the disease have been laid down and implemented in accordance with the guidance of the Chairman of National Health Committee. To carry out the tasks in the whole country, committees have been founded with the representatives from ministries concerned and NGOs. He also explained measures for prevention and information and education tasks in detail. Afterwards, those present took part in the discussions. NHC Secretary Director-General of the Health Planning Department sought the approval for the resolutions of the meeting. No Local Transmission of SARS Found in Myanmar Myanmar Keeps High Level of Alert Against SARS Nowadays, the spread of SARS disease has alarmed the global countries. The World Health Organization declared SARS as an infectious diseases on 12 March 2003. Reports say over 5,000 people have been infected and over 300 died of SARS. Under the guidance of the National Health Committee, the project for control of SARS was laid down on 20-3-2003 in Myanmar. Departments concerned and NGOs are also taking part in the task in all seriousness. Yet, rumours are floating around in some places of Yangon that the terrible virus SARS has reached Myanmar and some persons are infected by eating foods from street vendors. These rumours are totally untrue. In giving replies to the quires raised by mediamen at the press conference held on 29-3-2003 in Yangon, Deputy Minister for Health Dr. Mya Oo reaffirmed that no local transmission of SARS has been found in Myanmar. Our country keeps a high level of alert against SARS. Public information and educative works are in full swing. Talks on control of SARS are held here and there by NGOs and the Ministry of Health. Myanmar is also cooperating fully with WHO, noted Dr. Agostino Borra, WHO Resident Representative at the press conference. " I am satisfied with the Ministry of Health's surveillance for prevention and control of SARS," said Dr. Borra. Regarding the control of SARS, the SARS Steering Committee chaired by Health Minister Dr. Kyaw Myint, the Work Committee chaired by Deputy Minister for Health Dr. Mya Oo and multi-sectoral sub-committees were formed. The sub-committee are the SARS surveillance subcommittee, the logistic subcommittee, the medicine and medical equipment supply subcommittee, the information, education and communication subcommittee, the clinical care subcommittee, the laboratory investigation & infection control subcommittee, and the SARS prevention, management and control subcommittee (Upper Myanmar).Surveillance works against SARS are daily carried out at airports, seaports and border check points. So far, no one is at the stage of suffering SARS. The people on their part are to promote their immune system by eating well, sleeping well and taking regular exercises. Personal hygiene is also important for the disease control. By taking preventive measures properly, one should not be afraid of the killer disease. Narcotic Drugs, Arms, Ammunition Seized in Kongyan Township A local military column, acting on a tip-off, on 8 April carried out a raid on two huts in Tonai-Mawhtaik region, Kongyan Township, Shan State (North), where opium was refined.The authorities seized the huts together with four kilos of raw opium, nine litres of phenyl acetic acid, 800 grams of opium, three assorted arms, and ammunition and five kinds of chemical precursor. Action is being taken in connection with the seizure of the drugs and paraphernalia under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Law. SURA Narco-Terrorists Kill 4 Villagers, Wound 4 SURA narco-terrorists arrived at a farm in a forest near Naungpan Village, Kun Hein Township in Shan State (South) at 10 pm on April 29, 2003. They found 11 villagers there and asked them to assemble at a place and opened fire on them with small arms. Due to the attack, four villagers died, four were wounded and three were missing. Pho Htoo, Chee Po, Muso and Min Thu, who are Kayan and Lahu nationals from Pekhon and Dimawhso regions, were killed. Joseph of Naungpan Village in Kun Hein Township, Moe Kyaw, of Pekhon, El Phu, of Kawli Village in Kun Hein Township and Kya Hsay of Naungpan village in Kun Hein Township, escaped with wounds and they are receiving treatment at Kun Hein Hospital. U Phein, Maung Oo and Maku of Dimawhso are missing. Tatmadaw columns are in hot pursuit of the SURA, it is learnt. Preventive Measures Against SARS Inspected Minister for Health and officials inspected measures taken for prevention of SARS at Waibagi Special Hospital in Yangon on 3 May. The minister held discussions with the staff at the hospital. Medical Superintendent reported on tasks being carried out for prevention of the disease and members of the committee for prevention of SARS, on preventive and surveillance measures taken. After fulfilling the requirements, the minister gave instructions on preventive and surveillance tasks to be systematically carried out in all spheres with national outlook for prevention of the disease, and health care services to be provided with goodwill and patience to Myanmar nationals and foreigners who came from SARS-affected nations. Myanma Auto Exhibition 2003 Opens Myanma Auto Exhibition 2003 was opened on Kyaikkasan Grounds, Yangon on 9 May attended by Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council General Khin Nyunt. Minister for Industry reported on arrangements being made for opening the exhibition by Myanma Industrial Development Committees at different levels to ensure Development Committees at different levels to ensure development of import-substitute industries and enhancing the abilities of industrial zones and display of over 350 automobiles produced by 18 industrial zones, Ministry of Industry-2 and Ministry of Rail Transportation. Deputy Minister for Industry-1 reported on arrangements being made for successful holding of the exhibition and for presenting best product award and best innovative award and for holding seminars on development of the automobile technology. The Secretary-1 made a speech, saying that the auto exhibition in Yangon reflects the innovative efforts of national industrialists. It also indicates the need to exert self-reliant efforts for successful running of the import-substitute industry. It also shows the high morale and good ideas of the respective entrepreneurs. It is incumbent upon the industrialists to take innovative measures and run industries like import-substitute ones that contribute to national development in doing businesses. Utilization of unfair economic means to get rich through short-cut is an indication of the lack of morale. Such a malpractice will never give any support to national economic development. Publications Donated to Myanmar Education Committee To be used in developing Myanma Education Sector, a ceremony to donate publications on various kinds of subjects to the ministries was held at the Tatmadaw Guest House on Inya Road on 12 May. On behalf of the wellwishers, Col. Hla Min of the Ministry of Defence explained the purpose of the donation. On behalf of Chairman of Myanma Education Committee Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council General Khin Nyunt, Maj-Gen Kyaw Win handed over the publications donated by the wellwishers to the deputy ministers, departmental heads and officials. Then, Maj-Gen Kyaw Win, the deputy ministers and officials viewed the publications. The publication were donated by American-based People to People non-governmental international social organization and Myanmar Youth Association. The two wellwisher groups had donated over 10,000 various kinds of books for three times—two times in March and December 2002 and one in 2003. They will donate more over 6,000 publications to Myanmar in a few days. Ancient Gold, Silver Buddha Images, Relics Unearthed Ancient Buddha images and relics including one Buddha image made of gold, another made of silver, two silver zedis (pagoda), bronze statues and relics were unearthed at the sugarcane plantation located on hill near an ancient pagoda in Tagaung city archaeological site in Wayongon Village, Thapaikkyin Township, Mandalay Division, when owner of the sugarcane plantation levelled the hill for cultivation on 17 April. The images and relics were handed over to the Office of the Deputy Director-General of the Department of Archaeology in Mandalay. The golden image and the silver image are of early Konbaung era and they are 2.5 inches and 3.5 inches high respectively. Arrangements are under way to present handsome cash award for the owner of the sugarcane plantation who found the images and relics. Special Features Government Commutes Sentences and Released Prisoners The Government of Myanmar commuted the sentences and released eighteen prisoners today and three last week, totaling twenty-one, taking consideration of health and humanitarian concerns. The releases are the latest in a series of efforts by the Government to move Myanmar closer to multiparty democracy and national reconsolidation. Those that have been released are as follows:- (1) U Tin Myint (47) yrs. (2) U Htay Thein (44) yrs. (3) U Zaw Min (42) yrs. (4) U Win Thein (36) yrs. (NLD member) (5) U Kyaw Kyaw (a)U Min Aung Khin (29) yrs. (NLD member) (6) U Thein Htay (a) U Ko Htay (34) yrs. (NLD member) (7) U Naing Oo (32) yrs. (NLD member) (8) Ma Kyi Kyi Win (38) yrs. (NLD member) (9) Ma Khin Moe Aye (30) yrs. (NLD member) (10) Ma Soe Soe Khaing (a) Ma Cho Tu (a) Ma Wai Mar (31) yrs. (NLD member) (11) U Bo Lay (a) U Aung Naing Oo (33) yrs. (NLD member) (12) U Zaw Min Tun (23) yrs. (NLD member) (13) U Naing Linn (a) U Ko Naing (36) yrs. (NLD member) (14) U Mya Sein (34) yrs. (NLD member) (15) U Khin Latt (a) U Soe Myint (55) yrs. (NLD member)
(16) Dr. Salai
Tun Than (74) yrs.
(17) U Danya
Wun Tha (a) U Danya (28) yrs.
(18) U Myo Min
Tun (23) yrs.
(19) U Soe Moe
Hlaing (a) U Moe Moe (34) yrs.
(20) U Zeya
(39) yrs.
(21) U Thet
Tun (a) U Tin Htut (40) yrs.
All of them are in good-health and back home together with
their respective families. The Government of Myanmar will continue to
release those that will cause no harm to the community nor threaten the
existing peace, stability and the unity of the nation as the country goes
through a steady evolution towards a democracy.
Among those released were Dr. Salai Tun Than, 74, a retired
agronomy professor who staged a solitary political protest in 2001. The
release of Dr. Salai Tun Than came at the request of many friends who were
concerned about his age and state of mind. Dressed in an academic gown,
the retired professor had stood by himself in a busy intersection in
Yangon on November 29, 2001, urging passers-by to "go into the streets"
and "fight ... to the finish". He then demanded that the military
authorities "go ahead and kill me," saying he wanted his academic gown to
be "a shroud for my dead body." He was gently taken into safe custody,
given proper medical attention, and has now been released to the care of
his family, where he is said to be resting.
The Government of Myanmar wishes to stress that it has no
desire to suppress political expression. But the Government has a
responsibility to all the Myanmar people to ensure that the transition to
democracy is safe, sound and successful. Democracy cannot be based on
appeals to violence — it must be based on constructive dialogue and
responsible action. Building a civil society is a process of cooperation,
not confrontation. It is a project for the whole nation to work on
together — not a "fight to the finish" which no one wins.
* * * * *
MYANMAR NOTES
U.S. COMMENTS The Government of Myanmar read with interest the May 6 remarks of U.S. State Department Spokesman Richard Boucher regarding Myanmar.
The remarks were especially interesting because Mr Boucher
noted some of the many positive developments in Myanmar — including Daw
Aung San Suu Kyi’s complete freedom to travel, the opening of many new
offices of the National League for Democracy, and the release of hundreds
of political prisoners — and then oddly declared that "little progress"
had been made toward democracy.
The truth is that the Government of Myanmar is taking its
steady and tangible steps toward democracy. There is ample evidence in
support of the reality.
As Mr Boucher noted, the NLD and other political parties in
Myanmar have unparalleled freedom to conduct their activities, and
prisoners are being released at a steady pace in order to maintain the
existing security, stability, tranquility, and peace the country is
enjoying at present.
Moreover, the Government has been reforming its own internal
procedures and practices through human rights training programs — run by
outside humanitarian groups — that have been going on for more than two
years. Hundreds of people in all branches of the Government have been
trained, and the results are widely felt throughout the country.
The Government not only welcomes but encourages any
constructive advice from all its citizens and the official Government's
representative is at the NLD's disposal to manage any comments and
suggestions they would like to share. Unfortunately, this attempt to open
a dialogue has not been reciprocated. But the Government remains open.
Moreover, the Government has been deepening its involvement
with the international humanitarian community, in the nurture of human
rights and democracy. The Amnesty International, the ICRC, the
International Labor Organization and other humanitarian groups have
conducted free and unfettered trips to Myanmar, and the Government
welcomes their humanitarian advice and suggestions. We invited these
groups to come and see at first sight. We look forward to a continuing and
productive relationship with them.
In his remarks, Mr Boucher said, "We call on the regime to take
its own declarations seriously and move on toward the restoration of
multiparty democracy."
In fact, we do take our own declarations seriously, and we back
them up with actions. We would urge Washington to take its own
declarations seriously, and help lay the foundation for a smooth
transition to democracy, the likes of which are:
-Rather than offering vague cliches and simplistic answers, we
urge the U.S. to provide useful and pragmatic advice instead.
-Rather than hurting the poor through economic sanctions, we
urge the U.S. to provide economic opportunities for the people of Myanmar.
-Rather than shirking its responsibility as the world’s leading drug market, we urge the U.S. to conscientiously join Myanmar in the drastic eradication of narcotics.
-Rather than
trying to isolate the people of Myanmar from the global democratic
community, we urge the U.S. to welcome Myanmar as a partner.
-And lastly, we urge the United States to join the people of Myanmar in our political transition to democracy. It is a worthy goal for both our countries. The foundation is now being prepared, with the help of many outside governments and international humanitarian organizations. The United States’ refusal to participate is unfortunate, and we urge Washington to join in the development of emerging democracies around the world. Culture Myanmar Precious Pearls Pearl is regarded as very precious and auspicious and we, Myanmars, adored pearls since days of yore. The whole world accepted the fact that pearl is the most precious gem. Myanmar has become renown in the world as one of the countries who owns world’s wonder, the precious pearls. There are over 20 countries in the world that produce pearl, among those countries, Myanma pearls are from oysters inhabiting in Myanmar sea and those types of oysters are the species that can be found in Myanmar only. Pearls from those rare oysters are more valuable than the pearls from the rest of the world. Thus, foreign countries came and invest in Myanmar to culture these precious pearls. The trial period of pearl cultivation started in Myanmar in 1986 and the new Pearl Gem Corporation was formed under the Ministry of Mines in that same year. This corporation continued to do research and trial pearl cultures were carried out, breeding in laboratory was successful but in sea water, things didn’t worked well due to the lack of technology and modern equipment and thus, the trial pearl culture was not successful as expected and at that time only 6000 oysters can be bred, the most in one year. In1988, when Myanmar’s economy has changed to market-oriented economic system, pearl cultivation commenced with invitations to local and foreign entrepreneurs for investment and to gain modern techniques in breeding oysters and to culture pearls, foreign companies were invited to join in this trade. Now, foreign companies from Japan, Australia and Thailand are breeding oysters and doing business in Myanmar. Pearl culture is a kind of business where you can enjoy the benefits accrued in a short period of time. High class quality and strength is not much needed and the labor cost is very low in Myanmar and their producing pearls in Myanmar compared to other countries of the world is very cheap. And since pearls can be sold for her fine quality abreast with other nations the profit is high and it’s one of the best foreign income earner too. Therefore, those wanting to invest in local and foreign pearl breeding companies can apply through Ministry of Mines to be in accord with rules and procedures laid down by the government to MIC. The government in 1995 promulgated Myanmar Pearl Law. This law aims at prevention the extinct of natural oysters and for success of breeding and cultivation of pearls and also to obtain technologies with modern equipment, for Myanmar workers to be able to handle those modern equipment and to get more jobs and most importantly, to earn more foreign exchange. In making contracts with foreign companies, these companies will have to hire Myanmar workers, build laboratories and equipment needed, buy motorboats and build bases. The trial period of cultivation of pearl is allowed 1 to 2 years. The Myanma Pearl Enterprise and local and foreign companies for doing joint venture, for a 15 year contract, the pearls obtained were divided into the ratio of government 25%and the company 75%. Hence the government in line with its motto, the state economy is to be in the hands of the people and has been carrying out this task for the people to enjoy the fruits of the economic endeavors. By letting foreign companies do this joint venture in pearl breeding the country is not losing any of its resources but can achieve the following benefits. -The state without standing any cost can obtain the pearls in ratio. -Locals have more jobs and some are paid in dollars which in a way enhanced foreign earnings for the state. -Experts of Myanma Pearl Enterprise by working together with foreign experts learned modern technique and also be able to use modern machines and equipment. -Foreign currency earned because of the foreign companies production and for other costs accrued by them. Imports needed for equipment and things for producing and cultivation of pearls can now be able to produce in the country and thus creating more job opportunities for the locals and more foreign currency earned. -After completion of the contract all the equipment and things invested by foreign companies will become state-owned. For the foreign companies also, the production cost is very much less compared with other countries, Myanma seabed is clean and clear so that they could get high quality pure genuine pearls and thus gained real profits. In Myanmar, the State-owned pearl cultivation centers are situated in Pearl Island in Myeik, Taninthayi Division, Mali Kyun and Shwe Kyun islands(Eastern Pearl Company), Don Pearl Aw Camp (Atlantic) St.Luke Island (Myanmar Andaman Company) and Owen Island (Majeepyinsaung island)(Ni Ni Pearl Cultivation Company) There are many pearl cultivation centers in Ahpawyay island. There are namely, local and foreign markets. In the Domestic market, Myanma Pearls are sold at Gems, Jade and Pearl emporiums. Pearl lots of US$9999 and under are sold by tender system. Pearls worth the basic price of US $ 10,000 and higher priced pearl lots are sold on competitive basis. Pearl lots which did not fit the Emporium standard and which lower in quality were sold in closed sealed tender system once a year at the Ministry of Mines. For foreign pearl merchants who were not able to attend the Emporium, they were invited and with negotiated price in US dollars. As for foreign markets, Myanmar has visited Hong Kong Gems, Pearl and Jade Exhibition in 1999 and sold the precious pearls. Likewise, Myanmar has also visited foreign gems, jade and pearl exhibitions which has profit potentials and also to biddings and tenders and sold the pearls too. Hong Kong is now distributing Myanmar pearls to western countries. In Myanmar, pearl output is increasing and there are many joint ventures in this field. The following is pearl production and sales from 1997 to 2000. Under the guidance of the State leadership, beginning 2004 - 2005, to prevent extinction of oysters, intensive efforts for cultivation 100,000 pearls are being projected. Since oyster shells and pearl output is indirectly accrued, efforts are being made. The Business Tank, March 2003Tourism Booming Eco-Tourism through Forest Conserve What makes our world a better place to live? It’s natural resources, of course! Among all the natural resources, the most beneficial is the forest. No one can deny this because of its valuable contribution to the human beings as well as animals. Forests are indispensable for all of us and hence the preservation of forests become crucial. Myanmar is an agricultural country and for this reason it needs fair climate. Therefore, the government and Ministry of Forestry have launched public educational lectures on retaining natural resources and environment. They give seminars, hold exhibitions, distribute pamphlets, publish journals and periodicals and conduct training courses as well. Moreover, the documentation of major forestry enterprises, girdling, tidal forests restoration and conferences for Teak plantation has been carried out, so does the issuing of current news concerning the Forestry Department. It ought to be aware that the present day people should not spoil the resources for future people when fulfilling their needs and desire. In this sense ITTO (International Tropical Timber Organization) was established in 1986 which comprised 26 of timber producing countries and 27 consumer countries. The main objective of the organization is to preserve tropical forests and some of the endangered species. Concerning Myanmar, there are more than (1.8) million acres of deforested area and among them 100,000 acres have been restoring, annually. Myanmar, occupying 167.18 million acres of land, possesses forest land that covers 85 million acres and comprises Tidal forests, Swamp forests, Evergreen forests, Dryzone forests. Temperate forests-which seems really amazing to have so many different types of forests in one country. However, as a consequence of rural population growth, some forests have been cut down in order to be used as fuel. So, the government is under taking serious measures to eliminate this by providing alternative wood substitute fuel. Nowadays, Sustainable Forest Management (SFM) becomes the key concern for our environment. As there has been a tremendous growth of technology, there has also been negative impacts on environment. The most significant example is the erosion of Ozone layer. Other impacts are that of Elnino and Lanina which hit many parts of the world is recent years. These natural disasters are the consequences of deforestation. Hence, Forest Principles are adopted in order to prevent deforestation and to protect the environment. Myanmar, being the frontier of global biodiversity in Asia, has established many sizeable ecotourism sites. For the convenience of the travelers, the Ministry of Forestry incorporates with private enterprises to provide better transportation means and accommodations. Such arrangements would render full facility and invaluable opportunity for those who want to explore beauty of nature. At the "Kandawgyi National Botanical Garden" which accupies 436.96 acres, there are variety of local and foreign hardwoods, bamboo, rare wild animals like Takin, different kinds of birds, different species of flowers, rare orchids, amazing flower beds and medicinal herbs. There also a recreation center which has a club house and a swimming pool. The small pathways in the garden will make you feel like walking in the dream land. The most suitable place for those who want to see different variety of birds is the one called "Moeyungyi Wildlife Sanctuary". Another place for bird excursion is "Shwesettaw Wildlife Sanctuary" which offers you more than (113) kinds of rare birds. Besides, one can also see different kinds of tortoise there. Khakaborazi National Park offers not only the breath-taking scenery but also adventurous experience, for instance, hiking, climbing snow-capped mountains and crossing suspension bridges. It would be very exciting to be at a place like this, which is the far eastern part of Himalaya mountain range. Moreover, Khakaborazi is the highest peak in Myanmar. You can enjoy rowing or swimming in the rocky streams and at the same time, can observe different kinds of rare plants and animals. Infact, ecotourism gives you an opportunity to explore the tradition and culture of the inhabitants. In addition to this, it provides benefits for a country’s economy as well as its environment. Therefore, it is our responsibility to promote to Ecotourism Industry by sustaining Myanma Forest and Wildlife. The Business Tank, March 2003
For More Information on Myanmar www.mewashingtondc.com www.myanmars.net www.myanmar.com/gov/trade/inv.htm Information Officer Embassy of the Union of Myanmar 2300 S Street NW Washington, D.C. 20008 Tel. (202) 332-9044, 332-9045 Fax. (202) 332-9046
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