The Prime Minister and party inspected the site of Kengtwang Hydro-electric power project on Namting Creek, 31 miles east of Monai. The entourage closely observed water falling from Kengtwang Waterfall. Director-General of the Hydro-electric Power Department reported on data on Kengtwang Hydro-electric power project, aims of the project and location, flow of water of the Namting Creek, findings in the hydrological record, geological conditions, construction of concrete diversion weir, in-take facility and canal, installation of steel pipe and power lines and progress of work.

The project is expected to complete in 2006. On completion of the project, 24-hour electric power can be distributed to 11 townships and surplus power can also be supplied to the national grid. Industries in the township including cottage industries and the whole region will develop by the year 2006. Three 18-megawatt vertical turbines will be installed at the power station that will generate 472 million kwh a year.

A ceremony to open the Heho Airport in Heho, Shan State (South) was held at the airport on 12 October. The Heho Airport and its runway were upgraded under air transport development project. In the process, the 6000 feet long and 50 feet wide runway was upgraded into the 8500 feet long and 100 feet wide one. Thus, Fokker F-28 Jets could now land and take off at the airport.

There were altogether 21 airports large and small across the nation in the past, and there are now 26 airports. In the past, out of 21 airports, Fokker F-28 Jets could use only 6. The Fokker F-29 could now use 18 airports out of 26. Asia World Co launched the project on 27 August, 2001.

The Opening of Laynya-Mandaing Bridge in Pyigyi Mandaing in Bokpyin Township, Taninthayi Division, constructed by the Bridge Construction Special Group-3 of Public Works was held on 23 October. The 860-foot-long reinforced concrete bridge is 24 feet wide and can withstand 60 tons of load. It is flanked by three-foot-width pedestrian lanes. The projects being implemented by the State in the Taninthayi Division include building of the strategic Dawei-Myeik-Taninthayi-Bokpyin-Kawthoung Highway and river and creek-crossing bridge. In constructing the Dawei-Myeik-Taninthayi-Bokpyin-Kawthoung Union Highway, all necessary river and creek-crossing bridges along the highway have completely been constructed.

Construction project of the newly inaugurated Laynya-Mandaing Bridge started on 1 June, 2001 and completed on 31 August, 2003. Due to the completion of the bridge, Yaybyu Township of the northernmost of the division is accessible to the Kawthoung in the southernmost part of the division without natural barriers and any time any season. The division was difficult of access in the past and had to rely mainly on the water and air ways in the past.

The opening ceremony of Kyweku-Kyaukphy Bridge crossing Kyaukphya River in Myeik, Taninthayi Division, built by the Public Works of the Ministry of Construction, was held on 26 October. The bridge, with the length of 3612 feet and 40 feet breadth, is situated on Myeik-Dawei Road. The construction project started in 2000. Upper structure of the bridge was constructed with the use of PC beams and iron frames and lower structure reinforced concrete bore piles. Clearance area of the bridge is 230 feet in breadth and 28 feet in height. It can withstand 60 tons of load.

In Taninthayi Division, only over 1.4 million people are residing in the division and thus, the land, water and mineral resources are very large in proportion to the population. On Dawei-Myeik-Taninthayi-Bokpyin-Kawthoung Union Highway which is vital for Taninthayi Division, seven bridges have also been built successfully one after another within six years. A total of 163 bridges including 37 bridges of 1,000 feet and above like Kyweku-Kyaukpya bridge have been constructed by Public Works of the Ministry of Construction all over the country, spending K 88,000 million and US$ 150 million and relying on the capability of Myanmar engineers.

Prime Minister General Khin Nyunt met with Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao of State Council of the People’s Republic of China in Bali, Indonesia on 6 October. At the meeting, the two leaders discussed matters related to bilateral cooperation between the two countries. The Chinese Premier noted the fact that he is delighted to hear Myanmar of being stable, tranquil and prosperous under the leadership of Senior General Than Shwe. The PRC has constantly practiced the Five Principles of Peaceful Co-existence in international relations. China has the view that every country has the right to sort out its own internal issues. China wishes Myanmar united, stable and developed and wants to promote bilateral relations and economic cooperation with Myanmar. China will cooperate with Myanmar in tapping Myanmar’s abundant natural resources, building infrastructures, agriculture and forestry sectors, nurturing human resources and electricity sector. The Prime Minister General Khin Nyunt also emphasized the fact that the Myanmar-China relation is much satisfactory and the bilateral economic cooperation is fruitful. Myanmar thanks China’s positions towards Myanmar in all aspects. The assistance of China for the development of natural resources, infrastructures, agriculture and human resources is very much beneficial to Myanmar. As China understands her, Myanmar will constantly abide by the one-country policy of China. He briefed the PRC counterpart on tasks being implemented by laying down future programmes of the State.

Prime Minister General Khin Nyunt also met with Prime Minister of Singapore Mr. Goh Chok Tong at the Sheraton Laguna Hotel in Bali, the Republic of Indonesia on the same day. The Singaporean Prime Minister expressed his thanks for being informed of the seven-point political roadmap of Myanmar, adding that Singapore was in favour of flourishing of democracy in Myanmar, that he wished the efforts of Myanmar Government to be successful; and that he assumed Myanmar was the one with much of a prospect. Prime Minister General Khin Nyunt highlighted the fact that Singapore is not only the main trade partner of Myanmar but also the one which invests much in Myanmar. The Prime Minister expressed his thanks for the assistance provided by Singapore for human resources development, and support and encouragement of Singapore for the seven-stage roadmap for democratic transformation in Myanmar. He believed that friendly relations and economic cooperation between the two countries would further strengthen. Myanmar would strive for realizations of future policies and programmes.

Prime Minister General Khin Nyunt also called on Prime Minister of Malaysia Dato’ Seri Dr. Mahathir Bin Mohamad in Bali, on the same day. The Malaysian Prime Minister pointed out the fact that Malaysia was a country that strongly supported Myanmar. He also expressed the belief that affairs of Myanmar should be handled and solved by Myanmar people. Malaysia was a true and good friend of Myanmar and it would continue to help Myanmar to the most possible degree. Myanmar would become a member nation on which ASEAN could rely, he believed. Prime Minister General Khin Nyunt expressed his thanks to the Malaysian Prime Minister for his words based on goodwill, and all-round cooperation of Malaysia. He expressed his belief that the relations and cooperation between the two would further strengthen and develop in the future. He was also pleased with the assistance rendered to Myanmar as a true friend by Malaysia and the stand Malaysia took on Myanmar. The Prime Minister also explained matters related to the seven-stage roadmap of Myanmar.

Prime Minister of the Union of Myanmar General Khin Nyunt, after attending the 9th ASEAN Summit, returned home on 9 October.

The 9th ASEAN Summit was held at Bali International Convention Centre in Bali, the Republic of Indonesia on 7 October morning. Prime Minister General Khin Nyunt and Heads of State/Government of ASEAN nations arrived at the convention centre being welcomed by Indonesian President Madame Megawati Soekarnoputri.

The Declaration of ASEAN Concord II (Bali Concord II) was signed at the Auditorium of Bali International Convention Centre. Prime Minister General Khin Nyunt and Heads of State/Government of ASEAN nations signed the Declaration of ASEAN Concord II.

The farewell party for Malaysian Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Dr. Mahathir bin Mohamad who is going to retire took place at the Auditorium. The Indonesian President delivered a speech and presented a documentary photo of the 9th ASEAN Summit to the Malaysian Prime Minister. The Malaysian Prime Minister expressed words of thanks.

Heads of State/Government of ASEAN nations, the People’s Republic of China, Japan and the Republic of Korea attended the working lunch at the Nusantara Hall No.3. After the working lunch, those present posed for a documentary photo at Nusantara Hall No.1. Next, the ASEAN+3 Summit followed. Present on the occasion were Heads of State/Government of ASEAN nations, Chinese Prime Minister Mr. Wen Jiabao, Japanese Prime Minister Mr. Junichiro Koizumi and Korean President Mr. Roh Moo-hyun.

Prime Minister of the Union of Myanmar General Khin Nyunt called on President of the Republic of Indonesia Madame Magawati Soekarnoputri at Bougain Ville Room of the Bali International Convention Centre in Bali, Indonesia at 8 pm on 8 October.

At the meeting, the Indonesian President said that she was glad to meet with Prime Minister General Khin Nyunt. She recounted the pleasantness and cleanliness of Yangon and preservation of cultural heritage she witnessed during her visit to Myanmar, adding that she was also briefed on plans for development of Myanmar by Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council Senior General Than Shwe. She expressed her hope that Myanmar would develop speedily and her wish to promote the bilateral relations between the two countries.

Prime Minister General Khin Nyunt said the two countries have been nurturing and practising a firm relation based on mutual friendship and understanding since the time of the independence struggles in the two countries. He expressed wishes to further strengthen the friendship based on fine traditions, adding that the two countries should exchange delegations to further promote the economic cooperation. Myanmar is anxious to welcome high level delegations and economic delegations of Indonesia and Myanmar will also send delegations to Indonesia. He also expressed his belief that mutual promotion of economic cooperation in the private sector will contribute to the interests of both countries.

Prime Minister of the Union of Myanmar General Khin Nyunt called on Prime Minister Dr. Thaksin Shinnawatra at Room No. 2315 of the Sheraton Nusa Indah Resort in Bali, Republic of Indonesia at 11.10 am on 8 October.

The two leaders cordially discussed matters related to bilateral relations and common interests. The Thai Prime Minister expressed his belief that the two countries are brethren nations, adding that as Thailand is the closet neighbour to Myanmar, it understands the conditions and challenges of Myanmar more than other countries. Supporting the seven stage roadmap of Myanmar, he said, Thailand wishes to promote the economic cooperation between the two countries.

Prime Minister General Khin Nyunt expressed his thanks to the Thai Prime Minister for the positive support based on correct understanding for the conditions in Myanmar. Myanmar was also well aware of the danger of narcotic drugs posed to Thailand, he added. Highlighting the pledge of Myanmar to eliminate narcotic drugs, he said that Myanmar would enhance cooperation between the two countries.

Prime Minister General Khin Nyunt received Minister for Communications of Brunei Darussalam Mr. Pehin Dato Haji Zakaria Sulaiman, Minister of Communications, Transport, Post and Construction of Lao PDR Mr. Bouathong Vong Lokham, Minister of Communications of China Mr. Zhang Chun Xian, Deputy Minister of Transport of Thailand Mr. Nikorn Chamnong, Deputy Minister of Communications of Vietnam Mr. Pham The Minh, Parliamentary Secretary of Land, Infrastructure and Transport of Japan Mr. Yousuke Tsuruho, Secretary General of the Ministry of Transport of Malaysia Mr. Dato Zahara Shaari, Director-General of Public Works of the Ministry of Public Work and Transport of Cambodia Mr. Chhin King Hean, Director of Legal Affairs International Cooperation Bureau of Indonesia Mr. Kalolo Nugroho, Director of the Ministry of Transport of the Philippines Mr. Arnel R Manresa and ASEAN Secretary General Mr. Ong Keng Yong at Zeyathiri Beikman Hall on Konmyinttha in Yangon on 25 October.

They discussed matters relating to cooperation among ASEAN countries, ASEAN+China and ASEAN+Japan.

The Second ASEAN and China Transport Ministers Meeting, hosted in Myanmar, took place at the Sedona Hotel in Yangon on 25 October. Present at the meeting were Minister of Communications from Brunei Darussalam; Director General of Public Works and Transport from Cambodia; Director of the Legal Affairs and International Cooperation Bureau from Indonesia; Minister of Communications, Transport, Post and Construction from Lao PDR; Secretary-General of the Ministry of Transport from Malaysia; Minister for Transport from Myanmar; Head of the Road Transport Planning Division under the Ministry of Transport and Communications from the Philippines; Minister of Transport from Singapore; Deputy Minister of Transport from Thailand; Deputy Minister of Transport from Vietnam; Minister of Communications from China; Mr. Ong Keng Yong, ASEAN Secretary-General; high-ranking officials from ASEAN member countries, officials from the ASEAN Secretariat, and departmental heads. The 1st ASEAN-China policy dialogue meeting was held on 20th September 2002 in Jakarta, Indonesia. At that meeting the Terms of Reference for ASEAN-China Transport Co-operation was established. Chinese intends to focus Transport Co-operation Projects at the initial stage in the following areas;

(a) Construction of Kunming-Bangkok Highway through Lao PDR,

(b) Implementation of the commercial navigation agreement on the upper Lancang- Mekong River,

(c) Facilitation of Cross Border Road Transport in the Greater Mekong Sub-Region (GMS), and

(d) Construction of the Pan-Asia Railway.

The Joint Statement on establishing the partnership of good neighbourliness and mutual trust was signed by the leaders of ASEAN Countries and China in 1997. China submitted a proposal of 26,000 km long route to be connected to the Asian Highway network. It would create favorable conditions for speeding up the establishment of China-ASEAN Free Trade Area. The navigation channel improvement project on the upper Mekong River jointly executed by the Governments of China, Laos, Myanmar and Thailand, Pan-Asia Railway, linking Kunming -Bangkok Highway inside China, and the Joint Declaration recently signed by the leaders of China and ASEAN countries reiterate key sectors and objectives for economic cooperation between China and ASEAN. Discussions were also made on the signing of an MOU for the transport cooperation plan between the ASEAN and China. Those present at the meeting approved the joint statement of the 2nd ATM+China and then the meeting came to an end at 1015 am. The 1st ASEAN-Japan Transport Ministers Meeting (1st ATM+Japan), hosted by Myanmar, took place at the same venue at 1045am. The relationship between ASEAN and Japan has now undergone accelerating progress.

The lack of reliable and secured transport system would have not sped up trade between ASEAN and Japan. The sound transport network is of the essence in promoting trade and economy. Japanese cooperation is therefore of great importance for the success and progress of the ASEAN transport network. He said a total of 22 ASEAN-Japan cooperation projects for transport facilitation, air transport, water transport, and road transport emerged from the transport policy workshop held on 7 and 8 May 2003 in Tokyo, Japan. Discussions for implementation of the programme for 2003-2004 were to be based on the discussions of the two ASEAN-Japan transport Senior Officials’ Meeting, one of which was held on 18 September 2002 in Indonesia and another on 22 October 2003 in Yangon, Myanmar. Those present at the meeting discussed matters related to the 16 ASEAN+Japan Projects and the joint statement of the 1st ATM+Japan meeting. Afterwhich, the meeting came to an end at 12.30 pm. In the evening, the Myanmar Minister for Transportation hosted a dinner to those present at the three meetings at the Sedona Hotel in Yangon.

After attending the 58th. Session of the United Nations General Assembly which was held at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, Minister for Foreign Affairs U Win Aung arrived back Yangon by air on 2 October. He was welcomed back at the Yangon International Airport by Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs U Kyaw Thu, Senior Officers, Deputy Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme Mr. Vishwa Khana and responsible personnel from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The Minister attended the 58th. Session of the United Nations General Assembly from 22 to 30 September and also acted as its Chairman on 25 September. And during his stay in New York, the Minister for Foreign Affairs also attended the 27th Annual Meeting of the Foreign Ministers of the Group of 77 on 25 September, the Annual Meeting of the Foreign Ministers and Heads of Delegation of the Non-Aligned Movement on 26 September, the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting and Joint ASEAN-UN Luncheon on 29 September and the Meeting of the Foreign Ministers of Asia Cooperation Dialogue on 30 September. U Win Aung delivered a statement at the United Nations General Assembly on 29 September. While in New York, the Minister also met United Nations Secretary General Mr. Kofi Annan, President of the 58th. Session of the General Assembly Mr. Julian Hunte and other heads of delegation.

The Ninth ASEAN Transport Ministers Meeting was launched at the Sedona Hotel in Yangon on 23 October, attended by Prime Minister General Khin Nyunt. It was attended by senior officials of Myanmar, the Transport Ministers and Deputy Ministers of Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam, senior transport officials of ASEAN, China and Japan, ASEAN Secretary-General, ambassadors, and guests.

The Meeting assumes special significance as it is taking place barely a fortnight after the Ninth ASEAN Summit held in Bali. It may be recalled that at the Summit, the ASEAN Leaders adopted the ASEAN Concord II (Bali Concord II) in which they pledged to build an ASEAN Community based on the three pillars of "ASEAN Security Community", "ASEAN Economic Community" and "ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community". The ASEAN Economic Community would include, "enhanced infrastructure and communications connectivity". The leaders also agreed to accelerate regional integration in the 11 priority sectors including air travel and tourism.

Myanmar built roads, rails, bridges, airports and seaports with its own resources. Since 1988, Myanmar has constructed new roads measuring 2000 road miles, a total of 161 new bridges of more than 180 feet span including seven large bridges spanning the Ayeyawady River, two across the Chindwin River and three across the Thanlwin River. Moreover, as rail transportation constitutes an important sector in land transportation, over 1000 miles of new rail lines have been constructed. Previously, the transportation network was mainly intended to link the north and south of the country.

Today there are road and rail networks that connect all corners of the nation and with all the neighboring countries. With regard to the aviation sector in Myanmar, seven new airports have been constructed and 21 existing airports upgraded to accommodate larger aircraft. Before the time of present Government, the Yangon International Airport was the only international airport. Today with the opening of the international airport in Mandalay, a second international aviation entry point to Myanmar has been added. In the near future, with the completion of airport extension project in Bagan, the number of international airports will increase to three to meet the growing demand. As the infrastructure develops in the country, we believe that Myanmar could become a transportation hub for the region. Because of its strategic and geographical location, Myanmar is a natural land bridge connecting Southeast Asia and South Asia as well as with China. Plans are already underway to link India to Thailand through Myanmar. Similarly, a survey will soon be initiated with a view to establishing road connections between Myanmar and Bangladesh. There already exists various road transportation links between Myanmar and Thailand as well as with China. It is now possible to travel from China to Thailand through Myanmar in six hours. The growing network means that the dream of an East West Corridor connecting Mawlamyine in Myanmar with Danang in Vietnam is a fast becoming reality.

The Myanmar delegation led by Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs arrived back Yangon on 26 October after attending the Myanmar-India Foreign Office Consultation held in New Delhi. At the Foreign Office Consultation held at the Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi on 23 October, the Deputy Minister and Indian Foreign Secretary Mr. Kanwal Sibal held discussions on a wide range of subjects including border related issues, drug trafficking, trade and economic cooperation, development issues. The Deputy Minister of Myanmar and Finance Secretary of India Mr. D C Gupta signed a 25 million dollar Credit Agreement between the Government of Myanmar and the Government of India.

The Senior Officials Meeting between Myanmar and India on Outstanding Bilateral Consular and Financial Issues was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on 30 September.

The Indian delegation was headed by H.E. Mr. Priyadarshi Thakur, Additional Secretary of the Ministry of External Affairs of the Republic of India and Embassy officials, H.E. Mr. R.K. Bhatia, Indian Ambassador to Myanmar and Embassy officials. The Myanmar delegation was headed by Director-General of the Consular and Legal Affairs Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and officials concerned from the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Ministry of Immigration and Population as well as the Ministry of Finance and Revenue.

The two sides discussed outstanding bilateral consular and financial issues in a spirit of friendship and good neighbourliness. As Myanmar-India bilateral relations increased, consular and financial meeting between the two sides enhanced mutual understanding between the two nations.

A meeting on Four-Country Economic Cooperation Strategies Summit (Cambodia-Laos-Myanmar-Thailand) took place at the Ministry of Defence in Yangon on 28 October, with an address by Prime Minister.

Prime Minister General Khin Nyunt noted the fact that the Strategic Implementation of Four-Country Economic Cooperation Summit (Cambodia-Laos-Myanmar-Thailand) will be held in Myanmar in the near Future. It is therefore needed to make preliminary coordination on issues to be discussed at the summit. Head of State Senior General Than Shwe attended an ASEAN Summit on SARS held in Bangkok of Thailand on 29 April of this year. It has since then been agreed to hold the Strategic Implementation of Four-Country Economic Cooperation (Cambodia-Laos-Myanmar-Thailand) in Myanmar.

The Prime Minister urged officials of the ministries concerned to make coordination and collective efforts for the success of the summit as the holding of the summit will bring prosperity not only to the four countries but also to the whole region of ASEAN.

Minister for Foreign Affairs reported on preparatory measures to be taken by ministries concerned; and Minister for Commerce on agreements of the Four-Country Economic Ministers Meeting (Cambodia-Laos-Myanmar-Thailand), held on 27 October in Bangkok.

The Myanmar delegation led by the Minister for Commerce attended the Four-Country Preliminary Commerce Ministerial Meeting (Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar and Thailand) for Economic Cooperation Strategies held in Bangkok, Thailand, on 27 October.

Before the meeting, the four commerce ministers met to make preliminary discussions. Minister discussed matters relating to tax relief on Myanmar’s export items, implementation of book-keeping trade, cooperation on taxation, opening of departments that can help trade and traveling at border areas, development of human resources, development of transportation infrastructures, formation of entrepreneurs’ council for economic cooperation strategies, holding of trade fairs and establishment of industrial zones that produce export items. The delegation arrived back in Yangon on 27 October.

In order to define strategies in cooperation for development, the meeting of high ranking government officials from Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos and Thailand will be held in Bagan, Myanmar from 11-12 November, 2003. At the meeting held on 27 August, 2003 in Cambodia, Drawing up Groups for Future Programmes was set and approved future programs. Bagan Declaration will be issued in Bagan Meeting. The Workshop for discussion on future programs and detailed procedures was held in Bangkok, Thailand from 29th-30th September, 2003, in which the topic "Tourism Cooperation Feasibility Study of a possible joint Tourism route of Mae Sot-Myanmar Mawlamyine-Yangon" was also discussed.

The Minister of Energy has found new natural gas test wells named SEIN and PATAMYA at Block M 5/6 and SHWE PYI HTAY in Block M 9. From SEIN, a Joint-Venture with Total Fina Co, natural gas can be explored and produced in 2004 and exported at the beginning of 2005. 500 billion-cubic-feet natural gas can be applied not only locally but also be exported. Interested companies from Indonesia, Thailand and India are offering to explore SEIN Natural Gas Well. Contract will be concluded at the end of 2003 with awarded company, Arco Co which started to explore SHWE PYI HTAY in 1998. The natural gas from SHWE PYI HTAY is of high quality with heating value according to the production record.

The opening of the Fourth Annual Meeting of Greater Mekong Subregion Business Forum hosted by the Union of Myanmar Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry(UMFCCI) and the ceremony to transfer chairmanship were held at the Traders Hotel in Yangon on 27 October. Present on the occasion were senior officials of Myanmar, Ambassadors of Cambodia, Laos, China and Japan, embassy staff, delegates of UNDP, the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP), Asian Development Bank (ADB), Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Chairman of Greater Mekong Subregion, delegates of members of subregion of Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, Myanmar, Vietnam and the People’s Republic of China, Vice President and EC members of UMFCCI and officials of related organizations and ministries, local and foreign journalists and guests.

Chairman of GMS--BF Mr. Chanpheng Bounnapol reported on general report on GMS--BF and Project Director on activities and future initiatives and plan of GMS-BF. Next, delegates of Cambodia Chamber of Commerce, (CCC), Laos National Chambers of Commerce and Industry (LNCCI), Thailand Chamber of Commerce (TCC), the Union of Myanmar Chambers of Commerce and Industry (UMFCCI), Vietnam Chambers of Commerce and Industry (VCCI), Yunnan Province Chamber of Commerce (YPCC) of the People’s Republic of China discussed activities and future initiatives and plan of GMS.

The participants approved the appointment of Managing Director and Advisors for GMS--BF. In the afternoon session, Joint Secretary-General of UMFCCI reported on introduction of GMS--BF, Dr. Jingjai of TCC on cross border trade and investment opportunities among GMS countries, Investment Officer of ADB Ms. Madeleine Varkay on transit trade among economic corridors, Executive Vice-President of VCCI Mr. Hoang Van Dung on GMS--BF Trade Fair and Economic Affairs Officer of UNESCAP on GMS in a new Asia. The delegates took part in the discussions. The ceremony to transfer chairmanship to the Vice-President of UMFCCI was held.

Vietnam Trade Fair-2003 was opened at Yangon Trade Centre in Yangon on 1 October, with the participation of 46 companies from Vietnam, opening 50 booths to display the goods. The fair opens from 9 am to 5 pm daily and will display textiles, medicine and medical equipment, construction materials, agricultural machinery, electronics and household and personal goods.

The Internet Journal Volume 4, No. 17 has been published the whole country. It features the special article on the free computer training school at the Wunthamaydani Monastery in the compound of Koehtatgyi Pagoda and other articles such as an interview on creation of a website on internet and internet directory, national and international technical news and photos of new model of digital camera.

Minister for Foreign Affairs U Win Aung and Deputy Minister U Kyaw Thu left Yangon on 4 October to attend the Ministerial Meeting of ASEAN Foreign Ministers and ASEAN Economic Ministers to be held in Bali, Indonesia on 5 and 6 October.

A seven-member delegation led by Secretary of Home Affairs of India Mr. N Gopalaswami arrived Yangon by air on 7 October to attend the ninth State Level Myanmar-India Border Civil Authorities Meeting to be held in Myanmar. The ninth State Level Myanmar-India Border Civil Authorities Meeting was held at the meeting hall of the Drug Elimination Museum in Yangon on the same day.

The visiting five-member delegation led by Deputy Minister of Trade of Socialist Republic of Vietnam Mr. Do Nhu Dinh called on President of the Union of Myanmar Federation Chambers of Commerce and Industry at the office of the UMFCCI on 3 October.

Myanmar Wushu athlete Thura Soe secured one gold, Hong Kong, one silver and Vietnam, one bronze respectively in the event of age 12 to 14 at the 2nd Asian Youth Wushu Tournament for the year 2003 being held in Beijing, the People’s Republic of China. In the event of age 15 to 17, Myanmar athlete Myo Min Soe secured one silver, China, one gold and China (Taipei), one bronze respectively. After the events of 10 October morning, the People’s Republic of China with three gold secured the first place followed by Myanmar with one gold and one silver and Vietnam with one bronze.

Under the arrangement of the Myanmar Voyages International Tourism Co Ltd and Star Cruises Shipping Agency, the MV Super Star Virgocruise ship carrying 875 tourists arrived at Myanmar International Terminal Thilawa in Yangon on 14 October morning. The tourists visited downtown Yangon and Thalyin in groups and left the terminal in the evening.

Selected Myanmar judo team won one gold, one silver and one bronze in the Thai International judo Contest being held in Thailand from 15 to 20 October. Aye Aye Aung won the first in 57 kilo division, Nwe Nwe Than the second in 45 kilo division and Thanda Win the third in 48 kilo division. Altogether 14 teams of 11 countries participated in the contest.

The Association Medicate Franco Asiatic (AMFA) of France donated medical equipment to the Orthopaedic Hospital in Yangon on 19 October. At the ceremony, the documents related to orthopaedic equipment have been presented by Chairman of AMFA, Professor Alian Patel.

* * * * *

We are today celebrating the fifty-eighth anniversary of the founding of the United Nations. The International Organization was founded with the collective determination. It aims to eradicate the scourge of war to strengthen peace in conformity with justice and international law and to respect the equal rights of nations, large and small, among others. It also aims to use the United Nations as a centre for harmonizing the actions of Member States in the attainment of these common ends. Since its inception, the United Nations has exerted tireless efforts to achieve its goals for the benefit of humankind. Remarkable achievements have been attained in many areas, while success has proved to be elusive in others.

The leaders of the nations of the world greeted the arrival of the new millennium with the adoption of the United Nations Millennium Declaration. This important document embodies a large number of specific commitments aimed at improving the lot of humanity in the new century. Among the areas on which commitments have been made, peace and security are priorities. The turn of the millennium has brought new challenges in the field of peace and security. Strengthening respect for the rule of law in international as well as in national affairs, taking concerted action against international terrorism, redoubling efforts to counter the world drug problem, intensifying efforts to fight transnational crime, resolving armed conflicts, and disarmament matters are the goals set by the Millennium Declaration to be implemented by the States in this century. Other priority areas of commitment are development and poverty eradication. In order to significantly reduce poverty and promote development, it is essential to achieve sustained and broad-based economic growth. The millennium development goals highlight some of the priority areas that must be addressed to eliminate extreme poverty. These goals include commitments made by developed nations such as increased development assistance and improved market access for exports from developing countries.

This is the third year since the adoption of the Millennium Declaration. Some progress in a few areas have been made so far in achieving the objectives agreed upon. Member States need to continue to undertake appropriate measures towards their implementation.

Myanmar, as a member of the World Organization, believes that it is important to realize the commitments made in the Millennium Declaration in comprehensive, integrated, coordinated and balanced manner at the national, regional and international levels.

On this auspicious occasion of the fifty-eighth anniversary of the United Nations, we in Myanmar join with other Member States in reaffirming our commitment to purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations and pledge our fullest support for and cooperation with the Organization in its efforts to create a world at peace and development.

The World Teachers Day Commemorative Ceremony was held at the Diamond Jubilee Hall in Yangon on 5 October. Myanmar Education Committee Chairman Prime Minister General Khin Nyunt addressed the ceremony and presented prizes to winners of essay, poem and article competitions.

In Myanmar, teachers are respected and highly regarded and the Government has included the programme to strengthen and empower the status and opportunities of teachers in the national education development plan.

The slogan "Teachers--Opening Doors to a Better World" for 2003 "World Teachers’ Day" is in fact most suitable for referring to the teachers’ attributes and the expectations from the teachers by the State.

In fact, teachers are placed highly as a ‘role model’ in our Myanmar culture not only in schools but also in the community. Annually, the day for paying obeisance in respect and gratitude to teachers is celebrated in October during the end of Lent Festival in school as well as in the community.

Therefore, in the national education promotion programme, the role of teachers is now being upgraded and many improvement and changes have been made in the field of teacher training so as to produce qualified and effective teachers.

In the year 1988, there were only one Institute of Education, one University for Development of National Races and 17 Teachers Training Schools and Colleges totaling 19 teacher training institutions only. At present these have been increased to two Institutes of Education, one University for Development of National Races and 20 Education Colleges with a total of 23 teacher training institutions.

Regarding teacher training, matriculated students can join the Education Colleges for pre-service training. At the Institutes of Education, B.Ed., Post-Graduate Diploma in Teaching (PGDT) and Post-Graduate Diploma in Multimedia Arts (PGDMA) courses are being offered to the university graduates.

Under the supervision of the Ministry of Hotel and Tourism and sponsored by the Ministry of Transport, the M/Y Itasca owned by South East Asia Liveabords Co Ltd of Phuket, Thailand, carry seven Italian tourists and 12 crew members arrived at Kawthoung from Phuket on 30 September. After visiting the Myeik archipelago in Kawthoung District, Taninthayi Division, the tourists arrived at Nanthida Jetty in Yangon on 7 October evening. The tourists are due to visit Inle Lake from 8 to 9 October and Bagan on 9 October. On 11 October morning, they will go on tour of the balloon voyage and leave Yangon by air in the evening. The crew members of M/Y Itasca will stay Yangon till 13 October and leave Yangon for Phuket on 14 October.

Under the supervision of the Ministry of Hotels and Tourism, sponsored by the Ministry of Transport and with the arrangement of Yangon Airways and Asian Trails Tour Ltd, tourists from Germany arrived Yangon on 26 October by a chartered flight of Yangon Airways.

During their stay in Myanmar, the tourists are due to visit Yangon, Heho, Inlay, Nyaungshwe of Shan State (South) and Popa and Bagan of Mandalay Division. On 30 October, they will leave for Phukhet, Thailand.

The ceremony to mark the World Sight day organized by the Ministry of Health and the WHO took place at the Myanmar Medical Association in Yangon on 9 October. It was attended by the Minister for Health, the Deputy Minister, departmental heads, officials, representatives of UN agencies and guests.

The Minister delivered a speech on the occasion, saying that Myanmar is endeavouring to become a developed and progressive country and health of the nation is one of the pillars for the success of this objective. Only healthy nationals can actively participate in the construction of progressive and developed nation. As one of the WHO member countries, Myanmar always participates in WHO global and regional activities for health promotion and health preservation.

Myanmar is actively participating in PBL activities. A special programme as prevention of blindness existed since 1965 under the Department of Health. Field visiting teams are making field tours of villages and screening the blind, referring to secondary centres where they can restore their vision and given health education about promotion of eye health and prevention of blindness. Trachoma prevalence rate has come down to about 1 per cent.

The Government has supplied salaries, infrastructure and manpower for the PBL project. Operating microscopes and instruments were installed with the cost of millions of kyats in every state and division hospital and some district hospitals. Vision 2020, the Right to Sight cannot be achieved by PBL alone. There should be political commitment from government, support from international and national NGOs and also by active participation of the community. Only then will Vision 2020 be achieved.

After the ceremony, the Minister and guests viewed booths to mark the World Sight Day. The motto designated for this year’s World Sight Day is Vision 2020: The Right to Sight.

The meeting No. (3/2003) of Central Committee for Drug Abuse Control (CCDAC) was held at the Ministry of Home Affairs on 9 October. It was attended by Chairman of CCDAC Minister for Home Affairs, Vice-Chairman Minister for Progress of Border Areas and National Races and Development Affairs, the Minister for Health, the Chairmen of the work committees under CCDAC, the deputy ministers and guests.

In his speech, the Minister for Home Affairs said that according to field survey jointly conducted by CCDAC and UNODC on illegal poppy cultivation, it is found that there were 81,400 hectares of poppy cultivation in 2002 and 62,200 hectares in 2003 in Myanmar. Therefore, poppy growing decreased 24 percent this year. According to the joint survey, the opium production in the country was 828 metric tons in 2002 and 810 in 2003. Similarly, according to the report on estimation of opium production in Southeast Asia jointly conducted by Myanmar and US, there were 77,700 hectares of poppy fields in Myanmar in 2002 and 47,130 hectares in 2003 and thus poppy growing decreased 39 percent this year. According to the report, 630 metric tons of opium were produced in 2002 and 484 metric tons in 2003.

The report of Myanmar-US cooperation said poppy cultivation decreased mostly on the west bank of the Thanlwin River, especially in northern Shan State. The fact that significant decrease in poppy cultivation in 2003, especially in Shan State (North) was described both in the reports of field survey conducted by Myanmar and UNODC and Myanmar and US. The Minister also clarified the participation of Myanmar delegation at the ministerial level meeting on drug control of Myanmar, China, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand and Vietnam from 23 to 26 September in Hanoi, Vietnam.

Vice-Chairman of CCDAC also made a speech. He touched on allotted budget for drug eradication tasks and expenditure in 2003-2004 fiscal year, arrangements being made for providing 760 tons of rice by three non-governmental organizations under the joint programme of Myanmar and the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) to farmers of Kongyan, Tahswehtan and Shaukkai regions who have been engaging in poppy-substitute crops cultivation tasks, the cultivation of buck wheat as poppy-substitute crop from 1992 to 2002 and export of the crop to Japan, presentation on Myanmar’s endeavours for drug eradication at the ministerial meeting on drug control of Myanmar, China, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand and Vietnam, discussions made separately on cooperation for drug control with the delegates from Thailand, Laos, China and Vietnam.

The Minister for Health also explained about arrangements for opening of health centre for drug addicts in Kutkai region in northern Shan State, construction of buildings for hospital of Yaungkha Village Development Project in Wa region of eastern Shan State, appointment of health staff and future programmes to be implemented with the assistance of Thailand. The chairmen of the respective work committees reported on work done, future tasks and cooperation in Yaungkha Village Development Project.

A press conference on the 2003 Mid-Year Myanma Gems Emporium was held at the Myanma Gems Mart in Yangon on 14 October. A number of high quality jade, gems and pearl lots are to be sold at the 2003 Mid-Year Myanma Gems Emporium. Altogether 500 gems companies of 27 countries had been invited to attend the emporium and a total of 160 gems merchants from 60 companies of five countries have now arrived, in addition to 140 local gems merchants, numbering 300. Over 400 gems merchants are expected to attend the emporium. Altogether 1,397 lots of jade, gems and pearl with the floor price of Euro Currency 24.1 million will be sold through competitive bidding/tender system.

Jade lots will be sold from 17 to 19 October, gems lots on 20 and 21 October and pearl lots on 22 October.

A ceremony to open the 24th Meeting of the ASEAN Senior Officials on Drug Matters (ASOD) was held at the Grand Plaza Park Royal Hotel in Yangon on 14 October, attended by Chairman of the Central Committee for Drug Abuse Control Minister for Home Affairs, senior military officers, ambassadors of the ASEAN countries to Myanmar, charges d’ afaires, Deputy General-Secretary of ASEAN Secretariat in Jakarta Mr. Wilfrido V Villacorta, Resident Representative of UNODC regional office in Bangkok Mr. Sandro Calvani, the representatives of NGOs and others.

This meeting of Senior Officials on Drug Matters (ASOD) is part and parcel of the whole ASEAN structure. Long before Myanmar became an ASEAN member, Myanmar participated at these meetings as an observer and only in 1997, after becoming a full-fledge member it was able to participate fully. As a matter of fact, Myanmar adopted a 15-year drug eradication program with an objective to be totally free from drugs by the year 2014 and this precedes Drug Free ASEAN 2015 campaign. Since 1999, Myanmar has launched the program in three 5-year phases and it is now in the last year of its first 5-year phase.

Myanmar’s main problem in the field of narcotic drugs is the illicit cultivation of poppy that eventually led to production and trafficking of opium and heroin. To enhance this 15-year core program, Myanmar launched the New Destiny Project in April 2002 as a pilot project and soon after, poppy growers have been surrendering their poppy seeds voluntarily. Consequently, more than 167 tons of poppy seeds have been burnt and destroyed through 11 different occasions. This prevented poppy cultivation of more than one hundred thousand acres and 45 tons of heroin reaching the international market as well.

The CCDAC and UNODC initiated the Illicit Crop Monitoring Program as a pilot project in 2001. The survey estimated a total of 105, 000 hectares of cultivation and an average production of 1,097 metric tons of opium. Surveys of this year estimated 62,200 hectares of cultivation with a potential production of 810 metric tons of opium. This report indicated a 41% reduction in cultivation and a 26% reduction in opium production within a 3-year span.

Though there are declines in poppy cultivation on one end, production and trafficking of amphetamine type stimulants (ATS), which never existed in Myanmar before, is found to be on the rise in Myanmar from 1996 up till 2001. Joint efforts among neighbouring countries with emphasis on this problem led to a decrease in 2002-2003 according to seizure figures. There are close cooperation among neighbouring countries like India, China, Laos and Thailand to control precursor chemicals and essential chemicals for production of narcotic and psychotropic substances.

After this meeting of ASEAN Senior Officials on Drug Matters, Myanmar will continue to host the meeting on ASEAN and China Cooperative Operations in Response to Dangerous Drugs (ACCORD-Task Force III). At the end of this ACCORD Task Force III meeting, a 3-day field trip to the border areas of Myanmar and China will be organized where participants will have the opportunity to see for themselves the situation, to meet leaders of the Special Region 1 and 2 and to reflect Myanmar’s efforts in eradicating drugs, crops substitution programs and cross-border cooperation with China, in addition to the peace and tranquillity that prevailed there.

The 16th ASEAN Senior Transport Officials Meeting hosted by the Union of Myanmar was held at the Sedona Hotel on 20 October. Present were senior officials of member of ASEAN nations Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam and delegates, officials of ASEAN Secretariat, delegates of Myanmar and officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Seven ASEAN Transport related meetings will be held consecutively in Yangon.

In the afternoon session, participants discussed reports prepared by ASEAN Secretariat on resolutions, statements and future tasks laid down by the 9th ASEAN Summit held in Bali, Indonesia, implementation of the agreements on transport with the application of ASEAN minus X formula, reports of transport facilitation working group, cooperation on transport among dialogue partners-- the People's Republic of China, India and Japan, ASEAN Highway Network Plan, Singapore-Kunming Railroad Project and general issues. The first day session ended in the evening and it will continue on 21 October.

The second ASEAN and China Senior Transport Officials Meeting was held at the Sedona Hotel in Yangon on 22 October. Present were senior officials of member of ASEAN nations Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, the Philippines, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam and delegates, officials of ASEAN Secretariat and delegates of senior transport officials of the People's Republic of China and delegates.

At the meeting, the participants discussed statements, resolutions of the 9th ASEAN Summit held in October 2003, 8th ASEAN Summit held in November 2002 and the 1st ASEAN+China Senior Transport Officials Meeting held in September 2002, reports of ASEAN Secretariat, draft of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Transport Cooperation between China and ASEAN, exchange of views on future tasks, three projects to be implemented under the ASEAN+China transport cooperation programme and agenda for the second ASEAN+China Transport Ministers Meeting.

In the afternoon, 2nd ASEAN and Japan Senior Transport Officials Meeting was held at the same venue. Present were senior transport officials of 10 ASEAN nations and delegates, officials of ASEAN Secretariat and transport officials of Japan and delegates.

The 1st STOM+Japan Meeting was held on 7-8 May in Tokyo, Japan. From that meeting 22 projects have emerged in transport sector for further cooperation between ASEAN and Japan. Those present worked out agreements for implementation of 16 projects on land, water and air and other cooperation. Agenda for the first ASEAN+Japan Transport Ministers Meeting were also discussed.

The team led by Member of Myanmar National Committee for Women’s Affairs (MNCWA) and Myanmar National Working Committee for Women’s Affairs (MNWCWA) Dr. Daw Khin Win Shwe met with members of ward and village WCWAs at City Hall in Taunggyi, Shan State (South) on 22 October attended by members of township WCWAs, MCWAs, the Union Solidarity and Development Associations and social organizations and local residents totalling over 350. The MNWCWA team held focus group discussions with local women and gave advice and made suggestions to solve their difficulties and problems. The women make up more than 50 per cent of the population in Myanmar. The Government has been effectively enlisting the strength and might of women in the tasks for development of the nation. Plans are being implemented in respective States and Divisions for promotion of the women’s sector. The Government places emphasis on development of States and Divisions, and the MNCWA is contributing towards the tasks.

The Government of Myanmar welcomes the accomplishments of the 9th ASEAN Summit, which took place October 7-8 in Indonesia.

With the signing of the Declaration of ASEAN Concord II, ASEAN leaders demonstrated their commitment to economic development, the spread of democracy, and international peace and justice. These are ideals we all share, and Myanmar’s support for them is complete and absolute.

By working together as partners, the nations of ASEAN are showing that cooperation, not confrontation, is the path to a "just, democratic and harmonious" world.

And now, through the three pillars of political and security cooperation, economic cooperation, and socio-cultural cooperation, the peoples of ASEAN are building a better world for everyone.

The ASEAN partnership will also help Myanmar move toward its own goal of a stable, peaceful democratic state. The ASEAN leaders agreed that the road map outlined by the Myanmar Prime Minister is a pragmatic plan that deserves support, and agreed that the developments so far have been positive.

Myanmar welcomes and appreciates the support of its ASEAN partners in this historic endeavor. The development of a peaceful and democratic state in Myanmar is one of the most important tasks facing Asia, and support from the other democracies of the world will be key to its success.

The Government of Myanmar extends its thanks to the fellow members of the ASEAN, and at the same time, welcomes constructive engagement from the others members of the international community in the interest of Myanmar’s 52 million populations.

* * * * *

The Ministry Foreign Affairs of the Union of Myanmar issued a press release concerning the biannual report on the situation in Myanmar dated 30 October 2003 issued by the United States Department of State Full text of the press release is as follows.

On 27 October 2003, the United States Department of State issued a biannual report on the situation in Myanmar. It is most regrettable that the US State Department has once again issued a report that not only does not reflect the true situation in the country but is also intrinsically flawed. The report is less than objectives and is nothing but a politically motivated attempt to exert pressure on Myanmar. The report fails to note the vast transformation taking place in the country, particularly the strides taken by the Government towards the emergence of a democratic state. It is an undeniable fact that the Government is taking systematic steps to bring about the emergence of a democratic state. The seven step political programme that would ensure a smooth transition to democracy has been welcomed and endorsed by the entire people in all parts of the country. Myanmar is determined and committed to build a democratic society in keeping with the objective conditions of the nation as well as the aspirations of the people. Already systematic steps are being initiated for the convening of the National Convention that would eventually lead to a new constitution and a democratic society in the country. For Myanmar, the interests of the 52 million people take precedence over everything and we will not be deviated from our path by threats and challenges. Democracy must be homegrown and cannot be imposed from outside.

With regard to the economic situation, any disinterested observer will find that the unilateral sanctions imposed by the United States on Myanmar are not having the intended effect. Even the report acknowledges that "We are not in a position to judge whether they have served to increase the pressure on the government to change its basic policies". The Government, relying on its own resources and with the support of friends and neighbors, has been able to improve the quality of life of its citizens. Never before in its history has the country seen so much improvement in its basic infrastructure as well as health and education standards of the people in such a brief time.

There also exists indisputable evidence that Myanmar is committed to the war against drugs. Nevertheless, the US report claims that Myanmar "has failed to fully meet its obligations" in the drug war, without explaining what it means. Myanmar is using all available resources, to fight drugs. It is also cooperating with regional and international partners as well as with international organizations. Moreover, it appears that report fails to take into account the statistics provided by its own Drug Enforcement Agency or by the International Narcotic Control Board (INCB). Myanmar has already conducted together with the United States Opium Yield Survey 9 times and the US agency concerned clearly acknowledged that opium production has fallen 77 per cent since the programme began in 1993. If one is to quote from INCB report, it is clearly stated that opium production fell by 50 per cent in the last six years.

Therefore, it is time for the United States to adopt a more positive approach towards Myanmar. It is time that is beings with a fair and objective assessment on the situation in Myanmar. It is also time to review policies that are neither in the interest of Myanmar nor the United States.

 Kyi Kyi Hla

Whether it is the noonday meal or dinner, a soup, which is either hot and sour, or mild and sweet, always accompanies a Myanmar meal. Both are very easy to cook but it is important to use the ingredients in just the right proportions. The favourite vegetable used for both kinds of soup is the gourd.

Ingredients:

Half a medium sized gourd.

Catfish - 2 (or more if preferred) of medium size (Other fish or raw/dried fish and shrimp

Fish paste - 2 tablespoons

Fish/shrimp sauce - 2 teaspoons

Onions - 2 bulbs

Chilies - 5 pods.

Garlic - 2 bulbs

Turmeric - ½ teaspoon

Groundnut oil -3 ounces

Tamarind - 3 ounces.

Salt -to taste

Cut the fish into 2 -inch lengths and wash thoroughly. Marinade with salt and turmeric.

Pound the dried chilies, onions and garlic together.

Wash tamarind thoroughly then soak in a bowl with hot water.

Cut the gourd into 2-inch strips and slice not too thinly. Wash and drain.

Boil the oil in a pot till it is cooked and then put in the pounded chilies, onion and garlic and fry. When this turns brown put in fish, and cut pieces of gourd a little later. Add fish paste dissolved in water. Cover and cook till the gourd is soft.

Add tamarind juice and fish sauce and salt to taste. Add about two cups of water. When it has come to the boil after about five minutes the hot and sour soup is ready to serve.

An easier way is to add all the ingredients, including the oil, and except the tamarind juice and cook till it comes to the boil and the gourd has softened. Add tamarind juice and cook till it comes to a boil. This is how it is cooked in the rural area, known as the 'Lone Chet' method meaning cooking the whole lot at one go.

Ingredients:

Gourd - a quarter of a medium sized gourd

Catfish - 2 of medium size, or 5 ounces of raw or dried prawns.

Fish paste - 2 ounces.

Fish or shrimp sauce - 2 ounces

Pepper - corn - half teaspoon

Garlic - 1 bulb

Wash the fish thoroughly and grill. Bone when cooked and set aside.

Peel the gourd strips and slice.

Dissolve fish paste in water; crush garlic and add half of it together with ground pepper. Mix in the grilled fish with about two cups of water and cook till boiling hot.

When ready to serve add the sliced gourd and the remaining amount of crushed garlic and cook for a minute or so. The sliced gourd should not be overcooked. Add more ground pepper if preferred.

This soup is the delight of the Myanmar people and a variation is to add a handful of clear noodles.

The Y.C.D.C has refresher environs of the city by carrying out simulation greening programme and establishing recreation of parks for its residences. The greening of the city environs and setting up recreation of facilities around the park are especially successful. In striving to convert Yangon into a clean and green garden city, the YCDC during its 11 years, 10 year has planted Shade trees and flowering plants along the main Avenue and roads as well as on vacant plots. So that local citizens and tourists will fell that they are in the middle of a landscape filled with gardens and parks.

The Committee has also maintained a total of 59 parks of various sizes within the limited sanding from people square and People Park to Kanthayar Park. Before 1988, there existed only 10 parks whereas in later year 49 new recreations of parks were created. People square and People Park were opened in 1989 and its composed 137.5 acres of greenery. The Bandoola Park is located right in the heart of the city. Yangon’s first park has the independent monument at the centre.

Shukhintha Amusement park, which is 20 acres wide was opened in 1996, is complete with 20 gaming centres. It has a world class swimming pool and recreation of boating centre.

The Kandawgyi Park was created during colonial times as a reservoir to provide drinking for its citizens. Now, 8 recreations of parks around the lake and the Karaweik Palace Hotel is grandly situated on it.Inya Lake bund and its beautiful park are one of the most beautiful scenic spots in Yangon. The bund is filled with people walking and exercising to breathe fresh air.

The Kandawmingalar Park is located at the southern foot of Shwedagon Pagoda. The shade trees such as teak, royal pearl and colourful flowers are grown in it.The travellers can go boating happily in the lake which is in the middle of the park.

The Myainghaywon Park is located in the southern part of Yangon was created in 1990. The city residences, local travellers from far and near as well as foreign tourists can enjoy the recreation of an amusement facilities provided by the Yangon City Development Committee.

Interesting Places from MRTV-3 Website