Yangon, 16 March - Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Khin Nyunt, accompanied by ministers, the Chief of Staff (Air), deputy ministers, officials of the State Peace and Development Council Office, heads of department and officials, left here for Magway by Tatmadaw aircraft yesterday afternoon, and arrived there at 3 pm.

The Secretary-1 was welcomed at Magway Airport by member of the State Peace and Development Council Chairman of Mandalay Division Peace and Development Council Commander of Central Command Maj-Gen Ye Myint, Chairman of Magway Division Peace and Development Council Brig-Gen Thein Zaw, military officers and civilian officials and members of the Union Solidarity and Development Association.

The Secretary-1 attended the opening of Magway Soft Drinks and Ice Factory of Myanma Foodstuff Industries and the soap factory of Myanma Pharmaceutical Industries under the Ministry of Industry-1 near Magyikan village, Magway Township, and formally unveiled the signboards of the factories.

Then, the Secretary-1 and party went to the construction site of a new airport near Hsataingkan Village, Magway Township.

Brig-Gen Thein Zaw reported on the condition of the axis of the runway and earth work.

Director of the Directorate of Civil Aviation U Win Oo reported on construction of the runway and engineering work.

The Secretary-1 gave instructions, and inspected earth work for construction of the runway.

Afterwards, the Secretary-1 and party proceeded to Thaphanseik Pumped-Water Project near Tha-phanseik Village on the bank of Ayeyawady River in Magway Township.The Secretary-1 inspected the project.In the briefing hall, the Secretary-1 heard a report on facts about the project and water supply for agriculture presented by Minister for Agriculture and Irrigation Maj-Gen Nyunt Tin.Brig-Gen Thein Zaw also reported on assistance being provided for the project.The Secretary-1 gave
instructions on systematic water supply for agriculture and cultivation of suitable crops.

Then, the Secretary-1 and party went to Myinkin-Kanpya Pumped-Water Project at Myinkin Village on the bank of Ayeyawady River in the north of Magway Township.

In the briefing hall, Minister Maj-Gen Nyunt Tin reported to the Secretary-1 on the building of irrigation network and arrangements for water supply.Brig-Gen Thein Zaw also reported on assistance being provided for the project.

Then, the Secretary-1 said that Thaphanseik Pumped-Water Project and Myinkin-Kanpya pump water project are being undertaken to lift water from Ayeyawady River to the southern and northern parts of Magway to ensure sufficient water supply for agricultural work and to make Magway lush and green.

Thaphanseik Project is being carried out according to the guidance of Head of State Senior General Than Shwe with a view to ensuring water supply for 6,000 acres of cultivable land, and the project will irrigate over 7,000 acres of lands.

Myinkin-Kanpya Project is being undertaken to irrigate a total of 3,000 acres of fields after extending irrigation network as only 500 acres were irrigated previously.

On completion of the two electrical river-water pumping projects, over 10,000 acres of land around Magway can be irrigated.Next, the Secretary-1 and party went to Ayeyawady Bridge (Magway) on the bank of Magway.

In the briefing hall, Deputy Chief Engineer (Project) U Han Zaw reported on construction of the bridge, and Minister for Construction Maj-Gen Saw Tun gave an additional report.

Afterwards, the Secretary-1 inspected the project and called for timely completion of the bridge.

Ayeyawady Bridge (Magway) will link Magway on the eastern bank of Ayeyawady River and Phaya Koehsu Hill, Htaukshabin Village, Minbu, on the western bank of Ayeyawady River.

The length of the main bridge is 6,969 feet and that of the approach structure, 2,020 feet. The total length of the bridge is 8,989 feet. The lower structure of the bridge will be built of reinforced concrete, and its upper structure of steel truss.The Secretary-1 and party stopped for the night at Magway.

The Secretary-1 and party, together with member of the State Peace and Development Council Chairman of Mandalay Division Peace and Development Council Commander of Central Command Maj-Gen Ye Myint, left for Mandalay International Airport by Tatmadaw aircraft this morning, and then they proceeded to Moekaung Village, Singaing Township, Kyaukse District, Mandalay Division by Tatmadaw helicopter.The Secretary-1 inspected the areas around Moekaung Village and Tarma Village where regional development tasks can be carried out.

Next, the Secretary-1 and party went to the construction site of Shwezeti Home for the Aged donated by Shwe-thanlwin Company in Kyaukse.Managing Director of Shwethanlwin Company U Moe Kyaw Thu reported on progress of work.

Then, the Secretary-1 inspected the construction site.The Secretary-1 and party later went to People’s Hospital in Kyaukse.

Minister for Health Maj-Gen Ket Sein reported on the upgrading of the hospital and health care services.Medical Superintendent Dr Maung Maung reported on requirements for health care services.

The Secretary-1 inspected the hospital.After that, the Secretary-1 and party went to Kyetpyay Natural Herbal Garden at Kyetpyay Village, Pyinmana Township, Mandalay Division.The Secretary-1 inspected the herbal garden.

Director-General of Traditional Medicine Department Professor Dr Kyaw Myint Tun reported on the purpose of establishment of the garden, the growing of herbal plants, the location of the garden and collection of rare herbal plants, and Minister for Health Maj-Gen Ket Sein gave an additional report.

After hearing the reports, the Secretary-1 gave instructions on maintenance and extended cultivation of the harbal plants which can the region, cultivation of harbal plants especially Arthemesia Annua for doing research on health.

Then, the Secretary-1 inspected the site for construction of Traditional Medicine Research Centre near Kyetpya Village in Pyinmana Township.

After that, the Secretary-1 and party arrived at Paunglaung Multi-purpsoe Dam Project in Pyinmana Township where they were welcomed by Col Ohn Myint of Pyinmana Station and departmental officials.

In the briefing hall, the Secretary-1 heard reports on construction of Underground Power Station in the tunnel and arrangements for construction of power grid to connect power from Paunglaung Hydel Power Station to Pyinmana Sub-Power Station by Deputy Chief Engineer (Hydel Power) U Win Kyaw. Minister for Electric Power Maj-Gen Tin Htut gave a supplementary report.

Then, Director U Win Maung of Irrigation Department reported on construction of the main enbarkment and the spillway.

Minister for Agriculture and Irriation Maj-Gen Nyunt Tin reported on requirements and supply of heavy machinery at the worksite.

The Secretary-1 attended to their needs and said that Paunglaung Multi-purpsoe Dam Project is being implemented to be able to meet power requirements of industries which will soon rise. Head of State Senior General Than Shwe has given guidance on completion of the dam project according to schedule. Therefore, efforts are to be made for timely completion of tasks with a view to fulfilling requirements of the State after overcoming difficulties in work.

Then, the Secretary-1 presented fruit baskets to consultant engineers and workers of the project.

Afterwards, the Secretary-1 inspected construction of the main embankment and the underground power station in the tunnel.Next, the Secretary-1 and party proceeded to Toungoo by helicopter. They were welcomed there by member of the State Peace and Development Council Chairman of Bago Division Peace and Development Council Commander of Southern Command Maj-Gen Tin Aye and senior military officers.After that, the Secretary-1 and party left Toungoo by Tatmadaw aircraft and arrived back here in the evening.

First, Secretary-1 Lt-Gen Khin Nyunt formally unveiled the signboard of Magway soft drinks and ice factory.

Then, Managing Director of MFI U Kyaw Myint and Chairman of Magway District Peace and Development Council Lt-Col Zaw Thein formally opened the factory, and Secretary-1 Lt-Gen Khin Nyunt and party inspected it.Afterwards, Secretary-1 Lt-Gen Khin Nyunt formally unveiled the signboard of the soap factory (Magway).

Later, Managing Director of MPI U Myint Oo and Lt-Col Zaw Thein formally opened the factory, and Secretary-1 Lt-Gen Khin Nyunt and party inspected it.

At the briefing hall, Managing Director U Kyaw Myint reported on matters concerning Magway soft drinks and ice factory and Managing Director U Myint Oo on matters relating to the soap factory (Magway) to Secretary-1 Lt-Gen Khin Nyunt.

In reply to the reports, Secretary-1 Lt-Gen Khin Nyunt expressed his pleasure to see the successful construction of the soap factory by Sein Ban Industrial Co-operatives formed with Myanmar industrialists, and urged those concerned to build other factories such as textile factory and pulp factory.

Magway soft drinks factory was built with the aim of enabling the people who live in the environs of Magway, Central Myanmar, to consume healthy soft drinks at reasonable price, to boost the production of soft drinks in order to substitute imports and to create job opportunities in the region.

He was welcomed there by Deputy Prime Ministers Vice-Admiral Maung Maung Khin and Lt-Gen Tin Tun, Patron of the Central Committee Minister for Mines Brig-Gen Ohn Myint, Chairman of the Central Committee Deputy Minister for Minies U Myint Thein, Secretary Managing Director U Khin Oo of Myanma Gems Enterprise and members.

First, the Secretary-3 viewed gems, jades, jewellery and jade figurines to be sold at fixed prices of MGE and private jewellery shops and paintings illustrated with pieces of gems, jade blocks which are on display on the ground floor, uncut jade lots on display in the compound of the mart, jewellery and gems lots and pearl lots on the third floor. The patron, the chairman, the secretary and officials of the Central Committee conducted the Secretary-3 round the mart.Then, the Secretary-3 attended the third-day sale of jade lots through competitive bidding at the Gems Hall and left the mart in the afternoon.

Also present were CCDAC Vice-Chairmen Minister for Foreign Affairs U Win Aung and Minister for Progress of Border Areas and National Races and Development Affairs Col Thein Nyunt and members, chairmen of working groups and guests.

The minister said the meeting was held to present the future tasks for which decisions are to be made and to refute drug-related attacks on Myanmar by Thai media. At present, dailies published in Thailand are launching open attacks on Myanmar concerning the narcotic drugs problem. A news report "Thai Premier Thaksin possible to deal harshly with Myanmar on narcotic drugs" featured in The Bangkok Post issued on 13 March 2000 stated that the Thai Prime Minister might demand that Myanmar to wipe out all drug-related problems in order to keep Thailand free from narcotics.

Holding of an anti-drug conference under the chairmanship of the Prime Minister for two days is an excellent and profound commitment, expressing the extent Thailand is giving priority to the drug problem. Myanmar, as a neighbouring nation with a similar objective, is happy to know Thailand’s special attention to this matter. It is comprehensible to all that Thai government officials, instead of finding ways and means to solve their own problem by themselves, issued news reports in deliberately putting the blame on Myanmar as if their internal problems are Myanmar’s. There are many opportunities for official bodies of both nations to solve problems of bilateral concern.

They instead of making coordinations through the proper channels are putting the blame on the other while failing to see their own fault on the problem, that can be solved in accord with the good-neighbourly practices; thus their act should be regard an act which is violating the principles of good-neighbourliness.

The Thai dailies also said that at a conference on narcotic drugs held in Chiang Rai for two days under the leadership of the Thai Prime Minister, it was stated that the narcotic drugs which were being sold in Thailand were mainly produced by Wa national people of Myanmar; that Mongyun in Wa region was built into a large modern town at a cost of millions of bahts realized through the drug business; and that all the delegates to the conference including the Prime Minister were amazed to learn that the town had a first-class hotel, a large hospital and a dam to generate hydro-electric power.

These facts should be reviewed. Thailand has been confronted with the problem of production, trafficking and abuse of stimulant tablets since a decade ago. The problem entered Myanmar from the border with Thailand in 1995. It is reiterated that as the Thai government officials have never made efforts to effectively control the problem, it has become uncontrollable in Thailand and that they are putting the blame on others with baseless accusations. There is no stimulant tablet problem in Myanmar until 1996. The stimulant tablets began to spread in Myanmar after the pills which came from Thailand were seized at the border in the later period of 1996. The first seizure of stimulant tablets was in Tachilek Township at the border. It could be obviously seen that they were smuggled into Myanmar from Thailand. Since then Myanmar anti-drug officials have known the stimulant tablet and systematically laid down plans to curb the drugs. Highest amount of stimulant tablets seizures
were made in 1999 ad 2000. Thai-made stimulant-pill-manufacturing machines were impounded in Tachilek Township on 23 January 1999 in one of the seizures. These are the undeniable facts indicating the nation from which the problem of stimulant tablets spread into Myanmar.

The Thai dailies have admitted that Myanmar has not a single basic condition to produce stimulant tablets; that Ephedrine, the basic material, is smuggled into Myanmar from China and Thailand; that the precursors are smuggled into Myanmar from China, India and Thailand; that the manufacturing machines illegally enter Myanmar from Thailand; and that the names of ten Thai citizens who have invested a large amount of money to run the drug production and trafficking business in Myanmar territory at the border is obtained. If the overall review is made on the matter — Where do the abusers, investors and experts come from? — It is quite clear to see the persons who are responsible in this matter which has no relations with Myanmar at all. They should reconsider whether the act of blaming others instead of solving the problem through international
cooperation is right or wrong.

Thailand is facing the problem of stimulant pills since ten years ago and it has become the main problem among the universities, colleges and schools in 1996. In addition to conducting stimulant tablet eradication task as a National Campaign since 1999, Thailand has also launched a special military operation under the command of Thai armed forces targeting 26 villages at Myanmar-Thai border in Mae-i, Chiangmai and Chiang Rai Provinces beginning 15 July 1999. It has become a food for though that Thailand’s act in leaving the regions where Ywet Sit’s SURA group which has bases in Peinlon and Maheintet in Thai territory and is engaging in terrorist acts and drug business, Kyaukhsit Hsuhline group which is a MTA remnant group and remnants of KMT are active and putting the areas facing Lwehsanhsaw region in southern Wa region under the special military operation zone.

When the Myanmar Tatmadaw crushed Ywet Sit’s SURA drug smuggler insurgents at Myanmar-Thai border recently, Thailand instead of crushing the drug smugglers was accommodating them in its territory; thus the Thai dailies should reconsider that such acts are totally against their
accusations on Myanmar.

There is no southern Wa group at Lwehsanhsaw region as stated in the accusations made by Thailand concerning the stimulant drug problem: it is a group under the control of U Pau Yu Chan of the Pansang central headquarters. It was said that the southern Wa group received Thai mechanical and technical assistance in implementing Mongyun development task such as building of roads, dams and power stations. In May 1999, Thai officials visited the region which they called southern Wa region, met with regional officials and witnessed the launching of opium substitute farming and businesses. It is strange that even in this situation, they are making accusations.

As the drug problem is rising in relations with the insurgents at the border, the problem will continue to exist as long as the insurgents are permitted to stay at the border.

Concerning Wa region development undertakings, the International Conference on keeping ASEAN region free from drugs in 2015 was held on 11 October 2000 at the UN regional office in Bangkok. At the conference, a representative from US Mr Jim Callahan said he had visited the Wa region development project in Myanmar; that there were difficulties in implementing the project as it was situated in a remote place; that it is believed that the foundations had already been laid; that he had found evidence that the regional development task and poppy substitution task were gaining success; that regional poppy growers were not concerned with the stimulant
tablet production business which was just a separate business; that control and eradication is the main task which required special attention.

At the Trans-Atlantic Drug Conference of the fourth law making body which was held in Santa Cruz, Bolivia, on 21 February, 2001, Japanese representative Mr Yasuguki Eda stated in his address the Japanese government’s assistance toward Wa region deve-lopment plan. Concerning the root cause of the poverty pro-blem of the drug producing countries, he said that giving assistance to poppy growers would enable them to earn their living without depending on illegal poppy cultivation. He added that creation of markets for the opium substitute crops in order to fulfil their basic needs would lead them to discarding poppy cultivation; that the substitute crop cultivation and market establishment being implemented under Japanese assistance were the proof. Mr Yasuguki said that Myanmar was the second largest opium producer after Afghanistan; that as the ethnic people of the mountain regions in north-east Myanmar made peace with the government, regional development programmes could be laid down and implemented at the areas; that Japan had presented US $ 1.6 million to Wa region development programme in order to reduce consumption and production.

Measures are now being taken to provide heavy machinery, employees and water supply necessary for the six agricultural villages covered by the project. Therefore, agriculture is improving. Crops suitable to the region such as paddy, horse gram and groundnuts have been chosen and grown on an experimental scale. Knowledge about prevention of soil erosion has been imparted.

As regards basic health care, community-based health clinics have been built. It is satisfactory to see that Japan has provided assistance for the projects concerning giving courses on basic health care to local people through government employees.

In addition, arrangements have been made to cultivate buckwheat. Cultivation of buckwheat will be extended on more than 3,000 acres of land, and buckwheat will be exported to Japan. As Japan government provides assistance for this project, the infrastructure and social life of local people in the projected region will improve. Experts of international cooperation agencies are allowed to participate in infrastructure development programmes.

It is found that cultivation of opium in Myanmar is declining. Thanks should be given to Myanmar government for its cooperation with other nations. Japan’s efforts to eradicate narcotic drugs and its participating in this task in Myanmar are very encouraging. Moreover, it was reported to the 24th HONLEA meeting held in Myanmar in November 2000 in connection with Myanma’s narcotic drug eradication efforts, that at the neighbouring nations, seizure of opium and heroin was on the decrease, that the opium and heroin trafficking route changed, and that heroin has been trafficked from the west Asia. In addition, that matter has been included in the report of Interpol. These are the fruit of Myanmar’s efforts.

In replying to the question raised by AP correspondent at the news briefing of World Drug Report 2000 of UNDCP at the office of ESCAP in Bangkok, Thailand, on 23 January 2001, Mr Sandro Calvani in charge of the central division of East Asia and Pacific Region of UNDCP said that Myanmar government is making efforts as strenuously as it can in eradicating narcotic drugs. There were news reports that Myanmar was allegedly producing narcotic drugs. In contrary to the assumption of news agencies, it was not in Myanmar but in some villages at the border. News agencies should ask Myanmar government for permission to conduct a tour of study at the border in order to know the true situation. Farmers at the border areas earned about US $ 100 per year from cultivation of opium, and by substituting other crops, cultivation of opium can be eradicated. UNDCP has raised funds to provide assistance for the opium substitute crops cultivation tasks of Myanmar government. But sufficient assistance has not been enlisted due
to political constraints on Myanmar, and UNDCP did not manage to undertake the project fully. The ratio of the assistance which Myanmar received from international community over the past three years to the assistance received by Thailand from international community was one to 300.

Furthermore, a news briefing in connection with the annual report of International Narcotics Control Board (INCB) on 21 February 2001 was held at the office of UNDCP in Yangon. At the news briefing, Ms Yamaguchi said that as regards production of opium and heroin, 5,800 metric tons of opium produced in the whole world constituted 80% from Afghanistan and 15% from Myanmar. Over the past ten years, production in Myanmar has declined by 40%. Although it can be argued that it was because of weather, it is undeniable to the fact that the decline can be attributed to the efforts of Myanmar government. Now Myanmar government is striving to totally eradicate narcotic drugs by 2014 by means of launching the 15-year plan. The total value of opium was just about US $ 116 million, and income substitution can be earned. About 96% of farmers in Wa region cultivated poppy because there was no sufficiency of rice. If there are substitute crops, they will no longer cultivate it. Although the condition was favourable, international assistance was not obtained, and during the period from 1976 to date, the assistance received in 2001 was the least, and if there was no outside assistance, the condition could get worse.

Then, Minister Col Tin Hlaing said that UNDCP gave a full account of Myanmar’s narcotic drug eradication efforts at the news briefings held in Bangkok and Yangon, and it aimed to enable news agencies to see what is true as it is.

Due to various reasons, Myanmar government had to take the initiative to enable the armed groups to exchange arms for peace. Although it was no easy task, success was achieved.

These national groups are cooperating with the government in working for regional development and eradication of narcotic drugs. As some terrorist opium-trafficking insurgent groups like the group of Ywet Sit who want to get rich quick are producing and trafficking narcotic drugs, and in consideration of the interests of mankind, attacks are being launched against these groups. If, like other national groups, they cooperated with the government, these problems would not arise.

In connection with eradication of narcotic drug production, the minister said that Narcotic Drug Eradication Museum, through which efforts can be made to carry out educational programmes for local people who are playing a very significant role in eradicating opium cultivation, was opened in Laukkai on 27 December. Thus, the anti-narcotics awareness of the local people can be raised and it will also be a great help for the efforts to make the entire region free from opium.

At the opening of the museum, the Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council said that under the leadership of the government, national race leaders and local national people were working hard in unity for the development and prosperity of respective regions and for the improvement of their standards of living. Therefore, the outlook of the local people became broad, and they came to understand the ill effects of narcotic drugs. In this way, the cultivation of opium was gradually on the decline. It is invariably needed to continuously carry out educational and organizational work to ensure that local people are not again engaged in poppy cultivation which they already abandoned, and to provide assistance for the regional development and economic development tasks.

In accord with the guidelines of the Secretary-1, members of the CCDAC are required to fulfil requirements of local national people and those of regional development tasks.

With regard to prevention and suppression, the minister said that during the poppy cultivation season in 1999-2000, there were 90,455 acres of poppy, out of which 10,987.762 acres were destroyed. During this poppy cultivation season in 2000-2001, there are 80,602.13 acres of poppy, out of which 21,242 acres were destroyed. It is found that cultivation of poppy this year has declined in comparison with cultivation of poppy last year. Prevention and suppression groups are searching and destroying poppy fields to reduce opium production.

At the corner of Saya Chon Street and Pho Yaza Road in Ward-35, Dagon North, Yangon, 13-1-2001, 5,000 stimulant tablets hidden in seven sticky rice bamboo tubes were seized. On 9-3-2001, 37,400 stimulant tablets were also seized. In Myanmar, concerning illegal money obtained from the trafficking of narcotic drugs, action can be taken in accord with the 1999 Narcotic Drug Law. However, it is needed to make a new specific law. The office of the Attorney-General is leading the work of drafting Money Laundering Law. The work is now in progress. After the draft is approved, Money Laundering Law will be enacted.

According to 88 Convention Article 7, a committee has been formed to provide Mutual Legal Assistance. CCDAC is coordinating necessary tasks with international community. CCDAC members are to work harder to ensure that plans drawn up in the country are successful and the goals of leaders of State are achieved.

Members of the ASEAN have been determined to work for the emergence of Drug Free ASEAN in 2015. As Myanmar is implementing the 15-year narcotic drug eradication plan, it is needed to make efforts to be able to exhibit the tasks done in a year with documentary photos. As leaders of State have got Myanma’s narcotic drug eradication programmes and efforts shown to the international community, ASEAN member nations and friendly nations, narcotic drug eradication programmes included in the plan are to be carried out obviously.

To accomplish the plan, local national people are organized and educational work is to be carried out. Region-wise plans are also to be drawn and implemented.

In connection with reduction of abuse of narcotic drugs, the minister added that Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Khin Nyunt inspected Shwepyiaye Youth Rehabilitation Camp on 29 December 2000. During his visit, the Secretary-1 gave instructions on spiritual development of the youths, giving them vocational education, integrating them into the society and carrying out youth nurturing tasks in order to use their labour for the State; the Secretary-1 inspected vocational training courses such as brick production work, tinsmith and blacksmith; the Secretary-1 also said that according to reports and the present condition, Shwepyiaye Camp and villages have been making more progress than before. Therefore, it is needed to exert continued efforts to maintain the success of the camp.

On 12 January 2001, the Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council personally inspected construction of Drugs Elimination Museum in Kamayut Township, and instructed the officials to open the museum on 26 June 2001, on which International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking will fall. Therefore, it is required to start work for the opening of booths at the museum.

There is another encouraging measure. Myanmar and the People’s Republic of China signed a MoU on control of chemicals used in production of narcotic drugs and stimulant tablets on 21-1-2001. According to the MoU, the two nations can effectively carry out tasks regarding prevention of trafficking of chemicals through various routes, exposing drug-related cases and taking action, programmes for control of narcotic plants and other substitution development programmes, programmes for reduction of abuse of narcotic drugs, exchange of news about treatment and rehabilitation, exchange of information, taking action against those who commit drug-related crimes, giving training to employees and providing technical assistance. Invariably, Myanma’s narcotic drug eradication efforts will meet with success as it is working in cooperation with neighbouring nations.

In conclusion, the minister said that as Myanmar’s narcotic drug eradication efforts are now gathering momentum, and it can be attributed to the participation of the CCDAC members, ministries, departments and non-governmental organization. Success has been achieved in the country, and as UNDCP has recognized Myanmar’s efforts, it is found that success has been achieved in the region as well. All are to strive for total eradication of narcotic drugs in Myanmar and to rebut the preposterous drug-related accusations of Thailand and some media.

Then, Vice-Chairmen of CCDAC Minister for Foreign Affairs U Win Aung and Minister for Progress of Border Areas and National Races and Development Affairs Col Thein Nyunt took part in the discussions.The meeting ended with concluding remarks by the minister.

Yangon, 16 March- Junior Teachership Course No 10 and Primary Teachership Course No 33 of the University for Development of National Races concluded at Pinlon Hall of the university this morning.

Present were Chairman of the UDNR Council member of the State Peace and Development Council Commander of North-West Command Maj-Gen Soe Win, Vice-Chairman of the University Council Chairman of Civil Service Selection and Training Board Dr Than Nyunt, members of the University Council Deputy Minister for Science and Technology U Hlaing Win, Deputy Minister for Education Brig-Gen Soe Win Maung, Deputy Minister for Progress of Border Areas and National Races and Development Affairs Brig-Gen Than Tun, members of CSSTB U Aung Myint and U Kaung Nyunt, Director-General U Khin Maung Myint of Service Personnal Affairs Department, Acting Director-General U Hla Kyi of Civil Service Selection and Training Department, Rector Col Zaw Min Thein of UDNR, Rector Col Aung Hsan Win of the Central Institute of Civil Service (Upper Myanmar), representatives of State and Division Peace and Development Councils, departmental officials, Pro-rector Daw Khin Si Si and faculty members, guests, graduating trainees and their parents.

Rector Col Zaw Min Thein of UDNR read out the report related to the courses.Vice-Chairman of the University Council Dr Than Nyunt presented certificates to 56 trainees of Junior Teachership Course and 66 of Primary Teachership Course from Taninthayi, Bago, Magway and Mandalay Divisions and Mon and Rakhine States.Rector Col Zaw Min Thein presented certificates to 203 trainees of Yangon Division, Shan State (North), Shan State (South), Chin State and Sagaing Division.Representatives of State and Division Peace and Development Councils presented cartificates of appointment to them.

Then, Chairman of the University Council Commander Maj-Gen Soe Win presented model trainee awards to Maung Than Tun of An Township, Rakhine State and Ma Swe Swe Win of Ingapu Township, Ayeyawady Division.

Speaking on the occasion, the commander said that as the government is striving for emergence of peaceful, tranquill, modern and developed nation, trainings are to be given to youths for turning out educated yourths as fundamental forces in a short time with a view to meeting the target. The training has been given under a three-year course starting from Course No 33. The training has concluded successfully after three years of the course which the trainees in the past had to study for four years. The government has established the UDNR and is training and turning out youths as teachers. The Primary Teachership Course to be upgraded to the degree course for education will start in the coming year. Arrangements are being made for learning of youths at Nationalities Youth Resource Development Degree Colleges and for enabling the graduates to discharge duty in their respective regions. As a result of goodwill of the State, national youths from border areas are effectively participating in the development of border areas and these areas will soon be improved as developed areas.

In conclusion, the commander urged the trainees to discharge the assigned duties at basic education schools and to nurture pupils for becoming wealthy sons on whom the State relied.

Yangon, 16 March-Minister for Home Affairs Col Tin Hlaing met Ambassador of Japan Mr Shigeru Tsumori at his office at the corner of Saya San Road and Industry-1 Road, this morning.

Present at the meeting were UMFCCI President U Win Myint, Vice-President U Htein Win, U Win Aung, Adviser Dr Kyaw Htin, Secretary General U Zaw Min Win and executives, industrialists, timber entrepreneurs, garment manufacturing entrepreneurs, fishery entrepreneurs, gem merchants, and trade mission members led by Director Dr Eden Woon of Hong Kong General Chambers of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China.They discussed matters related to investment, trade and industry.

Present were Chairman of the Association Minister for Home Affairs Col Tin Hlaing, Vice-Chairpersons Dr Daw Khin Win Shwe, Prof Daw May May Yi and Dr Mya Mya Win, the executive committee members, the Sub-committee for Myanmar-Japan Variety Dance for Cultural Exchange, patrons of Myan-mar Motion Picture Asiayon Bogale U Tint Aung and Gita Lulin U Ko Ko, Chairman U Sein Tin, officials.

On the occasion, the Chairman Minister for Home Affairs Col Tin Hlaing gave a speech. Officials reported on matters related to their respective sectors.Then, Chairman Col Tin Hlaing, Vice-chairpersons Dr Daw Khin Win Shwe, Prof Daw May May Yi and Dr Daw Mya Mya Win gave necessary instructions.The meeting ended with the remarks by the Chairman.

The American couple said they started their adventure in Iceland on 1 January 1999, driving their custom-built Mercedes-Benz off-roader through 86 countries in Europe, Africa and Asia before arriving at Tamu in Myanmar on 7 March via Manipur State in India. After travelling through the stopovers, Monywa, Mandalay, Bagan and Pyay, along the route from Tamu they arrived at Yangon on 14 March.

While in Bagan, they visited many splendid pagodas such as Ananda Temple and were amazed to find a large array of magnificent religious buildings in a single region. They have found Bagan most significant during their tour of over 80 nations. They learned existence of Shwedagon Pagoda, the oldest stupa in the history of Buddhism, in Myanmar. During the visit in Myanmar, they said they have noticed that Myanmars are religious, kind and hardworking people who also observe discipline.

Myanmar has many places which can attract tourists. Thus, Myanmar’s tourist industry has many poten-tials to develop. Myanmar is a suitable place for investors as it has adopted the market-oriented economy and its privatization programme is in progress.

They will leave for Ranong in Thailand after their 16-day stay in Myanmar. They have planned to arrive back in New York on 31 December this year, three years after the start of their journey, which is the final destination of their round-the-world adventure expedition.

The Press meet was attended by Managing Director of News and Periodicals Enterprise U Tin Kha, Director (News) U Hla Tun, chief editors, editors, media persons of Myanmar Foreign Correspondents Club and journalists of other periodicals.

Yangon, 16 March- The Fishery Department of the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries held a work cordination meeting on promotion of export of marine products in the meeting hall of the department in Ahlon Township yesterday afternoon. Minister for Livestock and Fisheries Brig-Gen Maung Maung Thein gave instructions on earning more foreign exchange and promotion of export of marine products. Director of the Fishery Department U Tin Win discussed matters related to cold storage factories and promotion of export of marine exports by companies. The personnel of fisheries companies reported on export of marine products.Then, the minister attended to their requirements.

Minister for Communications, Posts and Telegraphs Brig-Gen Win Tin made a speech.Also present were heads of the Directorate of Telecommunications and Myanma Posts and Telecommunications, officials of MPT, the principal of the training school, course instructors and 51 trainees.The minister presented certificates to the trainees and prizes to outstanding trainees.

Present were the chairman and members of the committee, officials of the Defence Services Museum and Historical Research Institute and ministries.Chairman of the committee Minister for Labour Maj-Gen Tin Ngwe made a speech.Then, a general round of discussions followed.The meeting ended with concluding remarks by the minister.The minister and committee members also inspected the diaplay of the booth.

Also present on the occasion were Vice-Chairman of MOC Vice-Adjutant-General Brig-Gen Maung Nyo and members, officials of the Ministry of Sports, the Chairmen of Myanmar Sports Federations, and officials and guests.Secretary of MOC Director-General of Sports and Physical Education Department U Thaung Htaik reported on tasks being done by MOC, and the Chairmen of MPFs and officials on progress of sports techniques and medal standing, and future tasks.Then, the chairman fulfilled the requirements of officials.

Yangon, 16 March-Deputy Minister for Information Brig-Gen Aung Thein this evening arrived at Defence Services Museum at which the 56th Anniversary Armed Forces Day Commemorative Exhibition is is to be staged.

The deputy minister was welcomed there by Director-General of Myanma Radio and Television U Khin Maung Htay, Director-General of Information and Public Relations Department U Chit Naing, Managing Director of News and Periodicals Enterprise U Tin Kha, Managing Director of Motion Picture Enterprise U Bo Kyi and officials.The deputy minister inspected preparations being made for the booth of the Ministry of Information.

Then, the deputy minister inspected the colour photos to be exhibited at booth of the Ministry of Information.

First, the commander and party arrived at prawn breeding camp of Yuzana Co Ltd at Thilawa Prawn Breeding Zone in Kyauktan Township, Yangon South District at 11 am today. At the briefing hall , Staff Officer U Khin Maung Win of Yangon Division Fisheries Department reported to the commander on leasing of 1098 acres of land to ten companies for prawn breeding in Thilawa Prawn Breeding Zone in Kyauktan Township, prawn breeding work of companies and work being carried out on 5,226 acres of lands in Kyauktan Township. Officials of Yuzana Prawn Breeding Group, Yangon City Development Committee, Winner Brothers Co Ltd, King Fishery Co Ltd, Top King co Ltd, Advance Seafood Co Ltd, Universal Concord Co Ltd , Pale Nadi Co Ltd, Pyi Aung Yadana Co Ltd and UFE Co Ltd reported to the commander on work and Chairman of Kyauktan Township Peace and Development Council on regional development task being carried out in the township.

Speaking on the occasion, the commander urged the entrepreneurs to undertake tasks speedily. And he fulfilled the needs.Then, the commander inspected prawn breeding work and the laboratory at Yuzana Prawn Breeding Camp and gave necessary instructions.

Afterwards, the commander inspected prawn breeding camp of YCDC and digging of prawn breeding ponds with the use of heavy machinery at Thilawa Prawn Breeding Zone. At the zone, 700 acres have been dug out of 1098 acres of pond and over 9.8 million of shrimp fry have been put into the ponds.

Later, the commander inspected laying of additional asphalt layer on No 2 Highway being implemented by Public Works in Dagon Myothit East, Yangon East District and gave necessary instructions.

Then, the commander proceeded to Maso Bridge Agriculture and Livestock Breeding Project being implemented by YCDC. At the briefing hall, officials reported to the commander on work and he gave instructions on finishing the work by the end of April.

Later, the commander inspected digging of fish breeding ponds with the use of heavy machinery and vegetable plantation there.Next, the commander inspected digging of 50 acres for fish breeding pond being implemented by Myanmar Pyi Tha Hay KM Co near No 2 Highway and fulfilled the needs.

Afterwards, the commander inspected tree plantation of Indaing Station near No 2 Highway and left necessary instructions.Next, the commander inspected progress in digging of 250 acres for fish breeding pond being implemented by Myanmar Pyi Tha Hay KM Co near Yangon-Bago six-lane highway and fulfilled the needs.

There are already 24,000 acres of fish breed-ing ponds in Yangon Divi-sion and 8,000 acres are scheduled to be dug in the open season this year. To date, 7,000 acres have been dug. Therefore, a total of 31,000 acres have been dug. And plans are under way to dig the remaining acres.

First, the commander and party arrived at prawn breeding camp of Yuzana Co Ltd at Thilawa Prawn Breeding Zone in Kyauktan Township, Yangon South District at 11 am today. At the briefing hall , Staff Officer U Khin Maung Win of Yangon Division Fisheries Department reported to the commander on leasing of 1098 acres of land to ten companies for prawn breeding in Thilawa Prawn Breeding Zone in Kyauktan Township, prawn breeding work of companies and work being carried out on 5,226 acres of lands in Kyauktan Township. Officials of Yuzana Prawn Breeding Group, Yangon City Development Committee, Winner Brothers Co Ltd, King Fishery Co Ltd, Top King co Ltd, Advance Seafood Co Ltd, Universal Concord Co Ltd , Pale Nadi Co Ltd, Pyi Aung Yadana Co Ltd and UFE Co Ltd reported to the commander on work and Chairman of Kyauktan Township Peace and Development Council on regional development task being carried out in the township.

Speaking on the occasion, the commander urged the entrepreneurs to undertake tasks speedily. And he fulfilled the needs.

Then, the commander inspected prawn breeding work and the laboratory at Yuzana Prawn Breeding Camp and gave necessary instructions.

Afterwards, the commander inspected prawn breeding camp of YCDC and digging of prawn breeding ponds with the use of heavy machinery at Thilawa Prawn Breeding Zone. At the zone, 700 acres have been dug out of 1098 acres of pond and over 9.8 million of shrimp fry have been put into the ponds.

Later, the commander inspected laying of additional asphalt layer on No 2 Highway being implemented by Public Works in Dagon Myothit East, Yangon East District and gave necessary instructions.

Then, the commander proceeded to Maso Bridge Agriculture and Livestock Breeding Project being implemented by YCDC. At the briefing hall, officials reported to the commander on work and he gave instructions on finishing the work by the end of April.

Later, the commander inspected digging of fish breeding ponds with the use of heavy machinery and vegetable plantation there.

Next, the commander inspected digging of 50 acres for fish breeding pond being implemented by Myanmar Pyi Tha Hay KM Co near No 2 Highway and fulfilled the needs.

Afterwards, the commander inspected tree plantation of Indaing Station near No 2 Highway and left necessary instructions.

Next, the commander inspected progress in digging of 250 acres for fish breeding pond being implemented by Myanmar Pyi Tha Hay KM Co near Yangon-Bago six-lane highway and fulfilled the needs.

There are already 24,000 acres of fish breed-ing ponds in Yangon Divi-sion and 8,000 acres are scheduled to be dug in the open season this year. To date, 7,000 acres have been dug. Therefore, a total of 31,000 acres have been dug. And plans are under way to dig the remaining acres.

At Chin State Peace and Development Council Office, the commander met secretaries and executives of District and Township Union Solidarity and Development Associations, and gave instructions on work.

The commander attended to their needs. The commander then presented K 4 million for Chin State USDA to U Aung Min and K 1 million for test-running of small hydel power projects in Chin State to Commissioner U Saw Myint of Chin State General Administration Department.

Afterwards, the commander met police officers at the same venue.The commander heard reports on tasks being undertaken by Commander of Chin State Police Force Police Col Thura Tin Hla and officials and attended to their needs.

First, Chairman of Fund Raising Subcommittee for Construction of the Home Head of Kachin State Internal Revenue Department U Khin Maung Soe reported on the raising of funds and Kachin State Law Oficer U Soe Myint on the list of wellwishers of the first donation and the fund.

Chairman of Work Committee for Construction of the Home for the Aged Kachin State Commissioner U Khin Aung accepted K 300,000 donated by Commander Maj-Gen Kyaw Win and wife Daw San San Yi and family, and presented a certificate of honour to them.

Then, the commander and officials accepted cash donated by state/district/township level departmental officials and wellwishers, and presented certificates of honour to them. Altogether 101 well-wishers donated K 10,009,080 at the first cash donation ceremony.

Yangon, 16 March- A ceremony to convey Sein-budaw, Hngetmyat-nadaw and Shwehtidaw, being kept at Chanthagyi Tazaung of Shwedagon Pagoda, before being hoisted atop Hsan-dawshin Kyaikhtiyoe Pagoda, was held at the Tazaung this morning.

Chairman of Fund-raising Committee for All-round Renovation and Shwehtidaw Hoisting atop Kyaikhtiyoe Pagoda Deputy Minister for Home Affairs Brig-Gen Thura Myint Maung, Chairman of the Working Committee Deputy Minister for Religious Affairs Brig-Gen Thura Aung Ko, Vice-Chairman Deputy Minister for Science and Tecnology U Nyi Hla Nge, departmental heads, officials and members of the Pagoda Board of Trustees conveyed the Seinbudaw, the Hngetmyat-nadaw and the Shwehtidaw round Shwedagon Pagoda.

While they were carrying the Seinbudaw, the Hngetmyatnadaw and the Shwe-htidaw to the vehical through Eastern Stairways of Shwedagon Pagoda, members of the Sangha, devotees and the public paid obeisance to them and donated cash and jewellery towards the funds of Kyaikhtiyoe Pagoda.

Then, Chairman of the Working Committee Deputy Minister Brig-Gen Thura Aung Ko and party conveyed the Seinbudaw, the Hngetmyatnadaw and the Shwehtidaw to Kyaikhtiyoe Pagoda by car.

Before the departure, wellwishers donated cash and jewellery to officials. Chairman of the Working Committee Deputy Minister Brig-Gen Thura Aung Ko accepted K 60,000 and one gold foil donated by U Nay Zaw Linn-Daw Khin Swe Win of Pyay, one ruby ring, a pair of ruby ear-plugs, a locket and two earrings by U Aye Maung-Thaung Tin of Mudon, K 50,000 by U Tun Shwe-Daw Hla Yin Win of Yangon, one gold coin by U Soe Myint-Daw Sein Win Hlaing of Yangon, a pair of pearl ear-plugs, an emerald Buddha image and a Shwedagon design marble Ceti by Ko Mya Win-Ma Mon Mon Myat of North Okkalapa, a pair of pearl ear-plugs by Sayama Daw Khin Win Kyi of Bo Sun Pet Street and a sapphire necklace by Sayama Daw Than Than Hla of Bahan Township.

Stone sculptor Siri Sudhamma Manijotadhara Sayagyi U Taw Taw and sons participated in the carving of the Image from this morning to evening.Myanmar handicraft technician U Tin Ohn and
U Hla Kyu and party also participated in construction and decoration of Gandakuti Kyaungdawgyi in which the Image is being kept.Wut associations recited religious verses there from morning to evening.

Ministry of Religious Affairs and Ministry of Information sell various kinds of books. Myanmar Traditional Artists and Artisans Asiayon (Central) opens a souvenir shop.Donations of well-wishers amounted to K 156,792,871 at the fund-raising unit of the Image on Mindhamma Hill from 5 August to this evening.

The K 3.6 million is part of the donations made by the public to Seinbudaw, Hnget-myatnadaw and Shwehtidaw, which are to be hoisted atop Hsandawshin Kyaikhtiyo Hsandawshin Pagoda.

Present at the ceremony were Ovadacariya Sayadaws of the Shwedagon Pagoda Board of Trustees led by Vice-Chairman of the State Sangha Maha Nayaka Committee Presiding Sayadaw of Aungmyebon-sankyaung in Bahan Township Abhidhaja Maha Rattha Guru Bhaddanta Paņindabhivamsa, Chairman of Fund-Raising Committee of Kyaikhtiyoe Pagoda Deputy Minister for Home Affairs Brig-Gen Thura Myint Maung, Chairman of Work Committee for All-round Renovation and Htidaw Hoisting of Kyaikhtiyoe Pagoda Deputy Minister for Religious Affairs Brig-Gen Thura Aung Ko, Vice-Chairman of the Work Committee Deputy Minister for Science and Technology U Nyi Hla Nge, departmental heads, members of the Shwedagon Pagoda Board of Trustees and pilgrims.

The vice-chairman Saya-daw invested the congregation with the Five Precepts.Deputy Minister Brig-Gen Thura Myint Maung presented K 3.6 million to member of the Shwedagon Pagoda Board of Trustees U Kyi Myint.The deputy ministers and those present offered provisions to the Sayadaws.

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( 9 ) Jade sales fetch US$ 1.8m on 3rd day

Yangon, 16 March- The 38th Myanma Gems, Jade and Pearl Emporium continued for the third day this morning.Sale of 48 jade lots fetched US$ 1,857,257.Taunggyi Gems Master (Myanmar) Company offered US$ 451,388 which was highest price in the sales of jade lots through tender system.

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