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Monday ,    21   January  2002
 ONLINE  EDITION
  1. State Councillor and Secretary General of State Council of PRC arrives to pay official visit to Myanmar
  2. State Councillor and Secretary General of the State Council of PRC meets Secretary-
  3. Secretary-1 hosts dinner in honour of Chinese guests
  4. Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt inspects development in Pangsan, Tachilek
  5. Secretary-1 attends opening ceremony of Myanmar-Thai Friendship Trade Fair 2002
  6. City Housing Project Management Committee meets
  7. USDA holds mass rally to support national, rural development tasks
  8. 11th Tatmadaw (Army, Navy and Air) Military Band Contest concludes
  9. Bhangra and Gidda dance troupe presents entertainment
 
APPLICATION FOR BUDDHIST UNIVERSITY

(1)  State Councillor and Secretary General of State Council of PRC arrives to pay official  visit to Myanmar

YANGON, 20 Jan.- At the invitation of Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council of the   Union of Myanmar Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt, a seven-member delegation led by State Councillor and  Secretary General of the State Council of the People's Republic of China Mr Wang Zhongyu arrived  here by air at 1.15 p.m. today on an official visit to the Union of Myanmar.

The Chinese goodwill delegation was welcomed at Yangon International Airport by Secretary-1 of the  State Peace and Development Council of the Union of Myanmar Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt, together with  Minister for Foreign Affairs U Win Aung, Minister for Science and Technology U Thaung, Chairman of  Civil Service Selection and Training Board Dr Than Nyunt, Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs U Khin  Maung Win, officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Chinese Ambassador Mr Li Jinjun. Staff of  the Chinese Embassy also welcomed State Councillor and Secretary General of the State Council of the  People's Republic of China Mr Wang Zhongyu and party at the VIP Lounge of the airport.

The State Councillor and Secretary General of the State Council of the People's Republic of China is  accompanied by Minister of Personnel Mr Zhang Xuezhong, Director-General of the Department of  International Exchange & Cooperation, Ministry of Personnel Mr Wang Xiaochu and departmental  officials of the Government of the People's Republic of China. Then, the guests together with the  Secretary-1 left Yangon International Airport and arrived at Inya Kantha State House at 1.40 p.m.  Afterwards, the Secretary-1 greeted the State Councillor and Secretary General of the State Council of  PRC and party and left the State House in the afternoon.

(2) State Councillor and Secretary General of the State Council of PRC meets Secretary-1

YANGON, 20 Jan.- State Councillor and Secretary General of the State Council of the People's Republic  of China Mr Wang Zhongyu and party met Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council of  the Union of Myanmar Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt at the Yeiktha of the Ministry of Defence at 3 p.m. today.

Also present at the call were Minister for Agriculture and  Irrigation Maj-Gen. Nyunt Tin, Minister for Industry-1 U  Aung Thaung, Minister for Foreign Affairs U Win Aung,  Minister for Science and
Technology U Thaung, Minister for  Education U Than Aung, Chairman of Civil Service Selection  nd Training Board Dr Than Nyunt, Deputy Minister for  Foreign Affairs U Khin Maung Win and Director-General  Thura U Aung Htet of the Protocol Department. The guests  were accompanied by Ambassador of the People's Republic  of China to Myanmar Mr Li Jinjun.

(3) Secretary-1 hosts dinner in honour of Chinese guests

YANGON, 20 Jan.- Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council of the Union of Myanmar  Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt hosted a dinner in honour of visiting State Councillor and Secretary General of the  State Council of the People's Republic of China Mr Wang Zhongyu and party at Kandawgyi Karaweik  Palace Hotel at 7 p.m. today.

Also present at the dinner were Chairman of Yangon Division Peace and Development Council
Commander of Yangon Command Brig-Gen. Myint Swe, ministers, the Chairman of Civil Service
Selection and Training Board, the Yangon Mayor, deputy ministers, officials of the State Peace and
Development Council Office, departmental heads, Chinese Ambassador Mr Li Jinjun, staff of the  Chinese Embassy and guests.

Secretary-1 attends opening of Myanma Ten Traditional Arts and Crafts Exhibition 2002

YANGON, 20 Jan.- A ceremony to open the Myanma Ten Traditional Arts and Crafts Exhibition 2002,  organized by Myanmar Traditional Artists and Artisans Association (Central), was held at Tatmadaw  Convention Hall on U Wisara Road at 8 am today.

 It was graced by State Peace and Development Council Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt by attending  it. Also present were ministers, deputy ministers, Dean of the Diplomatic Crops Ambassador of Italy Dr  Cesare Capitani and diplomats, the director-general of the State Peace and Development Council  Office and departmental heads, members of the Panel of Patrons of the Exhibition Organizing Leading  Committee, members of the Central Executive Committee of the Myanmar Traditional Artists and  Artisans Association, chairmen and members of Township Artists and Artisans Associations in Yangon  Division, officials and guests.

The opening ceremony was held in front of the Tatmadaw Convention Hall. Secretary of Myanmar
Traditional Artists and Artisans Association (Central) U Thant Sin (a) Bachi Hla Tin Tun reported
matters relating to the Exhibition. Then, Patron Artist U Min Naing, Chairman U Thaung Han and  Vice-Chairman Thiri Thudhamma-manijotadhara Stone Sculptor U Taw Taw formally opened the  exhibition.

Then, Chairman of Sangyoung Township Artists and Artisans Association U D Aung Thein (Dawei)  presented his 3 feet by 4 feet size oil portrait of State Peace and Development Council Chairman Senior  General Than Shwe to the Secretary-1. Next, Myanmar Traditional Artists and Artisans Association  (Central) Chairman U Thaung Han presented his 3 feet by 4 feet portrait of the White Elephant to the  Secretary-1.

Likewise, Thakayta Township Traditional Artists and Artisans Association Chairman U Kyaw Myint  presented his sculpture of the White Elephant to the Secretary-1. Afterwards, the Secretary-1 and  guests viewed round the Exhibition.

The Secretary-1 signed in the visitors' book and left the venue. The Exhibition was organzied with the  objectives of enabling the people to appreciate the ten traditional arts and crafts; to enable the public to  enjoy the arts and crafts of artists and artisans from various States and Divisions at one place; to  publicize the ten traditional arts and crafts in the international sphere; to promote the lives of traditional  artists and artisans; and to hand down the heritage of ten traditional arts and crafts to new generations  by implementing the social objective " Uplift of national prestige and integrity and preservation and  safeguarding of cultural heritage and national character ". Altogether 712 paintings, 110 sculptures and  works of ten traditional arts and crafts are displayed at the exhibition. There are also arts and crafts of  33 private galleries. The Exhibition will be kept open from 9 am to 5 p.m. till 1 February.

Secretary-1 and wife attend dinner hosted by MMA president

YANGON, 20 Jan. -Chairman of National Health Committee Secretary-1 of the State Peace and
Development Council Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt and wife Dr Daw Khin Win Shwe attended the dinner hosted  by the President of Myanmar Medical Association (Central) at the MMA's Auditorium on Theinbyu  Street in Mingala Taungnyunt at 7 p.m. yesterday.

Also present were ministers, the Yangon Mayor, deputy  ministers of Ministry of Health, officials of the State Peace  and Development Council office, departmental heads, the  President of MMA and executives, the Chairperson of  Myanmar Maternal and Child Welfare Association and  executives, the President of Myanmar Red Cross Society,  the Chairperson of Myanmar Nurses Association, the  Chairman of Dental Surgeons' Association, Myanmar  physicians from the United States of America and the United  Kingdom who will attend 48th Myanmar Medical  Conference, delegates of Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and Australia and guests.

(4) Significant achievements made in Mongla through mutual respect, understanding and  sincerity between government and national race leaders

Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt inspects development in Pangsan, Tachilek

YANGON, 20 Jan.-Chairman of Border Areas and National Races Development Work Committee  Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt, member of the State  Peace and Development Council Maj-Gen. Aung Htwe of the Ministry of Defence, the ministers, the  Chief of Staff (Navy), the Chief of Staff (Air), the deputy ministers, President of Myanmar-Thai Cultural  and Economic Cooperation Association Lt-Gen. Kyaw Than (Retd), officials of the State Peace and  Development Council Office, departmental officials, left here by Tatmadaw aircraft and arrived in  Kengtung in Eastern Shan State at 9.45 am on 17 January.

The Secretary-1 and party were welcomed at the Kengtung  airport by Chairman of Shan State Peace and Development  Council (East) Commander of Triangle Region Command  Brig-Gen. Chit Than, members of State, District and  Township Peace and Development Councils, departmental  personnel, members of Union Solidarity and Development  Association and Maternal and Child Welfare Association,  members of Women's Affairs Committee and officials. The  Secretary-1 inspected extension of the runway of Kengtung  airport. Minister for Transport Maj-Gen. Hla Myint Swe and  officials reported on progress of work.

The Secretary-1 and party, accompanied by Commander of Triangle Region Command Brig-Gen. Chit  Than, left for Mongla in Shan State (East) by helicopter and inspected cultivation of opium substitute  perennial crops and rubber there. The Secretary-1 and party were welcomed by departmental  personnel, Chairman of Shan State (East) Special Region-4 U San Peh and members, members of  USDA, those of MCWA, those of Women's Affairs Committee and local people.

The Secretary-1 and party inspected opium substitute perennial crops plantation in Mongma in Shan  State (East). Officials reported on cultivation of 42,063 mango trees on 69.57 acres of land, 25,000  lychee plants on 65.44 acres, 4,439 lychee plants on 8.07 acres, 60,000 rubber plants on 143 acres,  668 mango trees on five acres, 500 lychee plants on 2.5 acres, 185 longan plants on one acre and 100  orange plants on 0.5 acre, under the arrangements of the Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation,  preparations for cultivation of 40,000 mango trees, 25,000 lychee plants and 60,000 rubber plants and  work being undertaken for cultivation of rubber, cashew, mango, orange and lychee trees.

The Secretary-1 then gave instructions. The Secretary-1, Maj-Gen. Aung Htwe, Commander Brig-Gen.  Chit Than and the ministers planted mango trees. The Secretary-1 and party inspected cultivation of 50  acres of summer paddy and construction of Mongla golf course. The Secretary-1 met departmental  officials and members of Shan State (East) Special Region-4. Chairman of Shan State (East) Special  Region-4 U San Peh extended greetings to them.

The Secretary-1 said he and the ministers came to Mongla region to fulfil the requirements of local
people for raising their socio-economic life in accord with the tradition of providing the government's  assistance to local people. There was no stability in Mongla region and development tasks could not be  implemented in the past. Peace and tranquillity has been restored through mutual respect, understanding  and sincerity between the government and national race leaders in Mongla region at the time of the  present government.

Therefore significant achievements have been made in Mongla city in a short time, he said. The
government provided assistance to local people with goodwill for regional development and better
foundations for improvement of regional economy and living standard, he said. Mongla has become a  modern city due to the efforts of local people and national race leaders with the spirit of respect and  trust in the government. The Secretary-1 expressed his pleasure to see the development of Mongla  region and there are modern markets, hotels of international standard, posh buildings and pagodas.  Local people in Mongla region can now enjoy the economic growth and better life and live in peace. improvements are good results of mutual goodwill, respect and sincerity among the national races of the  Union. Mongla region is a model region for its efforts to eliminate narcotic drugs. The government  provided assistance to local people and national race leaders and encouraged its endeavours for  elimination of narcotic drugs.

So, Mongla region was declared as drugs-free zone in 1997. He said there is no narcotic drug in  Mongla region now and cultivation of opium substitute crops is successful. The government has given  encouragement to economic enterprises and laid better economic foundations including cultivation of  opium substitute crops and improvement of education, health and social aspects, he said. Now there is a  high school and a 50-bed hospital in Mongla region.

Head of State Senior General Than Shwe has given guidance on five rural development tasks including  border areas. He called for cooperation among regional authorities, departments and local people to  carry out the task. He said Mongla region has developed rapidly due to mutual respect and sincerity  between the government and national race leaders and implementation of regional development by all  national people under the leadership of the government.

He urged all national people to make concerted efforts for raising the already-achieved development  momentum. Next, the Secretary-1 presented computers and teaching aids for Mongla basic education  high school to Headmaster U Win. Proprietor of Hlinetunt Hotel U Kyauk Wai presented K 50 million  for construction of primary schools in Yangon to Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt. The Secretary-1  presented gifts to service personnel there.

Chairman U San Peh and the Secretary-1 exchanged gifts. Secretary U Min Ein reported to the
Secretary-1 on preparations for construction of 300-foot long Swutlway Bridge. The Secretary-1 and  party arrived at Mongla People's Hospital where they were welcomed by Medical Superintendent Dr  Myint Mo Soe and staff. The Secretary-1 inspected the operation theatre and the medical store. The  Secretary-1 and party proceeded to Mongla basic education high school and inspected computer skill  room, language lab and projected media room and training of the students. The Secretary-1 and party  inspected advanced Eastern Hotel in Mongla and Myoma Market.

The Secretary-1 and party went to Hlinetunt Hotel where they viewed development of Mongla. The  Secretary-1 also inspected hotel services and entertainment of the children. The Secretary-1 and party  left Mongla region for Pangsan in Wa region by helicopter. The Secretary-1 and party inspected  cultivation of  rubber plants in the environs of Pangsan. They arrived at Pangsan at 2.40 p.m. The  Secretary-1 was welcomed by Chairman of Shan State (North) Peace and Development Council  Commander of North-East Command Brig-Gen. Myint Hlaing, national race leader of Shan State  (North) special region-2 U Pauk Yu Chan and local people.

The Secretary-1 went to Mayzin Hotel and he met national  race leaders and trainees. At the meeting, the Secretary-1  said there is a tradition that we brothers have been living  together in the Union of Myanmar for years countable by the  thousand. The Union of Myanmar is formed with over 100  national races and all are responsible to safeguard the Union  with the spirit of comradeship, living in unity.

In the past, there were doubts and suspicions among national  races but now there is peace and
tranquillity in the country  under the present government and national races are making efforts for
perpetuation of the Union with  amity, he said. He said he and the ministers came there to carry out border area development tasks in  Wa region. With peace and progress in the region, the government, hand in hand with Wa national race  leaders, has been making endeavours for development of Wa region and better economic foundations  and raising their living standard.

Wa region has developed considerably due to the efforts for development of the region based on  mutual respect, understanding, sincerity and openness between the government and Wa national race  leaders. He said the government is responsible for development of border areas including Wa region  and continued efforts are to be made for regional and economic development and raising of living  standard of the people in cooperation with Wa national race leaders.

He spoke of the need for local people to participate in all future tasks. Ours is a developing nation.  Only when we make efforts for regional and national development with diligence, can our nation catch  up with other nations in the region. In spite of all-round efforts for elimination of narcotic drugs, some big  nations still accuse our country of involvement in narcotic drugs, he said. Systematic arrangements are  being made for elimination of narcotic drugs in Wa region by the year 2005 in cooperation with Wa  national race leaders.

The Secretary-1 called for cooperation to realize the objective. As we are brothers born in the Union,  all nationals are responsible for safeguarding the perpetuation of the Union, independence and  sovereignty, he said.

He also called for cooperation for perpetuation of the Union, safeguarding independence and  sovereignty, national development, raising of living standard of all national races with the spirit of national  solidarity. Then, the Secretary-1 presented K 50 million donated by the State for construction of  Mahapanthu Theingi Pagoda in Pangsan to Wa national race leader U Pauk Yu Chan. Afterwards, the  Secretary-1 presented computers and teaching aids for Basic Education High School of Pangsan to U  Pauk Yu Chan. Then, the Secretary-1 and U Pauk Yu Chan exchanged gifts. Next, the national race  leader spoke words of thanks. After the ceremony, the Secretary-1 extended greetings to the trainees.

Then, the Secretary-1 and party proceeded to Theingi  Yadana Hill and inspected construction of the pagoda and  left instructions. At the briefing hall, Commander Brig-Gen.  Myint Hlaing and Pro-Rector Dr Hla Than of Yangon  Technological University reported on progress of work in  construction of the pagoda to the Secretary-1 who fulfilled  the needs. The Secretary-1 and party proceeded to Tachilek  in Shan State (East). On arrival at Tachilek Airport, the  Secretary-1 and party were welcomed by Brig-Gen. Than  Aung of Mongphyat Station, members of District/Township  Peace and Development Councils, departmental personnel and USDA members.

At the airport terminal, Minister for Transport Maj-Gen. Hla Myint Swe and officials reported on
renovation of the runway and extension of the apron to the Secretary-1 who attended to the  requirements. Then, the Secretary-1 and party arrived at Golden Triangle Hotel in Tachilek. On 18  January morning, the Secretary-1 and party arrived at the new general hospital construction site in  Macaokham Ward, Tachilek. The project is being undertaken with the sponsorship of Naga Hnakaung  Kyaungtaik Sayadaw Agga Maha Pandita Agga Maha Sadhamma-jotikadhaja Bhaddanta Dhammasiri.

At the cornerstone laying ceremony, the Secretary-1, Maj-Gen. Aung Htwe of the Ministry of Defence,  Commander Brig-Gen. Chit Than and Minister for Religious Affairs U Aung Khin laid the cornerstone  for the hospital. Then, officials reported on the project to the Secretary-1 who gave necessary  instructions. After that, the Secre-tary-1 and party arrived at the site chosen for construction of No 2  Friendship Bridge linking Tachilek of Myanmar and Meisai of Thailand, where Deputy Minister for  Construction U Tint Swe, Deputy Minister for Transport U Pe Than and officials reported on work to  be carried out for the project. Then, the Secretary-1 inspected the site chosen and gave instructions.  The Secretary-1 and party then proceeded to Myanmar Archway construction site for the bridge where  Deputy Minister U Tint Swe and officials reported on work being carried out.

Then, the Secretary-1 gave instructions to officials. On 18 January morning, the Secretary-1 attended  the opening ceremony of the 2002 Myanmar-Thai Friendship Trade Fair at Regina Shan Yoma  Department Store Complex in Tachilek and made a speech. Afterwards, the Secretary-1 met with  members of Shan State/District/Township Peace and Development Councils and departmental  personnel at the Golden Triangle Hotel. At the meeting, Commander Brig-Gen. Chit Than reported on  work being carried out for regional development. Then, the Secretary-1 gave instructions. He said while  meeting local authority, departmental officials of Tachilek in a place he also would like to discuss matters  related to regional development tasks.

During recent days he arrived at Pahlo, Kenglat village in Tachilek and gave instructions on forming a  village development committee to carry out education, health and social welfare tasks to the authorities,  officials and towns elders. At district and township levels, regional development needs can effectively be  fulfilled by forming similar committees, he said. In education sector, literacy courses such as 3-Rs  courses are to be opened for the youths especially girls in villages. Education can promote knowledge  and enhance the spirit to safeguard the Myanma traditional customs and the patriotic spirit.

The State's objectives can be fulfilled only if mental development of the youths is brought about. So,  plans for educating the youths and girls in border areas are to be regarded as plans for uplifting national  prestige and integrity, for national reconsolidation and for strengthening of Union Spirit, and are to be  carried out seriously, he pointed out. This morning, under the programme of associations for bilateral  cooperation on culture and trade between the two countries, the Myanmar-Thai Friendship Trade Fair  was opened in Tachilek attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence General Chavalit  Yongchaiyudh of Thailand.

He said the friendship trade fair was the result of better friendship and cooperation between the two  countries. Bilateral trade, cultural and social aspects will develop through bilateral friendship and
cooperation. He spoke of the need for local authorities in Tachilek District and departmental officials to  make efforts for promoting bilateral friendship and cooperation after realizing this attitude.

He said undertakings of border trade and import and export and control of immigration in accord with  rules and laws are related to the dignity of the State. So he urged them to carry out the work for  progress according to law. Service personnel are to discharge their duties. Now rural development  tasks are being implemented under the guidance of Head of State Senior General Than Shwe. He urged  departments concerned to participate in these tasks in unity.

The Secretary-1 also called on departmental personnel for cooperation in the efforts for rural
development and intellectual development such as raising of education, health and social standard of  rural people, uplift of national prestige and integrity, safeguarding of Myanma traditional cultural
customs, strengthening of national solidarity spirit and consolidation of Union Spirit.

The Secretary-1 and party inspected opium substitute crops project in Lwesamsaw region in Shan  State (East) and development work in Monghsat and Ponpakyin Village in Mongtong Township on 18  and 19 January. The Secretary-1 and party arrived back here on 19 January. CEC member of USDA  and member of Myanmar War Veterans Organization Central Organizing Committee Minister for  Progress of Border Areas and National Races and Development Affairs Col Thein Nyunt and Minister  for Commerce Brig-Gen. Pyi Sone met executives of District and Township USDAs and members of  Township WVO at Tachilek District USDA Office on 17 January.


(5) Secretary-1 attends opening ceremony of Myanmar-Thai Friendship Trade Fair 2002

YANGON, 20 Jan.-Opening ceremony of Myanmar-Thai Friendship Trade Fair 2002 jointly organized by  Myanmar-Thailand and Thailand-Myanmar Cultural and Economic Cooperation Associations was held  at Regina Shan Yoma Department Store Complex at 10 am on 18 January, with an address by  Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt.

Also present were Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Gen. Chavalit Yongchaiyudh,
Member of the State Peace and Development Council Maj-Gen. Aung Htwe of Ministry of Defence,  Chairman of Shan State (East) Peace and Development Council Commander Brig-Gen. Chit Than, ministers, Chief of Staff (Navy), Chief of Staff (Air), the Chaingrai district commissioner and members,  high-ranking officials of departments, wellwishers, Myanmar Ambassador to Thailand U Myo Myint,  Thai Ambassador to Myanmar Mr Oum Maolanon, President of Myanmar-Thailand Cultural and  Economic Cooperation Association Lt-Gen. Kyaw Than (Retd), the chairman of Thailand-Myanmar  Cultural and Economic Cooperation Association and members, officials of the State Peace and  Development Council Office, departmental heads, members of state, district and township Peace and  Development Councils, service personnel, members of Union Solidarity and Development Association,  those of Red Cross Society and Auxiliary Fire Brigade, those of Maternal and Child Welfare  Association, those of Women's Affairs Committee, students, band, dance troupes, Myanmar and Thai  entrepreneurs, guests from Thailand and local people. First, General Secretary Gen. Sanon Kajomklan  of Thailand-Myanmar Cultural and Economic Cooperation Association and General Secretary Col Ba  Hein (Retd) of  Myanmar-Thailand Cultural and Economic Cooperation Association explained the  purposes of the fair.

Afterwards, Secretary-1 of the State Peace and  Development Council Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt made a
speech.  He said:

It is a great pleasure for me to deliver the opening  remarks at the opening ceremony of  the Myanmar-Thai  Friendship Trade Fair 2002. At the outset, allow me to  extend a most cordial  welcome to His Excellency Gen.  Chavalit Yongchaiyudh and all the Thai visitors who have  especially  come to Tachilek to grace the occasion with their  kind presence. The very fact that the Trade Fair is  being  attended by the leaders and high-ranking officials from both  sides underlines the importance and  the significance of the occasion.

In other words, the trade fair stands as a symbol of commitment by the Governments of both nations to  further consolidate the existing ties of amity, goodwill and cooperation. Myanmar and Thailand are  neighbouring countries linked by land and water through a common border of more than 1,300 miles.  We  in Myanmar have a saying: Grass depends on the island, the island on the grass. There are many  areas  and instances where Myanmar and Thailand have to depend on each other through good times  and bad.  Prosperity and development of one country can definitely contribute to the progress and  well-being of the  other.

There is no other way: our two peoples must cooperate with each other for our mutual benefit. On the  part of Myanmar, we only wish to see the strengthening of friendship and cooperation between us. We  are committed to make the Myanmar-Thai Border, one of peace, harmony and prosperity. Our  considered view is that there are no big issues between our two nations and whenever matters arise, we  will be able to resolve them peacefully and successfully in the spirit of amity and understanding. In this  regard, it is most gratifying to note the all-round strengthening of friendship between the two countries in  recent months.

The official visits to Myanmar by Thai Prime Minister Dr Thaksin Shinawatra and the Deputy Prime
Minister and Minister of Defence Gen. Chavalit Yongchaiyudh have laid the foundation for a new era of  relationship.

I personally would also like to thank Gen. Chavalit  Yongchaiyudh for  the kind invitation extended to me to visit  Thailand, during which both sides were able to discuss  practical ways for enhancing the relationship. Our two  countries share the noble objective of striving for lasting  friendship between our two peoples and I am fully confident  that through our joint efforts, we will surely be able to attain  this noble goal.

The growing sentiments of goodwill and friendship must be  accompanied by increased commercial and business links. The economies of Myanmar and Thailand are  compatible and complementary and there exist many areas for mutually beneficial commercial activities.  Moreover, the process of introducing new trade measures including the introduction of account trade as  well as the strengthening of transport linkages will impart new momentum to the dynamic economic  activities.

In this aspect, I wish to thank the Thai Government for undertaking to build a second Friendship Bridge  between Tachilek and Mae Sai. The new bridge will not only facilitate cross-border trade but will also  contribute to the development of the area. It is also our hope that Thai investors will look into the possibilities for investment as there are indeed many prospects. The growing officials and commercial  ties are further deepened by the development of closer people-to-people ties.

At the initiative of His Excellency Gen. Chavalit Yongchaiyudh, the two nations were able to set up
Cultural and Economic Cooperation Associations. The exchange of visits between the two Associations  and the holding of the first Joint Meeting in Yangon last November have brought our two peoples closer  in culture, economic, health and education sectors. Moreover, the reciprocal visits of cultural troupes  recently have also enabled our two peoples to have a better appreciation of the culture and civilization of  the respective nations.

The present Myanmar-Thailand Friendship Trade Fair is also organized by the Myanmar-Thailand
Cultural and Economic Cooperation Association in conjunction with its Thai counterparts. Myanmar is  well represented by the participation of all the major economic Ministries of Myanmar as well as by the  private and cooperative sectors. But this trade fair would not have been possible without the support of  the Ministry of Commerce and the assistance of the Eastern Shan State Peace and Development  Council and I wish to place on record our heartfelt thanks to them.

I would therefore like to express our sincere appreciation to the organizers, the sponsor Regina
International Co. Ltd as well as to all those who are involved in making the arrangements for the Trade  Fair. I am fully confident that the Trade Fair Will successfully meet its objectives of promoting  friendship, cultural cooperation and trade relations.

In conclusion, allow me to wish for the everlasting friendship between Myanmar and Thailand, for the  success of the Myanmar-Thailand Friendship Trade Fair, for the success and well-being of His
Excellency Prime Minister Mr Thaksin Shinawatra and Gen. Chavalit Yongchaiyudh, Deputy Prime
Minister and Minister of Defence; and for the health and well-being of all the Guests present here today.

Then, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Gen. Chavalit Yongchaiyudh made a speech.  Later, Chairman of Myanmar-Thailand Cultural and Economic Cooperation Association Lt-Gen. Kyaw  Than, Chairman of Thailand-Myanmar Cultural and Economic Cooperation Association formally  opened the fair. Next, Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt, Gen. Chavalit Yongchaiyudh and guests viewed around the  fair. Then, they attended cultural concert presented by Myanmar and Thailand cultural troupes.

At the fair, booths of export agricultural produce of the Ministry of Commerce, border trade, traditional  medicine of the Ministry of Health, agricultural produce of the Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation,  products of factories under the Ministry of Industry-2, forest products and wood products of the  Ministry of Forestry, travel service of the Ministry of Hotels and Tourism, educative display of the  Ministry of Home Affairs, exported products of five co-operative societies of the Ministry of  Cooperatives, educative display of the Ministry of Information and consumer goods, foodstuff, foreign  medicines, traditional medicines, embroidery, marine products, finished wood products, electronic  goods, crops of the region, stationary at the 40 booths of business firms and entrepreneurs from  Myanmar and 54 booths of business firms and entrepreneurs from Thailand were on display.

Then, Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt and Gen. Chavalit Yongchaiyudh proceeded to the Regina Entertainment  Hotel where they had lunch together with the guests who attended the opening ceremony. Later, Gen.  Chavalit Yongchaiyudh accepted 675,000 bhat donated by 19 wellwishers from Thailand for  Myanmar-Thailand Cultural and Economic Cooperation Association and handed over the donation to  Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt. Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt accepted K 38.8 million and 75,000 bhat donated by 11  Myanmar entrepreneurs for Myanmar-Thailand Cultural and Economic Cooperation Association and  handed over the donation to Chairman of the association Lt-Gen. Kyaw Than (Retd). Next, Lt-Gen.  Khin Nyunt presented gifts to Gen. Chavalit Yongchaiyudh and party.

Then, Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt had a cordial meeting with wellwishers and guests before the ceremony came  to an end. At the fair, officials of the Ministry of Commerce and Myanmar Investment Commission gave  accounts of matters relating to export and import and investment in Myanmar. In the evening, traditional  costume show, stage show of Myanmar and Thailand singers, magic shows and Myanmar-Thailand  friendly boxing matches were held at a grand scale in commemoration of the fair. The fair continues till   27 January.

(5)  City Housing Project Management Committee meets

YANGON, 20 Jan.- The City Housing Project Management Committee held its coordination meeting No  2/2002 at Meeting Hall-4 of Yangon City Development Committee this morning with an address by  Chairman of the Committee Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen. Khin  Nyunt.

Also present on the occasion were Chairman of Yangon Division Peace and Development Council
Commander of Yangon Command Brig-Gen. Myint Swe, ministers, deputy ministers, the vice-mayor,  the director-general of the State Peace and Development Council Office and departmental heads. In his  address, Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt said that future work programmes were laid down at the first meeting of  the committee and the Head of State Senior General Than Shwe had given guidance to take measures  for stabilising the prices of housing and real estates to enable service personnel, pensioners, grass-root  level and middle class people to overcome the problem resulting from the exorbitant housing prices.

Hence, the City Housing Management Committee was formed, he said. The committee is to take an  initial step for stabilising those prices by making direct dealings with construction entrepreneurs and
those who really need housing and real estates, with a view to stabilising and bringing down the prices of  housing and real estates, he said. He urged all to discuss matters for achieving the objectives in  accordance with the guidance of the Head of State.

Then, Vice-Chairman of YCDC Vice Mayor Col Maung Pa reported on rate of taxation being  collected by YCDC, housing projects already developed and being developed by YCDC, and real  estates being managed by YCDC. Afterwards, Director-General of Department of Human Settlement  and Housing Development U Arnt Kyaw reported matters on housing requirements of the city and  projects implemented by the department. Then, Commander Brig-Gen. Myint Swe and those present at  the meeting took part in the discussions. The meeting then ended with the concluding remarks by the  Secretary-1.

Myanmar-Japan IT Working Group holds coord meeting

YANGON, 20 Jan.- The Myanmar-Japan IT Working Group held a coordination meeting at MICT Park  building in Hline Township this evening. Present were delegates of Myanmar and Japan. The delegates  discussed human resource development, improvement of telecommunication infrastructure, nurturing  software industry, improvement of legal infrastructure and IT application. Then, the meeting approved  feasibility study in the agricultural sector, the administrative sector and the financial sector with the use of  Information Technology.

(6) Commander inspects regional development tasks

YANGON, 20 Jan. - Chairman of Yangon Division Peace and Development Council Commander of  Yangon Command Brig-Gen. Myint Swe, accompanied by Secretary of Yangon Division Peace and  Development Council Lt-Col Kyaw Tint and division-level departmental officials, left for Htantabin  Township in Yangon North District this afternoon and inspected agricultural and regional development  tasks.

The commander and party inspected fertilization of summer paddy in 10-acre farm of U Kyaw Shwe in  Yogwa village and irrigation of summer paddy patches by Kyunngu river water pumping station.
Arrangements have been made to irrigate 1,000 acres of summer paddy by Kyunngu river water  pumping station. The commander cordially greeted farmers and heard report by responsible officials.

Then, the commander met with township-level departmental officials, chairmen of ward and village
Peace and Development Councils and members of social organizations at Htantabin Township Peace  and Development Council office and left instructions on cultivation of summer paddy and winter crops  and coordination of departmental personnel for the regional development tasks. Chairman of the  township Peace and Development Council reported on agricultural and regional development tasks in  the township.

After hearing the reports by those present, the commander fulfilled the requirements. Afterwards, the  commander inspected work being implemented for the prevention of bank erosion at Kyunngu Jetty.  Htantabin Township has put 34,875 acres of summer paddy, 6,457 acres of pulses and beans and 1896  acres of oil crops under cultivation. Yangon North District has also put 102,353 acres of summer  paddy, 60,982 acres of pulses and beans and 14,509 acres of oil crops under cultivation. Then, the  commander proceeded to local battalion in Hlinethaya Township and inspected vegetable plantations  and fish breeding ponds.

(7) Life expectancy of people in Bago Division rises due to better health services Bago Division (West)

USDA holds mass rally to support national, rural development tasks

YANGON, 20 Jan. - To support the national and rural development tasks of the Government, a mass rally,  organized by Bago Division (West) Union Solidarity and Development Association, was held at the  ground on Mingyi Hill near Nawaday Bridge in Pyay on 15 January morning. Over 23,600 members of  USDA marched in the Khittaya, the Nawaday, the Bayintnaung, Duttabaung and the Saya San columns  to the ground where the mass rally would be held. Secretary U Thet Oo Min of Bago Division (West)  USDA presided over the rally together with Secretary U Thein Zaw of Pyay District USDA and  Secretary U Aung Than Oo of Thayawady District USDA. Executives Daw Pwint Oo Han and member  Daw Mo Mo Aung of Pyay Township USDA acted as masters of ceremonies. Secretary U Thet Oo  Min of Bago Division (West) USDA made a speech. He said that the Association has been formed with  the sons and daughters of the people with the aim of serving the national interests and it has actively  been taking part in tasks to build a new modern developed nation.

It is needed to accept the guidance of Head of State Senior General Than Shwe and the USDA  members, totalling over 18 millions, are to accept the Government's nation-building endeavours as  national task, to maintain the prevalence of peace and tranquillity, to participate in nation-building  endeavours and to lay emphasis on rural development tasks. Then, Executive U Khin Aung Win of Pyay  District USDA tabled a motion calling for support of development tasks being undertaken by the State.  He said the State has constructed 13 dams including Taungnawin Dam, Taungnyo Dam and Wegyi Dam  in Bago Division (West) after 1988, benefiting over 199,620 acres of land. Moreover, Bawbin,  Gamone, Minhla and Thonze dams are under construction. Simultaneously, the Government has built  motor roads, railroads, river-crossing bridges, airports and jetties in the division.

Six 180 feet and above bridges including Nawaday Bridge can be witnessed, he said. Similarly, 18
industrial zones including Pyay Industrial Zone were established and assistance is being provided to be  able to set up small, medium and large factories and workshops. In the education sector, there were  33,747 basic education schools in 1988 and now there are 39,081 schools. In the division two  universities, three colleges and 2,223 basic education schools have been opened, he pointed out. In  conclusion, he said, the association is to actively take part in the tasks for the continued development  and on behalf of 18 million members, he tabled the motion calling for support of development tasks  being undertaken by the State.

Then, Executive Daw Sanda Win of Thayawady District USDA seconded the motion of Executive U  Khin Aung Win calling for support of development tasks being undertaken by the State. She said in  health sector, there are 30,000 beds for patients in 843 hospitals because private clinics and health care  centres are permitted to open. Medical Institutes produce about 5,000 practitioners yearly. The  association took part in health care services of the State and Pyi Khine Phyo Goodwill Hospital in  Okshitbin in Pandaung Township in the division had been opened, she added. The State is also paying  attention to rural development tasks for the emergence of a new, modern, developed nation.

The State has constructed 2,642 miles of earth road, 1,396 miles of gravel road, 281 miles of tarred  road, 39 large bridges, 642 small bridges and 16 suspension bridges in rural areas. Moreover, new  schools, hospitals, dispensaries, power stations, industries and agriculture and livestock breeding farms  are emerging all over the country, she said. Afterwards, Executive U Zaw Wai Lin of Minhla Township  USDA tabled the motion calling on the members to take part in the rural area development tasks. He  said the State has constructed 29 miles of tarred road, 77 miles of gravel road, 299 miles of granite road  and 846 miles of earth road in Bago Division (West).

Altogether 427 bridges including six 180 feet and above bridges including the Nawaday Bridge, 59
concrete bridges, 226 wooden bridges and others have been built in the division. For rural area
development, the Government has opened 303 hospitals and dispensaries, and the association has taken  part in health care services including provision of medicines in the division. The life expectancy of the  people in the division has increased up to 60.8 years from 57.6 for male and 64.9 from 62 for female  due to the opening of 22 rural station hospitals, 56 health departments and 22 health branches, he  added. For water supply in rural areas, the Government has sunk and dug 7,547 artesian wells, ponds  and lakes all over the country and in the division 46 were sunk and dug.

The donations of the public and the participation of the members of the association can be seen
evidently, he pointed out. Then, member Daw Amar Cho of Minhla Township USDA seconded the  motion tabled by Executive U Zaw Wai Lin of Minhla Township USDA calling for participation in the  rural area development tasks. She said the government is striving for development of modern agriculture  in carrying out five basic needs for development of rural areas. In livestock breeding sector, it is also  rendering assistance to be able to turn manageable scale livestock breeding into commercial scale one.  In the division, monsoon paddy fields are extended up to 914,752 acres in 2001 and there is also  progress in livestock breeding sector.

In conclusion, she urged all the members of the association to actively take part in the rural area
development tasks and seconded the motion calling for participation in the rural area development tasks.  Then the rally passed resolutions in support of the national and rural development tasks carried out by  the State and active participation of USDA members in the tasks. Next, the rally ended with chanting of  slogans.

(8) 11th Tatmadaw (Army, Navy and Air) Military Band Contest concludes

YANGON, 20 Jan.- The closing ceremony of the 11th Tatmadaw (Army, Navy and Air) Military  Band Contest in commemoration of 57th Anniversary Armed Forces Day was held in  conjunction with the prize presentation ceremony at People's Square on Pyay Road this  morning, attended by Chairman of Leading Committee for Observance of the 57th  Anniversary Armed Forces Day member of the State Peace and Development Council Chief  of Armed Forces Training Maj-Gen. Kyaw Win.

Also present were member of the State Peace and Development Council Adjutant-General  Maj-Gen. Thein Sein, Chairman of Management Committee for Observance of the 57th  Anniversary Armed Forces Day Chairman of Yangon Division Peace and Development  Council Commander of Yangon Command Brig-Gen. Myint Swe, Chief of Staff (Navy)  Rear-Admiral Soe Thein, Chief of Staff (Air) Col Myat Hein, Deputy Chiefs of Armed Forces  Training Maj-Gen. Win Myint and Brig-Gen. Aung Kyi, Chairman of the Organizing  Committee for the contest Vice-Adjutant-General Brig-Gen. Maung Nyo and senior military  officers, military attaches of the foreign missions, officials, Tatmadawmen and their families,  teachers and students. First, the bands took positions at the People's Square.

Then, Maj-Gen. Kyaw Win presented first, second and third prizes to band leaders of No 4  Operations Control Command, No 7 Operations Control Command and No 12 Operations  Control Command in the C class respectively and first, second and third prizes to band leaders  of North-East Command, Defence Services (Army) Officers Training School and Coastal  Region Command in the B class respectively. He presented the best band leader award to the  leader of Commander-in-Chief (Navy)'s Office Band. Next, he also presented first, second  and third band leader awards to winners of the bands in the C class and B class respectively.  The Commander-in-Chief (Air) Office Band won the best band award.

Afterwards, he took the salute of bands and left the People's Square. Then, Chief of Armed  Forces
Training Maj-Gen. Kyaw Win accepted musical instruments worth K 477,000 donated  by U Saw Aung Naing and family of Moonlight Musical Instrument Co. Ltd. Maj-Gen. Kyaw  Win presented cash prizes to Tamway BEHS No 4 and Shwepaukkan BEHS No 6 which  presented demonstration in the closing ceremony and the prize presentation ceremony.  Similarly, Adjutant-General Maj-Gen. Thein Sein, Chief of Staff (Navy) Rear-Admiral Soe  Thein and Chief of Staff (Air) Col Myat Hein presented special prizes to the respective bands.

(9)  Bhangra and Gidda dance troupe presents entertainment

YANGON, 20 Jan.- Under the cultural cooperation programme between Myanmar and India, visiting  Bhangra and Gidda dance troupe of India presented Indian traditional dances at the National Theatre on  Myoma Kyaung Street in Dagon Township this evening. Present on the occasion were Minister for  Sports Brig-Gen. Thura Aye Myint, Chief of Staff (Navy) Rear-Admiral Soe Thein, Chief of Staff (Air)  Col Myat Hein, Deputy Minister for Culture U Soe Nyunt, Deputy Minister for Transport U Pe Than,  Deputy Minister for Science and Technology U Nyi Hla Nge, departmental officials, Indian  Ambassador Mr Vivek Katju and ambassadors of foreign missions, officials of embassies and people.  The dance troupe presented variety traditional dances to the audience. The entertainment programme  will continue tomorrow evening.

INSTRUCTIONS FOR ADMISSION

International Theravada Buddhist Missionary University will open in June for 2002 academic year. The first semester for academic year 2002 begins in June and ends in October. The second semester begin on  1st December and ends in March 2003. Those students who are qualified for  Diploma course can send  their application forms to the Registrar, international Theravada Buddhist Missionary University,  Dhammapala Hill, Mayangone P.O., Yangon, Myanmar. Fax 095-1-650700, Phone 095-1-650702.(1)  Diploma of Buddha Dhamma(Dip.B.Dh)

EDUCATION REQUIREMENT

Foreign monks, nuns and laymen who apply for one-year Diploma course must have passed at least the  Matriculation or  equivalent. For the layman who is Myanmar citizen must have their first degree, B.A. or  B.Sc. Myanmar monks and nuns who apply for  Diploma course must not be younger than 18 and not  older than 45. Age limit for students who apply for one-year Diploma course only will be given consideration. The Selection Board reserves the right to decide whether a particular applicant has met the  requirements or not.

ENTRANCE EXAMINATION

Foreign candidates are required to sit for the written examination at the Embassy of Myanmar in country  of their residence, or at the  examination centre in Yangon, Myanmar. There will be two question papers,  namely, one on English proficiency and the other on general Knowledge relevant to Buddhism. The  closing date for submitting application form for Diploma course is 15th December 2001.  The written  entrance examination for Diploma course will be held on 8th January 2002. A candidate  who passes the  written examination must sit  for personal interview at the Embassy of Myanmar in the country of their  residence before joining the University. The admission policy of the University is  liberal and flexible  enough to get the qualified students for Diploma course. Priority will be givento foreign students.  The  students who joins the University is required to bring a proper medical certificate recently taken from any  recognized authority showing physical and mental fitness.

VISA & OTHER EXPENSES

Once a foreign student is admitted to the Diploma course, the Ministry of Religious Affairs will take care  of visa application and its extension. Tuition, boarding  and messing for foreign students will be provided  free by the University. Travelling expenses for joining the University will not be borne by the University.
 

For further information,  inqueries may kindly be made to the nearest Myanmar Embassies or Consulates
or email to mission.myanmar@ties.itu.int
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