( 1 ) Discipline shouldn't be regarded as a burden,
but should be viewed as dignity of an organization
Union Spirit to be built up with national politics, Our Three Main National Causes
General Maung Aye addresses passing-out parade of 105th Intake of Defence Services (Army) OTS

Yangon, 13 May - The Passing-out Parade of the 105th Intake of Defence Services (Army) Officers Training School was held at the parade ground of the training school in Bahtoo Tatmyo this morning.

On behalf of the Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services, Deputy Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Commander-in-Chief (Army) General Maung Aye delivered an address.

The General said: I would like to tell you in all seriousness the things you should know at the passing-out parade of the105th Intake of Defence Services (Army) Officers Training School.

You have discharged duty as good Tatmadawmen after joining the Tatmadaw as other ranks. You were allowed to attend the officers training course because you abided by with sound morale everything the Tatmadaw taught and prescribed. At the course you have studied subjects on three capabilities that a platoon commander should know. Today you are going to be appointed as gazette officers.

I would like to tell you who are going to assume duty as junior leaders at the Tatmadaw a few words about leadership. The field of leadership is very wide indeed. Therefore you need to study it constantly. Firstly, you have to be able to lead yourselves. In other words, you have to nurture yourselves to be an exemplar after gaining victory over yourselves. And you will have to conduct yourselves and live in accord with the 16 leadership qualities. After you have gained these 16 leadership qualities, you have to study the concept of leadership and practice the leadership methods.

The concept of leadership is to attempt to achieve success after persuading subordinates to have strong morale and good behavior. Therefore you have to win the trust and reliance of your subordinates through correct means. The leadership methods are to get prepared for the future, to undergo training in groups, to build up team spirit, to practice a specific commanding system where necessary and to lead the subordinates depending on the condition which one encounters in order to achieve the objective. It is the qualification of the leadership that can overcome complicated situation during the short prescribed time by using at least manpower and weapons and materials. So, the leader must have better ability and efficiency and be far-sighted.

Correct stand is needed for correct leadership. The basic position of military leadership is that they live with patriotism but not for self-interest. Therefore, as long as your leadership plays pivotal role in the interest of the State and the people, you are on the correct path.

I would like to elaborate on enforcement of discipline in the Tatmadaw, a basic quality of leadership. Every organization is formed on the basis of discipline. If discipline laxes, the organization will disintegrate and then collapse. Discipline shouldn't be regarded as a burden, but should be viewed as the dignity of the organization. Therefore, to keep the organization strong for a long time, top priority is to be paid to discipline. Discipline covers personal dignity, battle-ground discipline, office discipline, the discipline to be observed by single Tatmadaw members and families. If one observes 60 codes of conduct prescribed in the Tatmadaw, one automatically abides by the military law, civilian law and is full of loving kindness, attachment and loyalty.

Similarly, it must always be kept in mind that individual breaking of discipline has a detrimental effect on the entire Tatmadaw. Therefore, you all are to try to set an excellent example in abiding by discipline in response to the goodwill of the Tatmadaw. Only then will the dignity of the Tatmadaw be shining more and more and will the Tatmadaw be able to stand as an organization which can serve the interests of the State and the people all the more.

The stance of the Tatmadaw is that the Tatmadaw never betrays the national cause. Our Tatmadaw is a patriotic Tatmadaw. Therefore, all the tasks are based on Union Spirit, which safeguards the dignity of the race. When Union Spirit is on the wane in our nation, the State will disintegrate. National unity plays a crucial role in keeping the Union Spirit strong and dynamic. In retrospect, as some leaders were in disunity, bloodshed occurred in the nation. As unity collapsed in the nation, everybody entertained the spirit of rivalry. Various ideologies cropped up. As a lot of time had to be spent solving various problems, the nation lagged behind in development. As the people of the nation are endowed with patriotism, the nation did not lose its sovereignty. Therefore, all need to cherish their only motherland, strive in unity for the modernization and development of the State and safeguard it against internal and external danger. Union Spirit is to be built up with the national politics, Our Three Main National Causes.

The three main duties of the Tatmadaw are national defence duty, training and public welfare. For the national defence duty, all are to undergo training constantly. All are to have military vigil constantly. All are to be constantly ready to fight. These three "Constants" are to be observed. The aim of training is to promote ability. All are to have the will to make progress. To promote the ability of the organization, all are to undergo training. Only when one always undergoes training, will one always be ready to fight. In the same vein, true to patriotic Tatmadaw members, all are to carry out public welfare duty together with the military duty and training duty. You all are to go to various parts of the nation to safeguard Our Three Main National Causes. Wherever you arrive, you have to regard it as your native place; and in conjunction with the Union Solidarity and Development Association, you all are to carry out rural development tasks  betterment of transport, water supply, promotion of the education and health standards and regional economic development.

The Tatmadaw is endowed with 12 fine traditions. It always pays top priority to the interests of the people. After taking up the duty of State under unavoidable circumstances, it has been implementing plans and objectives for the emergence of a system which the people aspire to. Therefore, the people, joining hands with the Tatmadaw, are building up the nation. The fruits of the efforts of the State can now be witnessed. After the third short-term five-year plan, the momentum of development will be greater. The collective strength of the people and the Tatmadaw is also greater day by day. Therefore, organizational work is to be carried out inside and outside the Tatmadaw with the national political outlook.

In conclusion, I would like to say that you all are human resources required for the building of a capable, dynamic and modern Tatmadaw. You all have to make best use of your life time so that you all are able to keep abreast with the times. You all are to sacrifice your lives for the sake of the State, the people and the Tatmadaw. You all are to safeguard the 12 fine traditions and try to become brave junior leaders. In view of the five basic qualities  morale, discipline, loyalty, unity and three capabilities, the weaknesses of every unit and every Tatmadaw member are to be remedied with four Tatmadaw restructuring tasks. Therefore, all are to understand the four Tatmadaw restructuring tasks  training, administration, welfare and morale  to build up the Tatmadaw.

The General inspected the cadet company and took the salute of the cadet companies.

Then, the General presented the sword to Best Cadet Award winner Cadet Hla Naung. Afterwards, the General left the parade ground.

General Maung Aye inspects construction of Saikkhaung-Namsang railroad

Yangon, 13 May - Vice-Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council Deputy Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Commander-in-Chief (Army) General Maung Aye left Taunggyi for the site of Saikkhaung-Namsang railroad near Hear Village in Namsang Township on 12 May.

General Maung Aye and party were welcomed by Minister for Rail Transportation U Pan Aung, Commander of Forward No 55 LID Brig-Gen Sein Lin and officials.

Minister U Pan Aung reported to General Maung Aye on construction of Saikkhaung-Namsang railroad and construction of Ponchaung Bridge on the railroad.

Commander Brig-Gen Sein Lin reported on construction of the railroad in cooperation with personnel of Myanma Railways and Tatmadawmen of battalions under No 55 LID, laying of rails, earth work, embankment and work of quarry and progress of work, machinery and measures undertaken for community welfare service for development of transport, education and economic aspects.

General Maung Aye then gave instructions and inspected sample of rocks found in construction of the railroad.

General Maung Aye and party inspected construction of the railroad with the use of machinery. General Maung Aye also inspected earth work being undertaken by Tatmadawmen of No 55 LID.

The Saikkhaung-Namsang railroad is a part of Shwenyaung-Taunggyi-Namsang railroad.

The 62.06 miles Shwe-nyaung-Taunggyi-Saik-khaung railroad has been built.

The Saikkhaung-Nam-sang railroad is 103 miles long and efforts are being made for completion of the railroad by the end of 2002.

General Maung Aye and party went back to Taunggyi after inspecting the project sites.

General Maung Aye and party inspected the development of Taunggyi.

General Maung Aye and party went to Htonbo Farm. Shan State Manager U Saw Jackson of Myanma Agriculture Service reported on arrangements for production of wine from grapes in cooperation with Myanmar Vineyard Management Co Ltd.

 Managing Director of Myanmar Vineyard Management Co Ltd Mr. Morch Berlt reported on experimental cultivation of grapes for production of wine in 1999 and production and arrangements for extended production.

Mr. Morch Berlt also reported to General Maung Aye and party on production techniques and material used in production. General Maung Aye inspected experimental cultivation of grapes and gave instructions.

General Maung Aye and party arrived at Ayethaya Industrial Zone in Ayethaya, Taunggyi Township, and met with industrialists in the hall of the industrial zone.

Minister for Energy Brig-Gen Lun Thi, in charge of Ayethaya Industrial Zone, reported on distribution of allotments to industrialists, matters related to the industries run by 680 industrialists, formation of the motor vehicle production work committee, the farming implement production work committee and other machinery production work committee and production of Shan Star motor car and parts of tractors.

Two industrialists reported on production of motor vehicles and farming implements and efforts for development of Ayethaya Industrial Zone.

Chairman of the Industrial Development Central Committee Vice-Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council Deputy Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Commander-in-Chief (Army) General Maung Aye said that measures are being taken for the development of the industrial sector while efforts are being made to achieve food sufficiency.

Only when the nation becomes an industrialized one, will a modern, developed nation emerge. So efforts are to be made for the development of the industrial sector. Industrial zones are being established at possible regions for the development of the private industrial sector. Now there are altogether 18 industrial zones. The Head of State himself has laid down guidance for the development of industrial zones.

Ayethaya Industrial Zone is gathering momentum, and should exert efforts to make more progress by following the example of more developed industrial zones.

The State is fulfilling financial, technical and machinery requirements of the industrial zones.

Ayethaya Industrial Zone needs to cater to the requirements of users in producing machinery and to take innovative measures to improve the quality of products.

Innovative measures are to be taken to produce machinery needed not only for Shan State but also for the nation.

It is important for industrial zones to contribute to production work of the State. All-out efforts are to be made to produce not only motor vehicles but also farming machinery.

Then, the General had a cordial meeting with the industrialists.

Then, the General and party inspected parts of engines of motor vehicles, farming implements and Shan Star motor vehicles.

 Afterwards, the General and party went to Bahtoo Station in Yaksauk Township by helicopter in the evening.

Member of the Central Executive Committee of the Union Solidarity and Development Association and member of the Central Organizing Committee of Myanmar War Veterans Organization Brig-Gen Pyi Sone met with executives, ward organizers and members of Township USDA and the chairman and members of Township War Veterans Organization at the office of Yaksauk Township USDA.

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( 2 ) Highland farming introduced in Shan State (North)
Opium growers hand over opium seeds of their own volition Gigantic coal deposit found in Lashio
Secretary-1 inspects development in Shan State (North)

Yangon, 13 May - Chairman of the Work Committee for Progress of Border Areas and National Races Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Khin Nyunt and party left Meiktila in Mandalay Division by Tatmadaw aircraft and arrived at Lashio in Shan State (North) at 3 pm yesterday.

The Secretary-1 and party were welcomed there by Chairman of Shan State (North) Peace and Development Council Commander of North-East Command Brig-Gen Myint Hlaing, members of Shan State (North), District and Township Peace and Development Councils, departmental staff, members of the Union Solidarity and Development Association and local national races.

Then, Secretary-1 and party arrived at Shweli Yeiktha in Lashio and inspected samples of coal from new mines, lead, galena alloy, white and brown quartz, spinel, gneiss, garnets alabaster, sand mixed with grains of gold and ores samples extracted in Shan State (North). Commander Brig-Gen Myint Hlaing and Col Soe Oo of Hsenwi Station reported on condition of existing coal mines and new ones, coal mining and quality of coal extracted from new mines.

Secretary-1 gave necessary instructions.

The recently discovered coal deposit is gigantic and it is estimated that coal can be produced on a commercial scale. Detailed surveys of the coal deposit are being conducted by the experts of the Ministry of Mines.

Then, the Secretary-1 and party arrived at the People's Hospital in Lashio, where they were welcomed by Medical Superintendent Dr Khin Maung Kyaw, specialists and doctors. At the briefing hall, the Secretary-1 heard reports by Medical Superintendent Dr Khin Maung Kyaw on the background of the hospital, emergence of the present 200-bed hospital, more intensive care units which have been opened, supply of necessary medicines and equipment and arrangements to upgrade the hospital to an 300-bed one.

Next, Managing Director U Tun Myint Naing of Asia World Co Ltd reported to the Secretary-1 on the building of a maternity ward, and Director-General of the Health Department Dr Wan Maung presented an additional report.

Later, the Secretary-1 gave necessary instructions and inspected the scale model of the buildings to be constructed in turning the hospital into a 300-bed one.

The Secretary-1 also inspected the preparations for constructing a new maternity ward and the building which included an operation theatre and a maternity ward, which has been completed.

Next, the Secretary-1 and party went to Lashio Degree College, where they were welcomed by Principal U Tha Oo, professors and department heads.

Chairman of the Myanmar Education Committee Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Khin Nyunt met with families of education staff at  Kanbawza hall. Principal of Lashio Degree College U Tha Oo reported to the Secretary-1 on matters related to the college. Then, the Secretary-1 made a speech.

In meeting with the educational staff, the Secretary-1 said that he would like to elaborate on the progress of the nation's education and regional development.

Nowadays, the government is making efforts for the nation to become modern and developed and to be able to catch up with other nations of the world.

Ours is a country where more than 100 national races reside. This being the case, the Head of State has called for balanced and harmonious development of all the regions in the Union. And therefore, work programmers have been laid down and are being implemented.

As there were armed struggles among the national brethren before, it was found that there was no regional stability and peace. Thus, regional development was delayed. Therefore, since the Tatmadaw resumed State responsibilities, strenuous efforts have been made to put an end to armed insurgencies, to enforce law and order and to carry out regional development works.

With peace and stability prevailing in the country, plans for development of border areas and national races were laid down and implemented first to bring rapid development to the border areas which were left behind in development. As a result, it can be found that education, health and living standards of the national races living in remote areas have been improving.

The Head of State has given guidance on narrowing the gap among the regions of the nation and bringing about balanced development of them. In accord with his guidance, 24 development zones have been designated and regional development works are being carried out to make sure that there is no development gap among the already-existing 14 states and divisions. For example, in Shan State alone, four development zones  Lashio-based development zone in Shan State (North), Kengtung-based development zone in Shan State (East), Taungyi-based development zone in Shan State (South) and Panglong-based development zone in Loilem district  have been designated and regional development works are being done.

Similarly, Myitkyina and Bhamo development zones in Kachin State, Dawei and Myeik development zones in Taninthayi Division and Pathein,Hinthada and Maupin development zones in Ayeyawady Division have been established to bring balanced development to all regions of the entire nation.

It is with the kind of goodwill shown by parents towards their children that the government is working for development of various regions in the Union. New technological colleges and universities as well as arts and science colleges and universities have been opened for improvement of transportation and human resources development in designated development zones.

To improve the health standard of the local people, 200-bed and 300-bed hospitals have been built; specialists appointed; and modern medical equipment installed.

In addition, to fulfill the demand of the State, institutes of medicine, institutes of economics, the Maritime University and Myanmar Aerospace Engineering University have been opened.

The Head of State himself has given guidance on promotion of education and health standards.

The Government is undertaking development tasks in border areas. Similarly, in accord with the guidance of the Head of State, it is implementing five rural development tasks  betterment of transport, improvement of education and health standards, water supply and rural economic development.

Projects for progress of border areas and national races are being implemented; 24 major development regions have been designated; five rural development tasks are being undertaken; in this way, all-out efforts are being made to ensure equitable development of the Union.

In the basic education sector, the education promotion programmer designed to ensure the emergence of well-rounded education, to upgrade national education to the international level and to bridge the gap between rural and urban areas is being implemented in combination with a special four-year national education promotion plan designed to enable the nation to be on a par with other nations in South-East Asian region in the education sector. Moreover, in view of the long-term interests of the State, a 30-year education plan has been formulated and is being implemented.

Teachers are performing the noble duty as they are not only educational employees but also can be regarded as one of those to whom everybody owes infinite gratitude.

In conclusion, the Secretary-1 called on all the teachers to work hard in unity for the successful realization of the educational objectives as they are teaching and nurturing children to become academicians and technicians who will build a modern and developed nation.

The Secretary-1 and party visited Maha Myatmuni Buddha image in Lashio. The Secretary-1 presented cash for the Buddha image.

The Secretary-1 and party offered Shwethingan to Maha Myatmuni Buddha image and they arrived back to Shweli Yeiktha.

Chairman of Shan State Peace and Development Council (North) Commander Brig-Gen Myint Hlaing reported to Chairman of Work Committee for Development of Border Areas and National Races Secretary-1 Lt-Gen Khin Nyunt on implementation of opium substitute cultivation project for eradication of opium in coordination with national race leaders and condition of the enhancing over of opium seeds by opium growers of their own volition, after the government had provided crop seeds to them before opium cultivation season.

The Secretary-1 said the work being done was good. He spoke of the need to make efforts for spreading of similar situation among opium growers and to raise the momentum.

He said methods and seeds are to be provided and cultivation loan is to be disbursed to opium growers.

He called for providing assistance to those opium growers for success of opium substitute crops.

The Secretary-1 inspected opium seeds given by the opium growers at Shweli Hall.

The government is providing seedsm methods to opium growers and disbursing loans to them after laying down the special project for opium substitution crop .

Farmers are giving opium seeds they stored to authorities concerned.

The Secretary-1 and party, accompanied by Commander Brig-Gen Myint Hlaing left Lashio this morning and arrived in Kaungka Myothit in Kutkai Township at 8.45 minutes.

The Secretary-1 and party were welcomed by national race leader of special region-5 U Mahtu Naw and members and local people.

The Secretary-1 and party arrived at Kaungkha Myothit guest house.

The Secretary-1 attended a ceremony to enshrine relics and fix pivot of Maha Dhammayanthi Yanaung Pagoda in Kaungkha Myothit.

The Secretary-1 and party went to the farm of special region-5 and inspected reclamation of highland farming on 100 acres of land for opium substutute crops.

Deputy minister for Agriculture and Irrigation Brig-Gen Khin Maung and officials reported on the site.

The Secretary-1 and party went to model opium substitute crops farm of Myanma Agriculture Service and inspected sample plants for tea plantation on highland farming and opium substitute crops.

Commander Brig-Gen Myint Hlaing and Deputy Minister for Agriculture and Irrigation Brig-Gen Khin Maung reported on reclamation of 300 acres of fields on the highland in accord with the guidance of Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council Senior General Than Shwe, cultivation of tea on 100 acres of land, Chinsawka plants on 30 acres and coffee on five acres and benefits gained due to Kaungkha Dam.

Then, the Secretary-1 gave instructions. The Secretary-1 said that according to the guidance of Head of State Senior General Than Shwe, highland reclamation work is being carried out. All need to work hard as the reclamation work will contribute to the economic development of the local farmers.

Afterwards, the Secretary-1 and party inspected Kaungkha Dam which will irrigate 100 acres and highland reclamation work.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation, in cooperation with the peace group of Special Region-5, is reclaiming 100 acres of land for cultivation of tea; now 40 acres have been placed under tea plants. In addition, 300 acres are being reclaimed on the highland. Now 165 acres have been reclaimed, and paddy, peas and beans will be grown. Next, the Secretary-1 and party went to Lashio by car in the afternoon.

The Secretary-1 inspected the extension of the runway at Lashio Airport.

Managing Director of Asia World Company U Tun Myint Naing reported on the upgrading of the present 5,250-foot-long and 100-foot-wide runway to a 8,500-foot-long and 100-foot-wide one. Then, the Secretary-1 gave instructions. The Secretary-1 and party arrived back here in the evening.

Members of the Central Executive Committee of the Union Solidarity and Development Association Minister Col Tin Hlaing, Minister Brig-Gen Thura Aye Myint, Deputy Minister Brig-Gen Khin Maung and Brig-Gen Thura Aung Ko met with the executives and organizers of Shan State, District and Township USDAs and members of Shan State War Veterans Organization at the office of Shan State (North) USDA and discussed the purpose, future tasks and organizational and administrative matters of the association and implementation of five rural development tasks.

Secretary-1 Lt-Gen Khin Nyunt attends relic-enshrining and pivot-fixing ceremony of
Maha Dhammayanthi Yanaung Pagoda

Yangon, 13 May - Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Khin Nyunt attended the enshrining ceremony and erecting the pivot of Maha Dhammayanthi Yanaung Pagoda on Thiri Manda Hill in Kaungkha Myothit, Kutkai Township, Shan State (North) held at Mingala Pandal on the hill at 9 am today.

Secretary-1 Lt-Gen Khin Nyunt and party paid obeisance to the image in the Mingala Pandal.

Advisor to the Department for Promotion and Propagation of the Sasana U Min Kyi acted as master of ceremonies.

The ceremony was opened with three times recitation of Namo Tassa. Famous vocalist U Tun Shwe, to the accompaniment of Harpist U Nyo Win, sang songs. The Mandalay Nandawshae Big Drums group beat the drums three times.

Then, the congregation led by the Secretary-1 received the Nine Precepts from the Vice-Chairman Sayadaw.

Next, disciples presented Paritta flowers, water, thread and sand to the Sayadaws.

The Secretary-1 then presented a Buddha image in dedication to the pagoda to the Sayadaws; the commander, a Bo tree; and national race leader U Mahtu Naw, the pivot.

After that, the Sayadaws recited parittas. The disciples took the Paritta flowers, water, thread and sand and scattered and tied them on the platform of the pagoda.

Then, the relic-enshrining and pivot-fixing ceremony continued. The Secretary-1 and party and the national race leaders, well-wishers and disciples conveyed the objects which were to be enshrined, from the Pandal and circled the pagoda clockwise.

 The objects were then taken to Thatta Htana repository and the middle repository and the pivot, atop the pagoda. The master of ceremonies read the verses.

At the auspicious time, the Secretary-1 enshrined the sacred objects in the reliquary. Then, the Secretary-1 sprinkled scented water on the relic chamber. Members of the Sangha recited Gathas.

Later, the Secretary-1 and party and national race leaders went to the middle reliquary and enshrined sacred objects in the relic chamber at the auspicious time. Then, Secretary-1 sprinkled scented water on the relic chamber. Members of the Sangha recited Gathas.

Afterwards, the Secretary-1 and party and national races leaders proceeded to the top of the pagoda and erected the pivot and sprinkled scented water on it. Meanwhile, members of the Sangha recited Gathas. The ceremony ended with three times recitation of Buddha Sasanan Ciram Titthatu.

The Secretary-1 performed rituals of golden and silver showers to mark the successful completion of the ceremony.

Later, merit sharing ceremony and cash donation ceremony were held at the Pandal. The Secretary-1 and party presented offertories to members of the Sangha. Then, wellwishers donated cash for Maha Dhammayanthi Yanaung Pagoda. The Secretary-1 accepted the donations. Today's donations were K 9 million by people of No 5 special region in Shan State (North), K 10 million by Asia World Co Ltd, K 200,000 each by people of No 1 and No 2 special regions, K 500,000 by people No 3 special region, K 300,000 by people of No 7 special region, K 300,000 by people of Menpan region, K 200,000 by people of Monpaw region, K 5 million by Vice-Chief of Military Intelligence Maj-Gen Kyaw Win, Dr Tha Yin Myat and wellwishers, K 1 million by the commandant and families of local intelligence, K 500,000 by No 4 Border Area Immigration Inspection Control Unit, K 6.5 million by Muse District Peace and Development Council, K 1 million by Kutkai Township Peace and Development Council, K 1 million by U Aik Aye family of Muse, K 1 million by Yahtaik Co in Muse and K 500,000 by U Kyaw Myint of Muse.

Next, Vice-Chairman of State Sangha Maha Nayaka Committee Presiding Sayadaw of Myole Pariyatti Sarthintaik Agga Maha Pandita Agga Maha Saddhammajotikadhaja Bhaddanta Kavindacara delivered a sermon, followed by sharing of merits gained. Then, the ceremony came to a close. After the ceremony, the Secretary-1 and party offered "soon" to the Sayadaws.

( 3 ) Maj-Gen Ye Myint inspects regional development tasks in Mandalay, Sagaing Divisions

Yangon, 13 May - Member of the State Peace and Development Council Maj-Gen Ye Myint of the Ministry of Defence, accompanied by departmental officials, left here by air on 10 May and arrived at Mandalay International Airport.

Then, they inspected roads and bridges in TadaU Township and regional development tasks in Monywa. At 7.30 am, Maj-Gen Ye Myint and party, accompanied by Chairman of Sagaing Division Peace and Development Council Commander of North-West Command Brig-Gen Soe Naing, Deputy Commander of Central Command Brig-Gen Nay Win, Mandalay Mayor Brig-Gen Yan Thein, inspected construction of Panhsay Creek Bridge on the road section between Mandalay International Airport and Inwa Bridge. Upper Myanmar Superintending Engineer U Maung Maung of Public Works reported on construction of Panhsay Creek Bridge.

Maj-Gen Ye Myint inspected completion of earthen road section and Dokhtawady River Bridge and proceeded to Monywa. At the city hall in Monywa, Maj-Gen Ye Myint met with division level departmental officials and explained regional development tasks. Officials reported on tasks being undertaken by respective departments. The Commander reported on progress of Sagaing Division and rural development tasks being carried out.

Maj-Gen Ye Myint gave instructions. Afterwards, Maj-Gen Ye Myint inspected the New Century Resource Development Centre opened by North-West Command. Librarian U Kyaw Myint Cho and officials conducted Maj-Gen Ye Myint round the centre. On 11 May, Maj-Gen Ye Myint, accompanied by Commander Brig-Gen Soe Naing and senior military officers of the command headquarters, officials of the State Peace and Development Council Office and departmental heads, inspected extended construction of the runway at Monywa Airport.

Maj-Gen Ye Myint saw over construction of the runway and digging of upper layer of the soil. Next, they proceeded to the construction site of Chindwin Bridge (Monywa) Project near Letkhokpin village, Yinmabin Township and Mindaunt Ward in Monywa Township. Senior Engineer U Sein Maung reported on construction of the bridge, progress in building the piles of the approach road on Mindaunt bank, completion of the approach structure and piers, installation of beams and fuel supply. Upper Myanmar Superintending Engineer U Maung Maung reported on implementation of the project and tasks to be undertaken. Maj-Gen Ye Myint gave instructions on efforts to be made for completion of the bridge in March 2003.

Construction of 31 piles of the approach roads on both sides and two approach structures were completed at Chindwin Bridge (Monywa). At present, beams are being installed and floor tiles are laid. Commandant of Defence Services Engineering School in-charge of Monywa-Kalaywa Road construction project Col Soe Thein reported on road construction and completion of earth road. Maj-Gen Ye Myint gave instructions. Then, Maj-Gen Ye Myint and party inspected piles of the approach road, completion of piers and installation of beams on Yinmabin side by boat. Afterwards, Maj-Gen Ye Myint and party inspected Monywa Industrial Zone.

Then, they met with local authorities and industrialists. Commander Brig-Gen Soe Naing reported on assistance provided to the entrepreneurs, power supply and development of the zone. Next, Maj-Gen Ye Myint and party inspected agricultural equipment, Chindwin Star Jeep and trailer-G produced from Monywa Industrial Zone. On 12 May, they proceeded to Sagaing from Monywa by car and inspected tasks of Myanma Agricultural Produce Trading in Sagaing.

Tactical Operations Commander Col Min Swe of North-West Command reported on findings on inspection of the warehouses. Maj-Gen Ye Myint, accompanied by Commander of No 33 LID Col Tin Tun Aung, inspected warehouses of MAPT.

Maj-Gen Aung Htwe inspects regional development tasks in Shan State (East)

Yangon, 13 May - Member of the State Peace and Development Council Maj-Gen Aung Htwe of the Ministry of Defence accompanied by Minister for Progress of Border Areas and National Races and Development Affairs Col Thein Nyunt, Minister for Religious Affairs U Aung Khin, Deputy Minister for Health Professor Dr Mya Oo, Deputy Commander of Triangle Region Command Brig-Gen Myint Swe and departmental officials left Kengtung for Mongkhat by helicopter on 11 May morning.

Maj-Gen Aung Htwe met with local authorities, members of social organizations and townselders at the meeting hall of Mongkhat Township Information and Public Relations Department. Officials reported to Maj-Gen Aung Htwe on education, health, transport, supply of electricity and regional development work and the requirements. Minister Col Thein Nyunt, Minister U Aung Khin and Deputy Minister Professor Dr Mya Oo gave accounts of ministrywise implementation for regional development. Maj-Gen Aung Htwe fulfilled the requirements.

Then, Col Thein Nyunt presented uniforms for members of the Union Solidarity and Development Association and War Veterans Organization. In the afternoon, Maj-Gen Aung Htwe and party visited Maha Bodhi monastery in Mongkhat. Later, Maj-Gen Aung Htwe and party left Mongkhat for Mongyang by helicopter. They had a cordial meeting with local authorities and local people and fulfilled requirements for regional development. Maj-Gen Aung Htwe and party presented gifts to service personnel and uniforms to members of USDA and WVO. Afterwards, they arrived at Mekmann and met with local authorities and local people and fulfilled the requirements for regional development.

Maj-Gen Aung Htwe presented cash and kind assistance to government employees in Mekmann. Col Thein Nyunt presented uniforms for members of USDA and a wall clock for Township Maternal and Child Welfare Association. Maj-Gen Aung Htwe and party arrived back in Kengtung in the evening. Central Executive Committee member of USDA Col Thein Nyunt met with members of USDA at Mongkhat Township USDA office on 11 May and he visited Mongkhat Township Development Committee office. On 12 May, member of Central Organizing Committee of WVO Col Thein Nyunt met with members of WVOs in Shan State (East) at the hall of Township Development Committee in Kengtung.

Minister U Aung Khin visited Sasana Yaungchi monastery in Mongyang, Pyinnyadiya monastery in Mekmann and Sasana Waibonla and Dhammawde Sarthintaik in Kengtung on 11 May. Deputy Minister Professor Dr Mya Oo inspected People's Hospitals in Mongyang and Mekmann townships on 11 May.

Maj-Gen Khin Maung Than inspects construction of Sittoung Bridge (Shwegyin-Madauk)

Yangon, 13 May - During his tour of Toungoo in Bago Division, Member of the State Peace and Development Council Maj-Gen Khin Maung Than of the Ministry of Defence and party, together with Chairman of Bago Division Peace and Development Council Commander of Southern Command Brig-Gen Aung Min, on yesterday morning inspected the repairs of the bridge at the mile post 150, between Ottwin Township and Phyu Township and gave instructions on timely completion of the bridge to Assistant Engineer U Myint Soe.

Then, Maj-Gen Khin Maung Than and party arrived at Sittoung Bridge (Shwegyin-Madauk) construction project site in Nyaunglebin Township where Superintending Engineer U Win Aung reported on progress of the approach bridge on Madauk bank, laying concrete, construction of bole piles, the approach road on Shwegyin bank and surfacing of gravel road and Assistant Engineer U Kyaw Thu on measures undertaken for installation of the frames of upper structure of the bridge. Then, Maj-Gen Khin Maung Than gave instructions on timely completion of the bridge meeting the set standards and durability of the bridge. Afterwards, Maj-Gen Khin Maung Than and party inspected the progress of the construction of the bridge and gave instructions to the officials.

The bridge linking Madauk and Shwegyin in Nyaunglebin Township is 1,500 feet long, 28 feet wide and has four-foot pedestrian lanes on each side. The clearance of the bridge is 80 feet-wide and 12 feet-high. It can withstand 60-ton loads. Thence, Maj-Gen Khin Maung Than and party inspected the progress of construction works of the bridge (Shwegyin bank). They then paid homage to the Maha Buddha Phayagyi Pagoda in Shwegyin and left there for Yangon.

( 4 ) Industry-1 Minister receives guests

Yangon, 13 May - Minister for Industry-1 U Aung Thaung received Chairman Mr. Yang Chang Heng of China Metallurgical Construction (Group) Corporation of the People's Republic of China and party at his office at 4 pm and the business delegation headed by Chairman of Indo-Myanmar Chamber of Commerce & Industries of India Mr. G L Goenka at 5 pm today. Also present at the calls were Deputy Minister Brig-Gen Thein Tun, directors-general and managing directors.

Coord meeting on air transportation held

Yangon, 13 May - A coordination meeting for the development of air transportation was held at the meeting hall of the Ministry of Transport on Merchant Street this afternoon attended by Minister for Transport Maj-Gen Hla Myint Swe, Deputy Minister Brig-Gen Kyaw Myint, Director-General of Transport Department Col Nyan Tun Aung, Director-General of the Department for Civil Aviation U Win Maung, Managing Director of Myanma Airways U Tin Hlaing Hmi, chairmen and directors of joint-venture airlines of Myanma Airways International, Air Mandalay and Yangon Airways and officials. First, the minister made an address. Then, the chairmen of the joint-venture airlines reported on the conditions of the flights, passengers, changing of flight schedules according to the weather, convenience of the passengers and condition of income and expenditure. Those present also discussed measures to increase the income of the airlines. Next, the deputy minister reviewed the meeting, which came to an end with concluding remarks by the minister.

Minister inspects development tasks in Kengtung

Yangon, 13 May - Minister for Progress of Border Areas and National Races and Development Affairs Col Thein Nyunt, accompanied by Deputy Commander of Triangle Region Command Brig-Gen Myint Swe and officials, arrived at the Training School for the progress of national youths in border areas in Kengtung yesterday afternoon and met with the principal, teachers and trainees of the school. The minister made a speech. Then, the minister inspected hostels, ordination hall and plantation of the school and attended to the needs. He then inspected the domestic science training school in Kengtung. The minister and party met the staff and their families of the departments under the ministry at the hall of Kengtung Township and discussed unity in departments, cooperation and welfare and fulfilled the requirements.

CEC member meets USDA executives

Yangon, 13 May - Central Executive Committee member of the Union Solidarity and Development Association Minister for Industry-1 U Aung Thaung met executives of division/district/township USDAs in Mandalay Division at the meeting hall of Mandalay Division USDA in Chanayethazan Township, Mandalay Division yesterday evening.

CEC member U Aung Thaung made a speech on implementation of the five rural development tasks in accordance with the guidance of Head of State Senior General Than Shwe. He urged USDA members to continue carrying out the tasks upholding the guidance of the Head of State. Executives of division/district/township USDAs briefed on future tasks for the welfare of the people.

After attending to the needs, the minister visited Paleik Textile and Finishing Plant in Singaing Township in Kyaukse District and inspected weaving machines and production line there. Then, he gave necessary instructions to the officials.

( 5 ) Commander inspects Yangon Division Vegetable Cultivation and
Poultry Farming Special Zone

Yangon, 13 May - Chairman of Yangon Division Peace and Development Council Commander of Yangon Command Brig-Gen Myint Swe, accompanied by division level departmental officials, went to Yangon Division Vegetable Cultivation and Poultry Farming Special Zone near Nyaunghnapin village, Hmawby Township, this morning and inspected land reclamation, cultivation of crops and poultry farming tasks.

At 9.15 am, the Commander arrived at Hmawby Hsan Hall in the special zone where he was welcomed by Col Tin Tun of Phugyi Station, Hmawby Station Commander Lt-Col Aung Than Tun and officials. Then, the Commander inspected preparations for growing of over 270,000 shade trees and flowery plants being undertaken by the Forest Department in the zone-1, land reclamation in the zone-2 and cultivation of vegetables in the special zones. The Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation, the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Ministry for Progress of Border Areas and National Races and Development Affairs, the Ministry of Energy, the Ministry of Electric Power, the Ministry of Rail Transportation and private entrepreneurs have put 3,325 acres of land under vegetables.

Over 650,000 broilers and layers have been bred and over 400,000 broilers have been sold. A total of 9,288 acres of land have been reclaimed so far.

( 6 ) CEC member tours Ingapu, Myanaung

Yangon, 13 May - Member of Central Executive Committee of the Union Solidarity and Development Association Brig-Gen Thein Aung delivered an address at the closing ceremony of summer courses, organized by Ingapu Township USDA, at Ingapu Basic Education High School on 10 May.

On 11 May, he attended the opening ceremonies of the new school buildings in Takethagyi village, the township, in Kyaukkyee village, Myanaung Township, and in Laytu village, Myanaung Township. In the afternoon, the CEC member met with secretaries and executives of Myanaung and Kyangin Township USDAs.