( 1 ) Secretary-1 receives Chinese Ambassador

Yangon, 13 Feb-Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Khin Nyunt received Ambassador of China to Myanmar Mr Liang Dong, who had completed tour of duty in Myanmar, at the Defence Services Guest House here at 5 pm today.

Rule of law and uprightness of justice system vital for national peace, stability and development

Secretary-1 meets judges, law officers

Yangon, 13 Feb - Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Khin Nyunt met Supreme Court judges, state/division and district court judges and officers of the Attorney-General's Office and state/division and district law offices at the meeting hall of Institute of Nursing.

The Secretary-1 said the rule of law and uprightness of the justice system is vitally important for national peace, stability and development. Rule of law and uprightness of the justice system also depends on judges, law officers and police officers who play a leading role in the administration of justice. Meetings have been occasionally held with service personnel such as judges, law officers and police officers whose functions are related to judicial affairs to urge them to work in accord with the seven basic principles of the court procedures, to stay away from bribery, to bring out the truth in order to make the judicial system win the trust and respect of the people.

At a time when the entire nation is making efforts to enable the nation to be abreast of other nations of the world, firmness and uprightness of the judicial system is required to enable people to enjoy the fruits of progress with peace of mind. In some extremely developed nations, it can clearly be seen that the people are living in fear due to lack of security, occurrence of crimes and weakening of the judicial system resulting from abuse of financial, political power and influence. The State Peace and Development Council, while striving for rapid progress of the nation, is also endeavouring to enable the people to fully enjoy the results of progress under the protection of law.

The rule of law, observance of discipline and fairness of the judicial system are the main requirements to enable the public to enjoy all the happiness within the framework of law. As the government is giving special priority to the community peace and tranquillity and the rule of law, the nation is on the track toward peace, stability, modernization and development; and it is distinctive that all-round efforts are being made for the flourishing of justice, freedom and equality in the nation. Laws concerning the political, economic and social sectors have been enacted and amended to protect the rights of the citizens and to realize the State's political, economic and social objectives in accord with the law in all the spheres of the nation. Thus, 105 new laws and 52 amended laws totalling 157 have been promulgated to date.

New judicial law was enacted in 2000 in order to take remedial measures in the sector. According to the new law, it has been permitted to reorganize the Supreme Court with one chief justice, two deputy chief justices and from seven to 12 Supreme Court judges to ensure effectiveness of the judicial system. District level courts have been formed and vested with the required authority so that they can work in harmony with the administrative organizations of the State. Some of the laws which might hinder the effectiveness and speedy disposal of cases have been amended. District court judges are required to strictly adhere to the court procedures as decision-making authority on the appeals concerning the civil suits has already been vested in them.

Judges should always try to uplift their judicial skills and the management power to hand down a fair court decision in order to correctly realize the judicial principles of the State and in accord with the law. Judges and law officers should make continuous studies to be well-versed in laws, regulations, principles, directives of the supreme court and procedures.

According to the statistics, the number of crimes is decreasing as systematic plans have been implemented to bring down the number of pending cases. In addition to the directions issued by the supreme court, the State has also formed the respective bodies to see to the requirements of pending cases in reducing the number of such cases.

Apart from these methods, the collective participation of the respective departments has also helped bring down the number of pending cases. According to the supreme court report, the number of cases which have been disposed of in 2000 is more than that of the previous year. But speed is not the only requirement in handing down the verdict, correctness and fairness are also special requisites. As the public have to rely on the courts to win back legal compensation for their grievances, any wrong judgement will have adverse effects on them.

Thus, if the courts are able to lawfully solve the legal problems of the people within the limits of the law and through court procedures, they will win the public trust and will be able to stand with pride. Thus, the judges are duty-bound most to protect the uprightness of the judicial system to ensure a secure and peaceful life for the people.

The Secretary-1 then elaborated on the weakness and failures of some of the judges thereby causing delays in court hearings and handing down of sentences and the misconduct of law officers who without proper study of the case are giving legal advice at the courts which in reality are much against the law. As the nation at present is implementing the market-oriented system on a wider scale, operations of the companies such as providing loans, putting shares and conducting remittances are increasing in the nation. Thus, there also appear frauds and corruption in the private business sector. It is also required to give advice to entrepreneurs to go through the correct channel in filing a law suit against the frauds. According to the complaints, it is known that the legal advisers are giving suggestions in an erratic way in such law suits and the Attorney-General's Office has to amend the law suits to be in accord with the law and to rescind the cases which are not in accord with the law.

There were also complaints against the law officers concerning their failure to question the witness in accord with the court procedures, to check the contradicting statements of the witnesses, to present all the papers and records to the court and give a firm advice. Speedy presentation of the required evidences such as records of the police, hospital or chemical analyzation department are important in enabling the law office to give proper advice in accord with the law. Concerning the weaknesses of Myanmar Police Force, he elaborated on the MPF personnel's failure to seek advice from law officers in time, to find firm evidence, to record the statement of the dying, to include the important witnesses in a case, to take follow procedures in measuring things and to act in accord with the rules in keeping exhibit and documents. He said it is learnt that there are still inaccurate replies for cases from Chemical Examiner's Office and Health Department that issued chemical and medical checks as evidences. He said law officers failed to give accurate suggestions and there is weakness in examination of prosecution witness at the court.

He elaborated on weakness in checking of the statement of the accused, filing the case of the court that has no authority to pass the judgement on maximum punishment and not giving deterrent punishments for offenders. He said the organizations such as Myanmar Police Force, Bureau of Special Investigation, Immigration and National Registration Department, Customs Department and Forest Department that exposed that cases had to scrutinize necessary evidences in accord with the law before putting on trial at the court. However, they are inadvertent to send documents, exhibits and prosecution witness to the courts and this prolonged the cases, he said. The Secretary-1 spoke on litigants' lawsuit for criminal cases instead of civil case, changing of sections for granting bail and making faked bonds on mortgaging and sale. He said Myanmar Police Force and courts are to handle such cases in correct ways. It is learnt that some lawyers encouraged the acts, he added. Administration of justice is not an easy task in making the right decision in accord with the law. He called for harmonious coordination based on honesty, positive uprightness and mutual understanding among departments related to administration of justice.

The Secretary-1 urged lawyers who play role in administration of justice as a part to act justly in accord with the procedures and laws and to try to become genuine good ones. He said law profession is a prestigious job and by tradition lawyers are to help those who are engaged in cases. Although there are those who preserve the tradition and dignity, some violate the codes of conduct of the lawyers, he said. He spoke at length on irregularities in law and urged the lawyers to pass the right decision in administration of justice preserving the codes of conduct.

He said judges at different levels are the most responsible persons in judicial affairs and spoke of the need for them to work hard after studying their weak points, to pass complete judgements on criminal and civil cases and to give deterrent punishments for offenders in gambling, the flesh trade, narcotic drugs, illegal immigration, coercion in group, theft of resources of the State and malpractice's in economy and social sectors. The government is making endeavours for eradication of narcotic drugs.

Therefore it is necessary to give life imprisonment for those who are engaged in narcotic drugs cases in accord with the directives of Supreme Court. The Secretary-1 warned regional authorities not to give instructions in such cases. He noted that judges, law officers, police officers, departmental officials and lawyers are well-versed in laws and procedures.

Their skills should be applied in exposing the truth of the cases. If their skills are used in inappropriate ways, judicial pillar will be ruined, he said. He said officials are to make field trip at grassroots levels and take effective actions against those who act improperly. He urged all judges at courts at different levels, heads of departments and authorities at management organizations not to intervene in administration of justice, to make efforts for emergence of a modern developed nation after cultivating themselves for promotion of outlook, thought, conviction and qualifications, to endeavours for implementation of upright administration of justice system and to try to become good judges.

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( 2 ) Service personnel and merchants urged to strengthen friendly ties and further promote Myanmar-China border trade

Secretary-1 inspects regions in Shan State (North)

Yangon, 13 Feb - Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Khin Nyunt and party arrived at Namhkam on 11 February afternoon. The Secretary-1 and party were welcomed there by Tactical Operations Commander Col Soe Win Myint, military and civil officers and members of Union Solidarity and Development Association. The Secretary-1 and party then paid homage to Maha Muni Pagoda in town.

Then, Secretary-1 Lt-Gen Khin Nyunt and party paid obeisance to Chairman of Namhkam Township Sangha Nayaka Committee and Presiding Sayadaw of Uyin Kyaung Sayadaw Bhaddanta Pandavamsa and members of the Sangha at Gandakuditaik of the pagoda. Secretary-1 Lt-Gen Khin Nyunt and party received the Five Precepts from Sayadaw Bhaddanta Pandavamsa.

Then, Secretary-1 Lt-Gen Khin Nyunt presented provisions and cash to members of the Sangha. The Commander, ministers and officials presented offertories to members of the Sangha. Afterwards, Sayadaw Bhaddanta Pan–avamsa delivered a sermon. Secretary-1 Lt-Gen Khin Nyunt and party shared the merits.

Then, Secretary-1 Lt-Gen Khin Nyunt and party met members of District and Township Peace and Development Councils and departmental officials at Kyaphyu Hall in Namhkam. First, Chairman of Township Peace and Development Council Captain Tin Win reported to Secretary-1 Lt-Gen Khin Nyunt on location of the township, administration, economic, education and development tasks.

Secretary-1 Lt-Gen Khin Nyunt said that they were there to fulfil the requirements for regional development and social life of local people. According to reports of the local authorities and what he has witnessed the economic and social life of the local residents in Namhkam Township is improving, he said. He spoke of the need to further strengthen the friendly ties and promote bilateral border trade.

The Secretary-1 urged all staff to strive for further progress of the already flourishing border trade, to ensure fair transactions and to collect taxes to the full. Cooperative efforts between the entrepreneurs and State service personnel are required for flourishing of border trade in accord with the rules and regulations and fetching fair prices for the exports. The Secretary-1 spoke of the need for the service personnel, merchants and local people to understand the fact that there should not be irregularities and unfair practices in the business transactions in order that the people may enjoy the benefits.

Then, Secretary-1 Lt-Gen Khin Nyunt and party inspected customs gates of Maan Haung Jetty on the border between Myanmar and People's Republic of China and gave instructions to officials. The Secretary-1 and party then proceeded to Muse Township where they were welcomed by Tactical Operations Commander Col Soe Yee, Chairman and members of District and Township Peace and Development Councils and members of Union Solidarity and Development Association. The Secretary-1 and party also inspected Myawady Manwein customs gate and Royal customs gate at border area of Myanmar and China.

Then, the Secretary-1 and party arrived Shwenandaw Star Centre of Star Tourism Co Ltd and inspected show room and jewellery room. The Secretary-1 and party also inspected Kyaie Khaung (a) Sinphyu customs gate. Secretary-1 Lt-Gen Khin Nyunt proceeded to construction site of Ngwehsin Housing Project (Muse) where Managing Director U Soe Myint reported to the Secretary-1 on progress of earth work at the project.

The Secretary-1 gave necessary instructions. The Secretary-1 met members of District and Township Peace and Development Councils and departmental officials at the guest house in Muse. Present were Commander Maj-Gen Thiha Thura Tin Aung Myint Oo, ministers, the Chief of Staff (Air), the deputy ministers,Êofficials of the State Peace and Development Council Office, heads of department and officials. Secretary-1 Lt-Gen Khin Nyunt said border trade is developing in Muse Township located at the border with People's Republic of China and bilateral trade and visits are flourishing.. He spoke of the need to maintain the good condition of the region. Correct and disciplined ways based on common interest should be sought for further progress of the border trade. He urged all the staff to make efforts for promotion of bilateral friendly relations and development of border trade, tourism industry and increase of revenues for the State. Then, Minister for Commerce Brig-Gen Pyi Sone explained the condition of border trade.

Operations Commander Col Soe Yee, the chairmen and members of District and Township Peace and Development Councils and members of Union Solidarity and Development Association. The Secretary-1 and party also inspected Myawady Manwein customs gate and Royal customs gate at border area of Myanmar and China. Then, the Secretary-1 and party arrived Shwenandaw Star Centre of Star Tourism Co Ltd and inspected show room and jewellery room. The Secretary-1 and party also inspected Kyaie Khaung (a) Sinphyu customs gate. Secretary-1 Lt-Gen Khin Nyunt proceeded to construction site of Ngwehsin Housing Project (Muse) where Managing Director U Soe Myint reported to the Secretary-1 on progress of earth work at the project. The Secretary-1 gave necessary instructions.

The Secretary-1 met members of District and Township Peace and Development Councils and departmental officials at the guest house in Muse on 12 February morning. Present were Commander Maj-Gen Thiha Thura Tin Aung Myint Oo, ministers, the Chief of Staff (Air), the deputy ministers, officials of the State Peace and Development Council Office, heads of department and officials.

Secretary-1 Lt-Gen Khin Nyunt said border trade is developing in Muse Township located at the border with People's Republic of China and bilateral trade and visits are flourishing.. He spoke of the need to maintain the good condition of the region. Correct and disciplined ways based on common interest should be sought for further progress of the border trade. He urged all the staff to make efforts for promotion of friendly relations and development of border trade, tourism industry and increase of revenues for the State.

Then, Minister for Commerce Brig-Gen Pyi Sone explained the condition of border trade. Afterwards, Minister for Finance and Revenue U Khin Maung Thein elaborated on fulfillment provided by the ministry with a view to ensuring smooth performance of border trade. Minister for Immigration and Population U Saw Tun reported on work of the ministry at border gates for local and foreign visitors.

Later, Commander Maj-Gen Thiha Thura Tin Aung Myint Oo reported on fulfillment of the command for systematic border trade and immigration and the needs. Deputy Minister for Hotels and Tourism Brig-Gen Aye Myint Kyu on condition of arrival and departure of local and foreign visitors through the border gates. Then, Minister for Energy Brig-Gen Lun Thi reported on sale of fuel in border areas.

Chairman of Muse District Peace and Development Council Lt-Col Myint Thein on the needs for development undertaking of Muse District. Chairman of Muse Township Peace and Development Council Capt Ahnt Maw on health and education matters. The commander gave supplementary report. Minister for Health Maj-Gen Ket Sein reported on assistance of medicines and medical equipment for the hospitals in border areas. Deputy Minister for Home Affairs Brig-Gen Thura Myint Maung on work for prevalence of law and order and minimizing crime.

Then, the Secretary-1 gave necessary instructions. Afterwards, the Secretary-1 and party inspected construction of office of Muse District Peace and Development Council and guest house. They proceeded to 105 mile check point where they looked into inspection of import and export goods and gave necessary instructions. Later, they arrived at directors' office of Border Trade Department (105 mile Muse).

Director U Thein Tun reported to the Secretary-1 on work and Secretary-1 left necessary instructions. They proceeded to Kyugoke (Pansei) by air and arrived there at 10 am. They were welcomed there by Commander of Tactical Operations Command Col Soe Myint and departmental officials. Secretary-1 and party inspected Kyu Goke-Wuntain immigration check point in Pansai Myoma. Later, Secretary-1 met with departmental officials and gave instructions on matters related to regional development.

Officials reported to the Secretary-1 on education and health matters. Then, he delivered a speech. He said. Although this region was lagged behind in the past, it has developed now and so has border trade with Peoples' Republic of China. Government employees in this region are to make harmonious efforts for breeding the friendship between the two countries, promotion of border trade and accelerating the regional development. Departments are to make concerted efforts for bridging the gap of education with other regions, for promotion of living standard of the people in the border areas. National races are to live as a family by breeding union spirit for they have been living in harmony through thick and thin. The union will be developing as long as all national races have union spirit.

Members of Central Executive Committee of USDA U Khin Maung Thein, Brig-Gen Pyi Sone, U Saw Tun, Brig-Gen Khin Maung, Brig-Gen Thura Myint Maung executives members of USDA at Shwe Li Yeiktha. Similarly, Minister for Health Maj-Gen Ket Sein inspected construction of new 200-bed hospital of Lashio on 10 February. He also inspected Muse District Peoples' Hospital on 11 February. Deputy Minister for Irrigation and Agriculture met with members of Supervisory Committee for Agriculture at Shwe Li Yeiktha on 10 February. Deputy Minister for Hotels and Tourism Brig-Gen Aye Myint Kyu inspected private hotels in Muse Township on 11 February. Deputy Minister for Home Affairs Brig-Gen Thura Myint Maung met with employees of General Administration Department at Lashio District GAD office on 10 February. He inspected police stations in Lashio on 10 February and in Muse on 11 February and left necessary instructions.

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( 3 ) Secretary-2 attends opening of Myanmar-India Kalay-Kalaywa-Kyigon-Tamu Friendship Road

Yangon, 13 Feb-Chairman of Central Supervisory Committee for Ensuring Secure and Smooth Transport Secretary-2 of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Tin Oo attended the opening of Kalay-Kalaywa-Kyigon-Tamu road constructed by Border Roads Task Force, India, at Tamu and Kalay this morning.

The Secretary-2 and party greeted Mr Shri Jaswant Singh, Indian Minister of External Affairs, and Mr Pradip Hazarika, Minister of Transport, Food and Civil Supplies, Assam, Mr Pu Tawnlvia, Home Minister of Mizoram, Mr Nillo Rengma, Tourism Minister of Nagaland, Mr V Ramnath, Joint Counsellor of Manipur, Lt-Gen A K Puri, Director-General of Transport, Food and Civil Supplies Department and members and Ambassador of India to Myanmar Mr Shayam Saran at Shwe Kabaw Hall.

Then, the Secretary-2 and members, and the External Affairs Minister of India and members attended the opening of Kalay-Kalaywa-Kyigon-Tamu road, which was held at the archway at 10.50 am. It was also attended by the chairmen of Tamu District and Kalay Township Peace and Development Councils and members, departmental officials, teachers and students, Union Solidarity and Development Association members, Myanma Women's Affairs Committee, MMCWA, Red Cross Society, Auxiliary Fire Brigade, band troupes, totalling over 10,000. Minister Maj-Gen Saw Tun and Minister Mr Shri Jaswant Singh cut the ribbon to open the road. Then, the Indian External Affairs Minister pressed the button to open the stone plaque.

The Secretary-2 and members, and the External Affairs Minister of India and members cordially greeted the attendance and had souvenir photos taken. Afterwards, the Secretary-2 and members, and the External Affairs Minister of India and members left for Kalaewa by helicopters to inspect the 24-mile road. Then, Secretary-2 and members inspected the road in a convoy and proceeded to Kalaemyo. They were greeted along the road by the local people and members of social organizations. The Secretary-2 and party arrived at Kalaemyo at 1.10 pm and attended the opening of Kalaemyo-Kalaewa-Kyigone-Tamu road. The opening ceremony of the road was attended by local authorities and departmental personnel of Kalay District and Kalaymyo, Kalaywa and Mingin Townships, Tatmadawmen, teachers and students, members of various organizations and local people numbering over 20,000.

First, Minister for Construction Maj-Gen Saw Tun delivered an address. He said that with the aims of strengthening friendly ties between Myanmar and India and for promoting socio-economic lives of regional people at border areas as well as trade, the MoU for upgrading border roads of Myanmar was signed on 19-3-97. In the first phase, the 100-mile Kalaymyo-Kalaywa-Kyigon-Tamu road was upgraded by BRTF beginning 13-6-97, he said. Within three years, the 100-mile road was turned into 18-foot wide tarred road, he said. Along the road, 430 bridges with conduits were built and each bridge can bear 24-ton loads, he pointed out. During September and October last year, some parts of the road were destroyed by heavy rains and it was repaired by the BRTF group, he observed.

He also expressed thanks to Indian engineers and technicians for building the road successfully. Next, Sagaing Division Peace and Development Council Chairman North-West Command Commander Maj-Gen Soe Win made a speech. He said that with the aims of strengthening friendly ties between Myanmar and India and for promoting socio-economic lives of regional people at border areas as well as trade, the friendship road was built. In line with the Myanmar-India relations based on the Five Principles of Peaceful Co-existence, cooperative efforts are being made in trade, economic and technological fields and the existing friendly ties between the two countries have been further strengthened, he observed.

The road will contribute towards economic and trade promotion as well as regional peace and development between the two countries, he pointed out. The Commander also said that the projects for development of Myanmar-India border will produce fruitful results in economic undertakings at the border area. In addition, the Monywa-Yargyi-Kalaywa road together with two river-crossing major bridges along it is being constructed to provide easier access to central parts of Myanmar from the border, he said. Then, Border Roads Task Force (BRTF) Director-General Lt-Gen A K Puri explained matters on construction of the road overcoming many difficulties. He also explained matters for handing over heavy machinery used in the road construction to Myanmar.

Afterwards, Minister for External Affairs of the Republic of India Mr Jaswant Singh delivered an address. He said: My delegation and I are happy to be in your beautiful country and can see why Myanmar is known for its legendary hospitality and friendship. You have today reaffirmed the substance of the long-standing and traditionally close bonds between India and Myanmar. For me personally and for the members of my delegation, this occasion marks the beginning of an important and mutually beneficial journey together. We have gathered here today to participate in the auguration of the Tamu-Kalemyo-Kalewa road.

This is the first major project in the field of infrastructure cooperation between our two countries that has been completed. The significance of this road is its continuation of the great tradition of social and spiritual linkages between our two neighbouring countries. Some 60 years ago, your country and mine faced the direct ravages of war led by others from afar, for the benefit of their empires. India and Myanmar were not yet free.

I have today been in places in my country and yours  Imphal, Tamu, Kalewa and Kalemyo  indeed this very area around us  which were themselves the theatre of a war. Historically, these areas have suffered on account of inaccessibility and inadequate infrastructure. We believe that the development of these border regions would be faster and more effective if our two countries joined hands in this endeavour.

There are several cross border cooperation projects which could transform the economies of these regions. The Tamu-Kalemyo-Kalewa road is the first of its kind. By providing a link from the India-Myanmar border to central Myanmar, to the cultural and commercial centre of your country, this road can promote exchanges in trade, travel and tourism not only between people living along the border but also in the interior regions of India and Myanmar. Next, Minister for Construction Maj-Gen Saw Tun presented a souvenir to Indian External Affairs Minister Mr Jaswant Singh.

Then, BRTF Director-General Lt-Gen AK Puri presented souvenirs to Secretary-2 Lt-Gen Tin Oo and Indian Minister for External Affairs Shri Jaswant Singh. Afterwards, Mr Jaswant Singh handed over documents relating to the heavy machinery used in the road construction to Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Military Affairs Lt-Gen Tin Hla. Next, Lt-Gen Tin Hla delivered an address.

He said: Today is a red letter day in the annals of our history. We celebrate not only the opening of a new road looking our two countries and the handing over of construction machinery for Monywa-Kalewa road but also the strengthening the long-standing bonds of friendship existing between our two countries. This new road will stand as a monument to commemorate mutual cooperation and excellent friendship existing between pour peoples.

On behalf of the Government of Myanmar and myself, I would like to express my sincere thanks to the Government of India and the BRTF for the effort and energy put into the Kalemyo-Kalewa-Kyigon-Tamu road project. We have benefited from the experience and expertise of the Indian engineers involved in this project and I wish to extend my deep appreciation for the cooperation and I wish to extend to us. On our part, we are constructing a road from Monywa to Kalewa to link up with the new Tamu-Kalemyo road. Once the link is forged, it will be possible for motorists to travel by road from the Indian border to Mandalay and beyond. This new road is bound to bring about economic development to the border areas.

I am pleased and honoured to accept, on behalf of the Government of Myanmar, the construction equipment offered by the Government of India for the Monywa-Alon-Yargyi-Myoma-Kalewa road project. I would like to state that we will endeavour to put the machinery that we have received to good use. We firmly believe that the cooperation between the Governments of Myanmar and India will benefit our two peoples. Afterwards, Secretary-2 Lt-Gen Tin Oo and party and guests inspected the road construction equipment. Then, the opening ceremony of Kalemyo section of the Kalemyo-Kalewa-Kyigon-Tamu road was held at the archway.

Minister Maj-Gen saw Tun and Indian Minister Shri Jaswant Singh formally opened the road section by cutting a ribbon. Then, the Indian Minister unveiled the stone plaque of the road. Then, they posed for a group photograph in front of the stone plaque. The newly opened Kalemyo-Kalewa-Kyigon-Tamu road is 100 miles long and 18 feet wide. The tarred road was built at a cost of over 1,000 million Rupees. There are 3 feet wide road shoulders on either side of the road. There are also earthen drainges and concrete drainages on either side of the road.

After the opening ceremony, Secretary-2 Lt-Gen Tin Oo and party, Indian Minister Shri Jaswant Singh and party left Kalemyo by helicopter for Mandalay International Airport in TadaU Township. They were welcomed there by State Peace and Development Council Member Mandalay Division Peace and Development Council Chairman Central Command Commander Maj-Gen Ye Myint, Mandalay City Mayor Brig-Gen Yan Thein, Deputy Commander Brig-Gen Neay Win and officials. Thence, the Indian Minister and party proceeded to Mandalay by car. The Secretary-2 and party left for Yangon by Tatmadaw aircraft and they arrived here at 6.20 pm.

Secretary-2 presents robes and offertories to Sayadaws in Kalay

Yangon, 13 Feb-Secretary-2 of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Tin Oo, who is currently on a visit to Kalay, Sagaing Division, visited Pariyatti Sarthintaik for nuns this afternoon. At the Sarthintaik, he paid respects to Sayadaws of the town and presented robes and offertories to them. Present at the donation ceremony were State Peace and Development Council Member and Sagaing Division Peace and Development Council Chairman North-West Command Commander Maj-Gen Soe Win, ministers, Brig-Gen Khin Maung Aye of Kalay Station, officials of the State Peace and Development Council Office and departments concerned and nuns. After donating robes and offertories to the Sayadaws, Secretary-2 Lt-Gen Tin Oo also presented robes and offertories for nuns through Prisiding Nayaka Daw Sumanasari of the Pariyatti Sarthintaik.

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( 4 ) Aide-Memoire on border incident handed to Thai Ambassador

Yangon, 13 Feb-The Myanmar News Agency enquired about the recent Myanmar-Thai border incident concerning with an Aide-Memoire was handed by the Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs, U Khin Maung Win to Thai Ambassador Mr Oum Maolanon on 12 February evening. The news agency has learnt from the responsible official of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs that Myanmar, in accordance with its independent and active foreign policy, has maintained friendly relations with all countries, particularly with its neighbours.

The official said armed insurgents, taking advantage of Myanmar's good-neighbourly policy, have been operating in the border areas. It is observed that armed groups such as the KNU, the SURA are carrying out their activities from bases in Thailand. He explained that the recent incident occurred when the Tatmadaw conducted operations against the drug-trafficking SURA insurgents. The Tatmadaw took great care not to cause any harm to Thailand. However, Thai troops not only acted in support of the SURA but also gave supporting fire, using heavy weapons.

Moreover, they had deliberately fired on Tachilek with heavy weapons causing death and injury to several innocent civilians as well as causing damage to property. As a consequence, the Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs, U Khin Maung Win summoned Thai Ambassador Mr Oum Maolanon to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on 12 February and handed him an Aide-Memoire protesting the actions of the Thai side.

The Aide-Memoire states that Thai troops are found to be intermingling with SURA drug-trafficking insurgents; that some bases of the SURA are situated in Thai territory; that Myanmar has no intention to transgress Thai territory; and that utmost care was taken not to cause harm to Thailand. It also called on the Thai authorities to cease providing direct and indirect support to SURA armed groups; to stop firing upon Myanmar troops; and to cease attacking Tachilek and other civilian areas. Moreover, it is learnt that the Aide-Memoire called on Thailand side to compensate for the loss of lives and injuries caused to innocent civilians and for properties damaged during the attack on Tachilek; and for the Thai Armed forces to desist from any action that could be detrimental to the existing friendship between the two countries and the two Armed Forces.

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( 5 ) Minister receives UNICEF officials

Yangon, 13 Feb-UNICEF Regional Director for East Asia & Pacific Ms Meher Khan, together with UNICEF Resident Representative in Myanmar Mr J B Mendis, called on Minister of the Office of the State Peace and Development Council Chairman Brig-Gen Abel at the Ministers Office here at 11.30 am today. They discussed matters on Myanmar-UNICEF country programme of cooperation in frank and friendly manner. Officials concerned were also present on the occasion.

Minister receives Chinese visitors

Yangon, 13 Feb-Minister for Industry-1 U Aung Thaung received Deputy Director General Mr Liao Guo Ji of the Department of Foreign Trade and Economic Corporation of Guang Dong Province of the People's Republic of China and party, accompanied by Economic and Commercial Counsellor Mr Jin Honggen, at his office at 4 pm today.

Minister for Culture meets LPDR Ambassador

Yangon, 13 Feb-Minister for Culture U Win Sein met Ambassador of the Lao People's Democratic Republic to Myanmar MR Ly Bounkham at his office at 11 am today. They cordially discussed matters related to promoting cooperation in cultural sector between the two countries and Myanmar-LPDR friendship association.

Minister receives Chinese Ambassador

Yangon, 13 Feb-Minister for Transport Maj-Gen Hla Myint Swe received Ambassador of People's Republic of China Mr Liang Dong who had completed his tour of duty in Myanmar, at his office at 9 am today.

Minister receives guests form Germany

Yangon, 13 Feb-Minister for Finance and Revenue U Khin Maung Thein received General Manager Mr Christ of Fritz Werner Co, Germany and party at his office at 9 am today. They cordially discussed matters related to mutual interest between the two countries.

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( 6 ) Minister inspects enamel paint factory

Yangon, 13 Feb - Minister for Industry-1 U Aung Thaung, accompanied by Deputy Minister Brig-Gen Kyaw Win and officials, inspected an enamel paint factory of Myanma Paper and Chemical Industry in Bahan Township this morning. The minister and party inspected raw materials, maintenance of machinery and production process. They also inspected chicken and fish breeding and kitchen crop cultivation in the compound of the factory. At his meeting with officials, the minister spoke of the need to produce quality goods at low cost and to work in accord with the rules. He then presented a bonus of K 100,000 to the Factory Manager of the factory for their outstanding performance. At No 1 Gas Factory, he inspected production of oxygen for multi-purpose.

Minister inspects hotels in Mandalay, Shan State

Yangon, 13 Feb - Minister for Hotels and Tourism Maj-Gen Saw Lwin, accompanied by officials, inspected hotels and tourism services in PyinOoLwin, Mandalay, Taunggyi, Inlay, Kalaw and Heho regions from 9 to 13 February. Minister Maj-Gen Saw Lwin met hoteliers and officials in Mandalay. The minister also met staff of the ministry at Inwa Hotel in Mandalay. Then, the minister inspected Duty Free Shop at Mandalay International Airport and gave instructions. The minister left Mandalay for Taunggyi. Minister Maj-Gen Saw Lwin and Commander Maj-Gen Maung Bo inspected renovation of Ancient Ketkumwaydaw pagoda and presented cash to U Aung Kham Hti for the pagoda funds. The Commander, the minister and party inspected construction of Ketku-mwaydaw pagoda road. Minister Maj-Gen Saw Lwin inspected renovation of hotels in Taunggyi and November hotel and museum in Nyaungshwe. The minister met hotel entrepreneurs in Hopin Khaungdaing Hotel at Khaungdaing in Inlay Lake. The minister also met hotel entrepreneurs from Kalaw at Kalaw Hotel and Heho and gave instructions.

Donations invited for State Central Working Committee Meeting, religious title presentation ceremony

Yangon, 13 Feb-The Seventh Meeting of the Fourth State Central Working Committee of Sangha will be held in conjunction with the religious title presentation and provision offering ceremonies at Maha Pasana Cave on Thirimingala Kaba Aye Hill from 4 to 8 March. The meeting and the religious title presentation ceremony will be attended by State Ovadacariya Sayadaws, State Sangha Maha Nayaka Sayadaws, State Central Working Committee of Sangha Sayadaws and Sayadaws who will receive the religious titles, specially invited Tipitakadhara Tipitaka-Covina Sayadaws, totalling 879. Members of the Sangha will be treated with meal and light refreshment at a cost of K 500 a head and those who want to make donations may contact Ottaraguru Kyaunghsaung on Kaba Aye Hill (pH 660766, 660998 and 660149).

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( 7 ) Japanese students visit University of Foreign Languages

Yangon, 13 Feb-Visiting nineteen Japanese students led by Professor Mr Michiharu Kurita of Asia University Volunteer Centre (AUVC) carried out sanitation works at Shwedagon Pagoda at 6.30 am today. The group next visited University of Foreign Languages at 10 am today. They were welcomed by Rector of UFL Dr Soe Win and Professor of Japanese Language Department Daw Si Si Shein. The Japanese guests presented three computers to Ministry of Education. Rector Dr Soe Win accepted the donation and spoke words of thanks. Professor of JLD Daw Si Si Shein explained facts about the university. The Japanese students and trainees of UFL sang songs.

Minister meets Japanese students

Yangon, 13 Feb - Nineteen students of Asia University Volunteer Centre of Japan led by Professor Mr Michiharu Kurita paid a courtesy call on Minister for Labour Maj-Gen Tin Ngwe at the meeting hall of Medical Storage Division of Social Security Board in Ahlon this afternoon.

Health Minister inspects Muse District Hospital

Yangon, 13 Feb- Minister for Health Maj-Gen Ket Sein inspected Muse District Peoples' Hospital on 10 February. The minister was conducted round the hospital by Medical Superintendent Dr Mya Thein. At the hospital the minister inspected operation theatre, dental clinic, X- ray unit and attended to the requirements. Then the minister met service personnel and explained facts about the State's health policy, health promotion programmes extending health care services to rural area and practising of cost-sharing system in accord with the State's policy.'

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