( 1 ) Religious titles presented to 212 Sayadaws, 20 nuns, 15 lay persons for purification, perpetuation, promotion of Sasana

Yangon, 8 March- Religious titles were conferred on members of the Sangha, nuns and lay persons for their brilliant services in striving for purification, perpetuation and promotion of Buddha Sasana and Pariyatti, Patipatti and Pativeda Sasana at Maha Pasana Cave in Kaba Aye Hill this morning. The State Peace and Development Council, as a means of paying reverence to these members of the Sangha, nuns and laity for their religious services, issued the Notification No 1/2001 and conferred religious titles on them. A ceremony to confer religious titles on members of the Sangha, nuns and laity was held at Maha Pasana Cave in Kaba Aye Hill today, attended by Daw Kyaing Kyaing, wife of Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Senior General Than Shwe.

Also present on the occasion were Chairman of State Sangha Maha Nayaka Committee Abhidhaja Maha Rattha Guru Abhidhaja Agga Maha Saddhammajotika Myingyan Koehsaungtaik Sayadawgyi Bhaddanta Sobhita and member Sayadaws, members of the State Central Working Committee of the Sangha, title recipient Sayadaws, nuns and laity, Vice-Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council Deputy Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Commander-in-Chief (Army) General Maung Aye and wife Daw Mya Mya San, Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Khin Nyunt and wife Dr Daw Khin Win Shwe, Secretary-3 Lt-Gen Win Myint and wife Daw Khin Cho Oo, members of the State Peace and Development Council and their wives, Deputy Prime Ministers and their wives, ministers and their wives, the Chief Justice, the Attorney-General, the Auditor-General, the Yangon Mayor and the Chairman of Civil Service Selection and Training Board and their wives, senior military officers, deputy ministers, departmental heads, persons of religious associations and wellwishers. The State orchestra played Dhamma songs before the ceremony.

At 11.45 am, officials of Religious Affairs Department, Department for Promotion and Propagation of the Sasana and International Theravada Buddhist Missionary University ushered members of State Sangha Maha Nayaka Committee, Tipitakadhara Saya-daws and title recipient Sayadaws to the designated places. Then, Staff Officer U Tun Naing, Assistant Director U Tun Shwe, Director U San Aung, Deputy Director U Tun Yi, Assistant Director U Tin Aung Tun, Deputy Director U Than Win, Assistant Director U Ko Ko Myaing, Assistant Director U Myat Htwe, Staff Officer U Hla Hsan Win, Assistant Director U Thein Oo, Assistant Director U Nyunt Hlaing, Staff Officer U Aung Htwe, Assistant Director U Kyi Lwin, Staff Officer U Tin Htut, Staff Officer U Lay Aung, Editorial Assistant-1 U San Tin Aung, Director Daw Khin Nwe Han Kyi and Assistant Director U Aye Lwin ushered five Tipitakadhara Sayadaws, two Abhidhaja Maha Rattha Guru title recipient Sayadaws, two Abhidhaja Agga Maha Saddhammajotika title recipient Sayadaws, one Tipitakadhara Dhamma-bhandagarika title recipient Sayadaw, 26 Agga Maha Pandita title recipient Sayadaws, 42 Agga Maha Saddhammajotika title recipient Sayadaws, seven Agga Maha Kammathanaariya title recipient Sayadaws, 10 Agga Maha Ganthavaaka Pandita title recipient Sayadaws, two Maha Dhamma Kahtika Bahujanahitadhara title recipient Sayadaws, 42 Maha Saddhamma Jotikadhaja title recipient Sayadaws, 43 Maha Ganthavaaka Pandita title recipient Sayadaws, two Dhammakahtika Bahujanahitadhara title recipient Saya-daws, 12 Maha Kamma-thanaariya title recipient Sayadaws, three Kamma-thanaariya title recipient Sayadaws, 10 Saddhamma Jotikadhaja title recipient Sayadaws, eight Ganthava-Naka Pandita title recipient Sayadaws and nuns. Director-General Dr Myo Myint of Religious Affairs Department read the agenda of the ceremony.

The congregation took the Five Precepts from Secretary Sayadaw Bhaddanta Kumara. First, Vice-Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council Deputy Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Commander-in-Chief (Army) General Maung Aye presented Abhidhaja Maha Rattha Guru titles to Bahan Shwehinthatawya Thirimanta Sankyaung Sayadaw Bhaddanta Rajindabhivamsa and Mawlamyine Sasana Man-aung Wepyan Sarthingaik Sayadaw Bhaddanta Vijaya-bhivamsa. Then, the Secretary-1 presented Abhidhaja Agga Maha Saddhammajotika titles to Shan State (South) Taunggyi Chandaung Pariyatti Sarthintaik Sayadaw Bhaddanta Chandadhika and Development for National Races Parahita (Tiger) School Sayadaw Bhaddanta Pandita of Hline Township.

The Secretary-3 presented Tipitakadhara Dhamma-bhandagarika title to Mingun Tipitaka Nikaya Kyaungtaik Sayadaw Bhaddanta Vaya-mindabhivamsa. Members of the State Peace and Development Council Commander-in-Chief (Air) Lt-Gen Kyaw Than presented Agga Maha Saddhamma Jotikadhaja titles to two Sayadaws, Commander-in-Chief (Navy) Rear-Admiral Kyi Min Agga Maha Pandita titles to three Sayadaws, and Chairman of Yangon Division Peace and Development Council Commander of Yangon Command Maj-Gen Khin Maung Than Agga Maha Saddhamma Jotika-dhaja titles to four Sayadaws, Deputy Prime Minister Vice-Admiral Maung Maung Khin Agga Maha Pandita titles to five Sayadaws, Deputy Prime Minister Lt-Gen Tin Tun Agga Maha Saddhamma Jotikadhaja titles to five Sayadaws, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Military Affairs Lt-Gen Tin Hla Agga Maha Pandita titles to five Sayadaws, Minister for Industry-1 U Aung Thaung Agga Maha Saddhamma Jotikadhaja titles to five Sayadaws, Minister at the State Peace and Development Council Chairman's Office Lt-Gen Min Thein Agga Maha Pandita titles to five Sayadaws, Minister for Religious Affairs U Aung Khin Agga Maha Sad-dhamma Jotikadhaja titles to four Sayadaws, Minister for Cooperatives U Aung San Agga Maha Pandita titles to  Sayadaws, Minister for Foreign Affairs U Win Aung Agga Maha Saddhamma Jotikadhaja titles to five Sayadaws, Minister for Home Affairs Col Tin Hlaing Agga Maha Pandita title to one Sayadaw and Agga Maha Saddhamma Jotikadhaja titles to four Sayadaws, Minister for Hotels and Tourism Maj-Gen Saw Lwin Agga Maha Saddhamma Jotikadhaja titles to five Sayadaws, Minister for Progress of Border Areas and National Races and Development Affairs Col Thein Nyunt Agga Maha Saddhamma Jotikadhaja titles to five Sayadaws, Minister for Transport Maj-Gen Hla Myint Swe Agga Maha Ganthavanaka Pandita titles to five Sayadaws, Minister for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement Maj-Gen Sein Htwa Agga Maha Kammathananariya titles to four Sayadaws, Minister for Science and Technology U Thaung Agga Maha Ganthavanaka Pandita titles to five Sayadaws, Minister for Electric Power Maj-Gen Tin Htut Maha Kammathanaariya titles to two Sayadaws and Agga Maha Saddhamma Jotikadhaja titles to three Sayadaws, Minister for Labour Maj-Gen Tin Ngwe Maha Dhamma Kahtikabahujana Hitadhara titles to two Sayadaws and Maha Ganthavanaka Pandita titles to three Sayadaws, Chairman of Yangon City Development Committee Mayor U Ko Lay Maha Saddhamma Jotikadhaja titles to five Sayadaws, Chief Justice U Aung Toe Maha Ganthavanaka Pandita titles to five Sayadaws, Attorney-General U Tha Tun Maha Saddhamma Jotikadhaja titles to five Sayadaws, Auditor-General Brig-Gen Tin Aye Maha Ganthavanaka Pandita titles to five Sayadaws, Chairman of CSSTB Dr Than Nyunt Maha Saddhamma Jotikadhaja titles to five Sayadaws, Secretary of Multi-party Democracy General Election Commission U Aye Maung Maha Ganthavanaka Pandita titles to five Sayadaws, Secretary of National Convention Convening Work Committee U Thaung Nyunt Maha Saddhamma Jotikadhaja titles to five Sayadaws. Afterwards, Chief of Staff (Air) Maj-Gen Myint Swe presented Maha Ganthavanaka Pandita titles to five Sayadaws, Chief of Staff (Navy) Commodore Soe Thein Maha Saddhamma Jotikadhaja titles to five Sayadaws, Deputy Minister for Construction U Tint Swe Maha Ganthavanaka Pandita titles to five Sayadaws, Deputy Minister for Information Brig-Gen Aung Thein Maha Saddhamma Jotikadhaja titles to four Sayadaws, Deputy Minister for religious Affairs Brig-Gen Thura Aung Ko Maha Ganthavanaka Pandita titles to five Sayadaws. Then, Deputy Minister for PBANRDA U Kyaw Tin presented Maha Saddhamma Jotikadhaja titles to five Sayadaws, Deputy Minister Brig-Gen Than Tun Maha Ganthavanaka Pandita titles to five Sayadaws, Deputy Minister for Livestock and Fisheries U Aung Thein Maha Saddhamma Jotikadhaja titles to four Sayadaws and Maha Kammathananariya title to one Sayadaw, Deputy Minister for Forestry Col Thaik Tun Maha Ganthavanaka Pandita titles to five Sayadaws, Deputy Minister for Home Affairs Brig-Gen Thura Myint Maung Maha Kammathananariya titles to five Sayadaws, Deputy Minister for Mines U Myint Thein Dhammakahtika Bahujanahitadhara titles to two Sayadaws and Ganthavanaka Pandita titles to three Sayadaws, Deputy Minister for Industry-1 Brig-Gen Kyaw Win Maha Kammathananariya titles to six Sayadaws, Deputy Minister for Science and Technology U Nyi Hla Nwe Ganthavanaka Pandita titles to five Sayadaws, Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs U Khin Win Kammathananariya titles to three Sayadaws and Saddhamma Jotikadhaja titles to three Sayadaws, Deputy Minister for Rail Transportation Thura U Thaung Lwin Saddhamma Jotikadhaja titles to seven Sayadaws. Then, General Maung Aye presented Agga Maha Thiri Thudhamma Manijotadhara title to U Khin Shwe of 77-F, University Avenue, Bahan Township and Thiri Thudhamma Manijotadhara title to U Thein Maung of 40, 26-B Street between 65th and 66th Streets in Pyigyimyetshin Ward, Chanayethazan Township. The Secretary-1 presented Thiri Thudhamma Manijotadhara titles to U Taw Taw of the corner of 84th and 85th Streets in Chanayethazan Township and U Than Hla (Teingya) of 5, Parami Road in Ward 12, Hline Township.

The Secretary-3 presented Thiri Thudhamma Manijotadhara titles to U Kyaw Min of 326-B, Pyay Road in Sangyoung Township and U Sai Tun Yin of Nya-128, U Gyi Kham Law Road in Nyaungbyu Sakham Ward, Shan State (South). Commander-in-Chief (Air) Lt-Gen Kyaw Than presented Thiha Thudhamma Manijotadhara titles to U Thaing Win of Ahlon Township and U Aung Thein (a) U Pa Hsa Poh of Mogok Township. Commander-in-Chief (Navy) Rear-Admiral Kyi Min presented Thudhamma Manijotadhara title to U Tin Maung of Wundwin Township. Daw Kyaing Kyaing, wife of Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Senior General Than Shwe, presented Agga Maha Ganthavanaka Pandita titles to Nun Daw Kundalatheri of Sandarama Nunnery of Thaton Township and Nun Daw Gunavati of Bago Leikpyagan Nunnery. Daw Mya Mya San, Vice-Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council Deputy Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Commander-in-Chief (Army) General Maung Aye, presented Agga Maha Ganthavanaka Pandita titles to Nun Daw Vinari of Shwebo Myodaunt Thilashin Nunnery and Nun Daw Dhammikanani of Thameikdawdaya Thukhitayama Daw Nananari Myanaung Nunnery of Sangyoung Township. Dr Daw Khin Win Shwe, wife the Secretary-1, presented Maha Ganthavanaka Pandita titles to Nun Daw Vananingi of Daw Kuthala Kyauktan Kyaung of Bahan Township and Nun Daw Sulama of Sagaing Wachet Seiktathukha Nunnery. Daw Khin Than Nwe, wife of Lt-Gen Tin Oo, presented Maha Ganthavanaka Pandita titles to Nun Daw Hemari of Sasana Myintzu Yinmamyaing Nunnery of Monywa Township and Nun Daw Nandari of Neikbeindataung Tawya Kyaungtaik of Pyay Township, Bago Division. Daw Khin Cho Oo, wife of the Secretary-3, presented Maha Ganthavacaka Pandita titles to Nun Daw Sucari of Maha Bodhi Phayagyi Kyaungtaik of Mandalay Division, Nun Daw Vanensi of Sagaing Division and Nun Daw Puavati of Mawlamyine Kyaungtaik of Sagaing Division. Daw Aye Aye, wife of Commander-in-Chief (Navy) Rear-Admiral Kyi Min, presented Maha Ganthavacaka Pandita titles to Nun Daw Nanavati of Nanavati Sarthintaik of Mandalay Division, Nun Daw Nimalanani of Eyethita Kyaungtaik of Sagaing Division and Nun Daw Indasingi of Thuseiktarama Nunnery of Bago Division. Daw Malar Tint, wife of Commander Maj-Gen Khin Maung Than, presented Maha Ganthavacaka Pandita titles to Nun Daw Kusalacari of Khemarama Nunnery of Mon State and Nun Daw Dhammasiri of Pariyatti Nunnery Sarthintaik of Shan State (North) and Saddhamma Jotikadhaja title to Nun Daw Yucanda of Candarama Nunnery of Kachin State.

Daw Yin Yin Nyunt, wife of Minister U Aung Khin, presented Ganthavacaka Pandita titles to Nun Daw Kusalacari of Khemarama Nunnery Sarthintaik of Mon State and Nun Daw Kula–ani of Mandalay Division. Daw Kyaing Kyaing, wife of Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council Senior General Than Shwe, presented Agga Maha Thirithudhamma Theingi title to Daw Myint Myint Yee of No 81-B, Inyamyiang, Supaung Road, Bahan Township. Daw Mya Mya San, wife of General Maung Aye, presented Thirithudhamma Theingi title to Daw Win May of Building No 33, 25th Street (80th-81th), Aungmyaythasan Township, Mandalay. Dr Daw Khin Win Shwe, wife of Secretary-1 Lt-Gen Khin Nyunt, presented Thirithudhamma Theingi title to Daw Ni of No 154, 19th street, No 4 Ward, Latha Township, Yangon Division. Daw Khin Than Nwe, wife of Lt-Gen Tin Oo, presented Thiha Thudhamma Theingi title to Daw Hla Kyi of Sein Tun Ward of Bago.

Daw Khin Cho Oo, wife of Secretary-3 Lt-Gen Win Myint, presented Thiha Dhamma Theingi title to Daw Tin Yee of No 144, 34th Street (80th-81th), Chanayethazan Township, Mandalay. Daw Malar Tint, wife of Commander Maj-Gen Khin Maung Than, presented Thudhamma Theingi title to Daw Kyin Myint of Tayoaktan Street, Thoneze, Bago Division. Then, Minister for Religious Affairs U Aung Khin supplicated on religions matters. He said all the pariyatti, patipatti and pativeda Sasana of the Buddha dhamma are flourishing in the nation. As the pariyatti is the base for flourishing of the Sasana, so also the patipatti which is the practice done in accord with the pariyatti principles is important.

The pativeda will also flourish if all the Buddhists have the good pariyatti and patipatti foundations. Pariyatti universities and religious schools have been set up in all parts of the nation for flourishing the pariyatti and the religion, meditation and vipassana centres have been opened for the flourishing of the patipatti. Moreover, meditation schools and missionary schools have been opened to teach pariyatti and patipatti extend centres. The efforts of the members of the Sangha in serving the pariyatti and patipatti is satisfactory as the Theravada Buddhism is flourishing in Myanmar. As all the different levels of Sangha organizations are unitedly working under the leadership of the State Sangha Maha Nayaka Committee, all the matters relating to religion are managed by the members of the Sangha themselves and that they are successfully striving for the purification, perpetuation and propagation of the Sasana. As the members of the Sangha are safeguarding the Sasana, the State and the people are rendering all kinds of assistance to them for the Sasana's interests.

The traditions of the monks and the laypersons collectively striving for promotion of the Sasana will exist forever. Since the time of the Buddha, religious titles have been conferred on the monks and laypersons for their significant religious accomplishments. In accord with this tradition, the State Peace and Development Council is conferring religious titles on the monks, nuns and laypersons. This year a total of 247 monks, nuns, and laypersons won the religious titles. The State Peace and Development Council is presenting religious titles to the virtuous monks, nuns and laypersons who have devoted their efforts for purification, perpetuation and propagation of the Sasana and in conducting missionary services.

The government officials and the people will also gain merits for the deeds in presenting religious titles to the virtuous. In conclusion, the minister wished all who took part in the religious title presentation ceremony and provision offering ceremony to gain merits for their good deeds and to work more for the interests of the race and religion. Sayadaw Bhaddanta Vijayabhivamsa delivered Sammodaniya Ovadakatha. The Abhidhaja Maha Rattha Guru Title recipient Sayasaw Bhaddanta Vijayabhivansa (Agga Maha Pandita) Mahathe of Sasana Manaung Weipyan Monastery in Mawlamyine, Mon State, said the Buddha himself had conferred the highest religious title on the bekkhu, bekkhuni, upasaka and upasika for their brilliant accomplishments in the religion. He had also gave an advice to his followers to preserve this tradition. Thus, the State Peace and Development Council has preserved the tradition of honouring the virtuous.

In addition to presenting Abhidhaja Maha Rattha Guru and Agga Maha Pandita titles, the State Peace and Development Council is also conferring religious teacher titles, missionary titles, dhammakahtika titles and kammahtanacariya titles on monks and other religious titles on laypersons. The government officials and the people will gain merits for presenting religious titles to the virtuous and provisions to the members of the religious order. At present, monks and nuns are striving for the purification, propagation and perpetuation of the Sasana in accord with the teachings of the Buddha, the leaders of the State are striving in accord with the standard qualities for flourishing of the Sasana and development of the nation and the Union national races of are striving together with the government for the promotion of the Sasana and progress of the nation.

The Sayadaw urged the members of the religious order, the government and the people to continuously make collective efforts for the promotion and perpetuation of the Sasana. Magway Sayadaw Bhaddanta Kumara delivered a sermon, followed by the sharing of merits. After the ceremony, the wellwishers offered provisions to title-holder Sayadaws and nuns and the Sayadaws who attended the seventh meeting of the Fourth State Central Working Committee of the Sangha. The officials of the State Peace and Development Council Office, the Ministry of Defence, the Directorate of Defence Services Intelligence, the Adjutant-General's Office, ministries, battalions, regiments and units under Yangon Command, the office of Division Peace and Development Council and Township Peace and Development Councils, All Private Bus Line Control Committee (Yangon Division), Teinkya Htidaw-Hoisting Family, Silver Shine International Company, Yangon West District Nyeinchanye Bus Line Control Committee, Shwethanlwin Company Ltd, BTB Company, Old Paulians Association, Myanmar Rice Dealers Association, Myanmar Oil Dealers Association offered provisions including robes, umbrellas, sandals and fans worth K 69,067,500.

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( 2 ) Secretary-1 pays homage to Seinbudaw, Hngetmyatnadaw and Shwehtidaw of Kyaikhtiyoe Pagoda

Yangon, 8 March-Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Khin Nyunt, accompanied by officials from the State Peace and Development Council Office, paid homage to the Seinbudaw, Hngetmyatnadaw and Shwehtidaw to be installed atop Sandawshin Kyaikhtiyoe Pagoda, at Chanthagyi Hall of the Shwedagon Pagoda this evening.

On arrival at the pagoda, the Secretary-1 and party were welcomed by Minister for Mines Brig-Gen Ohn Myint, Deputy Minister for Home Affairs Brig-Gen Thura Myint Maung, Chairman of Work Committee for All-round Renovation of Kyaikhtiyoe Pagoda and Hoisting Shwehtidaw Deputy Minister for Religious Affairs Brig-Gen Thura Aung Ko, Vice-Chairman Deputy Minister for Science and Technology U Nyi Hla Nge and members of Work Committee and Shwedagon Pagoda Board of Trustees.

The Secretary-1 paid obeisance to Seinbudaw, Hngetmyatnadaw and Shwe-htidaw of Kyaikhtiyoe Pagoda at Chanthagyi Hall of the Shwedagon Pagoda at 6.10 pm.

Then, he accepted three viss of gold donated by U Htay Myint (Yuzana) for Kyaikhtiyoe Pagoda, 10 ticals by Shwe Myae Yadana Co Ltd, Director-General of Department of Human Settlement and Housing Development U Arnt Kyaw and family, five ticals by Minister for Communications, Posts and Telegraphs Brig-Gen Win Tin and family, and five ticals by Daw Myint Myint Su. The Seinbudaw, Hngetmyatnadaw and Shwehtidaw of Kyaikhtiyoe Pagoda will be kept for public obeisance at Chanthagyi Hall on the Shwedagon Pagoda till March 16.

Ground-consecration and cornerstone-laying ceremony for construction of Lawka Chantha Ordination Hall held

Yangon, 8 March - A ceremony to consecrate the ground and lay cornerstones for the construction of Lawka Chantha Ordination Hall of Nikaya Sarthintaik was held at the designated place on Paleyadana Street in Dagon Myothit (South) Township this morning, attended by Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Khin Nyunt.

Also present were Chairman of the State Sangha Maha Nayaka Committee Abhidhaja Maha Rattha Guru Abhidhaja Agga Maha Saddhamma Jotika Myingyan Sayadaw Bhaddanta Sobhita, Vice-Chairman of the State Sangha Nayaka Committee Aungmyebonsan Sayadaw Abhidhaja Maha Rattha Guru Bhaddanta Panindabhivamsa, Secretary Sayadaw of the State Sangha Maha Nayaka Committee Magway Sayadaw Abhidhaja Maha Rattha Guru Abhidhaja Agga Maha Saddhammajotika Bhaddanta Kumara and member Sayadaws of the State Sangha Maha Nayaka Committee, member Sayadaws of Division Sangha Nayaka Committee, Sayadaws of Nikaya Sarthintaik and members of the Sangha, member of the State Peace and Development Council Chairman of Yangon Division Peace and Development Council Commander Maj-Gen Khin Maung Than, ministers, the Yangon Mayor, deputy ministers, the deputy commander, officials of the State Peace and Development Council Office, heads of department, division, district and township authorities, members of the Union Solidarity and Development Association, Maternal and Child Welfare Association and religious associations, guests and towns elders. The Sayadaws and members of the Sangha led by member Sayadaws of the State Sangha Maha Nayaka Committee consecrated the ground.

Then, the cornerstone-laying ceremony was held at the same venue. The Secretary-1 and the congregation received the Nine Precepts from Aungmyebonsan Sayadaw Bhaddanta Panindabhivamsa. The Sayadaws and members of the Sangha recited Metta Sutta. The Secretary-1 presented the casket, cornerstones and alms to Myingyan Sayadaw Bhaddanta Sobhita. Then, the commander and the ministers presented cornerstones and alms to the Sayadaws and members of the Sangha. Magway Sayadaw Bhaddanta Kumara delivered a sermon. Myingyan Sayadaw, Seinmama Kyaung Sayadaw, Wepyankyaung Sayadaw, Meiktila Sayadaw, Tipitaka Maha Gandayon Sayadaw and Tipitakadhara Yaw Sayadaw, together with the Secretary-1, the commander and the ministers, took designated places.

The Secretary-1 placed the casket at the centre of the foundation. Afterwards, the Secretary-1, the commander and the ministers laid cornerstones at the designated places. The Secretary-1 also placed the plaque at the centre of the foundation. Then, the Secretary-1, the commander and the ministers sprinkled scented water on the cornerstones. The Secretary-1 also performed the ritual of silver and golden showers. The donors of Nikaya Sarthintaik Lawka Chantha Ordination Hall and Kyaung-taik are the commander and wife Daw Malar Tint and family, families of officers and other ranks of Yangon Division, division, district and township authorities, all private bus lines control committees in Yangon Division and vessel control committees.

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( 3 ) Secretary-1 offers Tipitaka treatises to Sayadaws

Yangon, 8 March-Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Khin Nyunt, accompanied by officials at the State Peace and Development Council Office, arrived at Dagonthiri Visiting Professor Mahathera Kyaung Hsaung on Hanthathiri Hill here this evening. They were welcomed there by Deputy Minister for Religious Affairs Brig-Gen Thura Aung Ko and officials. Then, Secretary-1 Lt-Gen Khin Nyunt and party paid respects to Nagahnatkaung Kyaungtaik Sayadaw Agga Maha Saddhammajotika Dhaja Bhaddanta Dhammasiri of Tachilek, Shan State (East) and Ontumahavihara Kyaungtaik Sayadaw of Lao People's Democratic Republic Agga Maha Saddhammajotika Dhaja Ven. Phong Samaleuk at the Kyaung Hsaung. Afterwards, Secretary-1 Lt-Gen Khin Nyunt presented Tipitaka Treatise in Shan Language compiled and donated by Sayadaw Bhaddanta Dhammasiri to Sayadaw Ven. Phong Samaleuk.

Wellwishers present assistance to Tatmadawmen serving duties in forward areas

Yangon, 8 March - Wellwishers presented cash and gifts to Tatmadawmen serving duties in forward areas for the third time this evening at Tatmadaw Guest House. Chief of Office of Strategic Studies Director of Defence Services Intelligence Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Khin Nyunt attended the ceremony. Also present were Minister at the State Peace and Development Council Chairman's Office Lt-Gen Min Thein, Minister for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement Maj-Gen Sein Htwa, Chief of Staff (Navy) Commodore Soe Thein,  Chief of Staff (Air) Maj-Gen Myint Swe, Deputy Minister for Information Brig-Gen Aung Thein, senior military officers, officials of the State Peace and Development Council Office, departmental personnel and donors. President of Union of Myanmar Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry U Win Myint explained the purpose of giving assistance to the Tatmadawmen, saying, the Tatmadaw and the people are unitedly marching to the goal   modern and developed nation  under the leadership of the State Peace and Development Council.

The rule of law and prevalence of peace and tranquillity are essential for national economic progress. The Tatmadawmen are courageous persons selflessly serving duties without fail at the risk of their life to ensure peace and security in the nation. Thanks to the day an night endeavours of the Tatmadawmen in the national defence and nation-building tasks, entrepreneurs are able to conduct business in a peace of mind.

Thus, the entrepreneurs have wish to render assistance to the Tatmadawmen serving duties in forward areas. Eighty-nine donors will present cash and gifts worth over K 36 million to the Tatmadawmen. The donation included K 5 million each by Kanbawza Bank Ltd and Grate Nine Co Ltd; K 1.5 million by Golden Flower Construction and South Dagon Palm Oil Plantation Group; K 1.35 million by Shwegabar Maung Maung Construction Co Ltd; K 1.34 million by Bandoola Myanmar Ltd; K 1.31 million by Super Coffeemix; K 1.1 million by Yyzana Co, Myanmar Fisheries Federation and Anawa Fisheries Lt; K1 million each by Union of Myanmar Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry; K1 million each by Golden Elephant ConstructionLtd, Asia Winner Enterprise Ltd and Seagull Co (Myawady).

The Secretary-1 accepted the donations and presented certificates of honour to them. Then, Happy Soft Drinks presented K 924,000; Pheasant Bicycle Co, Shine Construction Co, Shwe Myanmar Co, Gamonpwint Supermarket, Dagon International Ltd, Wah Wah Win Co Ltd, A-1 Construction, Shwe Nga Nylon String Factory (Hlinethaya Industrial Zone-1), Grand Wynn Enterprise Ltd, Union of Myanmar Islam Organization, Kulbani Central Supervisory Committee (2001), Trate Park Co Ltd K 500,000 each to Minister at the State Peace and Development Chairman's Office Lt-Gen Min Thein who presented certificates of honour to the wellwishers.

Afterwards, Zagawa Co Ltd presented K 480,000; Ayeyawady Groundnut Oil and Shwenaingngan Film Co groundnut oil worth K 412,000; Thilawa International Co, New Trading Co, MTM Construction Co Ltd, Bright Future Enterprise, Kyaw Economic Group, Nippo Myanmar Co Ltd, Myanmar Rice Millers' Association, Myanmar Industries Association, Myanmar Beans and Pulses and Sesame Merchants' Association, Myanmar Edible Oil Dealers Association, Myanmar Rice Wholesalers Association, Diamond Star Co Ltd, Tosta Co Ltd, Myanmar Vehicles and Mechanical Accessories Entrepreneurs Association, Shwekyabyan Construction Co, Taninthayi Fisheries Ltd, Po Kaung Palm Oil Plantation Group, Mon State Chambers of Commerce and Industry K 300,000 each; First Top Co Ltd K 250,000; Myanmar Brewery Co Ltd 100 boxes of Rashandy soft drinks worth K 240,000; Arrow Trade International Co Ltd K 234,000 and Myanmar Shukhin Co meat cans, fish cans and fried fish K 200,400 to Minister for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement Maj-Gen Sein Htwa who presented certificates of honour to the wellwishers. Then, Deputy Minster for Information Brig-Gen Aung Thein accepted the cash donations K 200,000 each by Minzani Co, Body Fitness Centre, Victory Enterprise, Singapore & WYZ Co Ltd, Shwenaga Min Trading Co Ltd, Tawwin Family Co Ltd, Myanmar Chinese Traders Association, Hawkint Chinese Buddhist Association, Chinese Charity Association, Ngapali Enterprise Ltd and Mingala Than Myint, K 150,000 by Maw Maw San Htomont, and K 100,000 each by Mayank Khenka, Osaman Enterprise, Shanti Sagar International Ltd, New Taing Sin Jewellery Shopand presented certificates of honour to the well-wishers. Chief Of Staff (Air) Maj-Gen Hla Myint Swe accepted the cash donations K 100,000 each by Etsit Music Troupe, Panbayin Co Ltd, Shwethabye Co, Myanmar Marketing & Research Development Co Ltd, Shwe Family Co Ltd, Shwethazin Syndicate, Moemyenayla Co Ltd, Supreme Enterprise, Golden Shell Co Ltd, SPA Co Ltd, Myanmar Medicine and Medical Equipment Traders and Entrepreneurs Association, Myanmar Plastic Co Ltd, SI Co Ltd, Myanma Ahla Construction Co Ltd, and Myan Naing Myint Co Ltdand presented certificates of honour to the well-wishers. Chief of Staff (Navy) Commodore Soe Thein accepted the cash donations K 100,000 each by Shwebayin Construction Co Ltd, Wood World Co Ltd, Momentan Co Ltd, 2000 Fishery Co Ltd, Golden Thazin Co Ltd, Kyaw Traditional Medicine House, and Maj Moe Aung-Dr Aye Khine Nyunt and family, K 50,000 each by Myanmar Women Entrepreneurs Association and U Hla Tun's Financial Consultant and presented certificates of honour to the well-wishers.

The Secretary-1 expressed his thanks to wellwishers for making donations in cash and kind to the Tatmadaw members. It is a very significant donation as the people from all strata of life have participated in it.

Therefore, the donation manifests the unity and cooperation of the government, the Tatmadaw and the people. As the government, the Tatmadaw and the people, joining hands with one another, have been striving for the development of the State in all sectors such as social, security and defence sectors, the nation is making progress to a significant extent. Today, the national unity is flourishing, and there have reigned stability and peace and tranquillity in the entire nation including border areas. The people have also contributed to development tasks as much as they can.

Therefore, the progress of the nation can be attributed to the unity of the State, the Tatmadaw and the people. Myanmar has pursued the foreign policy based on five principles of peaceful co-existence, and has maintained friendly relations with all the nations. Though maintaining friendly relations with all the nations, Myanmar people have the spirit and experience of safeguarding the independence and sovereignty of the State at risk to themselves. It is a noble donation as the wellwishers made donations with nationalistic and patriotic spirit. In conclusion, the Secretary-1 thanked the wellwishers for their donations to the members of the Tatmadaw (Army, Navy and Air) who are discharging duty at far-flung areas. After the ceremony, the Secretary-1 and party and the wellwishers had photos taken.

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( 4 )  Chinese goodwill delegation arrives

Yangon, 8 March-At the invitation of Secretary-3 of the State Peace and Development Council Member of the Panel of Patrons of the Union Solidarity and Development Association (Central) Lt-Gen Win Myint, a seven-member Chinese goodwill delegation led by Executive Vice-Chairman and Member of the Communist Party of China Central Commission for Discipline Inspection Chinese Association for International Understanding Mr Li Chengren arrived here by air yesterday evening. They were welcomed at the airport by Secretary-General of USDA U Than Aung, Central Executive Committee members U Thaung, U Thein Nyunt, U Khin Maung and officials. Then, the delegation, together with the Chinese Ambassador, paid a courtesy call on Secretary-3 Lt-Gen Win Myint at the Guest House of the Ministry of Defence Services. Also present were Secretary-General of USDA U Than Aung, CEC members U Thaung, U Thein Nyunt, U Khin Maung and officials.

Secretary-3 hosts dinner in honour of Chinese goodwill delegation

Yangon, 8 March-Secretary-3 of the State Peace and Development Council Member of Panel of Patrons of the Union Solidarity and Development Association (Central) Lt-Gen Win Myint hosted a dinner in honour of the visiting Chinese goodwill delegation led by Executive Vice-Chairman and Member of the Communist Party of China Central Commission for Discipline Inspection Chinese Association for International Understanding Mr Li Chengren at Kandawgyi Karaweik Palace at 9 pm yesterday. Also present on the occasion were the member of Secretariat of USDA and CEC members.

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( 5 ) The International Women's Day-2001 opened

Yangon, 8 March-A ceremony to open the International Women's Day for 2001 sponsored by Myanmar National Working Committee for Women's Affairs was held at International Business Centre on Pyay Road here this morning. Present on the occasion were Chairman of Myanmar National Committee for Women's Affairs Minster for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement Maj-Gen Sein Htwa, Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs U Khin Maung Win, MNCWA members, the Working Committee members and advisers, the ambassador of the Philippines, the charge d'affaires of US embassy, wives of the ambassadors of foreign embassies and officials, officials of social organisations and others. Speaking on the occasion Minister Maj-Gen Sein Htwa said that the theme for " International Women's Day-2001" is "Women and Peace".

It shows appreciation and recognition of the contribution of women to the strengthening of international peace and also urges to focus on the international community's commitment to address the women's role in peacemaking, peace- keeping and peace building. This commitment was significantly strengthened by the adoption on 31-10-2000 of Security Council Resolution 1325. This resolution urged an enhanced role for women in preventing conflict and promoting peace as they have the skills and experiences to contribute to strengthening of peace. Myanmar, as one of the member countries of UN, is dedicated to work together with international community towards that goal.

The MNCWA was able to send a delegate to participate in the Regional Conference on "Asian Women for a Culture of Peace" held in Hanoi, Socialist Republic of Vietnam, from 6 to 9 December 2000. Similar opportunities to net-work and learn from each other country's experience will enhance the role and potential for building peace and non-violence in Asia as well as in the world. Then, UN Resident Co-ordinator Mr Coer Bizot read out a message sent by the UN Secretary-General. Afterwards, MNCWA Vice-Chairperson Professor Daw May May Yi reported on formation of MNCWA, member of MNCWA Dr Daw Khin Win Shwe on prevention of violence against women and rehabilitation, and MNCWA member Professor Daw Khin Aye Win on education, health, economics, culture and environmental conservation and communications.

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( 6 ) Tatmadaw columns continue practising of drills

Yangon, 8 March-Tatmadaw Columns, which will participate in the 56th Anniversary Armed Forces Day Parade, continued drills in Resistance Park from 5 am to 10 am today. Under the leadership of Parade Commander Brig-Gen Saw Hla Min and Reserved Parade Commander Col Hla Tun, Tatmadawmen of Anawrahta Column led by Col San Aye Hla, Kyansittha Column led by Col Sein Win, Bayintnaung Column led by Col Aye Myint Maung, Nawadae Column led by Capt Aye Pe (Navy), Aungzeya Column led by Col Thein Hlaing, Hsinbyushin Column led by Col Myo Thant Oo, Bandoola Column led by Col Zaw Win Myint, Myawady Column led by Col Kyaw Htoo Lwin and Aung San Column led by Col Hla Ngwe participated in the drills. Chairman of Parade Working Committee for Observance of the Armed Forces Day Chief of Armed Forces Training Maj-Gen Win Myint Scrutinizing Work Committee for Best Company Vice-Adjutant-General Brig-Gen Maung Nyo, Director of Military Training Brig-Gen Aung Kyi, Commandant of Defence Services (Army) Officers Training School Brig-Gen Kyaw Thu, Tatmadaw officers and officials inspected practising drills.

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( 7 ) Merits shared for offering of soon and provisions to Sayadaws, members of the Sangha and nuns

Yangon, 8 March-A ceremony to share merits gained for the offering of soon and provisions to Sayadaws and members of the Sangha who attended the religious title conferring ceremony and State Ovadacariya Sayadaws, member Sayadaws of the State Sangha Maha Nayaka Committee and member Sayadaws of the State Central Working Committee of the Sangha who attended the Seventh Meeting of the Fourth State Central Working Committee of the Sangha, was held at the Maha Nayaka Kyaungsaung, Kaba Aye, this morning. Patron of the Yangon Division Central Committee for the Offering of Provisions member of the State Peace and Development Council Chairman of Yangon Division Peace and Development Council Commander Maj-Gen Khin Maung Than supplicated on matters related to the merit-sharing ceremony.

Also present were Vice-Chairman of the State Sangha Maha Nayaka Committee Abhidhaja Maha Rattha Guru Aungmye-bonsan Sayadaw Bhaddanta Panindabhivamsa and member Sayadaws, Minister for Religious Affairs U Aung Khin, Deputy Minister Brig-Gen Thura Aung Ko, Deputy Commander Brig-Gen Hsan Hsint, Adviser to the State Peace and Development Council Office U Arnt Maung, Director-General of Department for Promotion and Propagation of the Sasana U Sann Lwin, Director-General of Religious Affairs Department Dr Myo Myint and officials, the chairmen of district/township Peace and Development Councils in Yangon Division and members, military region commanders and distinguished guests. Under the patronage of Yangon Division Peace and Development Council, wellwishers offered provisions worth over K 69 million to 212 title recipient Sayadaws, 400 Sayadaws who attended the Meeting and 20 title recipient nuns totalling 632. The commander, the minister and officials presented offertories to the Sayadaws. The commander presented K 50,000 donated for the trust fund by Presiding Sayadaw of Sasanarekkhita Kyaung in Dayeilu Village, Kungyangon Township, Yangon Division, the State Ovadacariya Sayadaw Bhaddanta Canda, to the minister. Secretary of State Sangha Maha Nayaka Committee Abhidhaja Maha Rattha Guru Abhidhaja Agga Maha Saddhamma Jotika Magway Sayadaw Bhaddanta Kumara delivered a sermon, followed by sharing of merits gained, and the ceremony came to a close.

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( 8 ) Meritorious deeds performed at pagodas, religious buildings on Fullmoon Day of Taboung

Yangon, 8 March- The water pouring ceremony to mark 2589th Taboung Buddha Pujaniya of the Shwedagon Pagoda was held at Chanthagyi Tazaung of the pagoda this morning. Present on the occasion were Ovadaariya Sayadaws of the Pagoda Board of Trustees, members of PBT, religious associations, well-wishers and guests. A ceremony to mark the Lord Buddha Pyidawwin Akhadaw Ceremony was held at Maha Ordination Hall near Dagon Thiri Sanctuary Lake in the compound of State Pariyatti Sasana University in Kaba Aye Hill. Present on the occasion were Maha Saddhamma Jotikadhaja Bhaddanta Panasami (Magadhi-Thazi) and 500 trainees of the cultural course.

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