To enable the National Convention Convening Commission to carry out its duties and responsibilities successfully and smoothly, the State Peace and Development Council has reconstituted the National Convention Convening Management Committee with the following personages:

National Convention Convening Management Committee

(1) Maj-Gen Lun Maung Chairman Auditor-General (2) Maj-Gen Than Htay Vice-Chairman Director of Supply and Transport (3) Brig-Gen Aye Myint Kyu Vice-Chairman Deputy Minister Ministry of Hotels and Tourism (4) Maj-Gen Thein Tun member Director of Signals (5) Brig-Gen Khin Maung Tun member Vice-Quartermaster General (6) Brig-Gen Thein Tun member Deputy Minister Ministry of Industry-1 (7) Dr Mya Oo member Deputy Minister Ministry of Health (8) Brig-Gen Phone Swe member Deputy Minister Ministry of Home Affairs (9) Col Nyan Tun Aung member Deputy Minister Ministry of Transport (10) Col Hla Thein Swe member Deputy Minister Ministry of Finance and Revenue (11) Brig-Gen Than Htay member Deputy Minister Ministry of Energy (12) Brig-Gen Aung Tun member Deputy Minister Ministry of Commerce (13) Lt-Col Pe Nyein member Director-General State Peace and Development Council Office (14) U Soe Tint member Director-General Government Office (15) U Tun Tun member Director-General Presidential Office (16) Brig-Gen Khin Yi member Director-General Myanmar Police Force (17) U Tun Hla Aung member Director-General Bureau of Special Investigation (18) U Khin Maung Htay member Director-General Myanma Radio and Television (19) U Than Swe member Director-General Department for Progress of Border Areas and National Races (20) U Ko Ko Kyaw member Director-General Ministry of Foreign Affairs (21) Daw Thin Thin member Director-General Auditor-General's Office (22) Dr San Oo member Managing Director Myanma Electric Power Enterprise (23) U Htay Aung member Managing Director Myanma Hotels and Tourism Service (24). U Khin Maung Aye member Managing Director Livestock, Feedstuff and Dairy Products Enterprise (25). U Min Swe member Managing Director Myanma Railways (26). U Hla Thaung Myint member Director-General Road Transport Administration Department (27). U Nay Soe Naing member Managing Director Public Works (28). U Maung Maung Tin member Managing Director Myanma Posts and Telecommunications (29). Col Than Aung member Director of Medical Services (30). Col Wai Lwin member Deputy Commander Yangon Command (31). Brig-Gen Myo Myint member Commandant Defence Services Records Office (32). U Myint Aung member Secretary Yangon City Development Committee (33). Col Myint Aung Kyaw member Ministry of Defence (34). Col Khin Soe member Ministry of Defence (35). Col Soe Myint member Ministry of Defence (36). Col San Pwint member Ministry of Defence (37). Col Than Tun member Directorate of Military Engineers (38). Lt-Col Bo Lwin member Commander of Indaing Station (39). U Khin Win member Principal Union Solidarity and Development Training School (40). U Win Myint member Director Pyithu Hluttaw Office (41). Maj Than Htay Secretary No 1 Motor Transport Battalion (42). Lt-Col Maung Maung Shein Joint-Secretary-1 Commanding Officer of No 2 Motor Transport Battalion (43). Capt Maung Thein Joint-Secretary-2 Staff Officer No-1 Motor Transport

Sd/ Than Shwe Senior General Chairman State Peace and Development Council

YANGON, 21 Oct - A mass rally was held in support of seven-point future policy and programme of the State at the sports ground at the foot of the Shwezigon Pagoda in the Bagan Archaeology Zone at 6.15 am today.

Representatives of the national races from all the states and divisions of the Union of Myanmar approved the two resolutions - the one calling for all the people to actively and enthusiastically participate with full Union Spirit in any role entrusted for the success of the seven-point future policy and programme of the State; and the other to honour the State Peace and Development Council for striving to the best of its ability for the development of the Union of Myanmar and for the national races to continue to preserve and safeguard the progress achieved.

Next, the mass rally announced the Bagan Declaration as the national goal - perpetuation of the Union, unity of the national races, emergence of a peaceful, modern development nation and building a peaceful modern developed discipline-flourishing democratic nation.

Present on the occasion were Member of the Panel of Patrons of the Union Solidarity and Development Association Lt-Gen Soe Win and coordinator, general secretary and secretaries of the association, central executive committee members, chairmen and members of the Panel of Patrons of the mass rallies held in states and divisions, departmental heads of the Ministry of Education. Moreover, a total of 25,000 representatives from the Myanmar National Committee for Women's Affairs, Union of Myanmar Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Myanmar Maternal and Child Welfare Association, Women Entrepreneurs Association, Minglamay Women Entrepreneurs Association, Myanmar Anti-Narcotics Association, Myanmar Medical Association, Myanmar Dental Surgeons Association, Myanmar Nurses Association, Myanmar Floriculturists Association, Myanmar Edible Oil Dealers Association, Myanmar Rice Millers Association, Myanmar Rice Dealers Association, Myanmar Hoteliers Association, Union of Myanmar Travel Association, Construction Entrepreneurs Association, Myanmar Engineering Association, Myanmar War Veterans Association, Myanmar Writers and Journalists Association, and other representative from states and divisions.

U Mya Sein of Mandalay Division presided over the mass rally together with Duwa Khun Hsai of Kachin State, U Sayal Hla Pe of Kayah State, U Saw San Phoe Thin of Kayin State, Daw Nokatsai of Chin State, Dr Maung Htoo of Sagaing Division, Dr Daw Aye Aye Thein of Taninthayi Division, U Kyaw Myint Oo of Bago Division, Dr Than Myint of Magway Division, Dr Nyunt Lwin of Mandalay Division, Naing Win Maung of Mon State, U Hla Tha Tun of Rakhine State, Dr Daw Tin Win of Yangon Division, U Sai Aung Min of Shan State and U Nyunt Hlaing of Ayeyawady Division. Daw Theingi Aung of Mandalay Division acted as master of ceremonies together with Daw Thin Thin Oo of Mandalay Division.

First, the master of ceremonies announced the agenda of the mass rally.

Afterwards, the chairman made a speech. He said the representatives unanimously passed the resolution of active and enthusiastic participation of the entire people being fully equipped with Union in the tasks for accomplishment of the seven future policies and programmes of the State at the mass rallies held in the respective regions.

He said that they all got together in Bagan region, Myanmar's archaeological area, in order to make decisive and firm determination to successfully implement the State's seven future policies and programmes on a national scale.

The six resolutions, which are crucially important for the State, were successfully passed at Bagan mass meeting ushering in the 21st century held on a grand scale on 1 January 2000 in the auspicious ground, Bagan archaeological region. He said they met together in the auspicious ground so as to hold talks about accomplishments of the State's seven policies and programmes, he noted.

He added that the Prime Minister's speech on the State's seven-point roadmap consists of three parts - construction of social and economic infrastructures during the 15-year period in the time of the government, political development and the State's future policies and programmes.

The first part touches upon peace and tranquillity restored and progress made in every region and sector across the country thanks to the strenuous efforts of the Tatmadaw government in building social and economic infrastructures.

He quoted Head of the State Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services in his guidance given at the Annual General Meeting (2002) of the Union Solidarity and Development Association, as saying that the nation-building task is the one that is to be constantly handed down from one generation to another. It is also the task to be constantly carried out for brighter future of the nation, he pointed out.

The entire people have witnessed as well as enjoyed the fruitful results of the development of the State. Announcing their regional development, those in attendance at the respective mass rallies held in States and Divisions have unanimously and proudly supported the State's future policies and programmes.

So, on behalf of the entire people, the mass rally honoured and put record on the fruitful results achieved thanks to the State's leaders based on patriotism, genuine goodwill, perseverance and steadfastness during the 15-year period.

The second part deals with endeavours for building a discipline-flourishing modern and developed nation phase by phase from the time when the independence had been egained to date, he said.

Tasks for regional development, construction of economic foundations and raising the living standard of the entire people after firmly consolidating the national unity are indeed basic foundations for flourishing of democracy, he remarked.

The government could take measures for the return of the 17 national race armed groups to the legal fold and accomplished the border areas development projects.

Braving the destructive acts and sanctions imposed by internal and external destructive elements, the government enlisting the united strength of the national races thoroughly and steadfastly has implemented the objectives in building up a democratic nation appropriate for the nation and the people.

Today's government taking up the State's duties is military Government in form, but it is in essence the government that is gently and smoothly transforming from old system into new one in accord with the existing rules and regulations.

In the third part, the Prime Minister made clarifications on the State's seven-point roadmap necessary for implementing the nation's goal - building up a discipline-flourishing modern and developed nation.

Among the seven points, the first one - Reconvening of the National Convention that has been adjourned since 1996 - is the most important stage. An enduring State Constitution will emerge only after the basic principles, which serve the interests of the nation and the people, are drafted to the full satisfaction of all the representatives.

He expressed his belief that respective representatives without subjectivity and sectarianism will carry out tasks in loyalty taking lessons from the nation's history and giving priority to the interests of the nation and the people based on basic good foundations and opportune time.

He said that he would like to hold the respective representatives responsible for handing down good heritages to new generations to become good citizens of a discipline-flourishing modern developed nation through the bitter experiences encountered by the people.

He spoke of the need of the people to collectively take measures for creation of tranquil and peaceful environs while the National Convention is being held.

All the national races are to be on the correct path to constantly accomplish national goal - building up a peaceful, modern and developed democratic nation - in cooperation with the Tatmadaw Government.

He quoted Head of State Senior General Than Shwe in the message of the 52nd Union Day, as saying that whatever system the nation practises, it needs a State Constitution which guarantees perpetual interest of the entire people.

In the fourth step, it is necessary to vote for the constitution (draft) wisely at the time of national referendum for approval for future posterity.

In the fifth step, it is necessary for the people to elect Hluttaw representatives with goodwill and good qualifications needed for the future State without subjectivity and sectarianism when holding free and fair elections for Pyithu Hluttaws (Legislative bodies) according to the new constitution.

In the seventh step, in building a modern developed democratic nation with the Head of State elected by the Hluttaw, government and organs of power formed by the Hluttaw all are urged to actively and unitedly participate in the respective roles under the leadership of the elected leaders.

He expressed his belief that the mass rally in Bagan would pass important resolutions for success of the seven-point plan preserving and safeguarding the already-achieved national development and stability and peace.

In conclusion, the seven-point roadmap is the correct national path leading to a new discipline-flourishing democratic nation, and so he called on the entire people to actively participate in the tasks with full Union spirit in their respective role while preserving and safeguarding the progress achieved and endeavours for building up a peaceful, modern developed democratic nation.

Daw Bauk Ja of Kachin State tabled a motion, calling for all the people of the national races to participate actively and enthusiastically with full Union spirit in any role entrusted for the success of the seven-point future policy programme of the State. First, she said that she was very proud of having a chance to table a motion at Bagan Archaeological Zone which possesses a great historical tradition.

With the aim of developing the Union of Myanmar to be on a par with nations of the world, strengthening national economic life and raising the living standard of the entire citizens, the State Peace and Development Council is striving for emergence of a peaceful, modern and developed nation. In doing so, national unity and non-disintegration of the Union plays a vital role. That is why the national policy- non-disintegration of the Union, non-disintegration of national solidarity and perpetuation of sovereignty - has been laid down.

When it assumed the State duties in 1988, the State Law and Order Restoration Council gave priority to peace and tranquillity in the country, law enforcement and national reconsolidation. With the existing peace, the rule of law and national unity, Prime Minister General Khin Nyunt clarified the seven-point policy and programme of the State on 30 August 2003.

These seven-point policy and programme are- (1) Reconvening of the National Convention that has been adjourned since 1996. (2) After the successful holding of the National Convention, step by step implementation of the process necessary for the emergence of a genuine and discipline-flourishing democratic system. (3) Drafting of a new constitution in accordance with basic principles and detailed basic principles laid down by the National Convention. (4) Adoption of the constitution through national referendum. (5) Holding of free and fair elections for Pyithu Hluttaws (Legislative bodies) according to the new constitution. (6) Convening of Hluttaws attended by Hluttaw members in accordance with the new constitution. (7) Building a modern, developed and democratic nation by the state leaders elected by the Hluttaw; and the government and other central organs formed by the Hluttaw.

The successful implementation of the seven-point policy programme of the State and perpetuation of the Union is essential for the emergence of a peaceful, modern and developed nation. To realize this goal, all will have to possess Union Spirit.

If we look back at the history of Myanmar we can find that the nation was strong and great when there was unity among national people.

In Bagan period, the First Myanmar Empire founded by King Anawrahta and centered in Bagan royal city was strong in terms of economy, social affairs, defence and culture. In the time of King Anawrahta, all the national people of Bagan city had striven for perpetuation of the nation and strengthe-ning of the nation. Under the leadership of King Anawrah-ta, Buddha Sasana, culture and arts had flourished in the country in addition to defence, unity and economy.

King Anawrahta encouraged economic development tasks effectively. In the time of King Anawrahta, dams were built for the development of agriculture.

As regards national defence, towns with a strength of one hundred thousand, ten thousand, one thousand and one hundred were established throughout the country. Moreover 43 garrison towns were founded. Due to such endeavours for national defence, the foundation of the First Myanmar Empire was very strong.

I would like to present endeavours of King Kyansittha of Bagan period. In the time of King Kyansittha, the nation was guarded by military might. Moreover, politically, he made effort for further consolidation of national unity. During his reign, the people could live with peace of mind because there was national unity and peace all over the country. An order issued by King Kyansittha stated that he would provide food for the people with his right hand and clothes and equipment with his left hand. It indicated the attitude of the King towards the people.

The foundation of the First Myanmar Empire in the period of King Anawrahta and his successors was the result of national unity.

In terms of culture, progress in Myanmar literature and unity, Myanmar in Bagan dynasty was strong in southeast Asia and her cultural standard was high.

The Second Myanmar Empire was founded in Toungoo period under King Bayintnaung. Military power under the reign of King Bayintnaung was the greatest in southeast Asia.

Foreigners recorded the magnificence of Kanbawza-thadi Palace, prosperity of the country and strong military power of the country as many merchants entered the country on board cargo ships from Taninthayi coast and northern and western parts of Malay peninsular. National unity played a vital role in founding the Second Myanmar Empire in Toungoo period. In Konboung period, Alaungmintaya organized the whole country and founded the Third Myanmar Empire.

After organizing the whole country, King Alaungmintaya defeated British who tried to take a foothold in Haigyi Island.

A study of history shows that in the periods of Bagan, Toungoo and Konboung, the area of the nation was very vast and when the nation had unity among all the national brethren and she won the respects of the neighbouring countries. Therefore, Union Spirit and unity are invaluable.

At a time when national unity was weak, Myanmar was encroached by the British and she had gone under the servitude of the others.

Myanmars, being people who cherish independence, fought against the imperialists through various means, without yielding to the subjugation of the imperialists. All the national races, hand in hand with one another, fought for the independence. It was only through loss of lives, blood and sweat for many years that the country regained her independence.

In 1962, Tatmadaw had to safeguard the Union from the danger of disintegration.

Considering the experience of post-independence period, it became clear that the parliamentary democracy based on the 1947 constitution was not able to build national solidarity.

Due to the economic crisis of the country, disturbances of 1988 occurred under the incitement of the left-wing and right-wing destructive elements within and without the country. The Tatmadaw, forming the State Law and Order Restoration Council, again had to assume the State power on 18 September 1988 as the Union was on the brink of disintegration and anarchy.

From the very of its assumption of State duties, the Tatmadaw Government was able to restore the rule of law, and tranquillity and stability, and build socio-economic infrastructures essential for a modern and developed nation with sound economic might. It started to shape the multiparty system. It has undertaken the political changes that paved the way for transforming the country into genuine multiparty democracy phase by phase.

The 1974 constitution became null and void when the country stopped practising socialist economic system and single party system, and introduced the market-oriented economic system and multiparty system.

The Tatmadaw Government believes that undertaking the tasks for regional development, emergence of economic infrastructures, and raising the living standard of the people after strengthening the national solidarity amounts to laying the foundation for democracy. In accordance with this conviction, border area and national races development projects were implemented for the national reconsolida-tion. At the same time, the Tatmadaw government was able to make arrangements for the return of national race armed groups to the legal fold through mutual understanding. Thanks to these efforts, 17 national race armed groups have returned to the legal fold. Now, leaders of the national race armed groups are contributing towards the regional development projects and building the development infrastructure of the entire nation.

Now the Union of Myanmar is on the right track for development thanks to the efforts of the government based on the strength of national forces and unity of the entire nation. There have emerged various favourable conditions and results such as sound foundations for national solidarity, development infrastructure for national economic life, social infrastructure and technological development infrastructure all over the country. At such a time, Prime Minister General Khin Nyunt clarified the seven-point policy for the emergence of a modern and developed democratic nation. The seven-point policy outlined by Prime Minister General Khin Nyunt is the roadmap for advancing along the democratic path in agreement with the geography, culture and history of Myanmar.

The seven-point future policy, in essence, is in accord with the four political objectives laid down by the State. Head of State Senior General Than Shwe has given guidance that stability of the State is essential for establishing a discipline-flourishing democratic nation. It is also required to strengthen the economy of the State and the citizenry. At the same time, intellectual level of the entire nation must always be high if democracy is to be kept alive and dynamic. In conclusion, I resolutely support the motion calling on all the people of national races to participate actively and enthusiastically with full Union spirit in any role entrusted for the success of the seven-point future policy programme of the State.

Afterwards, U Sa Shwe Zin Latt seconded the motion calling on all the people of national races to participate actively and enthusiastically with full Union spirit om any role entrusted for the success of the seven-point future policy programme of the State. He said the Prime Minister clarified the very important policy for the Union on 30 August 2003, in which the seven-point future policy of the State is included. It is evident that drafting of a new constitution, adoption of the constitution through national referendum and holding of free and fair elections for Pyithu Hluttaws (Legislative bodies) included in the seven-point future policy are correct political steps to be taken. The Tatmadaw government had unavoidably to take over the State's responsibilities when the Union was on the verge of disintegration. The government has not only restored the stability in the country but made efforts for emergence of a peaceful, modern and developed one.

Here, I'd like to present the fact that democracy is to be shaped based on the historical background and objective conditions of the country concerned. It will not be possible to copy the democracy of another country. Head of State Senior General Than Shwe once pointed out that the norms of human rights and democracy of western countries will not be the same as those of Asian countries. So, it is needed to choose the norms and democracy path that suit the traditions and customs our country and our people.

I would like to thank the government for its far-sightedness in shaping the democracy system suitable to the historical background of our country and national character. On behalf of the people, I support the move.

At present, a new constitution, that will guarantee the national brethren to live in peacen through thick and thin in the Union, is needed. The constitutions of the past were null and void because they had many weaknesses and did not serve the interests of the public. Taking lessons from these, the new constitution is needed to be the one that will last over thousands of years and brave and overcome the challenges of the future. So, I'd like to urge all national people to patiently participate in the tasks for emergence of a firm new constitution with might and main in the interest of the State.

The seven-point future policy of the State has emerged out of our own stand and is related to the political reform of the State. The policy is pragmatic and the correct political programme. So, national people honour and welcome it. I strongly second the motion calling on the people of national races to participate actively and enthusiastically with full Union Spirit in any role entrusted for the success of the seven-point future policy programme of the State.

Next, Nan Khin Hmwe of Shan State (North) tabled the motion to honour the State Peace and Development Council for striving to the best of its ability for the development of the Union of Myanmar and for the Union races to continue to preserve and safeguard the progress achieved. She said today, the State Peace and Development Council is endeavoring in all aspects for the emergence of a peaceful, modern and developed State with the aim of transforming our nation into one where the level of development is on a par with those in the international community; where our national economy will be strong; and where the people will enjoy a high standard of living.

Since the time of the assumption of responsibilities of the State by the Tatmadaw Government, it has been systematically striving for national reconsolidation, peace and tranquillity and prevalence of law and order as first priority. It is also implementing national projects that can strengthen national economic life and pave the way for a modern and developed State.

It can be seen that today, due to the efforts of the government based on the strength and capabilities of its own national resources and the participation of the entire people, the Union of Myanmar is on the right path of development and it is found that much better results such as national solidarity, development of national economic life have been achieved.

During the time of the Tatmadaw government, we have been able to build up unity among our national races; and to restore peace and stability in the border areas. As a result, we are now able to implement, in a systematic manner, projects for the development of border areas and national races.

Although, in the initial stage, border area development programmes were carried out only in areas where peace had been restored, they have now been extended to cover all the areas in the country that have lagged behind in development and they cover 8,341 square miles of all border regions. The population in these areas is over 5.3 million. The sectors in which development activities are being carried out for border area development include roads and bridges, education, health, agriculture, livestock breeding, electricity, communication, mineral exploration etc. and therefore are of great benefit to the people. The State spent K 46 billion and over US $ 506 million from 1989 to 2003.

The government in cooperation with local national people is carrying out the tasks for eradication of narcotic drugs. Over 150,000 acres of poppy plantations and 21 opium refineries were destroyed and the New Destiny Project was implemented in 2002. According to the project, there are over 24,000 acres of opium substitute crops were culttivted. The government has been launching anti-narcotic drugs campaign in cooperation with local people, neighbouring countries and UN agencies. In the past, only anti-narcotic drugs activities were carried out. Drugs will gradually be eradicated as cultivation of opium substitute crops and regional development are being undertaken.

Since the time of our independence, Myanmar has never participated in or sided with any world grouping, regional grouping or military pact. It has maintained relations with neighbouring countries in accord with its independent and active foreign policy. Myanmar is a geographically strategic nation in Southeast Asia, East Asia and Asia and the Pacific.

The State laid down non-disintegration of the Union, non-disintegration of national solidarity and perpetuation of sovereignty as the national policy and is implementing it.

At the start of the assumption of State responsibilities, the economy had been in recession. Moreover, communication and transportation system in the entire country had broken down and all activities in the country had grounded to a halt. After the assumption of responsibilities, the market oriented economic system that encouraged the private sector was introduced. At the same time, even while the factories, workshops and the economic infrastructure that had been destroyed or damaged were being repaired and reconstructed, development infrastructures such as roads, river-crossing bridges, dams and reservoirs, universities and colleges as well as hospitals were built throughout the nation. Due to the day and night efforts of the government, the GDP of the nation recovered from its decline. At the end of the Short Term Four Year Plan which started in 1992-93, the GDP of the country grew by an average annual rate of 7.5 percent. At the end of the Second Five Year Plan that started in 1996-97, the GDP grew by an average annual growth rate of 8.5 percent. During this Five Year Plan that started in 2001-2002, the planned target was to realize an average yearly GDP growth of 10.7 percent. During the 2002-2003 fiscal year i.e. the second year of the Plan, 11.1 percent GDP growth was achieved. Moreover, at the end of the 2002-2003 fiscal year, per capita GDP had increased to 105,940 kyats.

Our Government created employment opportunities. Consequently, we were able to find employment for nearly 10 million workers and the work force increased from 19 million in 1988 to the present 29 million.

In trying to achieve growth and development with momentum in national economic life, the government pays special attention to all round development of the country based on an economic policy which calls for development of agriculture as the base and development of other economic sectors as well. In the initial stage, taking paddy which is the main crop in the country as the basis, the government focused its attention on measures to increase sown acreage, to utilize modern agricultural techniques and high yield strains as well as to use various methods to ensure the availability of adequate water for agricultural purposes. The original target of 1,000 million baskets had been realized since the 2000-2001 fiscal year.

Since 1988, during the time of our government, 152 dams and reservoirs as well as 265 river water pumping projects in areas where water is scarce had been constructed. Due to the projects undertaken for obtaining water, cultivable land increased by more than 2 million acres. The government spent over K 80,000 million on construction of 152 dams. Forty irrigation projects are in the process of being built and there are plans to construct 84 more.

The area of forest constitutes 52.28 per cent of the whole area of the country, with over 35 million acres of reserved forest and over 3 million acres had been developed. The acre of forest plantations, including special teak plantations, has now reached nearly 1.1 million. In the central part of the country, the nine-district greening project had been implemented. At the same time, greening projects are also being implemented in 13 districts. The government is implementing these projects after the adoption of a national policy.

For the private industrial sector, 18 industrial zones were established everywhere in the time of the present Government. And 257 factories of various sizes were also constructed, resulting in the emergence of over 24,000 private-owned factories. The number of State-owned and private-owned factories increased from over 27,000 in 1988 to over 50,000 at present. These measures are being taken to enhance the industrial sector.

Moreover, progress has been made in building a network of roads and bridges as infrastructure all over the nation. Therefore, all parts of the nation have now been linked. There were a total of 461 roads with 13,600 miles in length in 1988. But now, 55 new roads with some 2,000 miles in length have been extended. As for bridges, there existed the Ayeyawady Bridge and the Sittaung Bridge before 1988. But now, a total of 161 bridges with 180 feet and above in length emerged, in addition to seven Ayeyawady river crossing bridges, two Chindwin river crossing bridges and three Thanlwin river crossing bridges. Railroads are also being extended in the time of the Tatmadaw Government. Such railroads as the Shwenyaung-Yatsauk railroad, the Aungban-Pinlaung-Loikaw railroad and the Namhsan-Monai railroad in Shan State, and the tunnel-crossing ChaungOo-Pakokku-Gangaw-Kale railroad, and the Yoma circular railroad were also constructed in all strategic places. The length of railroads in the nation increased from 1,976 miles in 1988 to approximately 3,000 miles - an increase of over 1,012.

The Government has been making arrangements to ensure parallel development of international aviation and marine transport sector as well as that of domestic aviation and marine transport sector. The number of airports stood at 21 in 1988, but it reached 27. Furthermore, the number of air fields where jet planes can land also increased from 6 to 18.

With the application of emerging and advancing information technology in international community, a network of communication system has been linked internationally. Moreover, data communication, e-mail, Internet and Intranet have now been in use for the development of information technology.

To generate electricity, the number of hydel power stations, steam-powered factories, natural gas-powered stations and diesel-powered stations were also extended. The amount of electricity generated rose from 2 billion units in 1988 to over 5 billion units at present - an crease of 2.27 times.

In the time of the present Government, 28 hydel power projects and six natural gas-powered station projects were also constructed. Altogether 11 hydel power projects, including the Paunglaung hydel power project, which will generate 280 megawatts of electricity, and the Yeywa hydel power project, which will generate 780 megawatts of electricity, are under construction. On completion, they will produce more than 1,960 megawatts of electricity.

To create human resources in every sphere is the national concern in the education sector. Basic education high schools, universities, degree colleges and colleges were also extended to ensure the spread of educational opportunities all over the nation.

Likewise, universities and colleges were opened in all the States and Divisions for the technological sector.

The number of basic education schools increased from 33,747 in 1988 to 40,099 in 2003. As post-primary schools were opened, the number of them now stands at 3,800.

As for the higher education sector, universities and colleges were built in 24 special development zones in all the 14 States and Divisions. As a result, the number of these institutions rose from 32 in 1988 to 154 at present. Similarly, the population of university and college students rose from over 130,000 in 1988 to over 890,000 at present.

The number of courses, including masters degree, doctorate degree and diploma courses, being conducted at universities and degree colleges under the Ministry of Education, have now been extended up to 150.

Ninety kinds of masters degrees and doctorate degrees are now available in medical universities, and 73 kinds of masters degrees and doctorate degrees in technological and computer universities.

In the technological sector, there emerged four technological universities, two computer universities, one Myanmar Aerospace Engineering University, one Maritime University, 26 government technological colleges, 24 government computer colleges and nine government technical institutes.

As for the health sector, emphasis is placed on the fitness of the citizens. A glance at the development infrastructure of this sector will reveal an increase in the number of hospitals from 617 in 1988 to 757 in 2003. A total of 84 regional dispensaries and 1,414 rural health care centres were also opened across the nation. A total of 140 new hospitals were constructed and 114, 25-bed hospitals were upgraded to 300-bed ones. There were only four medical universities under the Ministry of Health in 1988. But now, the number totalled 14.

The Government is making efforts to ensure symmetrical development in all sectors by establishing 24 development zones. More than 70 percent of the population of the country being farmers residing in rural areas, efforts were under way to implement the rural development activities so that all parts of the country can prosper. At the same time, the Government is also rendering assistance to the drive for availability of water, smooth transport, health, education, agriculture and livestock breeding, trade, mining work and supply of energy for the enhancement of socio-economic life.

To sum up, in spite of hardships and limitations, each and every sector is now undergoing development in the soil of Myanmar thanks to the assiduous and systematic efforts exerted by the Government on the self-reliant basis. The entire mass of the national races are to maintain these achievements in accord with the Four People's Desires.

Therefore, I emphatically would like to table a motion to honour the State Peace and Development Council for striving to the best of its ability for the development of the Union of Myanmar and for the national races to continue to preserve and safeguard the progress achieved.

U Han Maung of Magway Division seconded the motion to honour the Government for striving to the best of its ability for the development of the Union of Myanmar and for the Union races to continue to preserve and safeguard the progress achieved. He said that the entire national people supported the seven-point political roadmap of the State clarified by the Prime Minister and made resolution to call on all the people of the national races to participate actively and enthusiastically with full Union Spirit in any role entrusted for the success of the seven-point future policy programme of the State.

A mass rally hailing the 21st Century was held on 1 January 2000 at the historic Bagan Archaeological Zone where the first Myanmar Empire was formed, we now have arrived. The meeting laid down the six resolutions. Strenuous efforts have been made for implementation of the political, economic and social objectives in accord with the resolutions.

In the time of the Tatmadaw Government, peace and tranquillity prevails in all parts of the Union. At the same time, the government has been able to forge the national reconciliation as there was mutual trust and understanding among the national brethren.

The Tatmadaw government has been making relentless efforts day in, day out for national and regional development. Therefore, it has been able to address the backwardness, the evil legacy of colonialists, in all sectors.

Under British occupation, our forefathers were subjected to exploitation by the colonialists who applied the divide-and-rule policy among the national brethren. After regaining the independence, the people had to suffer various hardships and troubles in the absence of peace and tranquillity in the nation as multicolour armed insurgencies reigned. In other words, the people had to suffer due to weakness of the Parliamentary democracy.

There were differences over economic recession in the aftermath of Socialist Era. The country was on the verge of disintegration due to the 1988-unrest.

At such a time, the Tatmadaw had to assume the State's duties unavoidably as things came to such a chaos that the sovereignty and the life and property of the people could be lost.

The Tatmadaw, after its assumption of the State's duties, has laid down the political and economic objectives and is striving for all-round development of the State. As a result, progress has been made by a significant amount in the economic sector of the State. In addition, efforts had been made to ensure better transport. A network of roads has emerged from Maykha and Malikha basin, the northernmost of Myanmar, to Kawthoung in Taninthayi Division, the southernmost of Myanmar. Likewise, the Union Highways linking Kayah State, Shan State, the eastern part of Myanmar and Rakhine State, Chin State, the western part of Myanmar and those linking Kale and Tamu regions were built. The Mandalay-Shwebo Myitkyina motor road, the Monywa-Khamti motor road, the Yangon-An-Sittway motor road, the Mandalay-Bhamo motor road, the Myitkyina-Putao motor road, the Tounggyi Ywangan-Myogyi-Hanmyitmo motor road, the Pyinmana-Pinlaung motor road, the Pyinmana Taungdwingyi motor road and the Yangon-Kawthoung-Bokpyin-Dawei-Mawla-myine road are the ones that enable the national brethren to make contacts with one another easily. New railroads were constructed in the states and divisions where there were no railroads in the past. In addition to the motor roads and railroads, the Ayeya-wady, Chindwin, Thanlwin and Sittoung river crossing bridges have emerged, thereby contributing to improvement of the socio-economic life of the national people.

The entire national races have now enjoyed the fruitful results of development practically and become oneness although they reside in different parts of the Union. As a result, friendship among the national brethren have been further strengthened.

To bring about harmonious development the length and breadth of the nation, the government has laid down projects for development of border areas and national races, the 24 development zones and the five rural development tasks and is implementing them.

Progress made in the nation stems from own strength and ability. The Government has been making earnest efforts in a difficult position for the national development during the period of 15 years. It had to overcome much of hindrances and obstacles and sanctions to ensure the emergence of a peaceful modern and developed nation.

I, on behalf of the mass, honour the achievements of the Tatmadaw in striving with genuine goodwill for the emergence of a modern developed democratic nation.

It is incumbent upon the entire national people to guard against any dangers to the already achieved national development and to safeguard the already achieved momentum of development.

Therefore, I actively and enthusiastically second the motion to honour the State Peace and Development Council for striving to the best of its ability for the development of the Union of Myanmar and for the national races to continue to preserve and safeguard the progress achieved.

After that, Chairman of the mass rally Advocate U Mya Sein sought the approval of the first motion calling on all the people of the national races to participate actively and enthusiastically with full sense of Union Spirit in any role for the success of the seven-point roadmap of the State; and the second motion to honour the State Peace and Development Council for striving to the best of its ability for the development of the Union of Myanmar and for the national races to continue to preserve and safeguard the progress achieved.

As the entire mass of the people of the mass rally unanimously supported the motions, the chairman approved the motions. Next, the master of ceremonies announced the two resolutions of Bagan mass rally: (1) to call on all the people of the national races to participate actively and enthusiastically with full sense of Union Spirit in any role for the success of the seven-point roadmap of the State; (2) to honour the State Peace and Development Council for striving to the best of its ability for the development of the Union of Myanmar and for the national races to continue to preserve and safeguard the progress achieved.

Later, the mass rally concluded with chanting slogans.

1. On the morning of the 11th waxing of Thadingyut, 1365 Myanmar Era, Tuesday 21 October 2003, invited representatives of the national races from all the states and divisions of the Union of Myanmar, representatives of social organizations in the country, representatives of the Union Solidarity and Development Association and the local populace gathered at the sports ground at the foot of the Shwezigon Pagoda in the Bagan Archeological Zone to hold a mass rally.

2. The motion calling on all the people of the national races to participate actively and enthusiastically with full Union spirit in any role entrusted for the success of the seven-point future policy programme of the State, and the motion to honour the State Peace and Development Council for striving to the best of its ability for the development of the Union of Myanmar and for the Union races to continue to preserve and safeguard the progress achieved were tabled at the Bagan mass rally. Both the motions were approved unanimously by the people attending the Bagan mass rally.

3. The Bagan mass rally pays tribute to the State Peace and Development Council for striving to the best of its ability, at an accelerated pace, not only for the emergence of peace, prosperity, and development in the country, but also for the propagation of the spirit of national unity and Union spirit that constitute the main pillars for the perpetuation of the Union, by laying down clearly defined aid enduring political, economic and social objectives in advancing towards the national goal of building a peaceful modern developed nation.

4. As a result of the. efforts of the State Peace and Development Council through reliance on the national strength existing within the country and with the participation of the entire people, the Union of Myanmar is today on the right path to development. The Bagan mass rally honours the positive results stemming from the materialization of the endeavours for the emergence of such sound foundations and fruitful results for national unity as the infrastructures for national economic progress, social development and technological development within the State.

5. Since the Bagan mass rally has given unanimous endorsement to the motion calling for all the people of the national races to participate actively and enthusiastically with full Union spirit in any role entrusted for the success of the seven-point future policy programme of the State, the Bagan mass rally expresses the belief that the seven-point policy programme presented by the Prime Minister at the Pyithu Hlutaw building in Yangon on 30 August, 2003 is the policy programme of all the national races of the Union of Myanmar.

6. According to the presentations made at the Bagan mass rally, the principal responsibilities of building a new modern nation with discipline-flourishing democracy are prevalence of peace in the nation, strengthening the economy of the nation and the national races and uplift of the standard of national education, and consequently, the Bagan mass rally would like to urge the whole nation to strive for the emergence of conditions conducive to these factors based on concepts that do not contradict the Union spirit.

7. The participants of the mass rally held at the historic Bagan Archeological Zone where the first Myanmar Empire was founded and had flourished, as a demonstration of their resolute will and the Union spirit, declare that the goals of the people are: * the perpetuation of the Union * the unity of the national races * the emergence of a peaceful modern developed nation, and * the building of a new modern nation with discipline-flourishing democracy.

Deputy Minister inspects sale of lots of gems

YANGON, 21 Oct - Chairman of the Central Committee for Organizing the Mid-year Myanma Gems Emporium Deputy Minister for Mines U Myint Thein this morning viewed the lots of gems which were being sold through the competitive bidding at the Myanma Gems Mart on Kaba Aye Pagoda Road.

From 20 October up to this morning a total of 44 lots of gems worth over 8.2 million euros were sold under the tender system and competitive bidding system.

The deputy minister presented a gift and a certificate of honour to U Win Gyi of Blue Eagle Co, who purchased the gems lots most. Lots of gems will be sold tomorrow for the last day.

STOM concludes

YANGON, 21 Oct - The second day and the last day sessions of the 16th ASEAN Senior Transport Officials Meeting hosted by Myanmar were held at the Sedona Hotel on Kaba Aye Pagoda Road here this morning.

Present on the occasion were senior officials and delegation members of the ASEAN countries, Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam, officials of the ASEAN Secretariat and representatives of host Myanmar and officials.

ASOD delegates tour Shan State

YANGON, 21 Oct- The 24th ASEAN Senior Officials Meeting on Drug Matters (ASOD) and ASEAN and China Cooperative operations in Response to Dangerous Drugs (ACCORD) Task Force III (Law Enforcement) meeting under the aegis of ASEAN Secretariat and UNODC were held here from 14 to 16 October.

Delegates from ASEAN and UNODC, China, Belgium, Germany, the Netherlands and ASEAN Secretariat and delegates of Italian, Japanese and US Embassies in Myanmar led by Director of International Relations of CCDAC Police Col Sit Aye studied anti-narcotic drugs measures in Lashio and Muse in northern Shan State from 17 to 19 October.

YANGON, 21 Oct - Wellwishers who donated medical equipment to the Thandwe District Hospital were honoured at the People's Hospital in Thandwe on 28 September.

Wellwishers U Oliver Soe Thet of the Myanmar Development Association (For derverein Myanmar e.v) and Daw Khet Khet donated medical equipment worth US$ 55,000, one set of computer; and U Tin Maung Aye of May Barani Co, one oxygen machine; and German Inter Plus, one unit of Autoclave 50 LTR to the hospital.

On the occasion, Chairman of Thandwe District Peace and Development Council Col Khin Maung Than presented certificates of honour to the wellwishers.

YANGON, 21 Oct-The Ma-ha Janakka marionette contest of the 11th Myanmar Traditional Cultural Performing Arts Competitions continued at the National Theatre on Myoma Kyaung Street today.

The contest was attended by Member of the Panel of Patrons of the Committee for holding the competitions Chairman of the Leading Committee for Holding the competitions Chairman of Yangon Division Peace and Development Council Commander of Yangon Command Maj-Gen Myint Swe, members of Panels of Patrons Minister for Culture Maj-Gen Kyi Aung, Chairman of the Work Committee for holding the competition Commander of No-3 Military Region Col Tint Hsan, Commander of No 4 Military Region Col Yan Naing Oo, officials of work committees and sub-committees and enthusiasts.

Shwebo Tin Aung, U Min Kyaw Wai (University of Culture), U Khin Maung Htwe (University of Culture), U Tint Kyaw (University of Culture), U Kyaw Zeya (University of Culture), U TunTun Win (Fine Arts Department) and U Yan Lin Aung took part in the contests.

11th Myanmar Traditional Cultural Performing Arts Competitions continue

YANGON, 21 Oct-The eighth day of the 11th Myanmar Taditional cultural Performing Arts Competition continued at the respective venues today.

The song-contest was held at the National Museum on Pyay road, the marionette contest at the National Theatre on Myoma Kyang Street, the song composing contest at Pantra School on Kaba Aye Pagoda road, the piano contest at the National Theatre on Myoma Kyang Street, the guitar contest at Kanbawza Theatre on Kaba Aye Pagoda road and the Saing contest at Padonma Theatre on Bagaya road here.

The competitions were attended by members of the Panel of Patrons Minister for Transport Maj-Gen Hla Myint Swe and Minster for Culture Maj-Gen Kyi Aung, Vice-Chairman of the Leading Committee for holding the competitions Deputy Minister for Information Brig-Gen Aung Thein, Brig-Gen Than Tun of the Ministry of Defence, Chairman of the Work Committee for holding the competitions Commander of No-3 Military Region Col Tint Hsan, officials of work committees and sub-committees, enthusiasts and tourists.

Chairman of Panel of Judges Assistant Director Daw Tin Tin Mya of MRTV, Secretary Assistant Engineer Daw May Pyone Khine and work committee members made judgements on the performance the contestants at the song contest.

At the professional level Maha Gita song contest (male), a total of six contestants competed with Bon Mya Mya Min song composed by Hanthawady U Waing. At the basic education level Maha Gita song contest (aged 15-20, girls), a total of 11 contestants competed with Myan Thabyay Nya (Yodaya) song composed by U Min Aung.

The professional level classic/modern song contest (female), and basic education level religious song contest (aged 10-15, boys) will be held at the National Theatre tomorrow.

The rehearsal of songs composed by the contestants were held at the Pantra School on Kaba Aye Pagoda Road this morning. Songs entitled Myanma Ahla Myanma Bawa composed by contestants of professional level song-composing contest on 15 October were rehearsed with music accompaniment.

A total of five contestants participated in the higher education level piano contest (male) with Shin Thiwali song. Chairman of Judges for piano contest Sandaya Chit Swe and members made judgements on the performance. A total of four contestants participated in the higher education level piano contest (female) with Gandaya Tawchay (Yoda-ya) song.

A total of 10 contestants participated in the basic education level piano contest (aged 10-15, boys) with Gandaya Tawchay (Yodaya) song. The amateur level piano contest (male) (female) will be held in the morning and the basic education level piano contest (aged 10-15, boys, girls) in the afternoon tomorrow at the same volue. At the professional level guitar contest (male) (female), four contestants took part in the contest with Aung Mingala (Yodaya) song.

At the basic education level guitar contest (aged 10-15, boys), one contestant took part in the contest with Zeya Aung Cha (Kyo) song.

At the basic education level guitar contest (aged 10-15, girls), two contestants took part in the contest with Zeya Aung Cha (Kyo) song.

At the basic education level guitar contest (aged 15-20, boys), two contestants took part in the contest with Sone Taw Myaing song.

At the basic education level guitar contest (aged 15-20, girls), one contestant took part in the contest with Sone Taw Myaing song.

Member of Panel of Judges Gita Kyi Aye and members made judgements on the performance.

A total of 12 contestants participated in the basic education level Saing contest (aged 10-15, boys, single) with Zeya Aung Cha (Kyo) song. A total of nine contestants participated in the basic education level Saing contest (aged 15-10, boys, single) with Thaya (Kyo) song. Member of Panel of Judges U Sein Hla Myaing and members made judgements on the performance.

Sport

C-in-C (Air) Trophy volleyball tournament ends

Next, Brig-Gen Khin Maung Tin, on behalf of the Commander-in-Chief (Air) presented the championship trophy to the winning team.