State Peace and Development Council Chairman Senior General Than Shwe's Union Day message
Esteemed national brethren of the Union
On the occasion of the 56th Anniversary of the Union Day of the Union of Myanmar, I, with goodwill, wish auspiciousness to all the national races of the Union.
Myanmar is a Union in which various national races such as Kachin, Kayah, Kayin, Chin, Bamar, Mon, Rakhine, Shan and so on are living in all parts. So, every region of the Union itself is a mini-Union, where the different national races are living together in unity. The brethren, who were born in the Union, are living in harmony, in weal or woe and through thick and thin, possessing the spirit to help and understand one another based on friendship. With relentless zeal and perseverance, they have daringly warded off all the dangers risking their lives for perpetuation of the Union and sovereignty.
Thus, the national races were able to found the First Myanmar Empire in Bagan Period, the Second Myanmar Empire in Toungoo Period, and the Third Myanmar Empire in Konboung Period, achieving the glory and winning the respect of neighbouring countries.
The people were able to establish the great sovereign empires when the strength of the national unity was strong and Union Spirit flourished. In addition, the nation saw much progress in her political, economic and social sectors during the times. However, when the national solidarity weakened and Union Spirit waned, the political, economic and social sectors were in a state of decline and even the sovereignty was encroached upon.
At a time when national unity was in jeopardy, the colonialists waged three unjust aggressive wars — the first in 1824, the second in 1852, and the third in 1885 — relying on their superior firepower to annex Myanmar and enslave the national people. Although the nation fell under subjugation and lost her sovereignty, the patriotic national races of the entire Myanmar put up strong resistance against the colonialists with the unyielding spirit to fight on till only the hull is left for over a decade.
With the intention of crushing the strong resistance and enslaving the Myanmar people for a long period, the colonialists resorted to various means to destroy the national unity. They sowed discord among the national races and created suspicions and hostilities with the ultimate target of destroying nationalistic fervour and national pride.
The colonialists divided Myanmar into the plains and the hill regions in governing her. Moreover, they introduced different types of laws and applied different administrative systems for each particular area in governing the hill regions to cause dissension among the national races. They committed acts to divide the national races, giving unequal rights to each ethnic group to cause misunderstanding among the national races. Even when they were about to restore independence to Myanmar, they tried to keep the hill regions under their administration. It can been seen in the pages of history.
In accord with the sayings which go “Blood becomes thicker in times of emergency” and “No one can draw a line on the water to divide it”, the national races showed the spirit of national solidarity at the Panglong Conference on 12 February 1947 to regain the independence in unity. Even in the final moments of granting independence, the colonialists hatched up a wicked scheme to destroy the national solidarity; they abetted the plot to assassinate the national race leaders.
However, due to the relentless efforts made with the strength of the national solidarity and Union Spirit, which were conceived at the Panglong Conference, Myanmar, which had lost independence for 100 years, was able to restore her independence on 4 January 1948, and since then it has been standing tall with glory as a sovereign Union among the world nations.
Although, the nation was able to regain her independence, the national solidarity which had been consolidated with utmost efforts, began to break up, soon after regaining of independence, resulting from the wound the nation had received from the colonialists’ scheme to divide the unity. Because of the consequences of the break-up of the national unity, Myanmar lost peace and stability for nearly 40 years during which the people had to live in fear, and the nation lagged behind in development.
The State Peace and Development Council, seeing that only with the consolidation of national unity would it be possible to make an all-out effort for national development, tried on a wider and deeper scale for national reconsolidation and the propagation of Union Spirit by adopting the national policy: Non-disintegration of the Union, Non-disintegration of national solidarity and Perpetuation of sovereignty. As a result, 17 armed groups, realizing the genuine goodwill of the State and the Tatmadaw, have returned to the legal fold and are lending themselves to the national and regional development endeavours together with the Government, the national people and the Tatmadaw.
Therefore, remote border areas, where the transportation was poor, the living hard and the economic development slow during the past successive eras, have now an improved network of roads, bridges and modern communications. The economic life of the people in those areas has also improved with the development of agriculture, livestock breeding, industry, trade and tourism sectors. The local people are now able to fully enjoy the benefits of schools, hospitals and dispensaries. The border areas today are developing in parallel with the major cities and so various national races are sharing the fruits of peace and stability. As a peaceful, modern and developed nation can be built only with the strength of national unity, the State has been implementing the special projects for better transportation and communications so that there may be increased dealings and contacts among the national people of different regions resulting in deeper friendship among them. The State is creating sound material environments for the development of the agriculture sector, the main pillar of the national economy, and other economic sectors.
In order to bring a harmonious development to various regions of the Union, the three development projects — Project for Development of Border Areas and National Races, Project for Special Development Regions and Rural Development Project — are being simultaneously carried out. Moreover, strategies for national reconsolidation, vitalization of patriotic spirit, propagation of Union Spirit, uplift of morale and morality of the entire nation and uplift of national prestige and integrity have been laid down and are being translated into reality.
The Union of Myanmar is rich in natural resources. In addition, Myanmars are a people of sound personalities. Plenty of historical records have proved this fact. However, national unity was jeopardized due to various kinds of instigations and machinations. Thus, the nation lacked stability and was left behind the neighbouring countries economically and socially.
This being the case, it is necessary for all the national people to realize, in line with the political, economic and social objectives, the aims of building a peaceful, modern and developed nation on a par with the other nations.
Destructive elements within and without the nation cannot bear to see the flourishing of national solidarity and the development of sound political, economic and social environments. Therefore, they are using various ways and means to constantly hinder and sabotage our development tasks. This being so, the entire national people must always remain vigilant against these elements and ward off the dangers posed by them.
Finally, I would like to urge the entire national people to strive for the constant flourishing of patriotic spirit and Union Spirit and to actively and unitedly realize the objectives of the 56th Anniversary Union Day:
— For all the nationals to safeguard the national policy—non-disintegration of the Union, non-disintegration of the national solidarity and perpetuation of sovereignty;
— To keep Union spirit always alive and flourishing among the entire national people:
— For all the nationals to strive in harmony for the emergence of an enduring State Constitution that will pave the way for the building of a new discipline-flourishing nation;
— To ward off, with national solidarity, the danger of destructionists from inside
and outside the nation who are disturbing the stability, peace, modernization
and development of the State.
Myanmar race stands for all ethnic peoples including Kachin, Kayah, Kayin, Chin, Bamar, Mon, Rakhine, Shan who are living in unity
Opening of institutions of higher learning, 200-bed hospital State’s endeavour to enhance Panglong’s glory
Yangon, 11 Feb — As a gesture hailing the 56th Anniversary Union Day and honouring Panglong Region where Union was conceived, opening ceremonies of Panglong University, Panglong 500-line Digital Auto Exchange, Panglong Government Computer College, Panglong Government Technological College and Loilem District 200-bed People’s Hospital, which were constructed for the development of Panglong and Loilem Districts, took place at respective places this morning, attended by Chairman of Myanmar Education Committee Chairman of National Health Committee Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council General Khin Nyunt.
The opening of Panglong University was held at the university at 8 am. Fourteen students formally unveiled the stone plaque of the university. Then, students Sai Myo Aung and Nan Kham Phaung formally opened the main hall of the university.
Next, the Secretary-1 pressed the button to unveil bronze inscription of the university. Afterwards, the Secretary-1, Lt-Gen Aung Htwe, Commander Maj-Gen Khin Maung Myint, ministers, Pro-rector U Tha Oo and Managing Director of Aden Construction Co Ltd U Chit Khaing sprinkled scented water on it. The Secretary-1 and party planted a pine tree, a Thitseint (Terminalia Belerica) tree, a Sethabye tree and an oak tree at respective sites to mark the opening ceremony.
Then, the Secretary-1 and party, together with the pro-rector, the faculty members and students, posed for a documentary photo.
Later, the opening of Panglong University, Panglong Government Technological College and Panglong Government Computer College were held at the Multifunctional Hall of the university.
The Secretary-1 delivered a speech on the occasion. He said Panglong has already owned the dignity as the place of victory for the Union as the national unity reached its zenith during the independence struggle. Opening of the three institutions of higher learning and the 200-bed hospital is an honour for the people living in the whole Panglong region as well as in the entire Loilem District. It is also the commitment of the State to further brighten the glory Panglong has possessed throughout the successive times of history. It is believed that the human resources the three institutions will produce meets the international level, and the youths they will train are patriots imbued with strong national spirit and Union Spirit in accord with the fine traditions of Panglong.
The Loilem District Hospital has been upgraded to a 200-bed facility which possesses all the characteristics of a general hospital. The modern facility will bring health and happiness and fitness to all. Panglong stands as a milestone and victorious place in the course of history leading towards emergence of the Union of Myanmar. To honour Panglong in accord with its significant role in history, Head of State Senior General Than Shwe has given guidance to designate Panglong as a development zone. The Union of Myanmar has emerged not only at present. It has a firm and long history countable by years in the thousand. Throughout the successive eras of history, the ethnic groups had lived together in the same place for many years before they moved to other places where they could find more water supply and better soil. The Union of Myanmar has come into existence after the national races have settled in different places of the motherland. The Myanmar race stands for all the ethnic peoples including Kachin, Kayah, Kayin, Chin, Bamar, Mon, Rakhine and Shan who are living in unity.
According to the geographical features, traditions and culture and customs of the national races, and the formation and existence of the national races, the regions the national races have lived throughout the long history has firmly evolved into the 14 states and divisions forming the Union.
Because of the firm history, all the national races have lived in unity and amity, mutual understanding, forgiveness and kindness, relying on each other and warding off all the dangers based on the unity all along the history of the formation of the Union of Myanmar. Therefore, the colonialists, in their attempt to annex the feudalistic Myanmar, had to stage three aggressive wars in a period of 60 years with the use of modern weapons. Even after their occupation of the entire Union, it took them over 10 years to crack down on the patriotic forces who continued fighting against them. There is concrete evidence in the historical records that the colonialist government tried to drive a wedge and sow discord among the national races in order to jeopardize the national unity. Their ultimate intention in doing so was to prolong their rule and, even if they had to give independence to the entire nation, they intended to influence and dominate it again should the occasion arise.
The colonialists divided the Union into different regions and used a different administrative system for each region. They also demarcated border lines between regions so that there could not be any kind whatsoever of contacts between the national people living in various regions, thus bringing about a development gap. Their division between the plains and the hills was to breed suspicions and discord among the national brethren. All this they did intentionally and systematically. All the national brethren managed to weather the hardships and difficulties which arose out of the machinations of the colonialists and the temptations of their lackeys, and manifested their unity at Panglong. Therefore, the victory of Panglong reflects remarkable national essence and strength. Therefore, the State Peace and Development Council is giving priority to the development of Panglong with the purpose of strengthening the national essence and fervour born out of the Panglong Spirit and traditions. The Government has been making efforts to narrow the gap among the national races and to bring about equitable development in all parts of the nation for perpetuation of the Union. Only when there is equitable development will Union Spirit and the spirit of national unity flourish. With this concept, the Government has laid down plans for development of border areas and national races, the development zones and rural development and implementing them.
In addition, the Government has been building bridges, the Union Highways, the international airports and ports, the communication stations and the TV retransmission stations across the nation to enable the national races to have close contact with one another and to enjoy mutual benefit among them and to do away with the evil legacy of divide-and-rule system.
The socio-economic infrastructure such as dams and reservoirs, electric power plants, universities and colleges, hospitals and dispensaries has been established.
Based on the material development, the Government is to strive together with the entire national people to build the spiritual essence of the Union—nationalism, nationalistic spirit, Union Spirit and spirit of national unity.
The Panglong region has been designated as the special development region in accord with the guidance of Head of State Senior General Than Shwe. Thus, the State-level officials themselves have made field trips right down to townships to ensure development of 11 townships in Loilem District including Panglong Township and are fulfilling requirements in education, health, economic and social sectors. In addition to ensuring better transport in Loilem District a special plan is being implemented for providing better transport in Shan State (South) and Shan State (North).
Nowadays, Panglong University, Panglong Government Technological College and Government Computer College have been opened. In health sector also, the 16 bed-hospitals have been upgraded into the 25-bed ones in townships in Loilem District and the Loilem District Hospital has been upgraded into the 200-bed specialist hospital.
Work is well under way to build Maha Ratthabhisa Maggi Pagoda, the replica of Shwedagon Pagoda in Panglong region, the victorious soil, in memory of the national race leaders who had made efforts for the emergence of the Union in the history of the independence struggle. Therefore, a magnificent and splendid pagoda will soon emerge in the region.
With the emergence of the good foundation for flourishing of the Sasana in Panglong region, the local people are to make collective and collaborative efforts for prevalence of peace and tranquillity in the nation and for consolidation of Union Spirit and sprit of national unity in accord with Panglong Spirit and Panglong’s fine tradition.
Based on Union Spirit and spirit of national unity, all national races have been in unity in times of emergency in the course of history for perpetuation of the Union. This fine tradition can still be seen up to now. Meanwhile, the colonialists and neo-colonialists are still making attempts to sow discord and hatred among national races to undermine the national unity and to weaken the Union with the use of internal and external destructive elements.
At a time when the Government has been making efforts together with the entire national people in unity for national and regional development such attempts of driving a wedge among national races perpetrated by the anti-government groups became wider and wider, he noted. Realizing the source and intention of the colonialists and neo-colonialists all the national races are to make concerted efforts to safeguard the Union, the independence and sovereignty with a sense of duty. The sound infrastructure for regional development and human resources development has been created in Panglong region, thereby contributing to further consolidation of national unity. Based on the national unity all the national races will have to make strenuous efforts for national development and for perpetuation of the Union, he said. In conclusion, he called on the national races to further consolidate Panglong Spirit and Panglong tradition, realizing the goodwill of the Government, the significant national objectives and the genuine national essence to equally enjoy the fruitful results of the national development and to safeguard the fine tradition of living together through thick and thin on the same land and drinking water from the same source as long as the world exists. A documentary video on Panglong University and development of Loilem District was shown.
Next, first year physics major student Ma Nang Paung Hwan said she was glad to see the emergence of Panglong University and thanked the government.
Panglong region is a victorious land where the Union Spirit was conceived based on national solidarity. On 2 March 2002 at the Nawarat Hall in Loilem, Chairman of Myanmar Education Committee Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council General Khin Nyunt quoted Head of State Senior General Than Shwe as saying that Panglong land and Panglong region would be honoured one day. His guidance was given after the Tatmadaw had taken up duties of the State.
She expressed her pleasure for implementation of the tasks for development of education, health, economic sectors and the region in accord with the guidance of the Head of State. Establishment of Panglong University in Panglong where independence and the Union Spirit were conceived was an important task of knowledge age. As a student of higher learning, she now has opportunity to apply changing and developing educational methods of various kinds and to pursue higher education.
The government is striving for development of education in accord with the motto— To build a modern developed nation through education. At the same time, establishment of government computer college and technological college aimed at enhancing human resource development. She spoke on construction of 200-bed specialist hospital and construction of the 135 feet high replica of Shwedagon Pagoda on Vikasini Hill in Union monument ground by the government and the people. She also expressed thanks to the government for its health, education and social measures.
Chairman of Ruby Dragon Co Ltd and Jade Dragon Co Ltd U Nay Win Tun presented K 30 million for Panglong University, technological college, computer college and 200-bed specialist hospital to the Secretary-1. The Secretary-1 and party signed in the visitors’ book of Panglong University. Next, the Secretary-1 cordially greeted faculty members and national races. The Secretary-1 inspected the computer room, library, e-Education Learning Centre, e-Education Resource Centre, lecture halls, public telephone booth of Myanma Telecommunications and greeted local people.
A ceremony to open 500-line digital auto-exchange was held at 10.30 am. Present were the Secretary-1 and party, members of District and Township Peace and Development Council, departmental officials, members of the Union Solidarity and Development Association, Maternal and Child Welfare Association, Women’s Affairs Committee, officials of Mercury Corporation of Republic of Korea and Myanmar Daewoo Ltd and local people.
Commander Maj-Gen Khin Maung Myint, Minister Brig-Gen Thein Zaw, Managing Director of Mercury Corporation Mr Chung Ki Hahn formally opened the exchange. Member of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Aung Htwe formally unveiled the signboard of the exchange. Managing Director of Myanmar Daewoo Ltd Mr J H Park presented a set of computer to Minister Brig-Gen Thein Zaw. The Secretary-1 and party inspected the exchange.
Next, Panglong Computer College was opened at the college. Present were the Secretary-1 and party, local authorities, Principal of the college Daw Yi Yi Pyone, members of USDA, social associations, national traditional dance troupes, local people and students. Commander Maj-Gen Khin Maung Myint and Minister U Thaung formally opened the college. Next, the Secretary-1 formally unveiled the bronze plaque and inspected multimedia room and lecture halls.
Next, Panglong Government Technological College was opened at the college. Present were the Secretary-1 and party, local authorities, Principal of the college U Min Min Oo, members of USDA and social associations, traditional dance troupes and local people.
First, Chairman of Shan State Peace and Development Council Commander Maj-Gen Khin Maung Myint and Minister for Science and Technology U Thaung formally opened Panglong Government Technological College by cutting the ribbon.
Next, the Secretary-1 formally unveiled the bronze plaque of the college. He then inspected the computer room, lecture room, drawing room, workshop and public phone booth.
The opening ceremony of Loilem District People’s Hospital (200-bed) was held at the hospital. Present were National Health Committee Chairman Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt and party, district and township Peace and Development Council members departmental, officials, Medical Superintendent Dr Myo Than and specialists, township doctors, members of USDA , MCWA, social organizations, teachers, students and people. Commander Maj-Gen Khin Maung Myint and Deputy Minister for Health Prof Dr Mya Oo formally opened the hospital by cutting the ribbon. Next, the Secretary-1 formally unveiled the bronze palque of the hospital. The Secretary-1 then inspected the maternity ward and labour room.
Then, the Secretary-1 and party left Loilem by helicopter and arrived at Monghsu at 1.15 pm. They were welcomed there by Col Myint Kyaing of Monghsu Station and Tatmadaw officers, Township PDC Chairman U Myint Hlaing and officials. After that, the Secretary-1 and party went to Monghsu People’s Hospital where Medical Superintendent Dr Myint Thein and nurses welcomed them. The Secretary-1 and party saw over the operation theatre, maternity ward and medical store and gave necessary instructions to officials.
Then, the Secretary-1 and party visited Hanthamuni Pagoda in Monghsu and paid homage to Dhamma Yaungchi Monastery Sayadaw Bhaddanta Vimala and members of Sangha and presented offertories to them. The Secretary-1 and party offered flowers, lights, water to the pagoda.
Next, the Secretary-1 and party attended the opening of multimedia classroom of Monghsu Basic Education High School at 2 pm. Also present at the ceremony were member of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Aung Htwe, Chairman of Shan State Peace and Development Council Commander Maj-Gen Khin Maung Myint, ministers, the Chief of Staff (Navy), deputy ministers, officials of the State Peace and Development Council Office, departmental heads, members of district and township PDCs, social organizations, the township education officer, the school head, teachers and students. First, Headmaster U Khin Hla and Chairman of the School Board of Trustees U Saw Seinda formally unveiled the signboard of the multimedia classrooms. The students of the school unveiled the Myanma Education Goal Stone Inscription.
The Secretary-1 formally unveiled the signboard of the classrooms.
The Secretary-1 and party viewed the learning of the students at reading corner, computer skills room and computer aided instruction room. They also inspected the art room, domestic science room, technical room and altar room. Afterwards, the students entertained those present with dances and presented skills demonstration in the art room. The Secretary-1 presented a computer set for the school to Township Education Officer U Kam Khin Han, who presented a certificate of honour to the Secretary1. Lt-Gen Aung Htwe, Commander Maj-Gen Khin Maung Myint and U Saw Seinda also presented three computers for the school.
Then, PaO National Organization Ruby Dragon and Jade Dragon Co Ltd Chairman U Nay Win Htun donated K 10 million for the construction of Monghsu city hall and K 5 million to the funds of the school. Officials accepted the donation.
U Tun Yin of Lisu national group and U Kun Hlaing-Daw Nan Shwe Ohn donated K 100,000 each for the school through U Kam Khin Han. Then, the Secretary-1 delivered a speech.
The Secretary-1 expressed his thanks to wellwishers for their assistance to open multimedia teaching centre in Mongshu Basic Education High School, Loilem District. He said he found that the students’ intelligence was high and teaching methods we systematic and they met the set standard. It was a significant day for Loilem District including Panglong region and Panglong University, Panglong Government Computer College and Panglong Government Technological College, 200-bed specialist hospital and communication exchange station were opened this morning.
He said the Head of State gave guidance on development of Panglong region where the Union Spirit and independence were conceived. In accord with his guidance, university and colleges would nurture youths from 11 townships in Loilem District to become intellectuals and intelligentsia who would serve the interest of the nation in the future, he said. The youths in the region can now get the opportunity to pursue their higher education. The government created brighter future for the youths and parents in the region, he added. Moreover, he said, tasks for better transport in Loilem District are being implemented depending on the strength of the Tatmadawmen. Gems are mined in Mongshu gemland. Entrepreneurs enjoyed benefits from mining of gems. They also donated cash to development of Mongshu gemland. He said he hoped that similar wellwishers would emerge.
Although Panglong and Mongshu regions lagged behind in development in the past, the regions would develop in the future, he said.
Based on Panglong where the Union Spirit was conceived, Panglong University, Panglong Colleges were established. The Secretary-1 urged the students to try to become intellectuals and intelligentsia who would serve the national and regional interest. The Secretary-1 and party had photos taken together with teachers, members of the school board of trustees and students. The Secretary-1 and party arrived back here in the evening.
On 10 February, the Secretary-1 arrived backed here form Thandwe, Rakhine State. Then, the Secretary-1, accompanied by member of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Aung Htwe, the ministers, the chief of staff (Navy), the deputy ministers, officials of the State Peace and Development Council Office, left here for Namsang, Shan State by air and arrived there in the evening. The Secretary-1 and party were welcomed there by Chairman of Shan State Peace and Development Council Commander of Eastern Command Maj-Gen Khin Maung Myint and senior military officers and officials and members of social organizations.
The Secretary-1 and party went to construction site of Maha Rahta Bhitha Maggi Pagoda on Vikasini Hill in Panglong and inspected progress of earth works and attended to the needs. Then, Secretary-1 and party proceeded to Aungmingala Wantair Monastery. The Secretary-1 paid respects to Sayadaw Bhaddanta Rajinda and inspected renovation of Aungmingala Pagoda and paid homage to ancient pagodas. In the evening, the Secretary-1 and party went to Yadanasi Monastery in Loilem and paid obeisance to the members of the Sangha led by Maha Saddhamma Jotikadhaja Bhaddanta Sila Nanda and presented offertories. USDA Secretary-General U Than Aung, Secretaries U Thaung and Brig-Gen Thein Zaw, Central Executive Committee members Col Tin Hlaing, Col Thein Nyunt, Brig-Gen Pyi Sone, Big-Gen Maung Maung Thein and Brig-Gen Khin Maung met with Loilem District and Township USDAs secretaries, executives, organizers and members yesterday evening. First, Loilem District USDA Executive U Myo Min Aung reported on tasks being undertaken by the association. Then, Secretary-General U Than Aung urged the USDA members to actively participate in implementation of economic and social tasks as Loilem District is progressing.
Region
Union Day Flag arrives in Kyimyindine Township of Yangon (West) District
Yangon, 11 Feb—The Union Day Flag, which stopped over at Thihadipa Sport Grounds in Thanlyin in Yangon (South) District, was conveyed aboard the Union Boat and by flag relay teams to Salin Sport Grounds in Kyimyindine Township in Yangon (West) District this morning. On arrival at the sport grounds, Chairman of Yangon (West) District Peace and Development Council Lt-Col Maung Maung Shein planted the Union Day Flag in the silver bowl on the stage at 7.55 am.
The ceremony to convey the Union Day Flag was held at Thihadipa Sport Grounds in Thanlyin this morning. It was attended by Secretary of the subcommittee for conveying the Union Day Flag and putting up billboards and state/division emblems Head of Engineering Department (Building) of Yangon City Development Committee U Zaw Win, Joint-Secretary Head of Branch U Win Than and members of the subcommittee, members of Yangon (South) District Peace and Development Council, chairmen of the Township Peace and Development Councils in the district, Secretary U Lwin Oo and executives of the District Union Solidarity and Development Association, executives and officials of non-governmental social organizations and local people from Thanlyin, Kyauktan, Kayan, Thongwa, Dalla, Seikkyi-Khanaungto, Kungyangon, Twantay and Kawhmu Townships. First, those present, together with the Guards of Honour of Yangon Division, saluted the flag. Meanwhile, the military band of Defence Services (Navy) played the National Anthem.
At 6.25 am, Chairman of Yangon (South) District Peace and Development Council Lt-Col Sein Hlaing saluted the flag and took out it from the silver bowl on the stage in Thihadipa Sport Grounds. Flanked by four officers of Tatmadaw (Army, Navy and Air) and Myanmar Police Force, and Union nationals, Lt-Col Sein Hlaing carried the flag to the archway of the sport grounds and handed it over to Chairman of Yangon (West) District Peace and Development Council Lt-Col Maung Maung Shein. Then, Lt-Col Maung Maung Shein conveyed the flag and planted it in the silver bowl aboard the Union Boat at 6.30 am. Afterwards, the flag was conveyed aboard the Union Boat from Thanlyin Township to Kyimyindine Township through Kyaikkhauk Pagoda Road, Ayeyawun Road, junction of Ayeyawun and Minnanda Roads, junction of Wayzayanda and Laydauntkan Road, East Horse Race Road, Shwegondaing Junction, Shwegondaing Road, Kaba Aye Pagoda Road, Dhamma Zeti Road, U Wisara Road, Hanthawady roundabout, and Hanthawady Road.
The Union Flag was accorded a rousing welcome along the route by vast multitude of the people, band troupes, traditional dance troupes of national races and students from Thanlyin, Thakayta, Thingangyun, and Bahan Townships.
On arrival at the archway in front of Wayluwun Housing Estate, Lt-Col Maung Maung Shein saluted the flag and took it out from the silver bowl aboard the Union Boat. Then, flanked by four officers of Tatmadaw (Army, Navy and Air) and Myanmar Police Force, and nationalities, Lt-Col Maung Maung Shein carried the flag and handed it over to Deputy Commissioner of Yangon (West) District U Yan Myo Aung Thein. Then, the Union Day flag was convey by the flag relay teams led by Sangyoung Township Peace and Development Council Chairman U Myo Tint, Seikkan Township Peace and Development Council Chairman U Maung Maung Kyi, Mayangon Township Peace and Development Council Chairman U Hla Moe, Hline Township Peace and Development Council Chairman U Kyaw Tint, Kamayut Township Peace and Development Council Chairman U Wai Myo Khaing, Bahan Township Peace and Development Council Chairman U Tun Hla Aung, Dagon Township Peace and Development Council Chairman U Min Soe, Ahlon Township Peace and Development Council Chairman U Than Sein, Lanmadaw Township Peace and Development Council Chairman U Aung Kyaw Myint, Latha Township Peace and Development Council Chairman U Kyaw Win, Pabedan Township Peace and Development Council Chairman U Ohn Cho, and Kyauktada Township Peace and Development Council Chairman U Shwe Maung through Hanthawady Road, Upper Kyinmyindine Road, and Panpingyi Road. Then, the flag relay team led by Yangon West District USDA Secretary U Tin Win conveyed the flag. On arrival at the archway of Salin Sport Grounds, Secretary U Tin Win handed over the flag to Lt-Col Maung Maung Shein. Lt-Col Maung Maung Shein, flanked by four officers of Tatmadaw (Army, Navy and Air) and Myanmar Police Force, and Union nationals, carried the flag and planted it in the silver bowl on the stage in the sport grounds at 7.55 am. The Guard of Honour of Yangon Command and the local people saluted the Union Flag to the strains of the National Anthem played by Tatmadaw (Air) band. This evening, vocalists pianist Chit Swe, Tin Tin Mya, Yi Yi Thant, Maung Maung Gyi, Kaytu Win Htut, Soe Sanda Tun, Myo Myint Lay, Than Myat Soe, Tekkatho Lei Lei, Nwe Yin Win and others entertained the audience with Myanmar Music. Documentary Films have been shown from 8 to 12 February at the sport grounds. Shwe Myinmo Anyient troupe of Yangon Command will stage performance tomorrow. Union Day exhibition booths of Yangon (West) District, Winthuza Shop and traditional medicine shops were opened at the sport grounds.
Lt-Gen Ye Myint inspects water pumping projects in NyaungU and Myingyan Districts
Yangon, 11 Feb — Member of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Ye Myint of the Ministry of Defence left here by air and arrived Bagan-NyaungU Airport on 9 February morning.
Accompanied by Chairman of Magway Division Peace and Development Council Col Zaw Min and officials, Lt-Gen Ye Myint and party met with chairmen and members of Agricultural Supervisory Committees of NyaungU, Myingyan Districts and respective townships at the office of NyaungU District Peace and Development Council.
Speaking on the occasion, Lt-Gen Ye Myint said that in NyaungU and Myingyan Districts, river water pumping projects were being implemented, and all the planned acres of lands were to be reclaimed for extended cultivation of paddy. He continued to say that the Water Resources Utilization Department will complete construction of the main canals and small canals of the river water pumping projects in time. So those in-charge are to carry out tasks for ensuring timely completion of digging drains and earth works simultaneously.
On completion of the projects, greater progress can be made in implementing the agricultural targets. In this regard, officials are to actively carry out respective tasks assigned.
Then, Chairman of NyaungU District Peace and Development Council Chairman of District Agricultural Supervisory Committee Lt-Col Khin Maung Oo and Chairman of Myingyan District Peace and Development Council Chairman of District Agricultural Supervisory Committee Lt-Col Win Myint and members reported on work progress and tasks being carried out on water pumping projects in respective districts. Chairman Col Zaw Min gave a supplementary report.
Regarding the reports, Lt-Gen Ye Myint gave necessary instructions.
Later, Lt-Gen Ye Myint and party went to Umin Koebauk River Water Pumping Project of the WRUD on the eastern bank of Ayeyawady River in Salay Region, Chauk Township, Magway Division. At the briefing hall, Deputy Director U Tin Maung Aye reported on location and purpose of the project and salient points, Deputy Chief Engineer U Soe Myint on electrical data of Umin Koebauk river water pumping project, Chairman of Magway District Peace and Development Council Lt-Col Zaw Thein on reclamation of lands, irrigation and cultivation of paddy and tasks to be undertaken. Chairman Col Zaw Min gave a supplementary report.
Lt-Gen Ye Myint called for exceeding the targets through coordination among the departments.
Lt-Gen Ye Myint and party inspected progress of work of Umin Koebauk river water pumping project and gave instructions.
Lt-Gen Ye Myint and party inspected irrigation to summer paddy fields through the main canal and digging of small canals.
Lt-Gen Ye Myint and party went to Hsutaungpyi Yayle ShweUmin Pagoda in Thonsechauk Village in Yenangyoung Township.
Lt-Gen Ye Myint discussed progress of seasonal crops plantation on sand beach in meeting with Chairman of Yenangyoung Township Peace and Development Council and members, members of the Union Solidarity and Development Association, townselders and students.
Lt-Col Zaw Thein and Chairman of Yenangyoung Township Peace and Development Council U Chit Thein reported on land resource and land use, climate, production of monsoon paddy for 2002-2003 and cold season crops, cultivation of kitchen crops and sand beach crops.
Lt-Gen Ye Myint and party inspected onion plantations along the beach on Pin Creek.
Altogether 13,800 acres of crops were grown in 2000-2001 and 23,321 acres of crops in 2001-2002. Over 2,700 acres of oil crops, 4,020 acres of beans and pulses, 8,422 acres of onion, 883 acres of potato and 362 acres of other kitchen crops totalling 16,495 acres are grown in 2002-2003.
Yangon, 11 Feb — Diplomatic course No 5/2003 of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs was opened at Winzinminyaza hall of the ministry today, with an address by Minister for Foreign Affairs U Win Aung. Thirty nine trainees are attending the 18-week course.
Aung Chantha laterite road opened, Hanthawady and U Wisara roundabouts upgraded
Yangon, 11 Feb — As a gesture hailing the 56th Anniversary of Union Day, ceremonies to open Aung Chantha laterite road linking No 1 Highway in Mingaladon Township, Yangon North District, and No 4 Highway in Shwepyitha Township, and upgraded Hanthawady roundabout in Kamayut Township and U Wisara roundabout in Dagon Township took place at respective venues this morning.
The opening of Aung Chantha laterite road was held at the top of the road of No 1 Highway at 7.30 am. Yangon Division Peace and Development Council Chairman Yangon Command Commander Maj-Gen Myint Swe and Yangon City Development Committee Chairman Mayor U Ko Lay formally opened the road and then had a stroll along the road.
Next, they attended the opening of the upgraded Hanthawady roundabout and U Wisara roundabout, and inspected them.
In accord with the guidance of the Head of State, under the close supervision of Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council General Khin Nyunt, the former has been upgraded into a 160-foot diametre one, and the latter, into a 160-foot diametre one.
The projects began on 21 November 2002 and finished on 9 February 2003.
USDA Secretariat Member tour Magway, Sagaing, Mandalay
Yangon, 11 Feb — Member of the Secretariat of the Union Solidarity and Development Association Minister for Information Brig-Gen Kyaw Hsan attended the ceremonies conducted by USDAs in Magway, Sagaing, Mandalay Divisions and gave instructions on information tasks from 7 to 10 February.
The minister arrived Bagan NyaungU on 7 February morning. Then, he went to Pakkoku and met with officials of township Information and Public Relations Departments in Pakkoku, Pauk, Myaing and Yesagyo townships. At the meeting, he urged the officials to make efforts for the information tasks with added momentum. Arrangements have been made to show interesting films in the townships, he added.
On 8 February, Brig-Gen Kyaw Hsan discussed participation of USDA members in the five rural development tasks with township USDA executives and members in Sagaing Division at USDA office in Salingyi.
Then, the minister accepted K 100,000 do-nated by Agga Maha Gandhavasaka Pandita Bhaddanta Arvudhaka of Maha Gandaryon Monastery in Amarapura Township, Mandalay, for Salingyi primary school and handed over to the headmistress.
Later, Brig-Gen Kyaw Hsan went to the Salingyi IPRD, and gave instructions.
In the afternoon, the minister and party went to Yazakyaw Village in the township and donated clothes and text and exercise books. Then, the minister met with local populace and briefed them on rural development tasks. He then saw over the construction of Yazakyaw Village primary school donated by Ayeya Min Thein Construction Company at a cost of over K 15.3 million.
Afterwards, the minister attended opening ceremonies of library in Yinmabin and Thayetkan Village . He donated books to the libraries and presented clothes, school text books and books to the local populace in the village. Then the minister explained facts about the rural development tasks to the local people.
Dinner hosted to Union Day delegates
Yangon, 11 Feb — Yangon Command hosted dinner to the traditional cultural delegation members of states and divisions and USDA member Union Day delegates who are here to attend the 56th Anniversary Union Day ceremony at the respective residence this evening.
Member of the central committee for organizing the 56th Anniversary Union Day ceremony Management Committee Chairman Yangon Division Peace and Development Council Chairman Yangon Command Commander Maj-Gen Myint Swe hosted a dinner to Union Day delegates at their house and presented gifts.
Similarly, senior officers and officers of Yangon Command also hosted dinner to 90 Union Day delegates at their houses and presented gifts.
International Relations
Health Minister Prof Dr Kyaw Myint receives guests
Yangon, 11 Feb — Minister for Health Prof Dr Kyaw Myint received Senior Nephrologist Dr A R Clarkson of Royal Adelaide Hospital of Australia and party comprising International Kidney organization President Prof Bob Atkins, Ex-president Prof Dr Schrier, Gairdner Foundation Presidient Prof John Dirks and renal transplant specialist Dr Randall Faull at the minister’s office on Pyidaungsu Yeiktha Road here at 1 pm today.
They discussed matters relating to development of nephrology, renal transplant, training, post-graduate studies and provision of teaching and study materials.
The nephrologists visited Yangon General Hospital, Institute of Medicine-1 and the Medical Research Department (Lower Myanmar) yesterday and held discussions.
Director-General Prof Dr Paing Soe of MRD (Lower Myanmar), Rector Dr Myo Myint and professors of
IM-1 and physicians attended the discussions.
The nephrologist team will hold discussions and talks in Mandalay on 13 February.
Sport
Yangon, 11 Feb — The final matches and prize-distribution ceremony of the first Japan Trophy Judo tournament were held at Aung San Gymnasium today.
Chairman of Myanmar Olympic Committee Minister for Sports Brig-Gen Thura Aye Myint, officials of the Ministry of Sports, members of the panel of patrons of Myanmar Women’s Sports Federation and officials of Myanma Judo Federation presented individual prizes to the winners. Then, Japanese Ambassador to Myanmar Mr Yuji Miyamoto presented the championship trophy for men’s division to the Ministry of Forestry team, that got 3 golds, 1 silver and 1 bronze, and Championship trophy for women’s division to the Ministry of Construction team, who got 1 gold and 1 bronze. Afterwards, the minister presented the championship trophy to the Ministry of Forestry team that won 3 golds, 2 silvers, and six bronzes.
