International Relations
Sport
Senior General Than Shwe sends message of congratulations to President of Cuba
Yangon, 9 March — Senior General Than Shwe, Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council of the Union of Myanmar, has sent a message of congratulations to His Excellency Dr Fidel Castro Ruz, President of the Council of State and of the Government of the Republic of Cuba, who has been re-elected as President of the Council of State and of the Government of the Republic of Cuba.
Yangon, 9 March— The conclusion of the one-year traditional medicine practitioners course No 2 (Yangon) was held at the Institute of Nursing here this morning, with an address by Chairman of National Health Committee Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council General Khin Nyunt.
In his address, Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt said the government has given encouragement to uplift of health care services of the people in all sectors through traditional medicine and development of Myanma traditional medical science. The traditional medicine practitioners play a vital role in health care service through traditional medicine. He said the courses for traditional medicine were opened in Yangon and Mandalay at the same time. The aims of promoting the existing traditional medicine and its quality have been realized in accord with the government’s objectives in traditional medicine sector. He said relying on its own national forces, the State Peace and Development Council is endeavouring for enabling the Union of Myanmar to keep abreast with international community. The objective of uplift of health and fitness of the entire nation is a national objective not only for the public participation in national development endeavours but also for their full enjoyment of the fruits of national development with peace of mind.
In accord with the objective, the government has laid down the tasks of uplift of health and fitness of the entire
nation as one of the national objectives and it is implementing the National Health Project after laying them down. Myanma traditional medical science has made the entire Myanmar people healthy and fit in the course of Myanma history. The government is trying to revitalize its role, he said.
Myanma traditional medical science on which Myanmar people rely is genuine national medical science and it has improved step by step in Myanmar society along with Myanma environment, culture, customs and faiths. Uplift of Myanma traditional medical science means promotion of national medical science for public health care services as well as preservation of traditional heritage, he said.
He said the government is making arrangements with full national essence for development of Myanma traditional medical science and extensive promotion of health care services through Myanma traditional medical science.
Head of State Senior General Than Shwe had often given guidance on development of Myanma traditional medical science, he said.
In accord with the desire and guidance of the Head of State, precise objectives, well-grounded programmes and other arrangements are being made for systematic development of traditional medicine, production of potent medicines, treatment of common diseases in the country. Efforts have also been made to encourage the people to study traditional medicine and enhance dignity and efficiency of traditional medicine practitioners, he said.
He said it is heartening to note that significant achievements have been made in Myanmar traditional medicine field due to far-sightedness of the Head of State, encouragement of the government and efforts of physicians, Myanma traditional medical practitioners and entrepreneurs.
Besides traditional medicine institute, a traditional medicine university was opened in Mandalay for turning out well-qualified traditional medicine and medical practitioners, he added. He said the one-year course for traditional medicine practitioners was conducted in Yangon and Mandalay with the aims of promoting the quality of traditional medicine practitioners, learning traditional medicines and giving treatment, turning out qualified outstanding traditional medicine practitioners for the public who rely on Myanma traditional medicine.
Two 50-bed traditional medicine hospitals, ten 16-bed traditional medicine hospitals and 214 district and township traditional medicine centres have been opened in states and divisions for promotion of health care services through traditional medicines, he said.
Primary health care services courses through traditional medicine are being conducted in the townships in States and Divisions with the aim of making the public understand the basic knowledge of Myanma traditional medicine, he added.
In implementing the objectives of the State for development of traditional medical science Myanmar Traditional Medicine Practitioners Association was formed firmly in order to organize and lead the traditional medical practitioners and separate traditional medicine associations in the country unitedly. Myanmar Traditional Medicine Practitioners’ Conference is successfully held yearly. Greater development in Myanma traditional medical field has been made due to the unity of the traditional medicine practitioners.
Similarly, traditional medicines and medical equipment exhibitions are held annually with the aims of modernizing traditional medicine and widing the use of medicine among the people. The people then had an opportunity to know the medicines produced with the use of modern techniques. At the same time, manufacturers have the opportunity to produce modern potent medicines.
The Head of State again gave guidance on development of Myanma traditional medicine and its quality.
The Secretary-1 quoted Head of State Senior General Than Shwe as saying during his inspection tour of Mandalay Traditional Medicine University in December 2002 that the traditional medicine practitioners produced by Traditional Medicine University must be well-qualified enough on whom the State can rely. The university has to be of high standard like other universities.
Efficient and qualified traditional medicine practitioners are to be produced with the help of adoption of modern curriculum, high qualification of the teaching staff and providing sufficient teaching aids.
We should not be complacent with traditional medicines which have been used since our ancestors but try to produce effective Myanmar medicines by using modern scientific methods. The Senior General also advised that special attention must be given to medical research to develop new kinds of effective Myanmar medicines and new therapies. It is very important to establish Mandalay Traditional Medicine University in such a way that it can become a prestigious university recognized by nations of the world.
The Secretary-1 urged physicians, traditional medicine practitioners and medicine manufacturers to make efforts for realization of the lofty goodwill and objectives of the Head of State at a time when the government is building better foundations for development of Myanma traditional medicine and health care services. He spoke of the need for traditional medicine practitioners to endeavour for systematic development of Myanma traditional medicine and providing health care services of high standard to the people in accord with the aims of the course, applying the knowledge and experience gained at the course. He said they are to expose hidden ancient medical treatise and effective therapies and medicines used by ancestors and to conduct research for development of Myanmar traditional medicine.
In conclusion, the Secretary-1 urged them to make efforts for providing public health care services by using traditional medicines, to conduct research on medical science and medicines, make strenuous efforts for winning the public confidence on effective medicines, to follow codes of conduct and to participate in national health projects.
Also present were the ministers, the deputy ministers, officials of the State Peace and Development Council Office, the directors-general and deputy directors-general, the rectors, the director-general of Traditional Medicine Department, members of Traditional Medicine Council, executives of Myanmar Traditional Medicine Practitioners Association, the medical superintendents, officials, course instructors and trainees. Next, the Secretary-1 presented prizes to outstanding trainees, Daw Pa Pa Win, Daw Khin Nwe on behalf of Dr Teza Win and Daw Khin Mi Mi Tun who were first, second and third respectively. Minister for Health Professor Dr Kyaw Myint presented certificates to U Aung Myint who accepted on behalf of the trainees. The course was attended by 292 trainees.
Secretary-1 inspects upgrading of Strand road, Wadan jetty
Yangon, 9 March, — Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council General Khin Nyunt this morning inspected construction tasks for extension of Strand road into a six-lane one and upgrading of Wadan jetty in Lanmadaw Township.
General Khin Nyunt, accompanied by Yangon Division Peace and Development Council Chairman Commander Maj-Gen Myint Swe, visited the construction site for upgrading of Strand road where he was welcomed by Yangon Mayor U Ko Lay and deputy ministers, the vice-mayor and departmental heads. After inspecting the progress of the construction and greening tasks, the General gave necessary instructions.
Then, the General and party inspected construction tasks being carried out along the road.
The Secretary-1 also looked into the tasks for upgrading of Wadan jetty in Lanmadaw Township implemented by Myanma Port Authority of the Ministry of Transport. Managing Director U Thein Htay of Myanma Port Authority presented a report on construction tasks and beautifying tasks. Commander Maj-Gen Myint Swe presented a supplementary report. The General attended to the needs and left there.
At the opening ceremony, Secretary-2 Lt-Gen Soe Win made a speech. He said that Shweli Bridge being opened today was the strategic one on Mandalay-Tagaung-Shwegu-Bhamo-Myitkyina Union Highway, adding that Shweli Bridge construction project was launched after the opening of the Union Highway linking Mandalay Division, Sagaing Division, Shan State and Kachin State in May 2000. In the past, Z-crafts had to be used to cross the river and now transportation has become convenient with the opening of the new bridge. One can now travel from one place to another in a short time. As the bridge is linking the Union Highway which was divided by Shweli River, it can be dubbed as the Union Bridge, he said. In line with the guidance of the Head of State to accelerate the momentum in building the infrastructures required for bringing about all-round development in building up the nation into a peaceful, modern and developed one, projects were implemented with might and main. All-round support is provided for the agriculture sector in the country and as a result, the total cultivated acreage of the country increased from 23.8 million acres to 39.1 million acres with a period from 1988 to date.
The nation’s geographical conditions, favourable climate, richness in land and water resources are the advantages for the economic development. To put these resources to use, necessary infrastructures are required. Hence, the Head of State has guided to build and renovate roads, railroads, airports, ports, etc extensively. In the past, transport networks to link upper and lower Myanmar were lying from south to north on the eastern part of Ayeyawady River. Now, thanks to the appropriate strategy, roads and railroads are constructed extensively to link the eastern part of the country with the western part as well as the southern part with the northern part. The Mandalay-Shwebo-Myitkyina road, the Yangon-An-Sittway road, the Mandalay-Bhamo road, the Myitkyina-Putao road, the Taunggyi-Ywangan-Myogyi-Hanmyinmo road, the Pyinmana-Pinlaung road, the Pyinmana-Taungdwingyi road and the Kawthoung-Bokpyin-Dawei-Mawlamyine road have emerged as Union highways. As regards railroads, new ones are constructed where needed. The Pyay-Aunglan-Taungdwingyi railroad crossing the Central Yoma mountain ranges, the ChaungU-Pakokku-Gangaw-Kalay railroad, the Aungban-Loikaw railroad and the Shwenyaung- Taunggyi- Seikkhaung- Monai-Namhsan railroad crossing Shan Yoma mountain ranges have been built.
Along with the new roads and railroads, river-crossing major bridges are also built. Before 1988, there were 4 major bridges across the main rivers of the country namely Ayeyawady, Thanlwin, Chindwin and Sittaung. Today, 11 more major bridges have been built. The Ayeyawady River (Mandalay) Bridge and the Thanlwin River (Mawlamyine) Bridge are under construction. These projects for ensuring better transportation reflect the genuine goodwill of the Head of State.
To travel to Kachin State in the past, one had to rely on the railway. In 1996, the 289-mile Shwebo-Myitkyina motor road was successfully opened as the Union Highway on the western bank of the River Ayeyawady. The Shweli River Bridge is very beneficial to the people in traveling along the Mandalay-Tagaung-Shwegu-Bhamo-Myitkyina Union Highway. Now, there are two highways for Kachin State to reach Mandalay and Sagaing Divisions.
The State Peace and Development Council Government headed by Senior General Than Shwe always takes into consideration and reviews efforts for ensuring harmonious development of all regions of the Union while narrowing down the development gap, for further strengthening national unity and solidarity; and for ensuring better transportation of all regions in the Union. In line with the guidance of the Head of State, the State has spent huge amounts of funds in building roads and bridges to have better transportation networks all over the country. The Shweli River Bridge is the 152nd major bridge built by the Public Works of the Ministry of Construction. The Ministry of Rail Transportation has built 5 major bridges and the Ministry of Defence 3 bridges. Hence, altogether 160 major bridges have been in the entire Union. The responsible personnel at different levels are making earnest efforts without sparing day and night to ensure the emergence of a modern, developed and peaceful nation in the future. Despite the hindrances and difficulties caused by internal and external elements, the development endeavours have borne fruits. If there are no hindrances and obstacles, the development pace will surely be raised. In conclusion, the Secretary-2 urged the entire people to actively take part in the nation building tasks and wipe out the dangers posed by destructive elements against the interests of the nation and the people. He also urged the local people to participate in maintaining the bridge properly for long-term use.
Also present on the occasion were member of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Ye Myint, Chairman of Kachin State Peace and Development Council Commander of Northern Command Maj-Gen Maung Maung Swe, Chairman of Sagaing Division Peace and Development Council Commander of North-West Command Maj-Gen Soe Naing, Chairman of Mandalay Division Peace and Development Council Commander of Central Command Maj-Gen Ye Myint, Minister for Construction Maj-Gen Saw Tun, Minister for Sports Brig-Gen Thura Aye Myint, Deputy Minister for Construction Brig-Gen Myint Thein, Deputy Minister for Transport U Pe Than, Deputy Minister for PBANRDA Brig-Gen Than Tun, Deputy Minister for Education Brig-Gen Soe Win Maung, Brig-Gen Soe Nwe of Bhamo Station, officials of the State Peace and Development Council Office, heads of department, local authorities, departmental officials, teachers and students, members of the Union Solidarity and Development Association and social organizations, local people, guests and others.
Next, Minister for Construction Maj-Gen Saw Tun delivered an address. In his address, he said that the Ministry of Construction has been making energetic efforts in building roads and bridges for ensuring better transportation. There were only 13,635 miles of road in 1988 and the number has now increased to 17,995 miles showing the increase of 4,360 miles. Since 1988, altogether 152 major bridges each of which is over 180 feet long, inclusive of the Shweli River Bridge have been built by the ministry. The Shweli River Bridge is the ninth one to be opened in Sagaing Division.
Then, Mandalay Division Peace and Development Council Chairman Central Command Commander Maj-Gen Ye Myint made a speech. He said the new bridge will be beneficial to development of socio-economic lives and transportation of regions between Kachin State and Mandalay Division. Thanks to this bridge, one can reach Bhamo from Mandalay in a day. It will contribute towards further development of the regions on the eastern bank of Ayeyawady River.
Next, Kachin State Peace and Development Council Chairman Northern Command Commander Maj-Gen Maung Maung Swe made a speech. He said that in accord with the guidance of the Head of State, the Mandalay-Myitkyina strategic highway stretching from Kachin State to Sagaing Division, northern Shan State and Mandalay Division was successfully built and opened on 11-5-2000. It has enabled the national people residing on the eastern bank of Ayeyawady River to reach one place to another conveniently by road. However, on the Mandalay-Tagaung-Bhamo road section, River Shweli remained as a natural barrier. Now, the bridge has been built across it successfully.
Next, Sagaing Division Peace and Development Council Chairman North-West Command Commander Maj-Gen Soe Naing made a speech. He said that the bridge was built with the aims of bringing about regional development, promotion of socio-economic lives of the local populace and further strengthening national unity. He urged the local people to take part actively in maintaining the bridge for long-term use. Next, on behalf of the local people, Shwegu Township USDA Secretary U Win Maung Thein spoke words of thanks.
At the auspicious time, Commanders Maj-Gen Maung Maung Swe, Maj-Gen Soe Naing and Maj-Gen Ye Myint and Minister Maj-Gen Saw Tun formally opened the bridge by cutting a ribbon. Then, the Secretary-2 and party posed for a documentary photo together with officials and local people at the entrance to the bridge. Then, Minister Maj-Gen Saw Tun unveiled the stone inscription of the bridge. The Secretary-2 and party strolle along the bridge and greeted local people.
The Shweli River Bridge is linking Pyinhtaunglay village of Katha Township in Sagaing Division and NgaO village of Mabein Township in northern Shan State. Its ground-breaking ceremony was held on 11-5-2000. Its upper structure is iron-reinforced concrete and the lower structure iron-reinforced concrete piers. The bridge is 2,330 feet long and its motorway is 28 feet wide. There are 3 feet wide pedestrian lanes on either side of the motorway. The clearance under it is 20 feet high and 130 feet wide. It can withstand 60 tons of load. It was built at a cost of over K 2500 million and 70,000 US dollars. After the opening ceremony of the bridge, the Secretary-2 and party left by helicopter for Mandalay International Airport and thence for Yangon by plane. They arrived back here in the afternoon.
Religion
Seventh 47-member Plenary Meeting of Fifth State Sangha Maha Nayaka Committee concludes
Yangon, 9 March — The Seventh 47-member Plenary Meeting of the Fifth State Sangha Maha Nayaka Committee continued for the second-day session at Wizaya Mingala Dhammathabin on Kaba Aye Hill this morning and successfully concluded in the evening.
It was attended by the member Sayadaws of the State Sangha Maha Nayaka Committee, Minister for Religious Affairs U Aung Khin, Deputy Minister Brig-Gen Thura Aung Ko, Director-General of Religious Affairs Department Dr Myo Myint, Director-General of the Department for Promotion and Propagation of the Sasana U Sann Lwin and officials.
Matters on accomplishment of Vinicchaya, religious and education affairs supplicated by the Fifth SSMNC (third branch), on religious affairs during the second term of the Fifth SSMNC (third branch) and matters on selection of the State Vinayadhara Sayadaws for the fifth four-monthly period were discussed.
Secretary-1 attends enshrinement and htidaw-hoisting ceremony of Shwedagon Replica Pagoda
Yangon, 9 March—A ceremony to enshrine religious objects into Shwedagon Replica Pagoda was held in conjunction with the ceremony to hoist the golden umbrella atop the pagoda at Nyaungkan Aye Sasana Yeiktha on Yangon-Insein Road in Insein Township this morning, attended by Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council General Khin Nyunt.
The ceremony was opened with the three-time recitation of Namo Tassa. Then, the congregation received the Five Precepts from Thayet Sayadaw Bhaddanta Kesara.
Next, Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt presented the diamond bud and offertories to Thayet Sayadaw Bhaddanta Kesara.
Afterwards, Commander Maj-Gen Myint Swe, ministers and deputy ministers presented Hngetmyatnadaw and offertories to members of the Sangha.
Then, Nyaungkan Aye Sasana Yeiktha Sayadaw Maha Dhammakathika Bhahujanahitadhara Agga Maha Kammathanacariya Bhaddanta Indaka delivered a sermon, followed by sharing of merits gained.
Next, Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt, Commander Maj-Gen Myint Swe and wellwishers conveyed diamond bud, Hngetmyatnadaw, religious objects and umbrella to Shwedagon Replica Pagoda kept at the top floor of Sasana Sitaladhamma Beikman.
Then, Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt and Commander Maj-Gen Myint Swe hoisted the diamond bud, Hngetmyatnadaw and religious objects atop the pagoda.
Led by the Nyaungkan Aye Sasana Yeiktha Sayadaw, Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt enshrined the religious objects into reliquary of the pagoda and then sprinkled scented water on them.
Then, Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt hoisted the diamond bud and Hngetmyatnadaw atop the pagoda and then sprinkled scented water on them.
Afterwards, Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt sprinkled scented water on the stone inscription in commemoration of the ceremony. Then, the ceremony ended with the three-time recitation of Buddha Sasanam Ciram Titthatu.
After the ceremony, Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt performed golden and silver showers to mark the success of the ceremony.
Secretary-2 attends dry ration offering ceremony
Yangon, 9 March — A ceremony to donate rice and edible oil to Dhammapala Pariyatti Monastery in Katha, Katha District, Sagaing Division, was held at the monastery yesterday afternoon, attended by Secretary-2 of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Soe Win.
After opening the ceremony with the three-time recitation of Namo Tassa, Dhammapala Pariyatti Monastery Presiding Sayadaw Maha Ganthavacaka Pandita Bhaddanta Vicittasara invested the congregation with the Five Precepts. Next, the Secretary-2 supplicated on religious matters and presented offertories, rice and edible oil to the Sayadaw. Then, Lt-Gen Ye Myint, the commander, the deputy ministers and officials presented offertories to the Sayadaws and members of the Sangha. Sayadaw Bhaddanta Vicittasara then delivered a sermon, followed by sharing of merits gained.
Yesterday evening, Deputy Minister for Transport U Pe Than, who accompanied the Secretary-2, met with the officers of the Directorate of Water Resources and Improvement of River Systems and Inland Water Transport in Katha, and gave instructions on departmental work.
Similarly, Deputy Minister for Progress of Border Areas and National Races and Development Affairs Brig-Gen Than Tun met the staff at the office of Katha Township Development Affairs Committee. The executive officer reported on condition of income, construction of roads and development tasks. Then, the deputy minister gave necessary instructions and inspected Kanna road, downtown roads and Katha Market. Deputy Minister for Education Brig-Gen Soe Win Maung, together with officials saw over Katha No 1 Basic Education High School building and classrooms, where he then met with the school heads and teachers of basic education schools of the township. Director-General of the Health Department Dr Wan Maung met with service personnel at Katha District People’s Hospital, gave necessary instructions and inspected round the hospital.
Region
Dry Day inspection teams discharge duties
Yangon, 9 March — Chairman of the Dry Day Supervisory Committee Minister at the State Peace and Development Council Chairman’s Office Lt-Gen Min Thein and Vice-Chairman Minister for Mines Brig-Gen Ohn Myint, divided into two groups, supervised the Dry Day inspection teams which were discharging duties here today.
The teams checked Dry Day Pass, driver licence, wheel tax and wearing of departmental uniforms of vehicles of Tatmadaw and department concerned at the main points of the city from 7 am to 5 pm. Chairman Lt-Gen Min Thein, Vice-Chairman Brig-Gen Ohn Myint, committee members Deputy Minister for Energy U Tin Tun, Deputy Minister for Home Affairs Brig-Gen Thura Myint Maung, Deputy Minister for Construction U Tint Swe, Police Adjutant-General of Myanmar Police Force Police Brig-Gen Nyo Thein, Vice Provost Marshal Col Saw Lwin, Director-General of the Ministry of Industry-2 U Khin Maung, Secretary of the supervisory committee Deputy Director-General of the Union of Myanmar Government’s Office U Sein Hla and officials supervised the teams.
The team also checked the vehicles violating traffic rules.
Secretary-2 on tour of Katha District in Sagaing Division
Yangon, 9 March— Secretary-2 of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Soe Win left here by air and arrived at Mandalay International Airport yesterday morning.
The Secretary-2 and party then proceeded to Katha in Sagaing Division by helicopter. They were welcomed there by Chairman of Sagaing Division Peace and Development Council Commander of North-West Command Maj-Gen Soe Naing and officials.
The Secretary-2 and party met with Secretary of Sagaing Division Peace and Development Council Lt-Col Ye Htut, departmental officials, the chairmen of Katha District and Katha, Htigyaing, Indaw, Bamauk, Kawlin, Wuntho and Pinlebu Township Peace and Development Councils, members of the Union Solidarity and Development Associations and social organizations at Katha District Peace and Development Council office.
Chairman of Katha District Peace and Development Council Lt-Col Myint Naing reported to the Secretary-2 on cultivation of monsoon and winter crops, rice and edible oil sufficiency in the region, education, health, transport and endeavours made for regional development.
Commander Maj-Gen Soe Naing reported to the Secretary-2 on implementation of work in the respective sectors that have exceeded the targets in 2002-2003, endeavours made for the division to become the granary of Upper Myanmar and implementation of the Five Rural Development Tasks.
Secretary-2 Lt-Gen Soe Win fulfilled the requirements for building Kyauktan-Htigyaing bypass, providing X-ray device for Bamauk and Indaw People's Hospitals, upgrading Pinlebu-Bamauk motor road and made a speech.
In his address, the Secretary-2 said that the State is making systematic efforts for the development of the political, economic and social sectors of the State; as Myanmar is an agro-based nation, the State is fulfilling the needs in the agriculture sector for food sufficiency and surplus; under the guidance of the Head of State, efforts are being made for increasing cultivable land, using quality strains and supplying water for agricultural purpose; it can be seen that there is development in the agriculture sector as well as in the other economic sectors due to fulfilling the needs in the agriculture sector; success has been achieved as a result of the guidance of the Head of State, endeavours of the staff and cooperation of the people; for the emergence of a modern and developed nation, encouragement has been given to the efforts for development of the industrial sector and 18 Industrial Zones have been established by mobilizing the scattered industries; for human resource development, short-term and long-term plans have been implemented; measures are being taken systematically for smooth and secure transportation, fulfilling the needs in electric power supply, development of border areas and providing health care services which are essential for the development of the State.
The Secretary-2 urged the officials to strive for development of the State applying the good opportunity of the State and overcoming the barriers.
After the ceremony, they proceeded to Katha District People's Hospital. The Secretary-2 and party were welcomed there by Deputy Head of Health Department of Sagaing Division Dr Tint Swe and officials.
A ceremony to donate cash for construction of out-patient ward was held at the hall of the hospital. Dr Tin Htwe of Katha District explained the arrangements being made for construction of the ward. Then, one of the donors explained the purpose of the donations.
Secretary-2 Lt-Gen Soe Win accepted K 500,000 donated by Sagaing Division Peace and Development Council, K 200,000 by Katha District Peace and Development Council and K 5.2 million by wellwishers.
Afterwards, cornerstone laying ceremony for the construction of the out-patient ward was held at the chosen site. First, Lt-Gen Soe Win put stone plaque in the designated place. Then, Lt-Gen Ye Myint, Commander Maj-Gen Soe Naing, Minister Brig-Gen Thura Aye Myint, the deputy ministers and departmental heads laid cornerstones at the respective places.
Later, the Secretary-2 and party sprinkled scented water on the stone plaque and performed the rituals of golden and silver showers.
The one-storey-building out-patient ward of Katha District People's Hospital will be 90 feet long and 45 feet wide.
Member of Panel of Patrons of the USDA Secretary-2 of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Soe Win and party met with the secretaries and executives of USDAs of Katha District and seven townships in the district. Lt-Gen Soe Win gave instructions on implementation of the Five Rural Development Tasks and making efforts for the association to become the one on which the people can rely. They also met with local Tatmadawmen and their families at the Aungdagun Hall of local battlion in Katha. Lt-Gen Ye Myint made a speech on the occasion.
After the ceremony, Secretary-2 Lt-Gen Soe Win, Lt-Gen Ye Myint and party cordially greeted those present.
Yangon, 9 March — To ensure upgrading the Yangon City to have international standard, Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council General Khin Nyunt, in accordance with the guidance of the Head of State, has closely supervised extending and upgrading the roundabouts in Yangon. Hailing the 58th Anniversary Armed Forces Day, U Htaung Bo roundabout in Bahan Township and Ayeyawun roundabout in Thakayta Township were opened this morning.
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 roundabouts. YCDC Vice-Chairman Vice Mayor Col Maung Pa, Secretary Col Myint Aung and committee members, heads of departments, Managing Director Dr San Oo of Myanma Electric Power Enterprise, Commander Col Yan Naing Oo of No 3 Military Region, Yangon Division Peace and Development Council Secretary Lt-Col Kyaw Tint and members, Yangon West District Peace and Development Council Chairman Lt-Col Maung Maung Shein and members and others attended the opening of U Htaung Bo roundabout. Commander Maj-Gen Myint Swe and Mayor U Ko Lay formally opened the roundabout and inspected tasks for upgrading of the roundabout.
Similarly, Ayeya-wun roundabout in Thakayta Township was opened No 2 Military Region Com-mander Col Tun Kyi, Yan-gon East District Peace and Development Council Ch-airman Lt-Col Aung Pyi and members, chairmen of Township Peace and De-velopment Councils and oth-ers attended the ceremony.
Commander Maj-Gen Myint Swe and Mayor U Ko Lay formally opened the roundabout and in-spected tasks for upgrading of the roundabout. Under the close supervision of Secre-tary-1 General Khin Nyunt, officials of YCDC and responsible departments have completed upgrading of U Wizara, U Htaung Bo and Aye-yawun round-abouts.
Local and foreign journalists study border region development and anti-drugs activities in eastern and northern Shan State
Yangon, 9 March—The local and foreign journalists led by Col San Pwint of the Ministry of Defence and President of Myanmar Foreign Correspondents Club U Sao Kai Hpa left here by air for Lashio on 4 March morning to observe the development of border areas in Shan State (North) and Shan State (East), and measures being taken for poppy substitute farming in the region.
The group left Lashio for Kokang Special Region-1 in Shan State (North) and arrived at Drug Elimination Museum in Laukkai in the evening. The group was welcomed there by Col Than Win of Laukkai Station, Leader of Special Region-1 U Phon Kya Shin and national race leaders.
Leader of Special Region-1 U Phon Kya Shin explained about development and poppy substitute farming in the region. He said that health, education and socio-economic life of the people has improved as a result of efforts made by Kokang national races under the guidance of the Government for development of Kokang region since 1989. With regional development, emphasis was placed on drug eradication. Although the region was targeted to become drug-free region in 2005, with cooperation of the Government progress has been made in the fight against drug in 2002. It is sure that the region will be free from poppy cultivation and production in 2002/2003. With regard to poppy cultivation and production in the region, any nation and organization is invited to make inspection with the permission of the Government. However much obstacles are, they in cooperation with the Government will make efforts for total eradication of drugs. He then replied to queries raised by the journalists. After posing for documentary photo, the group spent the night in Laukkai.
The local and foreign journalists on 5 March inspected rural water supply, construction of another water tank for agricultural purpose, buckwheat refining factory and Yanlon Kyaing gate of Myanmar-China border. Then, the group proceeded to poppy substitute farming model station, where the In-Charge of the station reported on cultivation of lychee, mango, orange and others and livestock breeding. The group then inspected breeding of pigs at Hsupaung Nyinya farm of Kokang Special Region-1, pepper plantations and others. Next, the group viewed round raising of layers at Kokang National Layers Farm and development of Laukkai region.
Afterwards, the journalists proceeded to Chin Shwe Haw and arrived at Myanmar-China border in Chin Shwe Haw and inspected regional development. The group then arrived at Namtit of Wa Special Region 2 where deputy township officer U Aik Yon reported on measures being taken for drug elimination in the whole Wa Region for turning the region into drug free zone by 2005, thriving of lychee and mango on 5,586 acres of land, cultivation of paddy, maize, soya bean and sugarcane on 2,388 acres of land, land reclamation being made for cultivable land in villages, where other crops could not be cultivated. As a result, Namtit Township will be totally free from drugs by 2005.
Then, the journalists arrived at Muse in the evening. At the Shwethiri Hotel of Muse, Chairman of Township Peace and Development Council Maj Kyi Myint, Director Lt-Col Saw Hla Tun of Border Trade Department and officials reported on development of Muse region, measures being taken for cultivation of poppy-substitute crops, and replied to queries raised by the journalists.
On 6 March morning, the journalists inspected border gates at Myanmar-China border in Muse. They had photos taken.
Then, they visited Amyekaung Farm near Nanpan Village in Muse Township and viewed around thriving lychee, orange, and other plants.
They proceeded to the project site for reclamation of 300-acre land and poppy-substitute cultivation of Shan State (North) Special Region-5. They were welcomed there by Kachin national race leader U Ma Htunaw and leaders of Special Region-5. At the briefing hall, U Ma Htunaw said that efforts have been made for regional development in drugs eradication under the guidance of the government since they had exchanged arms for peace. Poppy-substitute crop cultivation and highland reclamation have been carried out since 2001 with the assistance of the government, and he replied to queries raised by journalists.
Then, the journalists studies construction of Kaungkha Myothit of Special Region-5. They proceeded to Lashio and arrived maize-cultivation and bee-keeping camp (Bonmon Farm) of North-East Command. They were welcomed there by local authorities and departmental officials. Local authorities reported on regional development in Shan State (North), tasks being taken for drugs elimination, distribution of poppy-substitute crops for 2002-2003 and assistance provided to former poppy-growers.
Bonmon farm-in-charge Major Khin Maung Myint explained production of maize for opium substitute cultivation in northern Shan State and bee-keeping. Local and foreign journalists observed maize seeds and bee-keeping.
They went to the sites for reclamation of high land and 560-acre project. Director of Shan State Agricultural Mechanization Department Lt-Col Myint Thein and Shan State Manager of Myanma Agriculture Service U Hla Kyi reported on reclamation of high land and cultivation of crops.
Dr Thaung Htaik of Livestock Breeding and Veterinary Department in Lashio reported on raising of layers and pigs at integrated agriculture and livestock breeding central farm of North-East Command.
They observed cultivation of coffee plants at the farm.
They proceeded to Hsinshweli 100 acre summer paddy plantation in Humon Village, Lashio Township. Lashio District Police Commander Police Lt-Col Maung Kyaing reported on cultivation.
On 7 March, local and foreign journalists observed the perennial crop farm of special region-4 in Mongla. They arrived at Myanmar-China checkpoint where Chairman of special region-4 U San Pe and leaders welcomed them. They visited Mongla MyoOo Dwenagara Shwe Pagoda, Drug Elimination Museum, Golden Square Park, gem museum and market and town.
Chairman of special region-4 extended greetings and General Secretary U Min Ein reported on development tasks after making peace with the government, declaration of opium free zone and anti-drug activities.
On 8 March, local and foreign journalists visited Hong Pang pig farm near Maing Zin Village Kengtung Township.
Farm in-Charge Daw Aye Aye Hla reported on raising of pig and sale.
In the afternoon, they met departmental officials in Tachilek. Leader of anti-drug (special squad) Police Major Kyaw Hsan said there is no opium cultivation in Tachilek and spoke of success of the anti-drug campaign, Medical Superintendent Dr Chit Thein treatment for drug addicts.
Hong Pang agriculture and livestock breeding farm in-charge U Kyaw Naing explained cultivation of short-term and long-term crops. They went to Ardee model village where Chairman of Ardee Village Peace and Development Council U Arzee said they had not grown opium since 1985 and grew lychee plants in 1992 under the arrangement of the government. There are 17,000 lychee plants, he added.
On 9 March, local and foreign journalists went to friendship bridge in Tachilek and they had photos taken there. They arrived back here in the evening.
International Relations
Yangon, 9 March — A 25-member study group led by Daw Nan Phaung, wife of Myanmar Ambassador to the Philippines, arrived here by air on 3 March.
The study group consists of diplomats from embassies based in the Philippines, honorary coun-sellors, members of AESAN Women Association and businessmen from the Philippines. They paid homage on March 4 to Shwedagon Pagoda, Sule Pagoda and Lawka Chantha Abhaya Labha Muni Buddha Image on Mindhamma Hill and visited Myanmar Gem Museum, National Museum, Drug Elimination Museum and Bogyoke Market. The study group arrived at Bagan-NyaungU on 5 March and visited interesting places and Bagan Historical Museum. They visited Mandalay on 6 March. On 7 March, they visited Inlay Lake and paid homage to Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda and Buddha Image in Ngaphal Chaung village monastery.
When they arrived back to Yangon on 8 March, Minister for Foreign Affairs U Win Aung and wife Daw Khin Swe Soe hosted dinner to them at Karaweik Palace at 7:30 pm. The occasion was also attended by departmental heads and officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ambassador of the Philippines to Myanmar Mme Phoebe A Gomez.
The study group had a worthy visit in Myanmar from 3 to 9 March. They left by air for the Philippines on 9 March. They were seen off at Yangon International Airport by officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Sport
MMA (Upper Myanmar)’s golf tournament to be held
Yangon, 9 March — The golf tournament of Myanmar Medical Asso-ciation (Mandalay) will be held at Yedagontaung Golf Club in Mandalay on the morning of 16 March. The doctors from the various parts of the country who wish to participate in the tournament may enlist at MMA (Manda-lay), Ph: 02-38634.
Drug
Yangon, 9 March — A combined team comprising members of the local intelligence unit and Katha Special Anti-Drug Squad, acting on information on 23 February searched Ma Kyi’s house in Aungmingala ward, Indaw. The authorities arrested Thaung Htay together with 4.156 kilos of raw opium in Ma Kyi’s house. Action is being taken against Thaung Htay, 46, son of U Chit Pe of Aungmingala ward in Indaw under the Se-ctions 15/19(A) and 20(A)21 of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Law by Indaw Police Station.
