Bangladeshi Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia inaugurates Bangladesh Trade Fair-2003
Yangon, 20 March - Bangladesh Trade Fair-2003, sponsored by the Ministry of Commerce of the Union of Myanmar and the Embassy of the People's Republic of Bangladesh in Myanmar, was opened at Yangon Trade Centre in Mingala Taungnyunt Township at 9.45 am today. Visiting Prime Minister of the People's Republic of Bangladesh Begum Khaleda Zia opened the trade fair.
After opening the trade fair, Minister for Commerce Mr Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury extended greetings.
Then, Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt delivered an address. In his address, the Secretary-1 said: At the very outset, I wish to say how happy and honoured I am to have this opportunity to attend the opening ceremony of the "Bangladesh Trade Fair-2003". It is most gracious of Her Excellency Begum Khaleda Zia to participate in the opening ceremony. I would like to express my deep appreciation to the organizers of the trade fair. Our thanks go to Minister of Commerce Brig-Gen Pyi Sone and officials of the Ministry of Commerce who provided the necessary assistance to make the trade fair possible. We would also like to thank the large number of Bangladeshi exhibitors for their keen interest in the fair.
It is indeed a great pleasure for Myanmar to cooperate with our Bangladeshi friends in organizing the trade fair. Such fairs are an effective tool for trade promotion and provides an opportunity to introduce products to each other's markets for mutual benefit.
Myanmar and Bangladesh are close neighbours and trading partners. As members of BIMST-EC, and the World Trade Organization (WTO) we are striving to enhance trade and investment for well being of our peoples. The economies of our countries are making steady progress and our trade links with the world is growing. There exist great potential for economic cooperation between Myanmar and Bangladesh. We are happy to note that the volume of trade between our two countries is gradually improving. However, full potential is yet to be realized. We should therefore redouble our efforts to exploit existing potentials. In addition to the Normal Trade, Counter Trade, Transit Trade and also Account Trade should be considered for the promotion of trade between our two countries. Holding of this kind of trade fair is an effective way of market development and to further expand trade. Bangladesh conducted a Trade Fair from 26 to 30 March 2002. This year's Trade Fair is more significant due to the presence of the Honourable Prime Minister of Bangladesh Her Excellency Begum Khaleda Zia. I believe that, this event is also one of the measures to promote increased economic cooperation between our two countries. Yesterday, our Chairman Senior General Than Shwe and Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia were able to hold discussions on a wide range of subjects, particularly on finding ways of strengthening bilateral cooperation in the economic and commercial fields. The exchange of views demonstrated our common desire to enhance trade and investment ties. Moreover, the signing of the MoU on Account Trade Agreement and the establishment of Joint Trade Commission will surely provide momentum to our trade links. In addition, I am very happy that we will be able to sign the agreement on coastal shipping that will surely facilitate trade between the two countries later this morning. I am, therefore, fully confident that the trade and commercial relations between our two nations will continue to grow in the years ahead. In conclusion, allow me to reiterate how deeply honoured we all are for the presence of Honourable Prime Minister of the People's Republic of Bangladesh Her Excellency Begum Khaleda Zia at this "Bangladesh Trade Fair-2003".
Next, Visiting Prime Minister of Bangladesh also gave a speech on the occasion. In her speech, she said: I am extremely happy to be able to attend the inaugural ceremony of the Second Bangladesh Single Country Fair being held in Yangon. The objective of such a trade fair is to promote intra-regional trade, investment and other economic activities between the two friendly neighbouring countries. I strongly believe that this fair displaying our exportable products would open up new opportunities for increasing trade between our two countries. I hope that the 4-day Bangladesh trade fair will attract quite a large number of visitors and familiarise them about our diversified products exported to both developed and developing countries. This trade fair, I believe, will also further strengthen the existing bond of friendship, goodwill and cooperation between our two countries. Both Bangladesh and Myanmar have tremendous economic potential. Both the countries are rich in natural resources. The two countries are bound by historical trade links. There is, indeed, ample scope to expand bilateral trade further. Now is the right time to realize the expectation of our people for a better living standard through trade cooperation. We in Bangladesh are giving priority to developing export of Readymade Garments, Agro-based industries, Agro-processing, Ceramics, Frozen Foods, Information Technology, Light Engineering products including by-cycles, pharmaceuticals, toiletries, jute and jute goods and home textiles. We look forward to working with Myanmar to boost trade and investment between our two countries. I am also confident that as a result of greater interaction between the business communities of the two countries, the two-way trade would increase substantially in the days to come. We have already initiated certain measures such as establishment of a river port in Teknaf and finalization of Account Trade Agreement. I am sure these will soon start yielding positive results. We should also perhaps develop more facilities in both the countries once Coastal Shipping Agreement is activated. Before I end, I would like to express my sincere thanks to the organizers of this exhibition, participants in the fair and the Government of the Union of Myanmar for their all out support and cooperation in making the exhibition a success. Let us all put our best efforts to deepen the existing friendly relationship between our two neighbouring countries. I thank you all. Long Live Bangladesh-Myanmar Friendship.
Later, the guests were entertained with Bangladeshi songs and dances. Afterwards, a ceremony to sign an 'Agreement on Coastal and Maritime Shipping' between the Union of Myanmar and the People's Republic of Bangladesh took place on the third floor of Yangon Trade Centre.
After the ceremony, the Prime Minister of Bangladesh, the Secretary-1 and officials viewed round the booths at the trade fair. Ninety Bangladeshi companies exhibit 90 booths and put on sale household utensils, leather wares, electric appliances, foodstuff, medicines, clothes, cosmetics, handicrafts, construction materials and small machinery at the trade fair. It will be kept open daily from 9 am to 5 pm till 23 March.
Yangon, 20 March- Prime Minister of the People's Republic of Bangladesh Begum Khaleda Zia and members, who arrived here on an official visit at the invitation of Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council and Prime Minister of the Union of Myanmar Senior General Than Shwe, together with Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council General Khin Nyunt and wife Dr Daw Khin Win Shwe, attended the Myanmar-Bangladesh joint-entertainment programme held under the cultural-exchange programme at the National Theatre on Myoma Kyaung Street here this evening.
Bangladeshi artistes presented Jagrta Janata dance, and Myanmar song "Hlay-ka-lay-ko-hlaw-me (Will row the little boat)", mixed folk, folk song, duet folk song, duet dance, classical dance, classical, classical dance. Belles of the Fine Arts Department of the Ministry of Culture presented duet dance and Myananda song.
Visiting Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia presented a flower basket to Myanmar artistes and General Khin Nyunt to Bangladeshi artistes.
Then, the visiting Prime Minister and the Secretary-1 and wife together with cultural troupe members posed for documentary photos.
Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt receives PRC guests
Yangon, 20 March - Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council General Khin Nyunt received Senior Vice President Mr Shi Li Rong and party of ZTE Corporation of the People's Republic of China at Zeyathiri Beikman on Kon Myinttha at 8 am today.
Lunch hosted in honour of Bangladeshi Prime Minister and entourage
Yangon, 20 March - Union of Myanmar Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry and the Bangladesh-Myanmar Business Promotion Council hosted lunch in honour of the goodwill delegation led by Prime Minister of the People's Republic of Bangladesh Begum Khaleda Zia at noon at Sedona Hotel on Kaba Aye Pagoda Road. She is visiting here at the invitation of Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council Prime Minister Senior General Than Shwe. Also present were Minister of Commerce Brig-Gen Pyi Sone.
Before the lunch, the president of UMFCCI and the president of BMBPC made opening speeches. Then, Bangladeshi Commerce Minister Mr Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury, Minister for Commerce of Myanmar Brig-Gen Pyi Sone made speeches. Visiting Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia expressed her words of thanks. Afterwards, President of UMFCCI U Win Myint presented a gift to Bangladeshi Commerce Minister, President of BMBPC Mr Maksud Khan to the Myanmar Commerce Minister Brig-Gen Pyi Sone, the President of UMFCCI to Minister for Communications Barrister Nazmul Huda and Minister for Foreign Affairs Mr M Morshed Khan, Bangladeshi Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia to Vice-President of BMBTC Mr Syed Mahmudul Haque, the President of UMFCCI to Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia. Later, the Prime Minister and party had lunch with those present.
Bangladeshi delegation visits MICT Park, Bagan Cybertech IDC & Teleport
Yangon, 20 March - The visiting Bangladeshi delegation headed by Prime Minister of the People's Republic of Bangladesh Begum Khaleda Zia visited MICT Park and Bagan Cybertech IDC & Teleport this morning.
They were welcomed there by e-National Task Force Chairman Minister for Communications, Posts and Telegraphs Brig-Gen Thein Zaw and members, MICT DC Chairman Brig-Gen Thein Swe and officials.
At the conferencing hall, Brig-Gen Thein Swe briefed on production of Soft Ware, implementation of e-National Task Force's pilot projects, collaboration with other countries including ASEAN nations for ICT development and MICT Park's future tasks. He then answered queries raised by the delegation members.
The delegation also visited Bagan Cybertech IDC & Teleport.
National seminar on protection of new varieties of plants under UPOV Convention held
Yangon, 20 March - The National Seminar on protection of new varieties of plants under UPOV Convention, organized by the International Union for the Protection of New Varieties of Plants (UPOV) in cooperation with the Ministry of Agriculture & Irrigation of the Union of Myanmar with the financial assistance of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) of Japan, was held at the Inya Lake Hotel here at 9 am today. The seminar will continue tomorrow.
Myanma Industrial Exhibition 2003 opens
Over 5,600 private factories running successfully at industrial zones
Agro industries and car assembling gaining success as import-substitute enterprise
Yangon, 20 March - With the six objectives of Myanma Industrial Development Seminars and Industrial Exhibition, the Myanma Industrial Exhibition 2003 was opened on a grand scale at Sinbyukan Grounds in Mandalay, Mandalay Division, yesterday morning, with an opening address by Industrial Development Committee Chairman State Peace and Development Council Secretary-2 Lt-Gen Soe Win.
Industrial Development Committee Chairman Secretary-2 Lt-Gen Soe Win, member of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Ye Myint, Commander of Central Command Maj-Gen Ye Myint, ministers, deputy ministers, and distinguished guests were welcomed along Theikpan Road in Mandalay by band troupes of BEHS-16 and BEHS-1, pom pom troupes of BEHS-8, BEHS-10 and BEHS-12, ribbon dance troupe of BEHS-3, fan dance troupe of BEHS-12, club sport demonstration troupe and dance troupe of BEHS-16.
The opening ceremony was held at the archway of Hsinbyukan Grounds on Theikpan Road at 7.40 am. MC Daw Theingi Shweyi Oo of MRTV-3 announced the opening of the ceremony. Commander Maj-Gen Ye Myint and Chairman of Leading Committee for Holding Myanma Industrial Exhibitions Minister for Industry-1 U Aung Thaung formally opened the exhibition.
Then, the opening ceremony was held at the central pandal in the grounds.
Speaking on the occasion, the Secretary-2 said it is a national level exhibition in which ministries, industrial zones and private industrialists open booths representing all the sectors of the State including the economic and social sectors in addition to the industrial sector. From October 2002 to January 2003, industrial development seminars were held for 21 times - 13 in Yangon and eight at the industrial zones. Programmes are under way to hold research paper reading sessions and meetings during the exhibition.
In accord with the guidance of the Head of State, Myanma Industrial Development Committee was founded in 1995. Due to the encouragement given by the State, the industrial sector has been developing gradually and properly as planned. There are nearly 40,000 private industries scattering in the whole nation. These industries have been regrouped into industrial zones at the suitable places in the states and divisions, and there are now 18 industrial zones all over the country. Over 5,600 private industries are running successfully at the zones. The Myanma Industrial Development Bank was also set up to provide loans to the industrialists at low interest rates.
Industrial courses have been conducted, and the private entrepreneurs are allowed to visit the State-owned industries and abroad to study the advanced techniques. The State has also provided all necessary assistance including power and raw materials. In addition, the Upper Myanmar Industrial Exhibition was held in Mandalay on 4 January 1996; and the Lower Myanmar Industrial Exhibition in Bago in March 1996. The Myanma Industrial Expo-96 was held in Yangon from 24 May 1996 to 2 June 1996, at which entrepreneurs including those from abroad opened over 280 booths. Technology Myanmar Expo-97 was held in Yangon in 1997. The expositions have helped develop the industrial sector.
The industrial zones are producing goods ranging ranging from power-tillers, oil millers and small-scale turbines to cars. Six zones have assembled over 280 cars to this date. In addition to jeeps, they are assembling wagons, light trucks and double cabs. Other zones are also trying to assemble cars.
Because of the establishment of the zones and encouragement given to them, the private industries have reached the stage of using machinery from the level of blacksmiths. The agricultural sector is entering the mechanized farming on an extensive scale from the conventional method.
The agro industries and car assembling are gaining success as an import-substitute enterprise. Based on the success, priority should be given to establishment of import-substitute industries. From that stage, efforts should be made to set up medium-scale and heavy industries. Although priority will have to be given to development of the agricultural sector, on which the nation mainly relies, efforts should be made for development of the industrial sector also.
The industrial sector saw about 9.0 per cent annual average growth in the first four-year short-term national economic plan. In the second five-year short-term plan, it achieved 10.7 per cent increase in the annual average output. The figure was about 15 per cent in fiscal 2001-2002 of the third five-year plan; and 18 per cent up to December in fiscal 2002-2003. The industrial sector is the second largest contributor to the nation's production sector after the agricultural sector. As the prospects are bright and the State has been giving encouragement to the industrial sector, the entrepreneurs are required to try their utmost with goodwill.
As the largest number of industries are owned by the private sector, its role has become vital. Thus, the State organizations and the private sector will have to strive in harmony for further progress of the industrial sector. At the same time, efforts are being made for development of the technological sector and the power distribution sector that are supporting the private industry development. The nation will have to acquire advanced techniques and produce qualified human resources to catch up with the rapidly advancing science and technology in the whole world.
Technological universities, computer universities, government technological colleges, government computer colleges, the Myanma Maritime University and the Myanmar Aerospace Engineering University were opened for development of technology. Moreover, doctorate courses and master's degree courses are being conducted subject-wise. The human resources are being produced for industrial development, and plans are being implemented systematically to build a modern nation.
More and more hydel power generation projects are being implemented in the nation. As water resources in the country can generate 37,000 megawatts of electricity, hydel power projects are the most reliable power supply facilities of the nation.
Of the facilities under construction, Mone Creek Hydel Power Plant will generate 75 megawatts, Paunglaung Hydel Power Plant 280 megawatts, and Yeywa Hydel Power Plant 700 megawatts. Other plants under construction include Shweli Hydel Power Project, Kyaingtaung Hydel Power Project, Kon Creek Hydel Power Project, and Thauk Yaykhat Creek Hydel Power Project. In addition, a coal-fired power station is being constructed in Tikyit region, southern Shan State. The State, departmental personnel and entrepreneurs are required to make harmonious and effective efforts for emergence of a firm industrial sector and for its further progress.
In his guidance for industrial development, the Head of State said, "We all will have to make strenuous efforts in harmony for emergence of an industrial nation. As innovative methods are being applied to enhance the quality of the regular products, so also efforts will have to be made to manufacture new products. The countries of the world are competing against others in manufacturing new products, and no country has ever stopped.
"The private industries will have to gradually step forward from the blacksmith level to mechanized system till reaching the computer controlled system. Only then will the export oriented industry emerge.
"The independent national economy can be set up only if the technological standard of the nation is high. In this era of globalization, all will have to be aware of the big nations' attempt to dominate others with the economic power." All will have to seriously follow and realize the guidance.The Myanma Industrial Exhibition 2003 will help develop industries, share technical and technological knowledge among the entrepreneurs, and boost production of quality goods. About 400 booths are displaying 14 different categories of industrial products. Mandalay was the place where Myanmars started the industrial reforms with patriotism to ward off the colonialists. It is also the place where about 50 industries were set up 120 years ago. At present the nation's industrial sector is enjoying a considerable degree of experiences and rapid progress. All are required to acquire new strength, new visions, new technologies and new markets at the exhibition which will give further impetus to the already developing industrial sector in accord with the slogan "Leapfrog through industrial power".
Then, Chairman of the Leading Committee for Holding Myanma Industrial Exhibition 2003 Minister for Industry-1 U Aung Thaung explained arrangements made for holding the Exhibition. He said that based on agriculture Myanmar was making all-out efforts for the economic development of the country. He continued to say that under the leadership of the State Peace and Development Council, measures were being taken to turn agro-based nation into an industrial country based on agriculture, and then into an industrial nation. Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Senior General Than Shwe himself had laid down the five objectives for industrial development based on agriculture.
The minister continued to say that Myanmar was an agro-based nation, adding in this process, only when industrial sector was promoted and developed, would there be a firm economic development. With a view to ensuring emergence of economically developed industrial country, projects were being implemented after forming working committee for industrial development and respective committees. Besides, altogether 18 industrial zones had been established in suitable regions. The industrial exhibition was held under the six objectives for industrial development. It could be seen, he said, the ministries possessing factories, workshops and mills, cooperative societies, industrial zones and private industrial enterprises participated in the industrial exhibition with great enthusiasm. Resulting from holding the exhibition, one could study production technologies of the State-owned factories and there would be relations between industrial zones or industries and it could contribute towards the State's industrial development through cooperation. Moreover, people had a unique opportunity to see products and machines produced by private industrialists. And industrialists could have a chance to sell their products. Seminars on industrial development had been held at two ministries and 16 industrial zones from 19 October 2002 to 11 January 2003. Similar seminars were being held during the period of the exhibition. One could study advanced technologies, methods, production processes, management subjects, endeavours of human resources development and innovations through seminars on industrial development.
The 30-year project had been drawn and was under implementation for development of Myanmar's industrial sector. In this process, aims had been drawn and designated for building up an industrial nation. He stressed that if Myanmar industrialists carried out innovative tasks with might and main, the 30-year project could be successfully implemented. And surely Myanmar would become an industrial nation which could win the respects of other countries, he added.
Due to the assistance rendered by the government, the production of automobiles of the industrial zones had increased. So far, the government granted permission on production of automobiles to 13 industrial zones and the Ministry of Rail Transportation. Technologies on production of automobiles had improved more and more. It was heartening to see that the industrial zones could produce pickup, light truck, dump truck, farm truck, double cab wagon and Pajero in addition to jeeps. The government sold altogether 553 engines, 260 engines with accessories, and 16,193 accessories to the industrial zones at reasonable prices.
Furthermore, the government had sold 1,388 tons of iron, 17,750 viss of bronze and metal, 544 tons of iron, engines and electrical devices, 94.818 tons of copper, 5,000.89 kilo of tin, 260 tons of cast iron, 170.85 tons of graphite powder, 100 tons of limestone, 900 bags of cement and 20 tons of salt to the industrial zones. Myanma Industrial Development Bank lent K 2,839.183 million to 562 industrialists up to 31 January 2003.
Respective committees and nine subcommittees formed to ensure industrial development were disseminating technologies and methods to industrial zones and industrialists, exhorting them for development of private industrial sector and rendering assistance for the development of human resources. So, the industrial zones and industrialists were to carry out tasks with added momentum.
The minister continued that the present industrial standard was to be promoted through research for penetrating market and boosting production of quality products applying the experiences gained from the exhibition. He pointed out that if the industrial zones and private industries which have been making constant efforts for industrial development are combined with the production sector of the State, the industries will speedily develop in the future.
Then, Chairman of Mandalay Division Peace and Development Council Commander of Central Command Maj-Gen Ye Myint said that Myanma Industrial Exhibition(2003) is held with six objectives and he thanked the State for holding the exhibition, which is held with the aim of enabling the people to know the technologies in manufacturing goods by State-owned and private-owned industries, enabling the industries to make contacts with each other and creating broader market.
On behalf of industrialists, Chairman of Mandalay Industrial Zone U Kyaw Win said that the exhibition is invaluable to industrialists because the respective industrial zones have a chance to display their products in the exhibition. It is sure that the industrialists will be able to make progress in their respective industrial zones or individually by emulating the achievements and strong points of others, he said. He expressed his thanks for holding such exhibition.
Later, the third programme of the ceremony followed. Daw Ohnmar Kyi of No 12 BEHS acted as Master of Ceremonies. First, vocalist Soe Sanda Tun sang a song titled "Myanma Industrial Exhibition" composed by Accordion U Ohn Kyaw with the accompaniment of the dances of 2000 students. Then, 350 students of BEHS 16 demonstrated the playing of Indian Club.
Students of No 12 BEHS also demonstrated physical exercises by singing the song composed by Assistant Teacher (Physical Training) Daw Ohnmar Kyi.
Dance of White Swan was presented by 300 students of No 16 BEHS and 100 students of No 7 and No 21 BEHSs showed their martial art skills.
Afterwards, traditional dances were presented and trainees of Myanmar Martial Art School demonstrated their skills. Then, Secretary-2 Lt-Gen Soe Win presented cash awards to members of Myanma Thaing troupe.
After the opening ceremony, the Secretary-2 and party viewed the central booth, booths of Ministry of Industry-2, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Energy, Ministry of Transport, Ministry of Rail Transportation, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Science and Technology, Ministry of Information, Ministry of Electric Power, Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries and Ministry of Forestry.
The Myanma Industrial Exhibition is held with the objectives -
(a) ensuring the industrial development to play as a main driving force in the Four Economic Objectives of the State;
(b) promotion of all sectors for Myanma industrial development based on market-oriented economic system;
(c) development of industrial products and boosting production of new items;
(d) uplift of quality of industrial products and expanding the export market;
(e) providing assistance to Myanma industrial development through exchange of better technical know-how and technology from home and abroad; and
(f) building a modern and developed nation with the establishment of an industrialized country.
Altogether 14 kinds of industrial products are being displayed at 86 booths of 21 ministries, 182 of 18 industrial zones and 44 of industrialists.
Arrangements are being made to present award to 14 best products, innovative measures and best booths.
Seminar on industrial development will be held at the exhibition and 34 papers will be presented at the seminar.
The exhibition will go on till 25 March.
The Secretary-2 and party left Mandalay by air and arrived back here in the afternoon.
Secretary-2 inspects Myanma Industrial Exhibition, regional development tasks
Yangon, 20 March - Secretary-2 of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Soe Win left for Mandalay by air on 18 March morning. The Secretary-2 and party arrived at Mandalay International Airport and left for Hsinbyukan Grounds in Mandalay where Myanma Industrial Exhibition (2003) is arranged to be held.
The Secretary-2 and party previewed Myanmar Information and Communication Technology booth and exhibition booths of the Agricultural Mechanization Department, Myanma Agriculture Service, Myanma Cotton and Sericulture Enterprise, Myanma Sugarcane Enterprise and Myanma Jute Industries of the Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation, Myanma Paper and Chemical Industries, Myanma General and Maintenance Industries, Myanma Ceramics Industries, Directorate of Industries, the Regional Industrial Coordination and Inspection Department, Myanma Pharmaceutical Industries, Myanma Foodstuff Industries and Myanma Textile Industries of the Ministry of Industry-1, and Directorate of Myanma Industrial Planning, Myanma Tyre and Rubber Industries, Myanma Industrial Construction Services, Myanma Machine Tool and Electrical Industries, Myanma Agricultural Machinery Industries and Myanma Automobile and Diesel Engine Industries of the Ministry of Industry-2. Officials conducted the Secretary-2 and party round the exhibition booths.
Afterwards, the Secretary-2 and party, accompanied by Deputy Commander of Central Command Brig-Gen Nay Win and officials, inspected round the Myanma Agricultural Machinery Factory site in Ingon Village, Kyaukse Township, by car. At the briefing hall of the factory Director-General U Win Maw of Agricultural Mechanization Department reported to the Secretary-2 and party on extension project of Myanma Agricultural Machinery Factory. Then, the Secretary-2 and party inspected the buildings being constructed under Myanma Agricultural Machinery Project. Then, the Secretary-2 and party inspected installation of machines to produce camshafts, flywheels and engine blocks in No 1 workshop, machines for spraying, pressing and welding in No 2 workshop, machines for hardening gear-shifts and finishing in No 3 workshop and installation of machines for melting iron in No 4 workshop and arrangements for blacksmith workshop.
Then, the Secretary-2 and party inspected the trial production of harvesting, threshing and winnowing machines with the harvesting capacity of 8 acres of paddy or wheat per day in No 2 Agricultural Machinery Factory and greeted responsible personnel.
Afterwards, the Secretary-2 and party proceeded to the site of Zawgyi Dam and inspected the construction works. Then, officials explained facts about the dam project implemented on the Zawgyi River 5500 feet below Zeedaw Diversion Weir to the Secretary-2 and party. Then, the Secretary-2 inspected the construction works of the project and gave instructions on implementation of the project with might and main. The dam is being constructed to supply drinking water to Kyaukse and 90 per cent of works have been carried out so far. Afterwards, the Secretary-2 and party returned to Myanma Industrial Exhibition (2003) and viewed the import substitute items of Myanma industrial zones and entrepreneurs such as vehicles including Super Mandala Jeep, Super Mandala Wagon, Super Medium Truck, Htila Jeep, Htila Fighter, Htila Dina, Myaylatt Jeep, Okkala Jeep, Okkala Trucks, Dagon Mega 10, Dagon Diesel Pickup, L-Mini, K-Mini, Chindwin Star Jeep, Mon Hilux, High Star, Shan Star Jeep, Shan Star Saloon, Shan Star Pickup and Mega Jeep, power tillers, pumps, harvesting, threshing and winnowing machines, hydel power turbines, generators, transformers, exports items such as bamboo, wood and cane furniture, and construction materials produced by melting scrap iron. Then, the Secretary-2 cordially conversed with the entrepreneurs. A total of 1220 product items produced by entrepreneurs and industrial zones all over the country, production processes and theories of machines are on display in 237 booths of Myanma Industrial Exhibition (2003). Member of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Ye Myint, who accompanied the Secretary-2, together with Chairman of Mandalay Division Peace and Development Council Commander of Central Command Maj-Gen Ye Myint and Mandalay Mayor Brig-Gen Yan Thein, inspected the tarring of Yangon-Mandalay Union Highway section between Paleik and Myitnge Bridge ( from mile-post 338 to 422 of Mandalay-Meiktila road section) being carried out by Hongpang Construction Co at 11.15 am and gave necessary instructions.
Then, Lt-Gen Ye Myint and party proceeded to the project site of Ayeyawady River (Yadanabon) Bridge to link Tagaung Ward in Sagaing and Shwekyetyet Village in Amarapura Township, Mandalay, on the bank of Sagaing. Superintending Engineer U San Win of bridge construction special group 14 reported to Lt-Gen Ye Myint and party on works to be carried out in 2003-2004 and construction of the approach road in Sagaing. Deputy Minister for Construction Brig-Gen Myint Thein made a supplementary report. Lt-Gen Ye Myint gave instructions on timely completion of the bridge and inspected round the construction works. Then, Lt-Gen Ye Myint and party proceeded to the project site on the bank of Mandalay and inspected the drilling for bole piles of the bridges. Deputy Superintending Engineer of Public Works U Htay Myint reported to Lt-Gen Ye Myint and party on completion of approach road and construction of the main frames of the bridges. Lt-Gen Ye Myint fulfilled the requirements.
Drill of Armed Forces Day parade columns inspected
Yangon, 20 March - Chairman of the Leading Committee for Observance of the 58th Anniversary Armed Forces Day Member of the State Peace and Development Council Chief of Armed Forces Training Lt-Gen Kyaw Win inspected the drills of parade columns this morning.
In the drills of parade column, Parade Commander Brig-Gen Than Htay and Reserve Parade Commander Brig-Gen Myint Aung led the parade columns. The parade drills were practiced by Anawrahta column, Kyansittha column, Bayintnaung column, Nawaday column, Aungzeya column, Sinphyushin column, Bandoola column, Myawady column and Aung San column, Myanmar Police Force, Fire Brigade and Red Cross Society.
Afterwards, Lt-Gen Kyaw Win presented cash awards to parade columns, companies, flag carriers and bands.
Yangon, 20 March - Patron of the Central Committee for Myanma Gems Emporium Minister for Mines Brig-Gen Ohn Myint visited the 40th Myanma Gems Emporium being held at the Myanma Gems Emporium Hall on Kaba Aye Pagoda Road this afternoon. He inspected the sales of jade lots through the competitive bidding system and greeted local and foreign gem merchants cordially. He then left there in the evening. Nine jade lots were sold at 312, 506 US dollars from 5 pm to 7 pm yesterday. A total of 114 jade lots were sold yesterday alone and the sales of jade lots stood at US$ 6, 491, 511.
Today, local and foreign gem merchants bought 27 jade lots at US$ 2,855,482 through competitive bidding system from 9 am to 5 pm. The sales of jade lots will continue through the tender system and the competitive bidding system on 21 and 22 March. Altogether 1, 056 gem merchants - 618 local merchants and 438 foreign merchants - have visited the gems emporium.
Deputy Minister for Mines U Myint Thein presented each gem-encrusted painting and certificate of honour to Super Link Trading Co of Hong Kong, China, which paid the highest price for jade lots, and to Mr Chan Kwok Man of Shiu Lun Jade Co Ltd, who attended the emporium for 25 years at a stretch.
Next, officials also presented certificates of honour to four gem merchants who attended the emporium for 20 years, four gem merchants for 15 years and two gem merchants for 10 years consecutively.
Yangon, 20 March - Deputy Minister for Information Brig-Gen Aung Thein, together with Director-General of the Information and Public Relations Department U Chit Naing, yesterday afternoon arrived at Amarapura Township IPRD Office and gave instructions on information tasks, prevention of fire and staff welfare matters.
Brig-Gen Aung Thein then went to Sagaing TV Retransmission Station and Sagaing District IPRD Office and inspected e-library at the office.
Yangon UDE announces schedules of intensive lectures and examination centres
Yangon, 20 March - The second group special lectures for 2002-2003 academic year of Yangon University of Distance Education will be given from 21 to 30 May and the final examinations will be held at Dagon University, Yangon Eastern University, Mawlamyine University, Pathein University, Sittway University, Pyay University, Taungoo University, Dawei University, Hanthawadi University, Bago Degree College, Hpa-an Degree College and Myeik University from 3 to 8 April 2003.
Second year and third year students majoring in Arts, Law and Economics and who registered at Yangon University of Distance Education and are to attend intensive lectures at Dagon University. Second year students majoring in Economics are to take examinations at Nos 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 BEHS in Insein, Nos 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 BEHS in North Okkalapa; third year students majoring in Business Management at No 1 BEHS in Dagon Myothit (North), third year students majoring in Economics at No 3 BEHS in Dagon Myothit (North) and the remaining second and third year students at Dagon University.
Second and third year art students majoring in Law and Economics who registered at Yangon Eastern University Branch under the UDE Yangon are to attend intensive lectures at their university. Second year students majoring in Economics are to sit for exams at Nos 1, 2, 3 and 4 BEHS in Thanlyin, and Nos 4 and 5 BEHS in Thakayta. The remaining second and third year students are to sit for exams at Yangon Eastern University.
Second and third art students majoring in Law and Economics who registered at the branches of the UDE Yangon are to attend intensive lectures and sit for exams at respective universities and degree colleges.
Further details will be announced soon at respective universities and BEHSs.
Yangon, 20 March - Deputy Minister for Information Brig-Gen Aung Thein, together with Director-General of the Information and Public Relations Department U Chit Naing, yesterday afternoon arrived at Amarapura Township IPRD Office and gave instructions on information tasks, prevention of fire and staff welfare matters.
Brig-Gen Aung Thein then went to Sagaing TV Retransmission Station and Sagaing District IPRD Office and inspected e-library at the office.
Notification on traffic issued
Yangon, 20 March - The Traffic Rules Enforcement Committee today issued a notification in connection with an increase in the number of injured and dead due to the traffic accidents. So, in order to avert accidents, if there is a traffic accident, severe action will be taken against the driver who breaks the traffic rules whether or not the case is settled between those involved in the accident.
Sport
Myanmar trounces Cambodia 5-0 in ASEAN U-14 soccer tournament
Yangon, 20 March - The ASEAN Youth U-14 Championship 2003 Thailand continued in Bangkok, Thailand, at 4.45 pm local time today.
Cambodia was thrashed 5-0 by Myanmar in the Group (A).
Myanamr has nine points in three games. Myanmar will play against Malaysia tomorrow.
Drug
Narcotic drugs control between Myanmar and China discussed
Yangon, 20 March - At the invitation of the Central Committee for Drug Abuse Control, a 12-member Chinese delegation led by President of Yunnan People's Security College Professor Deputy Police Maj-Gen Mr Luo Bingsen arrived here yesterday afternoon.
Yesterday evening, the Chinese delegation called on Minister for Home Affairs Col Tin Hlaing at the latter's office. The Chinese delegation also met Director-General of MPF Brig-Gen Khin Yi at the latter's office at the ministry and they discussed matters relating to narcotic drugs and mutual cooperation between the police forces of the two countries. The delegation then visited the Drug Elimination Museum in Kamayut Township, and there officials welcomed them and conducted them round the museum.
Yesterday evening at 7, Director-General of MPF Brig-Gen Khin Yi gave a dinner in honour of the Chinese delegation led by Deputy Police Maj-Gen Mr Luo Bingsen at the Kandawgyi Palace Hotel.
