State Peace and Development Council Chairman Senior General Than Shwe and wife Daw Kyaing Kyaing host 56th Anniversary Independence Day reception and banquet

YANGON, 4 Jan- Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council of the Union of Myanmar Senior General Than Shwe and wife Daw Kyaing Kyaing hosted the 56th Anniversary Independence Day reception and banquet at the Pyithu Hluttaw building on Pyay Road this evening.

Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council of the Union of Myanmar Senior General Than Shwe and wife Daw Kyaing Kyaing arrived at the venue of the 56th Anniversary Independence Day reception and banquet at 6.30 pm.

Senior General Than Shwe and Daw Kyaing Kyaing, together with Vice-Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council Vice-Senior General Maung Aye, Prime Minister General Khin Nyunt, member of the State Peace and Development Council General Thura Shwe Mann, Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Soe Win, Secretary-2 Lt-Gen Thein Sein, Chairman of Yangon Division Peace and Development Council Commander of Yangon Command Maj-Gen Myint Swe, Minister for Foreign Affairs U Win Aung, cordially greeted diplomats and their wives, resident representatives of the UN Agencies and their wives led by Dean of Diplomatic Corps Ambassador of Singapore Mr Simon Tensing de Cruz.

Also present at the banquet were Vice-Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council Vice-Senior General Maung Aye and wife Daw Mya Mya San, Prime Minister General Khin Nyunt and wife Dr Daw Khin Win Shwe, member of the State Peace and Development Council General Thura Shwe Mann and wife, Secretary-1 Lt-Gen Soe Win and wife, Secretary-2 Lt-Gen Thein Sein and wife, members of the State Peace and Development Council and their wives, the commander-in-chief (Navy) and wife, the commander-in-chief (Air) and wife, Chairman of Yangon Division Peace and Development Council and wife, the ministers, the chief justice and wife, the attorney-general and wife, the auditor-general, the chairman of Civil Service Selection and Training Board, the chairman of Yangon City Development Committee Mayor of Yangon and wife, the deputy ministers, the vice-mayor, the directors-general of the State Peace and Development Council Office, the Government's Office, the Pyithu Hluttaw Office, the President's Office and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the diplomats and their wives led by Dean of Diplomatic Corps Ambassador of Singapore, resident representatives of the UN Agencies and their wives, chairmen of the subcommittee for organizing the 56th Anniversary Independence Day, officials of NGOs, national entrepreneurs, delegates of State and Division Union Solidarity and Development Association, outstanding students who won prizes in the 56th Anniversary Independence Day Commemorative Essay, Poem, TV Quiz and Computer Art Competition and guests.

Those present were entertained with the programme of songs by vocalists to the accompaniment of Myanma Athan Modern Music Troupe before and during the banquet. After the banquet, the guests were also entertained with traditional dances by artistes of the Fine Arts Department of the Ministry of Culture at the Thabin Hall.

The entire mass of the people and daring heroes regained Independence in 1948 after waging war on military, political and economic fronts from 1824 to 1948 and Myanmar became a sovereign nation. We must always pay tribute to the national race heroic leaders, youths, monks and the people who by the thousands or even tens of thousands sacrificed their lives in the history of the independence struggle. Senior General Than Shwe, State Peace and Development Council Chairman, Defence Services Commander-in-Chief (From message on the 52nd Anniversary Independence Day) 

YANGON 5 Jan - The following are messages of felicitations from foreign Heads of State sent to Senior General Than Shwe, Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council of the Union of Myanmar, on the occasion of the 56th Anniversary Independence Day of the Union of Myanmar.

Accept congratulations on the occasion of the Independence Day of the Union of Myanmar. I am confident that the relations of friendship and cooperation between Russia and Myanmar will further develop in the interest of the peoples of our countries, peace and stability in the Asia and Pacific Region.

On the occasion of the anniversary of the Union of Myanmar's Independence I convey to the people of Myanmar, also on behalf of my fellow Germans, my best wishes for a bright future in peace and freedom. We very much hope that in Myanmar progress will be made towards establishing democracy and the rule of law, as is the case in other countries in Southeast Asia.'

On the occasion of the National Day of the Union of Myanmar, I have the pleasure to convey my heartfelt wishes to the people of Myanmar. May the links between our two people further intensify in the future.

As you celebrate your Independence Day, I have much pleasure in sending my warmest greetings together with my best wishes to the people of Myanmar for a happy, propserous and peaceful future.

From Mr Georgi Parvanov, President of the Republic of Bulgaria: On the occasion of the National Day of the Union of Myanmar - the Day of Independence, please accept my greetings and good wishes for personal health and success in your highly responsible activities for the wellbeing of the people of Myanmar.

On the occasion of the National Day of the Union of Myanmar, I express my congratulations and best wishes to your excellency and to the people of Myanmar.

On the occasion of the National Day of the Union of Myanmar, I am pleased to extend to you my warm congratulations and my best wishes of good health and personal happiness and prosperity and progress to Myanmar's people. I am confident that the relationship so happily existing between our two countries will develop in the coming years in the interest of our two peoples.

Please accept, Excellency, the expression of my highest consideration.

On the auspicious occasion of the 56th anniversary of the Independence Day of the Union of Myanmar, it is my great pleasure to extend to Your Excellency my most sincere and heartfelt congratulations as well as my best wishes for your wellbeing and for progress and prosperity of your friendly people. With my highest consideration.

From Mr Moshe Katsav, President of the State of Israel:

As the Union of Myanmar celebrates the 56th anniversary of its Independence, I wish to extend to Your Excellency, on behalf of the people of Israel and myself, our warmest congratulations and best wishes for your personal wellbeing and for the continued progress and prosperity of Myanmar and its people. From Mr Fidel Castro Ruz, President of the Council of State and of the Government of the Republic of Cuba: On the occasion of celebrating the 56th anniversary of the proclamation of Independence Day of the Union of Myanmar, it pleases me to extend to Your Excellency, on behalf of the Cuban people and Government, warm congratulations and to express sincere wishes for the enhancement of relations of friendship and cooperation between our two nations, for the prosperity of your country and for your personal happiness. With the assurances of my highest consideration.

YANGON 5 Jan - The following are messages of felicitations from foreign Heads of Government sent to General Khin Nyunt, Prime Minister of the Union of Myanmar, on the occasion of the 56th Anniversary Independence Day of the Union of Myanmar. From Mr Mikhail M Kasyanov, Chairman of the Government of the Russian Federation:

Accept, congratulations on the occasion of the National Day of the Union of Myanmar - the Independence Day.

I am confident that the relations between Russia and Myanmar will continue to develop in the interest of the peoples of our countries, peace and international cooperation.

I wish you good health and every success.

On the occasion of the National Day of your country, I would like to convey to you my warmest congratulations and my best wishes for the prosperity, progress and welfare of the friendly people of the Union of Myanmar.

On the occasion of the National Day of the Union of Myanmar - the day of independence. It is honour and pleasure to extend to you as well as to the people of Myanmar cordial congratulations and best wishes for peace, progress and prosperity.

The celebrations of the National Day of the Union of Myanmar is for me an opportunity to extend to you my warm congratulations as well as all my best wishes of good health and happiness. I am also very pleased to express my attachment to the strengthening and the development of out bilateral relationship. Please accept, Excellency, the expression of my highest consideration.

On the auspicious occasion of the 56th anniversary of the Independence Day of the Union of Myanmar, it gives me great pleasure to extend to you, the Government and people of Myanmar on behalf of the Government and people of Egypt and in my own name our warmest congratulations and best wishes for the prosperity and wellbeing of the friendly people and government of the Union of Myanmar.

YANGON, 4 Jan - Prime Minister General Khin Nyunt this morning inspected all-round upgrading of Yangon City Kandawgyi Garden and renovation of Maha Pasana Cave. Accompanied by officials of the State Peace and Development Council Office, the Prime Minister arrived at the briefing hall of the Water Plaza in the Central Symbol Zone, Yangon City Kandawgyi Garden, at 9.30 am.

The Prime Minister and party were welcomed by Chairman of the work committee for all-round upgrading of Yangon City Kandawgyi Garden Environs and Yangon Zoological Gardens Chairman of Yangon Division Peace and Development Council Commander Maj-Gen Myint Swe, ministers, the Yangon mayor, deputy ministers and work committee members.

First, Commander Maj-Gen Myint Swe reported on progress in upgrading tasks at the relaxation zone, education zone and central symbol zone in Kandawgyi Garden; Minister for Forestry Brig-Gen Thein Aung on beautifying tasks, planting of grass and trees, construction of the water plaza and water fountain and others; Managing Director of Myanmar Agriculture Service U Tun Than on digging of ditches in Kandawgyi Garden, construction of water tanks, fences, shops, agricultural museum and archway, repairs of swimming pool, arrangements for nursery festival, floating cultivation and cultivation of orchids, herbal and vegetables; Associate Professor of Yangon Institute of Technology Prof U San Kyu on quality control in upgrading the garden; Chairman of Hoteliers' Association Dr Khin Shwe on upgrading works being carried out in the recreation zone; and U Win Aung of Wood Land Co on maintenance of the old aquarium in the garden and installation of cable car.

Next, the Prime Minister gave instructions, saying that measures are to be taken for upgrading Kandawgyi Garden, which has been naturally situated in the heart of Yangon, without harming its natural beauties. Now, upgrading tasks are being carried out for the garden for the convenience of the public. Upgrading of the garden is aimed at creating a relaxation and education zone. And the project being implemented is also an all-round one, he said. More efforts are to be made for the upgrading and maintenance of the garden by applying the internationally standardized techniques, he added.

Afterwards, the Prime Minister inspected construction of the water plaza in Central Symbol Zone and upgrading works in the Recreation Zone. The commander and officials conducted the Prime Minister round the zones.

The Prime Minister went to Yangon Zoological Gardens. At the briefing hall Minister Brig-Gen Thein Aung reported on conditions of the Gardens, income and expenditure, landscaping, planting of flowers and shade trees and renovation of buildings. The Prime Minister said as the Union National Races Village, Kandawgyi Garden and Zoological Gardens are being upgraded, the number of visitors is on the increase day by day. So, systematic measures are to be taken for upgrading and maintenance tasks. He then inspected upgrading tasks of the Zoological Gardens. Next, the Prime Minister looked into upgrading of the relaxation zone and education zone. Officials reported on their arrangements for upgrading tasks. Later, the Prime Minister proceeded to Theinbyu Tennis Court in Mingala Taungnyunt Township at 12.45 pm. Minister for Sports Brig-Gen Thura Aye Myint, Vice Chief of Military Intelligence Maj-Gen Kyaw Win and Myanmar Tennis Federation President U Zaw Zaw and tennis players welcomed the Prime Minister. He then inspected the tennis courts and hostels and gave necessary instructions.

The Prime Minister went to Maha Pasana Cave on Kaba Aye Hillock where he was welcomed by Minister for Religious Affairs Brig-Gen Thura Myint Maung and officials.

The Prime Minister saw over the renovation of the cave. Yangon Division Superintending Engineer of Public Works U Nyunt Maung San and officials conducted the Prime Minister round the cave. The Prime Minister later left necessary instructions.

YANGON, 4 Jan- The ceremony to present prizes to winners in the 56th Anniversary Independence Day Commemorative Essay, Poem, TV Quiz and Computer Art Competitions was held at the Pyithu Hluttaw Building on Pyay Road this evening, attended by Chairman of Central Committee for Organizing the 56th Anniversary Independence Day Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Soe Win.

Also present were Secretary-2 of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Thein Sein, Chairman of Yangon Division Peace and Development Council Commander of Yangon Command Maj-Gen Myint Swe, the ministers, the deputy ministers, the director-general of the State Peace and Development Council Office and departmental heads, officials, prize-winning students and guests.

Secretary of the subcommittee for the 56th Anniversary Independence Day Commemorative Essay, Poem, TV Quiz and Computer Art Competitions Director-General of Higher Education Department (Lower Myanmar) U Saw Lwin acted as master of ceremonies. The Secretary-1 delivered an address. He said the students who won the prizes in essay, poem, TV quiz and computer art competitions created their work and displayed their skills in depicting history on the struggle for independence, value and essence of independence, definition of the independence and requirement for safeguarding the independence with full reference and historic facts, adding that it was gratifying to honour those who are worthy of honour. He singled out the four national objectives of the 56th Anniversary Independence Day. He said national races namely Kachin, Kayah, Kayin, Chin, Bamar, Mon, Rakhine and Shan have been living in the Union of Myanmar drinking water from the same source, sharing weal and woe since time immemorial. They preserved the prestige of the State in the successive eras and defended the State and sovereignty with patriotism and Union Spirit, he said. In time of solidarity of the State, the strength of the State was very strong. The State was respected by neighbouring countries. It was evident in history that Myanmar had been established as a country for three times in Bagan, Toungoo and Konbaung eras. Myanmar people with patriotism and Union Spirit are those who love and cherish their own country and people and they value their traditional customs and are ready to after sacrifice their lives for the country and its people. Due to the possession of such spirit, Myanmar people regained independence after sacrificing their lives, blood and sweat, he added.

He said they are to safeguard independence and sovereignty as long as the world exists. It is the national duty as well as a duty bestowed by history for all citizens to make concerted efforts for building of a peaceful modern developed nation, he added. He quoted Patron of the Union Solidarity and Development Association Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council Senior General Than Shwe as saying at the annual general meeting of USDA held on 21 November 2003 that learning lessons from the political experience since the nation had regained the independence, efforts are to be made to fulfil the three basic requirements, namely, ensuring peace and tranquillity, strong economy of the nation and promotion of the national education standard. In accord with the guidance of the Head of State student youths are to make strenuous efforts for emergence of a modern developed nation with full use of their strength.

Now the government made endeavours with the participation of the entire people employing human resources beneficially. This is why the State that is on the right path of development will become a peaceful modern developed nation. He said after the government had taken State duties, it gave priority to national reconsolidation, regional stability and tranquillity and prevalence of law and order. Plans for development of border areas and national races were laid down and implemented with greater momentum for national reconsolidation.

At the same time 17 armed groups returned to the legal fold through mutual confidence and coordination. Leaders of those groups are participating in the tasks to construct infrastructures for regional and national development, he said. In international relations sector, Myanmar is actively taking part in the UN and international organizations, he said. He said the government has laid down various national projects on economic, social and educational development for strong national economic life and emergence of a modern developed nation and is implementing them systematically.

Emphasis was placed on development of agricultural sector in economic sector. As industrial development is crucial in building a modern nation, efficiency of State-owned major industries was promoted and encouragement was given to development of region-wise industries.

Transport is a basic infrastructure for national development. Therefore, the government has been building bridges and roads the length and breadth of the nation and progress has been made in the transport sector as a result.

Nowadays, strenuous efforts are being made to enable the nation to stand shoulder to shoulder with those of the world. The government has laid down and is implementing the national objective of the uplift of the education standard of the entire nation. In the process, the number of basic education schools has increased to over 40,000 in the basic education sector. In the higher education sector, the number of universities and colleges has increased to 154. In the teaching programme, more courses including the doctorate course are being conducted. In the health sector, basic health care centres have increased. The quality of public health care services has increased and the higher quality of health care services reflects the high social standard of the State. At the same time, the number of medical institutes and universities has increased to 14.

In the communication sector, new information and communication technology that is keeping pace with changes and development is being applied and linked with the international network. The government is now in the process of building a discipline-flourishing democratic nation. Therefore, it has laid down the seven-point roadmap of the State. The seven-point roadmap of the State is the basic foundations for a future nation. Every people who cherishes the State is to actively take part in the successful realization of the seven-point roadmap of the State by doing their bit with full Union Spirit.

The essay and poetry competitions are held yearly with the aim of inculcating the youth students with the definition and essence of the independence and this year is the 13th times. It is the 12th time for TV Quiz and the 8th time for computer painting contest. The title of essay competition held this year is new forces for building a new nation and the title of poetry competition, patriotic Myanmar for university, college and institute level; the title of essay competition is a modern and developed nation being built through education and the title of poetry competition a victorious flag for the basic education high school level; the title of essay competition is our country Myanmar, and the title of poetry competition, building a peaceful and modern nation for the basic education middle school level. There were 2,825 contestants in university, college and institute level, 121,875 contestants in the basic education high school level and 215,258 contestants in the basic education middle school level.

The students took part in the essay, poetry, TV quiz and computer painting contests enthusiastically and the number of the students who participated in the contests increased. In conclusion, the Secretary-1 called on the prize-winning students, those who took part in the contests and the entire youths to strive together for the emergence of a peaceful modern and developed nation, to make efforts for realization of the national education promotion programmes for development of highly qualified human resources in whatever sector they are, to participate in successful realization of the seven-point roadmap of the State by doing their bit with Union Spirit and to nurture and keep the spirit to safeguard the independence and sovereignty alive and dynamic in accord with the objectives of the 56th Anniversary Independence Day. Chairman of the Subcommittee for Holding the 56th Anniversary Independence Day Commemorative Essay, Poem, TV Quiz and Computer Painting Competitions Deputy Minister for Education Col Aung Myo Min explained the purpose of the competitions.

Afterwards, the Secretary-1 presented the first, second and third prizes for basic education middle school level essay competition to Ma Shwe Sin of South Okkalapa Basic Education Middle School No 1, Ma Nu Htet Htet Lwin of Sittway Basic Education High School No 4 and Maung Naing Oak Kyaw of Mawlamyine BEMS-4; the first, second and third prizes for basic education middle school level poem competition to Maung Htet Aung Lin of Myitkyina BEHS-3, Maung Tha Noe of Sagaing BEHS-2 and Maung Aung Thurein Tun of Dawei BEHS-1; the first, second and thrid prizes for middle school level computer painting competition to Maung Zawtika Maung Maung Myint of Bago BEHS-3, Maung Kaung Sithu of Dagon BEHS-3 and Maung Yan Naing Oo of Myeik BEHS-1; the first second the third prizes for high school level essay competition to Ma Wai Thi Myint of Thonze BEHS, Ma April Tun of Pathein BEHS-2 and Ma Yin Min Aye of Sagaing BEHS-2; the first, second and third prizes for high school level poem competition to Maung Thura Soe of Nattalin BEHS, Ma May Zin Oo of Pathein BEHS-6 and Ma Nan Ngu Wa Phu Pwint Oo of Bago BEHS-1; the first, second and third prizes for high school level computer painting competition to Ma Shwe Yi Win of Mawlamyine BEHS-8, Ma Tharaphu Aung of Lanmadaw BEHS-1 and Maung Myat Zaw Hein of Sittway BEHS-2; the first, second and third prizes for high school level TV quiz to Ma Tin Hsu Mon of Sagaing BEHS-1, Ma Pan Nyein Han of Sittway BEHS-4, Maung Paing Soe Thu Win Oo of BEHS-1 Magway and Ma May Thet Nwe Oo of Kamayut BEHS-2; the first, second and third prizes for university, college and institute level essay competition to Cadet Wai Zin Thein of Defence Services Technological Academy, Ma The Lwin Oo of Institute of Pharmacy (Mandalay) and Maung Nay Thurein Sein Hla of Nationalities Youth Resource Development Degree College (Yangon); the first, second and third prizes for university, college and institute level poem competition to Ma Saw Einda Thet Maung of Bago Degree College, Maung Thiha Tun of Institute of Medicine-2 (Yangon) and Cadet Bo Bo Aung of DSTA; and the first, second and third prizes for university, college and institute level TV quiz competition to Maung Nay Myo Lwin of University for Development of National Races, Ma Maw Li Than of Dagon University, Cadet San Yu Naing of DSTA and Maung Nay Thurein Sein Hla of NYRDDC.

On behalf of the prize winners, Ma May Thet Ngwe Oo spoke words of thanks. She said the Independence Day of the Union of Myanmar is a significant day in the history of Myanmar. Though Myanmar, under her own kings, had stood as a sovereign and independent nation in the past successive eras, the nation lost her independence and was subjected to the annexation of the colonialists in the late 19th century. With the united strength of the ancestors of the national brethren, independence and sovereignty of the State was regained on 4 January 1948. Therefore, it is the historical duties of the entire national people including students to safeguard independence and sovereignty of the State.

Nowadays, all the national brethren are concertedly striving to build the peaceful, modern and developed nation. In conclusion she pledged to discharge whatever duties in building a peaceful, modern and developed nation. After the ceremony, the Secretary-1, the Secretary-2 and party posed for a documentary photo together with the prize winning students.

YANGON, 4 Jan - As a gesture hailing the 56th Anniversary Independence Day, Lapin bridge constructed by the Directorate of Military Engineers under the arrangement of the Office of the Quartermaster-General was opened at the bridge on Monywa-Yagyi-Kalaywa road in Kalaywa Township, Monywa District, Sagaing Division, yesterday.

It was attended by members of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Ye Myint and Quartermaster- General Lt-Gen Thiha Thura Tin Aung Myint Oo of the Ministry of Defence, Chairman of Sagaing Division Peace and Development Council Commander of North-West Command Maj-Gen Tha Aye, Minister for Construction Maj-Gen Saw Tun, Director of Military Engineers Maj-Gen Tin Tun, Brig-Gen Khin Maung Aye of Kalay Station and senior military officers, local authorities, local people and members of social organizations totalling about 10,000 people. Lt-Gen Thiha Thura Tin Aung Myint Oo delivered an address. He said the Government is building a peaceful modern and developed nation. However, some regions of the nation lagged behind others in development due to poor transport. The Government has been implementing projects to narrow the development gap among the regions under the guidance of the Head of State Senior General Than Shwe. The Chindwin river, flowing from north to south in the division, posed a barrier to the transport sector of the regions on its west bank. So the Head of State gave guidance on undertaking the tasks for facilitation of the transport sector of the region. In accord with the guidance of the Head of State, Monywa-Yagyi-Kalaywa strategic road to facilitate transport to Kalaywa situated at the entrance to Chin State (North). The 115-mile long new Monywa-Yagyi-Kalaywa road is 45 miles short of the old one and reduced the travel time from Monywa to Kalaywa to about four hours. The road would contribute towards the development of the towns and villages along the road, he said.

A total of 174 small and large bridges were situated along the road. Twenty-one of them were constructed with iron beams and reinforced concrete. Lapin Bridge, 220-foot in length and 36-foot in width including two 4-foot pedestrian lanes, was constructed at a cost of K 360 million. Under the arrangement of the Office of the Quartermaster-General, Tatmadawmen, within a short period of one year, were able to construct the bridge installed with high quality iron beams produced in the country. Being able to produce iron beams by Myanmar engineers was the success of the technology entire nation can take pride, he said. The State has been constructing roads and bridges all over the country with the aim of bridging the development gap among the regions. After 1988, a total of 174 bridges of 180 feet and above were constructed in the country including 165 bridges constructed by the Ministry of Construction, six bridges by the Ministry of Rail Transportation and three constructed by the Ministry of Defence. Another six bridges were under construction by the Ministry of Defence, he added. Only after constructing irrigation and transport facilities essential for the development of the country, the tasks to enhance the economy of the State and living standards of the people could be carried out. Therefore the Government, is constructing irrigation and transport infrastructures one after another out of its own goodwill, he said. In conclusion, he urged local people to carry out maintenance tasks of the bridge for its perpetuity and strive for the development of the Union.

Afterwards, Commander Maj-Gen Tha Aye, Director of Military Engineers Maj-Gen Tin Tun made speeches. Later, a local people expressed thanks towards the government for construction of the bridge. The director of Military Engineers handed over documents related to the bridge to Minister for Construction Maj-Gen Saw Tun. Next, the commander, the minister and the director formally opened the bridge. Afterwards, Lt-Gen Ye Myint formally unveiled the stone inscription of the bridge. Next, Lt-Gen Ye Myint, Lt-Gen Thiha Thura Tin Aung Myint Oo, the commander, the minister, the director and party strolled along the bridge and posed for a documentary photo together with local people.

After the ceremony, Lt-Gen Ye Myint, Lt-Gen Thiha Thura Tin Aung Myint Oo and party proceeded to the construction site of Myittha river crossing bridge (Kalaywa) being carried out by the Ministry of Construction. Deputy Chief Engineer (Bridge) (Upper Myanmar) U San Nyein and officials conducted Lt-Gen Ye Myint, Lt-Gen Thiha Thura Tin Aung Myint Oo and party around the construction site. Afterwards, Lt-Gen Ye Myint, Lt-Gen Thiha Thura Tin Aung Myint Oo and party proceeded to the construction site of the bridge on the other bank by boat and inspected round the construction site. After hearing reports presented by officials and Minister Maj-Gen Saw Tun, Lt-Gen Ye Myint gave instructions on timely completion of the bridge and taking safety measures.

YANGON, 4 Jan - The 2004 56th Anniversary Independence Day State Flag Hoisting and Saluting Ceremony was held at the People's Square on Pyay Road this morning, attended by over 10,000 people. The ceremony was held in accord with the objectives of the occasion-For all national people to collectively safeguard the national independence and ensure perpetuation of sovereignty; For all national people to be united to ensure non-disintegration of national solidarity; For all national people to strive for the emergence of enduring State Constitution and for the building of a new modern and developed nation; For all national people to participate with full sense of Union Spirit and patriotism in the successful implementation of the seven-point roadmap of the State.

A total of 9,500 people of Yangon East, West, South and North Districts including members of Division, District and Township Union Solidarity and Development Associations, teachers, students, members of Red Cross Society and Fire Brigade, departmental personnel, members of township Maternal and Child Welfare Associations, workers and farmers assembled at their designated places at 6 am. Also present on the occasion were members of USDA Central Executive Committee, the chairman, the secretary and members of Yangon Division Peace and Development Council, senior military officers of the Ministry of Defence and Yangon Command, members of the work committee for observance of the occasion, departmental heads, rectors and principals of universities and colleges, medical superintendents, division level officials, township education officers, executives of division, district and township level USDAs, representatives of 16 NGOs, national races of the Fine Arts Department, local and foreign journalists totalling over 700 people. At 4:20 am, the year 2004 56th Anniversary Independence Day State Flag Hoisting Ceremony was held. The State Flag saluting ceremony was held at 7 am. The Guard of Honour (Army, Navy and Air) Company marched from the Pyithu Hluttaw towards the People's Square and took position.

Chairman of Yangon Division Peace and Development Council Chairman of the Sub-Committee for Organizing the Yangon City Independence Day State Flag Hoisting and Saluting Ceremony Commander of Yangon Command Maj-Gen Myint Swe arrived there and took the salute of the Guard of Honour.

As the Guard of Honour saluted the State Flag, the State Band played the national anthem. Then, the Guard of Honour paid tribute to the Fallen Leaders and Comrades and recited the four oaths. Next, Commander Maj-Gen Myint Swe read out the message of Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council Senior General Than Shwe. The Guard of Honour then saluted to the commander and left the People's Square.

1. Major Ye Aung (BC 22746), No 1 Military Equipment Factory, Ministry of Defence. 2. Capt Nay Myo Ko (BC 26094), No 1 Military Equipment Factory, Ministry of Defence. 3. Capt Min Zaw Zaw (BC 28276), No 1 Military Equipment Factory, Ministry of Defence. 4. Corporal Win Naing (699318), Central Signals Unit, MInistry of Defence. 5. U Yu Kyi, Deputy Director, Agricultrural Mechanization Department, Ministry of Agriculture & Irrigation. 6. U Ko Ko Aung, Assistant Director, Agricultrural Mechanization Department, Ministry of Agriculture & Irrigation. 7. U Ko Ko, Assiatnt Director, Agricultrural Mechanization Department, Ministry of Agriculture & Irrigation. 8. U Thet Tun Oo, Deputy Staff Officer, Agricultrural Mechanization Department, Ministry of Agriculture & Irrigation. 9. Daw San San Win, Manager, Myanma Perennial Crops Enterprise, Ministry of Agriculture & Irrigation. 10. U Win Naing, Supervisor, Myanma Perennial Crops Enterprise, Ministry of Agriculture & Irrigation. 11. U Myint Thaung, Head of Branch, Myanma Pharmaceutical Industries, Ministry of Industry-1. 12 Daw Ohn Yi, Head of Section, Myanma Pharmaceutical Industries, Ministry of Industry-1. 13. U Naing Min Htut, Head of Section, Insein Balnket Factory No 20, Myanma Textile Industries, Ministry of Industry-1. 14. U Zaw Min, Factory Manager, No 1 Mandalay Brewery, Myanma Foodstuff Industries, Ministry of Industry-1. 15. U Khin Aung, Factory Manager, No 4 Mawlamyine Brewery, Myanma Foodstuff Industries, Ministry of Industry-1. 16. U Khin Tun, Deputy Factory Manager, No 3 Paper Mill (Paleik), Myanma Paper & Chemical Industries, Ministry of Industry-1. 17. U Khin Tun, Head of Section, Insein Blanket Factory No 20, Myanma Textile Industries, Ministry of Industry-1. 18. U Shwe Win, Production Technician-3, Insein Blanket Factory No 20, Myanma Textile Industries, Ministry of Industry-1. 19. U Toe Yi, Head of Branch, Bicycle Factory (Yangon), Myanmar General Maintenance Industries, MInistry of Industry-1. 20. U Aye Tun, Assistant Factory Manager, Sittaung No 1 Paper Mill, Myanmar Paper & Chemical Industries, Ministry of Industry-1. 21. U Shwe Baw Tha, Head of Branch, Sittaung No 1 Paper Mill, Myanmar Paper & Chemical Industries, Ministry of Industry-1. 22. U Kyi Win, Head of Branch, Sittaung No 1 Paper Mill, Myanma Paper & Chemical Industries, Ministry of Industry-1. 23. U Ye Win, Head of Branch, Sittaung No 1 Paper Mill, Myanmar Paper & Chemical Industries, Ministry of Industry-1. 24. U Aung Yi, Head of Section, Sittaung No 1 Paper Mill, Myanma Paper & Chemical Industries, Ministry of Industry-1. 25. U Zaw Win lwin, Assistant Director, Myanma Industrial Planning Department, Ministry of Industry-2. 26. U Thein Zaw Lin, Head of Branch, Myanma Industrial Planning Department, Ministry of Industry-2. 27. Daw Thida Than, Supervisor, Myanma Industrial Planning Department, Ministry of Industry-2. 28. U Shwe Thein, Supervisor, Myanmar Tyre & Rubber Products Industries (Myanma Industrial Planning Department), Ministry of Industry-2. 29. U Toe Win, Supervisor, Myanma Industrial Planning Department, Ministry of Industry-2. 30. U Tun Yi, Manager, No 1 Automobile Plant (Yangon), Myanma Automobile and Diesel Engine Industries, Ministry of Industry-2. 31. U Hla Tun, Head of Section, No 1 Automobile Plant (Yangon), Myanma Automobile and Diesel Engine Industries, Ministry of Industry-2. 32. U Khin Maung Myint, Assistant General Manager, No 1 Myanma Agricultural Machinery Industries (Sinde), Ministry of Industry-2. 33. Daw Yi Yi Khaing, Manager, No 1 Myanma Agricultural Machinery Industries (Sinde), Ministry of Industry-2. 34. U Hsan Aung, Manager, No 1 Myanma Agricultural Machinery Industries (Sinde), Ministry of Industry-2. 35. U Than Nyunt, Assistant Manager, No 1 Myanma Agricultural Machinery Industries (Sinde), Ministry of Industry-2. 36. U Myo Khin, Assistant Manager, No 1 Myanma Agricultural Machinery Industries (Sinde), Ministry of Industry-2. 37. Daw Win Win Aye, Head of Section, No 1 Machine & Spare Parts Production Factory (Nyaungchehtauk), Myanma Machine, Tool and Electrical Industries, Ministry of Industry-2. 38. U Thwin Zaw, Head of Section, No 1 Machine & Spare Parts Production Factory (Nyaungchehtauk), Myanma Machine, Tool and Electrical Industries, Ministry of Industry-2. 39. U Zaw Min Tun, Deputy Head of Section, No 1 Machine & Spare Parts Production Factory (Nyaungchehtauk), Myanma Machine, Tool and Electrical Industries, Ministry of Industry-2. 40. Daw Nyunt Nyunt Swe, Junior Engineer-3 (Civil), Wakema Township Public Works, Ministry of Construction. 41. U Tin Pe, Assisatnt Engineer, Geological Survey Minerals Exploration Department, Ministry of Mines. 42. U Pusi, Junior Engineer-1, Geological Survey Minerals Exploration Department, Ministry of Mines. 43. U Than Tun, Assistant General Manager, Road Transport, Ministry of Rail Transportation. 44. U Kyaw Moe Zaw, Chief Engineer, Myanma Railways, Ministry of Rail Transportation. 45. U Myint Wai, Assistant Engineer, Myitnge Mechanical and Electrical Department, Myanma Railways, Ministry of Rail Transportation. 46. U Kyaw Win, Head of Section-1, Insein locomotive Shed, Myanma Railways, Ministry of Rail Transportation. 47. U Win Sein, Head of Section, Ywahtaung Diesel Locomotive Shed, MR, Ministry of Rail Transportation. 48. U Sein Than, Head of Section-1, Insein Locomotive Shed, MR, Ministry of Rail Transportation. 49. U Nyunt Lwin, Head of Section, Ywahtaung Diesel Locomotive Shed, Myanma Railways, Ministry of Rail Transportation. 50. U Zaw Win, Welder-4, Myitnge Passenger Cargo Coaches Factory, Ywahtaung Diesel Locomotive Shed, Myanma Railways, Ministry of Rail Transportation. 51. U Kyaw Thu, Factory Manager, GTC Press, PPE, Ministry of Information. 52. U Hla Kyi, Junior Engineer-2, GTC Press, PPE, Ministry of Information. 53. U Htay Lwin, Junior Engineer-2, GTC Press, PPE, Ministry of Information. 54. U Thein Lwin, Mechanical Technician-3, GTC Press, PPE, Ministry of Information. 55. U Myint Swe, Press Foreman, Kyemon Daily Newspaper, NPE, Ministry of Information. 56. U Hla Nyunt, Chief Engineer, Myanma Airways, Ministry of Transport. 57. U Shwe Mya, Foreman, Myanma Port Authority, Ministry of Transport. 58. U San Thein, Foreman, Myanma Port Authority, Ministry of Transport. 59. U Tun Aung, Deputy General Manager (Admin), Myanma Telecommunications, Ministry of Posts, Telegraphs and Communications 60. U Tin Tun, Deputy General Manager (Inspection), Myanma Telecommunications, Ministry of Posts, Telegraphs and Communications. 61. U Zaw Tint, Deputy General Manager, Myanma Telecommunications, Ministry of Posts, Telegraphs and Communications. 62. U Nyan Win, Deputy Chief Engineer, Yangon Auto-Telephone, Myanma Telecommunications, Ministry of Posts, Telegraphs and Communications. 63. U Ye Myint Maung, Executive Engineer-B (Mech), Chauk Oil Field, Myanma Oil and Gas Enterprise, Ministry of Energy. 64. U Kyan Aung, Executive Engineer-B (Mech), Pulmber Section, Myanma Oil and Gas Enterprise, Ministry of Energy. 65. U Zaw Win, Exucutive Engineer-B (Transport/Mechanic), Thakayta Base, Myanma Oil and Gas Enterprise, Ministry of Energy. 66. U Shwe Win Maung, Assistant Executive Engineer (Transport/Mechanic), Yepawme Oil Test-well, Myanma Oil and Gas Enterprise, Ministry of Energy. 67. U Win Shein, Assistant Exucutive Engineer (Transport/Mechanic), Yepawme Oil Test-well, Myanma Oil and Gas Enterprise, Ministry of Energy. 68. U Thet Tun, Assistant Engineer (Mech), Plumber Section, Myanma Oil and Gas Enterprise, Ministry of Energy. 69. U Kyi Win, Head of Section (Planning), Chemical Fertilizer Plant (Salay), Ministry of Energy. 70. U San Maung, Deputy Director, Survey Section, Hydro-Electric Power Department, Ministry of Electric Power. 71. Daw Hla Hla Su, Deputy Director, Procurement Section, Hydro-Electric Power Department, Ministry of Electric Power. 72. U Kyaw Hla, Controller-1 (Mech), Machinery Section, Hydro-Electric Power Department, Ministry of Electric Power. 73. U Tun Chit, Executive Engineer-A, Hsedawgyi Power Station, Myanma Electric Power Enterprise, Ministry of Electric Power. 74. U Nyunt Than, Executive Engineer-B, Myanma Electric Power Enterprise, Ministry of Electric Power. 75. U Than Naing Oo, Assistant Executive Engineer, Ahlon Power Station, Myanma Electric Power Enterprise, Ministry of Electric Power. 76. U Win Naing, Assistant Executive Engineer, Baluchaung No-2 Power Station, Myanma Electric Power Enterprise, Ministry of Electric Power. 77. U Aung Moe, Assistant Executive Engineer, Office of the In-charge of Power Grip (Taungoo), Myanma Electric Power Enterprise, Ministry of Electric Power. 78. U Thet Paing Myo, Assistant Engineer, Township Electric Engineer Office (Kyaukse), Myanma Electric Power Enterprise, Ministry of Electric Power. 79. U Soe Thein, Assistant Engineer, Thakayta Power Station, Myanma Electric Power Enterprise, Ministry of Electric Power. 80. U Hla Myint, Group In-charge-2, Baluchaung No 2 Power Station, Myanma Electric Power Enterprise, Ministry of Electric Power.

1. U Hla Kyi, Director-General, Civil Service Selection and Training Department, Civil Service Selection and Training Board. 2. Col Win Maung, Rector, Central Institute of Civil Service (Phaunggyi), Civil Service Selection and Training Board. 3. Col Aung San Win, Rector, Central Institute of Civil Service (Upper Myanmar), Civil Service Selection and Training Board. 4. BC 11782, Brig-Gen Myo Myint, Commandant, Defence Services Record Office, Ministry of Defence. 5. BC 12495, Col Kyaw Myint, Directorate of Public Relations and Psychological Welfare, Ministry of Defence. 6. BC 12011, Brig-Gen Khin Aung, Ministry of Defence. 7. BC 12302, Brig-Gen Myint Zaw, Ministry of Defence. 8. BC 12605, Brig-Gen Hla Aung, Ministry of Defence. 9. BC 13726, Col Tin Oo, Ministry of Defence. 10. Navy 1219, Captain Ngwe Tun, Ministry of Defence. 11. Air 1719, Col Si Thu, Ministry of Defence. 12. Dr Thein Htay, Managing Director, Myanma Cotton and Sericulture Enterprise, Ministry of Agriculture & Irrigation. 13. U Myo Myint, Managing Director, Myanma Sugar Enterprise, Ministry of Agriculture & Irrigation. 14. U Soe Tin, Managing Director, Myanma Economic Bank, Ministry of Finance and Revenue. 15. U Mya Than, Managing Director, Myanma Investment and Commercial Bank, Ministry of Finance and Revenue. 16. U Bo Than, Director-General, Pension Department, Ministry of Finance and Revenue. 17. U Nyunt Tin, Ambassador, Myanmar Embassy, Ottawa, Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 18. U Aye, Ambassador, Myanmar Embassy, Camberra, Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 19. U Kyaw Myint, Ambassador, Myanmar Embassy, Jakata, Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 20. U Kya Nyo Chit Pe, Ambassador, Myanmar Embassy, Belgrade, Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 21. U Myo Myint, Ambassador, Myanmar Embassy, Bangkok, Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 22. U Than Tun, Ambassador, Myanmar Embassy, Columbo, Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 23. U Kyaw Thu, Ambassador, Myanmar Embassy, New Dehli, Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 24. U Lin Myaing, Ambassador, Myanmar Embassy, Washington, Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 25. Dr Aung Naing, Ambassador, Myanmar Embassy, Tokyo, Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 26. U Tin Tun, Ambassador, Myanmar Embassy, Manila, Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 27. U Ohn Thwin, Ambassador, Myanmar Embassy, Dakha, Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 28. U Khin Aung, Ambassador, Myanmar Embassy, Hanoi, Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 29. U Thein Myint, Director-General, Consular and International Law and Treaties Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 30. U Tint Te, Director-General, Training, Research and Foregin Languages Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 31. Col Ko Ko Kyaw, Director-General, Project and Planning Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 32. U Aung Bwa, Director-General, ASEAN Affairs Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 33. U Hla Thein, Managing Director, No 2 Mining Enterprise, Ministry of Mines. 34. U Khin Maung Latt, Director-General, Directorate of Hotels and Tourism, Ministry of Hotels and Toruism. 35. U Htay Aung, Managing Director, Myanma Hotels and Tourism Services, Ministry of Hotels and Tourism. 36. U Maung Maung Tin, Managing Director, Myanma Posts and Telecommunications, Ministry of Communications, Posts and Telelgraphs. 37. U Kyaw Soe, Director-General, Technical Development and Cooperation Department. Ministry of Science and Technology. 38. U Win Kyaw, Director-General, Hydel-electric Power Department, Ministry of Electric Power. 39. Dr Soe Yin, Rector, Yangon Univeristy, Ministry of Education. 40. Dr Soe Win, Rector, Univeristy of Foreign Languages (Yangon), Ministry of Education. 41. Dr Nyunt Lwin, Rector, Mandalay University, Ministry of Education. 42. Dr Myint Thein, Rector, Institute of Education (Sagaing), Ministry of Education. 43. U Kan Zaw, Rector, Institute of Economics (Yangon), Ministry of Education. 44. Dr Khin Zaw, Rector, Institute of Education (Yangon), Ministry of Education. 45. Dr Myat Moe, Rector, University of Traditional Medicine, Ministry of Health. Medal for Excellence Performance in Administrative Field (Second Class) 1. U Ti Khun Myat, District Law Officer, Lashio District Law Office, Office of the Attorney-General. 2. U Tin Boy, Director, Office of the Auditor-General. 3. U Tin Aung, Director, Office of the Auditor-General. 4. Daw Khin Po, Deputy Director-General, Civil Services Affairs Department. 5. U Htan Maung Pe, Head of Department (Administration) University for Development of National Races, Civil Service Selection and Training Board. 6 . U Htay Lwin, Head of Department (Academic Affairs), University for Development of National Races, Civil Service Selection and Training Board. 7. U Khin Maung Aye, Professor, Department of Educational Psychology, University for Development of National Races, Civil Service Selection and Training Board. 8. Daw Khin Win, Professor, Department of Educational Theory, University for Development of National Races, Civil Service Selection and Training Board. 9. BC 15444, Lt-Col Khin Maung Than, No 2 Combat Organization Training School, Ministry of Defence. 10. BC 15449, Lt-Col Zaw Lin Tun, No 7 Combat Organization Training School, Ministry of Defence. 11. BC 12343, Maj Saw Thein, No 2 Basic Education High School, Mingaladon. 12. BC 13974, Lt-Col Myo Lwin, Ministry of Defence. 13. U San Lin, General Manager, Myanma Perennial Crops Enterprise, Ministry of Argiculture & Irrigation. 14. U Maung Ni, Manager, Paleik Textile and Finishing Plant, Myanma Textile Industry, Ministry of Industry-1. 15. U Ye Tint, General Manager (Production) Head Office, Myanma Foodstuff Industry, Ministry of Industry-1. 16. U Soe Nyunt, Chief-Engineer (Building), Public Works, Head Office, Ministry of Construction. 17. U Than Nyunt, Senior Engineer (Civil), Ma-i-Kyaukphyu Road, Ministry of Construction. 18. U Tin Win, Deputy Director-General, Cooperatives Department, Ministry of Cooperatives. 19. U Tint Lwin Oo, Deputy Director-General, Cottage Industries Department, Ministry of Cooperatives. 20. U Hla Kyu, Adviser, Office of the Ministry of Cooperatives. 21. U Kyin Lin (Pa/3872), Commissioner, Mandalay Division General Administration Department, Ministry of Home Affairs. 22. U Ye Myint Pe, Chief Editor, Kyemon Newspaper, News and Periodicals Enterprise, Ministry of Information. 23. U Win Tin, Chief Editor, Myanma Alin Newspaper, News and Periodicals Enterprise, Ministry of Information. 24. U Myo Lwin, Deputy Director-General, Directorate of Hotels and Tourism, Ministry of Hotels and Tourism. 25. U Nyi Nyi, Director, Development of Border Areas and National Department (Head Office), Ministry for Progress of Border Areas and National Races and Development Affairs. 26. U Saw Htway Shwe, Deputy Director, Development Affairs Department (Head Office), Ministry for Progress of Border Areas and National Races and Development Affairs. 27. U Myint Oo, Deputy Chief Engineer, Mandalay Division Development Affairs Committee, Ministry for Progress of Border Areas and National Races and Development Affairs. 28. U Phone Maung, General Manager, Myanma Airways, Ministry of Transport. 29. U Ngwe Tun, Deputy Director-General, Fine Arts Department, Ministry of Culture. 30. U San Win, Rector, University of Culture (Mandalay), Ministry of Culture. 31. U Tha Oo, General Manager, Myanma Posts and Telecomunications, Ministtry of Communictons, Posts and Telegraphs. 32. Dr Mya Mya Oo, Pro-rector and Head of Chemical Engineering Department and Faculty of Biotechnology, Yangon Technological University, Ministry of Science and Technology. 33. U Tun Aung Kyi, Director, Technical Development and Cooperation Department, Ministry of Science and Technology. 34. Dr Ko Ko Oo, Director, Atomic Energy Department, Ministry of Science and Technology. 35. U Aung Toe Shwe, Deputy Director-General, Hydro-electric Power Department, Ministry of Electric Power. 36. U San Tint, Rector, Mawlamyine University, Ministry of Education. 37. Dr Mya Oo, Rector, University of Distance Education (Yangon), Ministry of Education. 38. Dr Maung Thin, Rector, Dagon University, Ministry of Education. 39. U Cho, Rector, Pathein University, Ministry of Education. 40. U Mya Win, Rector, Pyay University, Ministry of Education. 41. U Kyi Win, Rector, Yangon Eastern University, Ministry of Education. 42. U Saw Kyaw Min, Rector, Yangon Western University, Ministry of Education. 43. Dr Maung Kyaw, Rector, Taunggyi University, Ministry of Education. 44. Dr Maung Htoo, Rector, Monywa University, Ministry of Education. 45. U Po Myint, Rector, University of Foreign Languages (Mandalay), Ministry of Education. 46. U Maung Maung Khin, Rector, University of Distance Education (Mandalay) 47. U Win Maung, Rector, Yadanabon University, Ministry of Education. 48. Dr Pe Maung Than, Pro-Rector, Yangon University, Ministry of Education. 49. U Wan Tin, Pro-rector, Sittway University, Ministry of Education. 50. U Thin Hlaing, Pro-Rector, Myitkyina University, Ministry of Education. 51. U Myint Swe, Deputy Director-General, No 1 Basic Education Department, Ministry of Education. 52. U Aye Myint, Deputy Director-General, No 3 Basic Education Department, Ministry of Education. 53. BC 10623, Lt-Col Naing Win, Secretary, Kayah State Peace and Development Council. 54. BC 12275, Lt-Col Tin Tun, Chairman, Loikaw District Peace and Development Council. 55. BC 12202, Lt-Col Tin Ohn, Secretary, Mandalay Division Peace and Development Council. 56. BC 14495, Lt-Col Aung Pyai, Chairman, Yangon East District Peace and Development Council. 57. BC 13702, Lt-Col Maung Maung Shein, Chairman, Yangon West District Peace and Development Council. 58. BC 12256, Lt-Col Win Maung, Secretary, Shan State Peace and Development Council, Taunggyi. 59. BC 11689, Lt-Col Ye Tun Sein, Chairman, Taunggyi District Peace and Development Council. 60. BC 13664, Lt-Col Myint Tin, Chairman, Loilem District Peace and Development Council. 61. BC 15491, Lt-Col Soe Win, Chairman, Muse District 

Peace and Development Council. Medal for Excellent Performance in Administrative Field (Third Class)

1. U Myint Aung, Auditing Officer, Kachin State Accounting Office, Auditor-General's Offce 2. U Hla Than, Deputy Director, Auditor-General's Office 3. U Lwin Kyi, Deputy Director, Auditor-General's Office 4. Daw Khin Win Yee, Auditing Officer, Hopang Township Accounting Office, Auditor-General's Office 5. Daw Theing Nyunt, Director, Civil Service Selection and Training Department, Civil Service Selection and Training Board 6. U Chit Swe, Director, Civil Service Selection and Training Board 7. U Thaung Shwe, Director, Civil Service Selection and Training Board 8. U Soe Myint Thein, Director, Civil Service Selection and Training Board 9. U Soe Win, Deputy Director, Civil Service Selection and Training Board 10. Daw Tin Tin Htay, Head (Management Dept.), Central Institute of Civil Service (Phaynggyi), Civil Service Selection and Training Board 11. Daw Myint Myint San, Head (Economics Dept.), Central Institute of Civil Service (Phaynggyi), Civil Service Selection and Training Board 12. U Ye Naing, Head (Training), Central Institute of Civil Service (Upper Myanmar), Civil Service Selection and Training Board 13. U Maung Kyi, Head (Management), Central Institute of Civil Service (Upper Myanmar), Civil Service Selection and Training Board 14. Daw Win Win Than, Head (Management Dept), Central Institute of Civil Service (Upper Myanmar), Civil Service Selection and Training Board 15. U Tin Shwe, Head (Economics Dept), Central Institute of Civil Service (Upper Myanmar), Civil Service Selection and Training Board 16. BC 11453 Maj Myint Aung, Public Relations and Psychological Warfare 17. BC 16873 Maj Khin Maung San, No 8 Combat Training School, Ministry of Defence 18. BC 20574 Maj Ye Naing Soe, Defence Service TV Broadcasting Unit, Ministry of Defence 19. BC 28197 Capt Soe Win Kyaw, Defence Service TV Broadcasting Unit, Ministry of Defence 20. Army 733814 WO II Myint Naing, Defence Service TV Broadcasting Unit, Ministry of Defence 21. No Ah/77614 WO I Myint Myint Kyi, Defence Service TV Broadcasting Unit, Ministry of Defence 22. No Ah/77760 WO I Aye Aye Han, Defence Service TV Broadcasting Unit, Ministry of Defence 23. BC 22406 Maj Kyaw Thura, Ministry of Defence 24. BC 21415 Maj Lay Naing, Ministry of Defence 25. BC 20704 Maj Kyi Lwin, Ministry of Defence 26. BC 22567 Maj Mya Lwin, Ministry of Defence 27. BC 21090 Maj Kyaw Naing, Ministry of Defence 28. BC 22326 Capt Kyi Win, Ministry of Defence 29. BC 23256 Capt Win Naing, Ministry of Defence 30. BC 28122 Capt Myat Thurein, Ministry of Defence 31. U Thein Swe, General Manager, Myanmar Cotton and Sericulture Enterprise. 32. U Tin Tun, General Manager, Myanmar Cotton and Sericulture Enterprise 33. U Pearl Maung, Director, Agricultural Mechanization Department, Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation 34. U Tun Tin (1), Director, Agricultural Mechanization Department, Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation. 35 U Kyaw Zan, Director, Agricultural Mechanization Department, Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation 36. U Tun Tin (2), Director, Agricultural Mechanization Department, Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation 37. U Hok Kyi, Director, Irrigation Department, Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation. 38. U Tun Aung Lwin, Director, Irrigation Department, Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation 39. U Tin Maung Ohn, Director, Irrigation Department, Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation 40. U Shwe Thein, Director, Settlement and Land Records Department, Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation 41. U Myint Swe, Director, Principal, Settlement and Land Records Department, Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation 42. U L Zaw Shan, Director, Regional Industrial Coordination and Inspection Department, Ministry of Industry-1 43. U Tin Hlaing, Director, Yangon Division Regional Industrial Coordination and Inspection Department, Ministry of Industry-1. 44. Daw Swe Swe Than, General Manager (Accounts), Myanma Textile Industries, Ministry of Industry-1 45. U Sein Mya, Manager, No 17 Garment Factory, Myanma Textile Industries, Ministry of Industry-1 46. U Kyaw Soe, Manager, Sagaing Textile Factory, Myanma Textile Industries, Ministry of Industry-1 47. Daw Htay Htay Oo, General Manager (Accounts) Head Office, Myanam Foodstuff Industries, Ministry of Industry-1 48. U Kyaw Win, General Manager, Myanma General Maintenance Industries, Ministry of Industry-1 49. U Sein Win, Manager, Mainternance, Myanma General Maintenance Industries, Ministry of Industry-1 50. U Khin Maung Aye, Assistant Director, Directorate of Industries, Ministry of Industry-1 51. Daw Aye Kyi, Assistant Manager (Producation), Sagaing Textile Factory, Myanma Textile Industries, Ministry of Industry-1 52. Daw Sabei, Assistant Manager (Production) Head Office, Myanma Foodstuff Industries, Ministry of Industry-1 53. U Hla Myo Maung, Deputy Manager, Soap Factory (Mandalay), Myanma Pharmaceutical Industries, Ministry of Industry-1 54. U Zaw Wai, Deputy General Manager, Myanma General Maintenance Industries, Ministry of Industry-1 55. U Than Tun, Manager, Shoe Factory No 1, Myanma General Maintenance Industries, Ministry of Industry-1 56. U Maung Maung Toe, Deputy Manager, Maintenance (Mandalay Branch), Myanma General Maintenance Industries, Ministry of Industry-1 57. Daw Khin Win Kyi, Director, Myanma Industrial Construction Services, Ministry of Industry-2 58. Daw Sandi Myint, Director, Myanma Industrial Constructdion Services, Ministry of Industry-2 59. U Than Tun Aung, General Manager, Milling Division, Myanma Agricultural Produce Trading, Ministry of Commerce 60. U HLa Maw Oo, General Manager, Admin Dept, Myanma Agricultural Produce Trading, Ministry of Commerce 61. U Maung Maung Tin, Manager, Yangon Division Myanma Agricultural Produce Trading, Ministry of Commerce 62. U Min Min Oo, Manager, Bago Division (East), Myanma Agricultural Produce Trading, Ministry of Commerce 63. U Hsan Nwe Win, Manager, Mon State Myanma Agricultural Produce Trading, Ministry of Commerce 64. U Aung Kyaw Moe, Deputy General Manager, Transport Division, Myanma Agricultural Produce Trading, Ministry of Commerce 65. U Win Myint, Manager, Bago Division (West) Myanma Agricultural Produce Trading, Ministry of Commerce 66. U Tun Kyi, Assistant Manager, Taninthayi Division Myanma Agricultural Produce Trading, Ministry of Commerce 67. U Kyaw Thu, Assistant Manager, Ayeyawady Division (Hinthada) Myanma Agricultural Produce Trading, Ministry of Commerce 68. U Ba Than, Assistant Manager, Yangon Division (Thanlyin) Myanma Agricultural Produce Trading, Ministry of Commerce 69. U Kyaw Ngwe, Manager, Yangon Division No 04 Rice Mill (100 Tons), Ministry of Commerce. 70. U Tin Win, Manager, Bago Division (West) Letpadan Rice Mill (250 Tons), Myanma Agricultural Produce Trading, Ministry of Commerce 71. Daw Ohnmar Sein, Director, Central Bank of Myanmar, Ministry of Finance and Revenue 72. U Ye Tun, General Manager, Myanma Economic Bank, Ministry of Finance and Revenue 73. U Sein Min, Deputy General Manager, Myanma Insurance, Ministry of Finance and Revenue 74. U Set Kyi, Junior Engineer (2) (Civil), Airfield Special Group 4, Hkamti, Ministry of Construction 75. Daw Si Than, Senior Engineer (Civil), Bridge Special Group 5, Ye Nwe, Ministry of Construction 76. U Hla Tun, Assistant Engineer (Civil), Bridge Special Group 5, Ye Nwe, Ministry of Construction 77. U Win Kyi, Senior Engineer (Civil), Bridge Special Group 14, Shweli Bridge, Ministry of Construction 78. U Hsan Lwin, Assistant Engineer (Civil), Ma-ei-Kyaukpyu Road, Ministry of Construction 79. U Myint Aung, Junior Engineer 2 (Civil), Building Special Group 4 Yangon, Ministry of Construction 80. U Aung Khaing, Assistant Engineer (Civil), Bridge Special Group 4, Daka, Ministry of Construction 81. U Ngwe Tun, Senior Engineer (Civil) Road, Ministry of Construction 82. U Kyaw Thu, Assistant Engineer (Civil), Bridge Special Group 1, Yangon, Ministry of Construction 83. U Tin Htut, Deputy Superintending Engineer (Civil), Londawpauk Bridge, Ministry of Construction 84. U Tin Soe, Senior Engineer (Civil), Minkyaung Creek Bridge, Ministry of Construction 85. U Soe Tin, Deputy Superintending Engineer (Civil), Road Special Group 2 Pyay, Ministry of Construction 86. U Soe Tint, Superintending Engineer (Civil), Shan Sttate (South), Ministry of Construction. 87. U Htin Aung, Senior Engineer (Mech), Main Workshop (North) Mandalay, Ministry of Construction. 88. U Kyaw Nyunt, Senior Engineer (Mech), Thanlwin River Crossing Bridge (Mawlamyine) Project, Ministry of Construction. 89. U Kyaw Hlaing, Senior Engineer (Civil), Airport Speical Group-5, An, Ministry of Construction. 90. U Aung Phyu, Director, Mandalay Division Cooperative Department, Ministry of Cooperatives. 91. U Saw Lwin, Professor, Yangon Cooperative Degree College, Ministry of Cooperatives. 92. Daw Nyo Nyo Win, Professor, Yangon Cooperative Degree College, Ministry of Cooperatives. 93. Daw Win Sein, Professor, Yangon Cooperative Degree College, Ministry of Cooperatives. 94. Daw Tin Swe Aye, Director, Cottage Industries Department (Head Office), Ministry of Cooperatives. 95. Daw Hla Hla Kyaing, Director, Cottage Industries Department (Lower Myanmar, Yangon), Ministry of Cooperatives. 96. Daw Khin Khin Thwet, Director, Cottage Industries Department (Upper Myanmar, Mandalay), Ministry of Cooperatives. 97. U Min Tun, Deputy General Manager, Myanma Timber Enterprise, Ministry of Forestry. 98. U Aung Than, Assistant Manager, Myanma Timber Enterprise, Ministry of Forestry. 99. U Thein Swe, Director, Myanma Gems Enterprise, Ministry of Mines. 100. U Phone Naing, Deputy Director, Myanma Gems Enterprise, Ministry of Mines. 101. U Soe Thiha, Director, Geological Survey and Minerals Exploration Department, Ministry of Mines. 102. U Bo Aung, Manager, Myanma Salt and Marine Chemicals Enterprise, Ministry of Mines. 103. U Aung Soe, Assistant Director, Myanma Gems Enterprise, Ministry of Mines. 104. U Zaw Win Naing, Assistant Director, Myanma Gems Enterprise, Ministry of Mines. 105. Daw Than Swe, Assistant Director, Myanma Gems Enterprise, Ministry of Mines. 106. U Aung Than, Deputy Assistant Director, Myanma Gems Enterprise, Ministry of Mines. 107. U Toe Aung Kyaw, Geologist, Geological Survey and Minerals Exploration Department, Ministry of Mines. 108. U Tin Nu, Geologist, Geological Survey and Minerals Exploration Department, Ministry of Mines. 109. U Zaw Win (1), Geologist, Geological Survey and Minerals Exploration Department, Ministry of Mines. 110. U Win Cho, Assistant Geologist, Geological Survey and Minerals Exploration Department, Ministry of Mines. 111. La 128369, Police Major Win Naing, Muse Special Anti-drug Squad, Ministry of Home Affairs. 112. La 57175, Police Major Kyaw San, Tachilek Special Anti-drug Squad, Ministry of Home Affairs. 113. La 128521, Police Captain Myint Thein, Lashio Special Anti-drug Squad, Ministry of Home Affairs. 114. La 81784, Police Captain Hla Kyi, Bhamo Special Anti-drug Squad, Ministry of Home Affairs. 115. U Ni Kon (Pa 2913), Assistant Director, Taninthayi Division General Administration Department, Ministry of Home Affairs. 116. U Sein Tun (Pa 2929), Deputy Commissioner, Thayet District General Administration Department, Ministry of Home Affairs. 117. U Myo Chit (Pa 3390), Assistant Director, Kachin State General Administration Department, Myitkyina, Ministry of Home Affairs. 118. U Sein Nyunt (Pa 3235), Assistant Director, Shan State General Administration Department, Taunggyi, Ministry of Home Affairs. 119. U Aung Myint (Pa 2989), Township Administrator, Salin Township General Administration Department, Ministry of Home Affiars (Chairman of Salin Township Peace and Development Council). 120. U Kyaw Win (Pa 3435), Township Administrator, Kyaukpadaung Township General Administration Department, Ministry of Home Affairs (Chairman of Kyaukpadaung Township Peace and Development Council). 121. U Myint Oo (Pa 2905), Township Administrator, Sinpaungwe Township General Administration Department, Ministry of Home Affiars (Chairman of Sinpaungwe Township Peace and Development Council). 122. U Wai Myo Khine (Pa 3077), Township Administrator, Ponnagyun Township General Administration Department, Ministry of Home Affiars (Chairman of Ponnagyun Township Peace and Development Council). 123. U Tin Win (Pa 3155), Township Administrator, Kyimyindine Township General Administration Department, Ministry of Home Affiars (Chairman of Kyimyindine Township Peace and Development Council). 124. U Khin Maung Aye (Pa 3562), Township Administrator, Thongwa Township General Administration Department, Ministry of Home Affiars (Chairman of Thongwa Township Peace and Development Council). 125. U Khin Zaw (Pa 3600), Township Administrator, Kyauktan Township General Administration Department, Ministry of Home Affiars (Chairman of Kyauktan Township Peace and Development Council). 126. U Tin Hlaing (Pa 3298), Township Administrator, Namhkam Township General Administration Department, Ministry of Home Affiars (Chairman of Namhkam Township Peace and Development Council). 127. U Tint Hlaing (Pa 3564), Township Administrator, Dagon Myothit (North) Township General Administration Department, Ministry of Home Affiars (Chairman of Dagon Myothit (North) Township Peace and Development Council). 128. U Tin Yi (Pa 3322), Township Administrator, Mingaladon Township General Administration Department, Ministry of Home Affiars (Chairman of Mingaladon Township Peace and Development Council). 129. U San Htay (Pa 3581), Township Administrator, Bogale Township General Administration Department, Ministry of Home Affiars (Chairman of Bogale Township Peace and Development Council). 130. U Mya Kyaing (Pa 3184), Township Administrator, Paung Township General Administration Department, Ministry of Home Affiars (Chairman of Paung Township Peace and Development Council). 131. U Soe Thein (Pa 3563), Township Administrator, Mawlamyine Township General Administration Department, Ministry of Home Affiars (Chairman of Mawlamyine Township Peace and Development Council). 132. U Tin Ohn (Pa 3438), Township Administrator, Pabedan Township General Administration Department, Ministry of Home Affiars (Chairman of Pabedan Township Peace and Development Council). 133. U San Ngwe (Pa 2887), Township Administrator, Palaw Township General Administration Department, Ministry of Home Affiars (Chairman of Palaw Township Peace and Development Council). 134. U Aye Lwin (Pa 3707), Township Administrator, Taninthayi Township General Administration Department, Ministry of Home Affiars (Chairman of Taninthayi Township Peace and Development Council). 135. U Aung Kyaw Oo (Pa 3777), Township Administrator, Dawei Township General Administration Department, Ministry of Home Affiars (Chairman of Dawei Township Peace and Development Council). 136. U Soe Naing (Pa 3760), Township Administrator, Thayetchaung Township General Administration Department, Ministry of Home Affiars (Chairman of Thayetchaung Township Peace and Development Council). 137. U Myint Swe, Deputy Chief-Editor, Kyemon Newspaper, News and Periodicals Enterprise, Ministry of Information. 138. U Hmwe Kyi, Deputy Chief-Editor, Myanma Alin Press, News and Periodicals Enterprise, Ministry of Information. 139. U Zaw Win, Manager, Myanma Alin Newspaper, News and Periodicals Enterprise, Ministry of Information. 140. Daw Khin Nyo Win, Manager, Kyemon Newspaper, News and Periodicals Enterprise, Ministry of Information. 141. Daw Khin Khin Win, Manager, News and Periodicals Enterprise (Head Office), Ministry of Information. 142. U Tint Swe, General Manager, Myanma Hotels and Tourism Services, Ministry of Hotels and Tourism. 143. U Soe Thein, General Manager, Myanma Hotels and Tourism Services, Ministry of Hotels and Tourism. 144. U Khin Maung Soe,General Manager, Myanma Hotels and Tourism Services, Ministry of Hotels and Tourism. 145. U Tin Maung Shwe, General Manager, Myanma Hotels and Tourism Services, Ministry of Hotels and Tourism. (To be continued)

YANGON, 4 Jan-The funfair and prize-presentation ceremony of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to mark the 56th Anniversary Independence Day was held at the Wunzin Min Yaza Hall of the ministry this morning. Minister for Foreign Affairs U Win Aung attended the ceremony and made a New Year speech. Also present on the occasion were Deputy Ministers for Foreign Affairs U Khin Maung Win and U Kyaw Thu, the ambassadors, the directors-general, the directors, staff of the ministry and guests. After making a New Year speech, Minister U Win Aung presented prizes to a person who was outstanding in the training course. Next, the deputy ministers and officials presented prizes to those who are outstanding in the sports. Afterwards, the funfair to mark the 56th Anniversary Independence Day followed. Minister U Win Aung and Deputy Minister U Khin Maung Win formally opened the funfair. Next, the minister, the deputy ministers and officials viewed round the shops and foodstalls being opened by staff of the ministry.

Independence Day Exhibition crowded with visitors

YANGON, 4 Jan-The 56th Anniversary Independence Day Exhibition continued at the Tatmadaw Convention Hall on U Wisara Road here for the second day today.

Booths on the independence struggles sacrificing much of lives and blood, origins of mankind starting from Myanmar, ancient Myanmar, the first, second and third Myanmar, struggles for the independence and regaining of it, safeguarding of the independence, scenic Myanmar and booths of the respective ministries were displayed at the exhibition.

At the central booth, picture of Head of State Senior General Than Shwe and pictures of the peaceful, modern and developed nation were also shown. The exhibition will continue up to 11 January 2004. Admission is free.

YANGON, 4 Jan - A ceremony to mark the replacement of the brand name was held at the Matsushita Electric Industrial Co Ltd (Myanmar Representative Office) here on 30 December 2003. National brand home appliance products are famous. Currently, Panasonic replaces National for the name of the National-branded home appliance products.

Chief Representative U Kyaw Kyaw explained the purpose of the brand name replacement which is to concentrate resources on Panasonic brand with advanced image to maximize the effect of investment, enhance unified Panasonic brand image quickly, bring out strong products with high brand image, push strong products and strengthen marketing power to sell the products.