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ARCHIVES	Monday, 2 January 2006	ON LINE EDITION

Since time immemorial, Myanmars have been known to be fully equipped with patriotism — the spirit to love their own race, literature, traditions and culture and customs; the spirit of never tolerating any insult against the nation and the race; and the spirit to make selfless sacrifices for the national cause. They cherish the independence. And because of the patriotism, that is their innate nature, they were able to restore independence and sovereignty.

Senior General Than Shwe
Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council
Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services

For the nation to stand tall among world's nations, not to become lackey of others' Political, economic and social infrastructures to be built, safeguarded and shaped Shwenyaung-Taunggyi-Saikkhaung-Namhsan-Mongnai Railroad innaugurated

YANGON, 1 Jan — Ceremonies to put Shwenyaung-Taunggyi-Saikkhaung-Namhsan-Mongnai Railroad in Shan State (South) into service were held at Namhsan Station in Namhsan Township and Saikkhaung Station in Hsihseng Township this morning.

The Shwenyaung-Taunggyi-Saikkhaung-Namhsan-Mongnai railroad was opened at the pandal of Namhsan Station in Namhsan Township at 8.30 am.

It was attended by member of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Kyaw Win of the Ministry of Defence, Chairman of Shan State Peace and Development Council Commander of Eastern Command Maj-Gen Ye Myint, the ministers, the deputy ministers, senior military officers, officials of the State Peace and Development Council Office and departments concerned, authorities of Loilem and Langkho Districts and township Peace and Development Councils, departmental officials, the President of Union of Myanmar Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry, national entrepreneurs, local people, Tatmadawmen and families, employees of Myanma Railways, members of the Union Solidarity and Development Association, social organizations and students.

He said: Shwe-nyaung-Taunggyi-Saikkhaung-Namhsan-Mongnai railroad was built in 1992. The Namhsan-Mongnai section, Phamon-Banyin section, Taunggyi-Phamon section, Shwe-nyaung-Taunggyi section, Banyin-Saikkhaung section, Saikkhaung-Ponchaung section and Namhsan-Kaungsai section were opened. After completion of Ponchaung-Kaungsai section, the Shwenyaung-Taunggyi-Saikkhaung-Namhsan-Mongnai railroad has emerged as friendship railroad of national races. Nearly 700,000 national races such as Shan, Bamar, Palaung, Intha, Danu, Lahu and Lisu from 1,360 villages in the townships on the railroad can now go from one place to another easily.

He said the 197-mile railroad was built with difficulty through the forests and mountains with the efforts of the Tatmadawmen, engineers, experts and service personnel of the Ministry of Rail Transportation and participation of local people. Construction of such railroad is not an ordinary effort but a relentless one, he added.

Transport route of the State links four rivers flowing from north to south— Chindwin , Ayeyawady, Sittaung and Thanlwin and mountain ranges such as west, central and east Yoma. Most of the roads and railroads link with the south and the north. It is only old Sagaing Bridge and old Sittaung bridge that cross rivers flowing from east to west. Roads and bridges were built the length and breath of the Union in order to link states and divisions smoothly and to have closer relations among the national races in the time of the Tatmadaw government.

He said An road from Sittway to Yangon and Mandalay and Taungup road from Kyaukphyu to Yangon and Pathein have now linked inner parts of Rakhine State . Shwebo-Myitkyina Road , Mandalay -Thabeikkyin-Tagaung- Bhamo Road and Myitkyina-Putao Road were built for development of Kachin State and Myeik-Taninthayi-Bokepyin-Kawthoung new Union highway was also built in order to link Taninthayi Division and other divisions and states.

For Shan State , Mandalay-Nawnghkio-Lashio-Muse road and Meiktila-Thazi-Shwe-nyaung-Taunggyi-Loilem-Namhsan-Kengtung road are being upgraded, he said. Moreover, Hanmyintmo-Myogyi-Ywangan-Aungban road, Pyin-mana-Pinlaung road, Yaksauk-Kyaukgu-Nawnghkio road and Hsipaw-Namlan-Panketu-Loilem road were built as tarred roads, he added.

New bridges across Thanlwin River such as Tar-kaw-et Bridge , Tar-hsan Bridge and Tar-par Bridge were built in Shan State and the people can travel on Tangyan-Pangsang road, Mongpan-Tarhsan-Mongtong road and Tamoenye-Monesi-Tarshwehtan road smoothly.

With the construction of the new railroads, Aungban-Pinlaung-Loikaw railroad and Shwenyaung-Yaksauk railroad have emerged. Tachilek, Kengtung, Heho, Namhsan and Lashio were renovated, he said. He added that, better transport has been brought about only in the time of the Tatmadaw government with the emergence of a network of roads and bridges.

As roads and bridges are being constructed the length and breadth of the nation including Shan State, a string of tarred roads, gravel roads and earth roads with a length of over 57,100 miles emerged coupled with 210 majors bridges including seven Aye-yawady river crossing bridges, two Chindwin river crossing bridges, five Thanlwin river crossing bridges and one Sittoung river crossing bridge.

In the rail transportation sector, new railroads with a length of over 1,100 miles were constructed. In addition to railroads in Shan State , railroads in the plains including Ye-Dawei railroads emerged as new transport routes.

With better transport, unprecedented progress has been made in all parts of the Union . Plans to bring about equitable development across the nation have been laid down and are being implemented in building a new, modern and developed nation.

With this end in view, the 24 special development zones and the five rural development tasks have been laid down and are being implemented.

In the Union of Myanmar which is made up of seven states and seven divisions, Shan State is the greatest in terms of area and population.

Over 40 national races including Shan, Bamar , Pa -O, Palaung, Kachin, Intha, Dhanu, Kokang , Wa , Lahu, Padaung and others reside in Shan State .

Measures for development of Shan State and improvement of education, health and social standards of local people residing in Shan State were ignored not only in the colonial period but also in the time of feudalism.

Hence, in accordance with the guidance of the Head of State, Taunggyi region, Lashio region and Kengtung region have been designated as development regions and regional development tasks are being launched with added momentum. At present, Taunggyi region together with other regions in Shan State are enjoying the fruits of development.

Nowadays, Panglong region, where Union Spirit was conceived, has been designated as a special region and tasks for development of education, health and human resources are being carried out. As a result, the region is making progress in all aspects.

It is safe to say that remarkable progress has been made the whole Shan State , and this was due to concerted efforts of local authorities and local people with the prevalence of peace and tranquillity in the region.

In the past, local people had suffered from armed insurgencies, drug problems and lack of security. Therefore, all the national races are to place emphasis on prevalence of peace and tranquillity and development of education and economic sectors in the region.

As economic development of Shan State relies on the agricultural sector, priority is to be given to development of the agricultural sector while striving for development of livestock breeding and industrial sectors. Shan State, where there was no self-sufficiency in rice in the past, is now enjoying food sufficiency with extended cultivation of paddy in Shan State (East), Shan State (North) and Shan State (South).

Emphasis needs to be placed on the production of diesel-substitute biofuel in using farm machinery for the agricultural development. The Head of State has given guidance that Myanmar can produce biofuel as jetropha curcus can grow in any part of the country. So, duties have been assigned to the States and Divisions to extend cultivation of jetropha curcus. In addition, jetropha curcus paste can be used as fertiliser as it has a big amount of nitrogen. That is why efforts are to be made to improve the agricultural sector and to increase the incomes of farmers by extending the cultivation of jetropha curcus. Besides, extended cultivation of jetropha curcus should be a national duty to ensure the full operation of machinery for increased production of rice and other crops.

The Prime Minister said the government is building all necessary infrastructures with the strength of the people for the development of the country. In order not to become a puppet of other countries, the country requires to shape and safeguard strong economic, social and defence conditions. In conclusion, the Prime Minister said Shwenyuang-Taunggyi-Saikkaung-Namhsan-Mongnai railroad was successfully built with the strength of Tatmadaw members, staff of Rail Transport and local people. Next he urged the people to continue their active participation in building a peaceful-modern and developed discipline-flourishing democratic nation as well.

Next, Maj-Gen Aung Min said the railroad was built in accord with the guidance of the Head of State in which he said projects are to be implemented to upgrade and build transport facilities so as to fill urban-rural development gap. As the final section of Ponchaung-Kaungsai, 27.57 miles long was completed, now people can travel along Shwenyuang-Taunggyi-Saikkaung-Namhsan-Mongnai railroad. The railroad opened today is the new one built in the time of the State Peace and Development Council government in Shan State . Along the railway, 561 small and big bridges and 45 stations have been constructed. The Ministry of Rail Transport have built 3069.96 miles of railroad in the nation although there were only 1967.35 miles before 1988.

Commander Maj-Gen Ye Myint made a speech, saying that it is ensured that social welfare and economy of the local people would develop thanks to its opening. In addition, the people in Shan State could be accessible to every region of the nation. Arrangements for better transportation, education, health, economy, supply of electricity have been implemeted by the State.

In Shan State (South), there were only 125 miles of railroad in the past. Now, Shwenyaung-Yaksawk, Aungban-Pinlaung, Pinlaung-Loikaw and Shwenyaung-Taunggyi-Saikkhaung-Namhsan-Mongnai railroads have been extended. He also called on the local people for the maintenance of it and active participation in building of new dicipline-flourishing democratic nation.

Next, on behalf of the local people, USDA member U Sai Tun Aye expressed thanks for opening it.

The Prime Minister and party then cordially greeted local national races and members of social organizations.

Commander Maj-Gen Ye Myint and Minister Maj-Gen Aung Min formally opened Shwe-nyaung-Taunggyi-Saikkhaung-Namhsan-Mongnai railroad.

The Prime Minister and party together with local national races posed for a documentary photo.

The Prime Minister and party cordially greeted local nationals and those attending the opening ceremony and viewed round Namhsan Station. The local people observed the booths on the thriving of jetropha curcus and its use as diesel-substitute fuel, being displayed at the ceremony.

After the ceremony, the Prime Minister and party inspected the progress of constructing the railways and Pon Chaung Bridge with helicopter. On arrival at Sak- khaung Station in Hsihseng Township, the Prime Minister and party attended the opening ceremony of the railroad and the Prime Minister explained the construction of motor roads and railroads for ensuring better transport to develop Shan State, the implementations of the development projects for equitable development of all parts of the Union including Shan State, community peace and stability and prevalence of law and order and the need for the national consolidation among national races.

Afterwards, Minister Maj-Gen Aung Min and Commander Maj-Gen Ye Myint made speeches. Next, U Khun Aung Kyaw expressed thanks for opening the railroad on behalf of the local people.

Later, the Prime Minister and party cordially greeted those present. At the auspicious time, Commander Maj-Gen Ye Myint and Minister Maj-Gen Aung Min formally opened the railroads. Next, the Prime Minister and party had documentary photo taken together with the local nationals. When the train started to leave Sai Khaung Station, Prime Minister and party were greeted by local nationals on board.

YANGON, 1 Jan — The Ministry of Education launched the School Family Day for 2005-06 academic year at Diamond Jubilee Hall on Pyay Road in Kamayut Township this morning, attended by Chairman of Yangon Division Peace and Development Council Commander of Yangon Command Lt-Gen Myint Swe.

Ninth standard student Ma Han Mon Myo Hein of Latha BEHS No 2 and eighth standard student Ma Hsu Labh Yadana acted as MCs.

Altogether 14 students representing States and Divisions cut the ribbon to open the ceremony, and all the students sang the song titled “Myanma Kyaung”.

Next, the commander and party visited the booth to mark the School Family Day on the third floor of Diamond Jubilee Hall.

They also attended the entertainment of the School Family Day and skills demonstration. Eighth standard student Ma Htet Htet Aung and seventh standard student Ma May Eindra Kyaw of Latha BEHS No 2 acted as MCs. School girls of Sangyoung BEHS No 2 and Dagon BEHS No 1 and Maung Ye Lwin Oo and Saw Monday of Dagon BEHS No 3 performed entertainment.

After the ceremony, Lt-Gen Myint Swe cordially greeted those present. Also present were Minister for Agriculture and Irrigation Maj-Gen Htay Oo, Minister for Culture Maj-Gen Kyi Aung, Minister for Health Dr Kyaw Myint, deputy ministers, ambassadors, representatives of UN agencies, departmental heads, rectors and principals of universities and colleges, school heads and outstanding students.

YANGON, 1 Jan — The opening ceremony of the 14th Mayor’s Cup Horticultural Show Competition to mark the 58th Anniversity Independence Day, took place in the grounds at the junction of Mindhamma and Tawwin Roads in Mayangon Township this morning, attended by Patrons of Myanmar Floral Culturalist Association Daw Khin Than Nwe, Daw Khin Lay Thet, Daw Khin Khin Win and members of panel of patrons, Yangon City Development Committee Chairman Mayor Brig-Gen Aung Thein Lin and wife Dr Daw Khin San Nwe, committee members, departmental heads and their wives, executives of MFCA and enthusiasts.

Member of YCDC Col Hla Aye explained the purpose of organizing the horticultural show competition. There were 20 types of competitions with a total of 445 items in the horticultural show competition.

At 10 am, prize-presenting ceremony followed and the patrons of MFCA awarded the prizes to those who won in the respective competitions. Afterwards, the mayor presented the shield to U Soe Nyunt (Tawwin Hninsi) who secured shield prize of the 14th horticultural show competition.

A total of 126 shops of fertilizers, pesticide and agricultural appliances from private and departmental gardens, are being put on display at the show and the enthusiasts may observe and buy free of charge.

YANGON, 1 Jan — Minister for Industry-1 U Aung Taung together with Managing Director U Soe Yi of Myanma Ceramics Industries and officials inspected Pathein Glass Factory in Pathein yesterday morning, and gave instructions on the maintenance tasks reported by Managing Director U Soe Yi.

At 9.30 am, the minister and party proceeded to Kyangin Cement Factory and inspected raw materials and spare parts of machines. He told them to put the vicinity of factory under jetropha curcus at the briefing hall.

While in Shwe-daung Advanced Textile Factory, the minister met with officals and staff, giving instructions on growing of jetropha curcus.

He viewed round the factory and urged them to boost the quality of products. The minister presented cash awards to outstanding employees.

In the evening, the minister arrived at Thayawady Enamelware Factory and inspected on installation of new machines and production process. Minister U Aung Thaung looked into the ceremicwares and ceramic tiles produced by the factory.

Communication sector witnesses sustained progress Development of communication in the time of the Tatmadaw government

Myanma communication ser vice is developing in parallel with national development, progress in higher living standard of national people and changing market-oriented economic system.

In its drives for equitable development of all regions in the nation, the Tatmadaw government is implementing the 24 special regions development projects, rural area development projects and border area development projects.

Thanks to the implementation of these projects, the communication sector is developing along with other development undertakings and, it is providing better services to people living throughout the country. Easy access to every region in the country contributes much towards regional development and development of socio-economic life of the people.

The table provides the readers with facts and figures of increase in post offices, telegraph offices and telephone stations.

Full-dressed rehearsal of Yangon City Flag Hoisting and Saluting Ceremony held

YANGON , 1 Jan — The full-dressed rehearsal of Yangon City Flag Hoisting and Saluting Ceremony to mark the 58th Anniversary Independence Day for 2006 was held at People’s Square on Pyay Road this morning.

Yangon City Flag Hoisting Ceremony took place at 4.20 am and Flag Saluting Ceremony followed at 7 am.

Member of the subcommittee for observance of Yangon City Flag Hoisting and Flag Saluting Ceremony Deputy Commander of Yangon Command Brig-Gen Wai Lwin, Secretary and members of the subcommittee, military region commanders, senior military officers of Yangon Command, and chairmen, secretaries and members of District/Township PDCs attended the ceremony.

YANGON, 1 Jan — Under the arrangements of the Invitation and Reception Sub-committee of the National Convention Convening Management Committee, delegates of the National Convention visited Defence Services Museum and the National Museum , here, yesterday morning.

This afternoon, Christian delegates said prayers at Judson Church in Kamayut Township .

Yesterday morning, NC delegates arrived at Defence Services Museum on Shwedagon Pagoda Road . Lt-Col Zaw Win of the Museum welcomed them. Major Kyaw Kyaw Myint extended greetings and explained matters related to booths displayed at the museum.

The delegates viewed the booth on 12 State objectives on the ground floor, and booths of ministries, Tatmadaw (Army, Navy and Air) and military commands and directorates of the Ministry of Defence on first and second floors.

At the National Museum , the delegates were welcomed by Director-General U Myint Thein Swe of Department of Cultural Institute, Director Daw Nu Mra Zan and officials. Officials explained matters related to Thiha Thana Throne and booths of the museum.

Christian delegates together with officials of the Invitation and Reception Sub-committee this afternoon visited Judson Church on Pyay Road in Kamayut Township . Vice-Chairman of Myanmar Baptist Council Reverend U Arthur Ko extended greetings to them.

YANGON, 1 Jan — Hanthawady golf course near the corner of Nanattaw street and Kyundaw street in Kamayut Township was opened this morning, undertaken as joint-venture by Yangon City Development Committee and Yadana Theingi Co Ltd. It was attended by Yangon Mayor Brig-Gen Aung Thein Lin. Director U Nyan Tun of Sports and Physical Education Department and officials formally opened it.

It is 230 yards long and 100 yards wide, and is also provided with restaurants, sports facilities and car parking.