nlmOct07

HOME
ARCHIVES	Sunday, 7 October 2007	THE MYANMAR TIMES

Ovada sought from Sayadaws of Yangon Division Sangha Nayaka Committee Monks are to follow Viniya rules of the Buddha, rules and regulations and instructions If they breach any one of those orders action may be taken against them

Nay Pyi Taw, 6 Oct - A ceremony to seek ovada from Sayadaws of Yangon Division Sangha Nayaka Committee (All Ganas) was held at Yangon Division Sangha Nayaka Committee (Sudhamma) in Bahan Township, Yangon, yesterday afternoon.

Director of Yangon Division Administration Department U Hla Soe supplicated on religious matters saying violent disturbances occurred in some townships of Yangon Division due to some members of the Sangha and laypersons.

During the disturbances, monks of the monasteries who did not take part in the disturbances faced threats and insulting group throwing bottled water at their monasteries. Troublemakers committed assaults even on eminent monks.

The Minister for Religious Affairs presented the true events to State Sangha Maha Nayaka Committee on 24 September 2007. The committee issued Directive No 93 the same day prohibiting all acts that violate Vinaya (discipline).

Yangon Division GAD imposed section 144 (curfew) in townships it deemed necessary in Yangon Division the next day. Disturbance-makers and some members of the Sangha organized and deceived by a certain party and other troublesome so-called ?88' generation students, and bogus monks specially kept for causing unrest in defiance of curfew ganged together to incite unrest.

Security forces responsible for enforcing peace and stability and the rule of law in Yangon Division systematically restored the situation in accord with the law. But the violent protesters ganged up on security personnel and even tried to grab their weapons.

All the people including members of the religious order must observe laws enacted or issued by the State.

According to objective information, witnesses and other evidences, security forces had to carry out search of Ngwe Kyayan Pariyatti Sarthintaik, Dhamma Zeya, Shwetaungmaw and Satilayama monasteries in South Okkalapa Township, Dhammathukha monastery in Tamway Township, Moegaung monastery in Yankin Township, Meggin, Kyauksataw Ashe, Pyinnya Tagon, Dhamnma Waipula and Shwekyin Taikthit monasteries in Thingangyun Township, Mingalayama and Pyinnya Yamika monasteries in Botahtaung Township, Sasana Theikpan and Sasana Gonyi monasteries in Bahan Township, Takkathila Zeyathikdi Pahtan monastery in Dagon (East) Township, Thirizeya and Pandisayama monasteries in North Okkalapa Township, totalling 18 monasteries where U Gambhira, U Vicitta, U Obhasa, U Pakata, U Kovida, U Ottara, U Khanti, U Kusala, U Aggavamsa, U Neminda, U Nanataja, U Ottama, U Sinninda, U Janinda, U Kusala, Shin Gandera, U Vunnasara, U Tejaniya, U Kontinna, U Jatiya, U Candavara, U Kevala, U Somana, U Acitta, U Pannajota, U Kosalla, U Pannavamsa, U Nandobhasa and U Catila, who led, generated, participated and supported the disturbances were residing, due to unavoidable circumstances.

In the raid, the members could not differentiate between monks and novices and bogus ones. So, they took 513 monks, one novice, 167 men and 30 women for questioning.

It is regrettable that the operation revealed that in some monasteries, women sleep in the buildings where monks reside, and the members found 42 uncensored pornographic VCDs, one uncensored pornographic DVD, three pornographic books, two pornographic wall sheets, four pornographic photos, a Kama Siddhi treatise, a photo of a woman, 10 condoms, one sexual tonic medicine sachet, dildo (with belt), one statuette of a woman and a man hugging each other, 13 women's wear longyis (sarongs), eight panties, one purse, a love letter, perfume/glycerin bottles, men's wear longyis, T-shirts, Jeans, two cordless phones, three loan agreements, one men's wear Rolex wrist watch, 10 alcohol bottles, one 9mm pistol round of ammunition, 18 different kinds of swords, three wooden nanchatkus, one axe, six wooden rods, one iron rod, 13 catapults, documents about lists of bets, 30 booklets featuring football match fixtures and documents about football match bets, documents, ledgers and receipts about two-digit and three-digit illegal lotteries, three sets of playing cards, one anti-government poem book titled Thway Mawgun, one paper sheet featuring anti-government letter titled Nyinyut Kya Yin, three paper sheets featuring facts about Myanmar Young Monks Union, one diary dated on 18.9.2007 featuring expressions that Myanmar Young Monks Union made demands to the government, documents about news records and speeches of NLD, one badge of fighting peacock, ?88? generation student group's invitation cards for Waso robes donation, one Nazi headband, and two US headbands.

After interrogating those who were taken from the monasteries, up to 5 October, 404 monks, one novice, 158 men and 30 women who were found innocent had been released. Now, 109 monks and nine men are under questioning.

Foreign media and anti-government groups made fabrications that in the incidents, there were casualties of some monks. In reality, only a dead body with a tattoo depicting party political affairs and a yellow robe on his neck was found to be floating in the Pazundaung creek. He was only a bogus monk wearing a yellow robe.

It was found that the internal and external elements did not even spare the monks practising Pariyatti and Patipatti in their monasteries and persuaded them to take to the streets. Their acts were in total disregard of the Sasana and the Buddha's teachings, and they attempted to tarnish the image of Buddha's Sasana and sow discord between the government and the people. As a result, the Sasana as well as the country was affected. So it proved that the destructionists were sticking to the means of confrontation and utter devastation.

As U Gambira, U Vicitta, U Obhasa and U Padaka, who led the instigation to cause disturbances, escaped, the Sayadaws and members of the Sangha are requested to expose bogus monks. Although authorities and security members pay respects to the real monks, they had to take action against those bogus monks trying to tarnish the image of the Sasana in order to ensure community peace and tranquillity, the rule of law and perpetuity of the Sasana. Therefore, the Sayadaws and members of the Sangha who are safeguarding the Sasana are requested to give Ovada.

Later, Chairman of Yangon Division Sangha Nayaka Committee (Shwekyin) Sayadaw of Sasana Alinyaung Monastery in Dawbon Township Bhaddanta Jotika, Chairman of Yangon Division Sangha Nayaka Committee (Muladwara) Sayadaw of Gandayon Monastery Bhaddanta Jayasena, Chairman of Yangon Division Sangha Nayaka Committee (Weiluwun) Sayadaw of Bilin Monastery in Sangyoung Township Bhaddanta Pannawbhasa and Chairman of Yangon Division Sangha Nayaka Committee (Thudama) Sayadaw of Legaing Monastery in Dalla Township Bhaddanta Ardisavamsa gave the Ovada.

They said that as the security members could not distinguish real monks and novices from bogus ones they had to take monks and novices they had found. But the monks and novices who were found innocent have been released and sent back to their monasteries. Action will be taken against those involved in the violent protests in accord with the law. Those who got involved unwittingly in and those being threatened to join the protests have been released. There was growing concern over rumours that some monasteries will be raided at night. Now, the public concerns have subsided. It is required to expose U Gambhira and some monks who were acting in collusion with such foreign radio stations as BBC, VOA and RFA. And our media need to refute fabricated news aired by foreign media. Officials are to inform the monasteries as to notifications of local authorities in order that those who haven't learnt yet the notifications through the newspapers and televisions may know them. Officials are to strive to get a large number of monks know that only monks who led the protests and bogus monks who were found together with things that have nothing to do with monks were arrested and action was taken against them.

Monks are to follow Vinaya rules of the Buddha, rules and regulations and instructions issued by the State Sangha Maha Nayaka Committee and the law issued by the State. If they breach any one of those orders action may be taken against them. It was pleased that monks had been defrocked during interrogation and then they had been ordained and sent back to their monasteries. The handling of situation during the violent protests and measures taken by officials for purification of the Sasana amounts to serving the interest of the Sasana. Officials are to make continued efforts for perpetuation, purification and propagation of the Sasana. If monks and disciples make concerted efforts it is sure that achievement will be made.

Sayadaws of all Ganas of the committee, heads of district GADs, Head of Yangon Division Religious Affairs Department U Soe Naing and district heads and Director of Yangon Division Immigration and National Registration Department U Hla Daung and district heads were present.

Leader of Spokes Authoritative Team of the State Peace and Development Council Minister for Information Brig-Gen Kyaw Hsan receives scholars of Friedrich Ebert Foundation FES scholars tour Shan State (North), Yeywa hydel project in Mandalay Division

Nay Pyi Taw, 6 Oct - Scholars of Friedrich Ebert Foundation (FES) headed by Dr P Christian Hauswedell went on a study tour of development achievements of Laukkai of Special Region No 1 and Kaungkha of Special Region No 5 in Shan State (North), Muse 105th-mile border trade station, the gateway to the People's Republic of China and trade businesses in Muse, and Yeywa hydroelectric power generation project in Kyaukse Township in Mandalay Division on 1 and 2 October.

The FES scholars together with local and foreign journalists arrived in Laukkai in Special region No 1 in Shan State (North) on 1 October morning.

They were welcomed by national race leaders, district and township level departmental officials and local national people.

Afterwards at the Anti-Narcotic Drugs Museum in Laukkai, U Li Man Kwan on behalf of Special Region No 1 national race leader U Phon Kyar Shin briefed regional development endeavours and accomplishments in cultivation of opium substitution crops. FES scholars inquired the requirements in carrying out regional development activities, U Li Man Kwan replied that there were requirements in transportation for agricultural produces. Although the major roads have been built with the assistance of the State, village-to-village roads are still required to be built to access remote hilly areas, he mentioned. Similarly, it is required to obtain modern cultivation techniques, fertilizers and pesticides, he observed. Water is scarce in Kokang region for domestic use and agricultural purposes, he said. The international community should recognize the achievements in anti-narcotic drugs activities undertaken by the Government and the national people, he stressed.

Later, FES scholars visited the Anti-Narcotic Drugs Museum and viewed round the development in Laukkai. They proceeded to Kaungkha of Special Region No 5 in Shan State (North). They were welcomed there by national race leader U Mahtu Naw, departmental officials and the local national people.

Afterwards, at the briefing hall of Kaungkha, national race leader U Mahtu Naw explained matters on regional development endeavours and accomplishments in cultivating opium-substitution crops. FES scholars inquired about the reason for making peace, their views and attitudes to the National Convention, the future of the peace groups and the relations among the Kachin peace groups. National race leader U Mahtu Naw explained that armed insurgency started as their region did not develop and was left isolated. They attained peace as the Government gave them a chance to join hands with the Tatmadaw in regional development endeavours and to participate in the National Convention, he said. The National Convention the first step of the Road Map has now been completed and when the remaining steps are completed the elected government will emerge, he observed. At that time, the peace groups will become auxiliary forces of the Tatmadaw, he mentioned. There are altogether three Kachin peace groups and the relation among them is fraternal. Afterwards, FES scholars visited the Kaungkha hydroelectric power plant and the 100-acre opium-substitution tea plantation.

On 2 October, FES scholars visited the 105th-mile border trade station in Muse in northern Shan State. At the briefing hall there, they were briefed matters related to construction works at the 105th-mile station, border trade and developments of Muse region by Director-General of the Border Trade Department U San Pyae. Deputy Director-General of the Hydroelectric Power Generation Department U Win Kyi explained matters on Shweli hydroelectric power project.

Later, the FES scholars went on excursion tour to Mongyu inspection centre where loaded trucks are inspected with the use of X-ray machines; the inspection of vehicles at the export-import check point and cold storage for marine products. Next, they also visited the Shwe Nandaw gateway in Muse to the People's Republic of China and studied business and trade activities.

The FES scholars proceeded to Yeywa hydroelectric power plant project site in Kyaukse Township of Mandalay Division. They were welcomed by Deputy Minister for Electric Power-1 U Myo Myint and officials. At the briefing hall there, Deputy Minister U Myo Myint explained the work progress so far achieved and the future works. FES scholars inquired that whether the project was harmful to environment or not. The Deputy Minister clarified that feasibility studies were made also for environmental conservation before starting the project. When the project is under way, a consultant team from Switzerland was hired to avoid effects to the environment. No villages were removed by the project which was being implemented by Myanmar technicians only, he explained. Then, FES scholars viewed round the Yeywa hydel power project site.

On 3 October morning, the FES scholars met with State Peace and Development Council Spokes Authoritative Team Leader and members, Deputy Ministers and senior officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Ministry of Labour, the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs at the Minister's Office of the Ministry of Information in Nay Pyi Taw. Officials concerned from various ministries clarified the salient points of their works and replied to the queries made by the FES scholars. In the afternoon, Minister for Information Brig-Gen Kyaw Hsan received the FES scholars and clarified the current political situation of Myanmar.

Next, the FES scholars inquired the cooperation between Myanmar and the UN. Minister for Information Brig-Gen Kyaw Hsan replied that Myanmar as a member nation has been cooperating with the UN and at present Myanmar is fully cooperating with it; Head of State Senior General Than Shwe received UN Secretary General's Special Envoy Mr Gambari on 2 October; Mr Gambari also met with Spokes Authoritative Team of the State Peace and Development Council, national race peace groups as well as officials from religious organizations, Myanma Motion Picture Asiayon and Myanmar Music Asiayon; Mr Gambari was allowed to meet with those he would like to meet; he also got opportunities to witness development of the country and mass rallies to express People's Desire. The Minister also disclosed that he explained to Mr Gambari not only the current situation but also the stance of the Government on Myanmar's politics. The Minister also expressed his hope that Mr Gambari would explain about Myanmar's actual situation when he arrives back to the UN.

FES scholars then inquired about the possibilities of the groups which did not participated in the National Convention to enter election to be held according to the seven-step Road Map. Minister Brig-Gen Kyaw Hsan replied that the Constitution draft and related laws and bylaws will be consisted of stipulations for formation of political parties. In accordance with the stipulations, antigovernment groups can be able to form political parties, he said. NLD is still sticking to wrongful policies of Defiance of All Orders, Confrontation, Utter Devastation, Imposing Four Kinds of Sanctions and Relying on External Elements, he noted. Only when the NLD give up these policies, cooperation can be made, he pointed out. One cannot plead for dialogue on one hand while putting pressures on the other, the minister remarked. Now the National Convention which is the first step of the seven-step Road Map has been completed, and continued efforts will thus be made for implementing the remaining steps, the Minister observed.

The FES scholars then inquired about the formation of a committee for drafting the Constitution. The Minister clarified that the drafting committee will be formed with adequate number of legal experts and intellectuals. By seeing the completion of the National Convention in the year 2007, one can see that the Government has been expediting the implementation of the seven-step Road Map, he said. However, antigovernment groups do not see the completion of the National Convention as a progress and assuming that it rendered them lesser opportunities to grab power, they accelerated their efforts to jeopardize the National Convention, he noted. Thus, their efforts were deterred by security unit members and the people collectively, he said. The Minister continued to say that the Government has sound evidences about the collaborated attempts of antigovernment groups within and without the country to jeopardize the National Convention. The destructive elements had also plotted to blast bombs at the National Convention. Such destructive acts could delay the Road Map implementation process, he noted. He also stressed that international community as well as antigovernment groups should render cooperative hand to the Government's implementation of the seven-step Road Map. The Government would like to see the antigovernment groups to enter elections in the future, the Minister mentioned. The Tatmadaw Government is not hindering the democracy reform but bringing about the discipline-flourishing democracy, he stressed. He continued to say that Fundamental Principles and detailed basic principles were adopted at the National Convention by people's delegates from eight delegate groups unanimously. During the previous trips as well as in this trip, the FES scholars have toured the regions of peace groups and known the views and stances of these groups upon the National Convention, the Minister said.

The Third Workshop on ASEAN-EU relation was held on 4 and 5 October at Kumudra Hotel in Nay Pyi Taw attended by FES scholars as well as researchers and scholars of Myanmar Institute of Strategic and International Studies.

The FES Foundation included 13 scholars with two from the European Union and the European Parliament. The two scholars from the EU and the Eurpean Parliament were unable to attend the workshop though they were in Yangon because they were recalled due to the foreign media's exaggerated broadcasts on the demonstrations that took place in Myanmar.

Nay Pyi Taw, 6 Oct - Those who led the protests in September and those involved and those who supported the protests were detained and are being questioned. As the persons who unknowingly joined the protests are also violators of the law, the authorities are releasing them after they had signed the pledge. Up to 4 October, the authorities have already released 692 persons.

Altogether 517 persons were released on 5 October and six persons on 6 October after they had signed the pledge. Up to now, 1,215 have been released.

According to the investigations, more 78 persons who were involved in the protests are being questioned.

Nay Pyi Taw, 6 Oct - Authorities concerned exposed monks and novices who led, involved in, and supported the protests occurred in some townships in Yangon Division in September.

Altogether 533 monks were taken from the monasteries as it was difficult to differentiate between real monks and bogus ones. Among them, 398 monks have been sent back to their respective monasteries.

According to the principles adopted by the National Convention, a constitution with basic democratic rights for the people will emerge The national races will have extensive range of rights to exercise legislative, administrative and judicial powers

Nay Pyi Taw, 6 Oct - The following is the clarification on current Myanmar's political affairs made by Chairman of the Information Committee of the State Peace and Development Council Minister for Information Brig-Gen Kyaw Hsan to scholars of FES Foundation.

First, I would like to express that I am glad to have this opportunity to make clarifications to FES (Friedrich Ebert Foundation) scholars.

I believe you have obtained a wide range of data and facts from officials concerned of various ministries. I would like to apprise you of the progress of the democracy reform as well as the situations caused by inside and outside antigovernment groups trying hard at their utmost to jeopardize the momentum being achieved in the democratic reform.

We are pro-democracy. Therefore, since the Government took over State responsibilities unavoidably in 1988, it has earnestly been making efforts for democratic reform as aspired by the people. We have declared the seven-step Road Map to the world for building up our nation into a discipline-flourishing democratic State. Today, the National Convention which is the first step of the seven-step Road Map has successfully been completed. All delegates of the National Convention have unanimously adopted Fundamental Principles and detailed basic principles.

In this context, I would like to mention the stance of the delegates representing former armed groups who participated in the National Convention. All those delegates have expressed their stances and attitude in meeting with UN Secretary-General's Special Envoy Mr Ibrahim Agboola Gambari in the year 2006 that they believed in the National Convention; would join the Government and the people according to the forthcoming Constitution; and would never return to underground for any reason.

According to the principles adopted by the National Convention, a Constitution with basic democratic rights for the people will emerge. The national races will have extensive range of rights to exercise legislative, administrative and judicial powers. In addition to the existing seven States, Wa, Danu, Palaung, Pa-O, Kokang and Narga nationals will have Self-Administered Division or Self-Administered Zones to exercise legislative, administrative and judicial powers extensively.

In addition, efforts have been made for the minorities who do not get Self-Administered Division or Self-Administered Zone to enjoy democratic rights deservedly. The national race whose population exceeds 0.1 per cent of the nation's total population can send a representative to respective Region / State Hluttaw. That representative can participate as minister at the respective Region / State. On behalf of the national race concerned, that representative can participate in exercising legislative and administrative powers. Similarly, the national race which does not get SAD or SAZ and its population exceeds 10,000 can send a representative to respective Leading Bodies of SAD or SAZ so as to participate in legislative and administrative affairs.

Provisions guaranteeing the rights of various sectors including citizen sector, religious sector, social sector, etc which will be equal to those of other democratic nations will be prescribed in the forthcoming Constitution. Hence, we would like to stress that the Constitution to be drafted with the Fundamental Principles and detailed basic principles will be the best and the most suitable to our nation. These Fundamental Principles and detailed basic principles are adopted unanimously by all the delegates from every township including those delegates from former armed groups which have returned to the legal fold.

In undertaking democratic reform, we have to start with the steps harmonious to the prevailing conditions and current situations. We will get little advantage and much disadvantage if we give priority to the wishes and dreams rather than to prevailing conditions. Democracy will mature with the intellectual level and maturity of the people and developments in economic, education, social and other sectors. Today's democracy flourishing big nations have achieved the present mature stage of democracy in this way. Likewise, Myanmar's reform to democracy will also get mature gradually.

In transforming a nation into a democratic one, essential requirements are the stability, peace and the rule of law; the prosperity of the people; and the well educated citizens. Hence, nation building efforts are made politically, economically and socially by the Government. Antigovernment groups are trying to bring about democracy through violence and unrests. We would like to stress the point that according to the conditions of our nation, democratic reform cannot be made forcefully. We assume that in bringing about democracy, all the violence are not suitable to democracy.

Regarding the situations in Myanmar, I would explain in brief in two parts, the first part up to 2007 and the second part in the year 2007. Since taking over State responsibilities, the Tatmadaw Government has constantly been making earnest efforts for the national stability, development and democracy reform. Due to these endeavours, development is achieved on all fronts with momentum and the people are enjoying the fruitful results of development. As you friends have visited Myanmar for at least three times, you all have witnessed the stability and peace and developments of the country.

As you all have known, the Government started to convene the National Convention in view of democracy reform. From 1993 to 1996, The National Convention adopted 104 Fundamental Principles and detailed basic principles. However in the year 1995, NLD walked out of the National Convention on its own volition. Since then, antigovernment groups inside and outside the country making efforts for jeopardizing the National Convention, hindering the development pace and destroying peace and stability.

Especially, NLD has constantly been sticking to its wrong policies such as Defiance of All Orders, Confrontation, Utter Devastation, Imposing Four Kinds of Sanction, Relying on External Elements, and Opposing all the endeavours of the Government, etc. As efforts were made to destabilize the nation, create violence and unrests and jeopardize the National Convention, the Government has to make some detentions. Similarly, the so-called ?88? generation students group launched antigovernment activities such as signature campaign,white expression campaign, prayer campaign, white Sunday campaign etc. Yet, the Government with broad-mindedness pardoned such antigovernment activities in view of enabling them to have democracy practices.

Likewise the expatriates who fled after violating laws in the country in one way or another made collaborative efforts for creating unrest and violence in the country, for jeopardizing stability and disrupting National Convention. The remnant insurgents seeking refuge at border areas are no longer strong enough to fight the Government militarily and they joined with inside and outside antigovernment groups in carrying out sabotage acts to harm the stability in the country. These destructive elements blasted bombs even at the religious ceremony to pay homage to Lord Buddha's Tooth Relic at Maha Pasana Cave in Yangon. They also blasted bombs simultaneously at Yangon Trade Centre, Junction-8 Centre and Dagon Shopping Centre. Due to the cruel bomb blasts, 23 persons were killed and 162 wounded.

Some western powers also put pressure upon the Government by imposing economic sanctions and cut off humanitarian aids. Similarly, foreign media made exaggerations and fabrications in order to instigate violence and unrest in the country. Thus, the people of Myanmar dubbed these foreign broadcasting stations as ?centres with skyful of lies.

Although inside and outside antigovernment groups, insurgents, western powers and western media are collectively attacking the Government, the entire people of Myanmar absolutely believe in and support the Government. It is obvious that with the support of the people, the Government successfully carries on the process of democracy reform. Despite various difficulties and hardships, the Government gains development accomplishments and democracy reform process is not delayed.

I will continue to explain about the situations in the year 2007. When the Government declared in June to convene the final session of the National Convention soon to accelerate the pace of democracy reform process, the antigovernment groups inside and outside the country raised the momentum of antigovernment activities. They employed three strategies. The first strategy was to disrupt the National Convention. If they could not disrupt it, they would try to make efforts for preventing the drafting of the Constitution. If they fail to do so, they would try to instigate the people not to support the Constitution. Their second strategy was to create unrest and violence like those in 1988. Their third strategy was to launch sabotage acts including blasting of bombs throughout the country. These three strategies were employed by antigovernment groups within and without the country as well as those at the border areas with harmonious timings collectively.

At the same time, in order to assist these three strategies, some western powers misused UN Security Council, ILO and Human Rights Council to try to take lopsided actions against Myanmar. The intelligence organizations of some western powers also provided cash and kind assistance to the inside and outside antigovernment groups. NLD and the so-called ?88? generation students group in collaboration made instigations through various ways and means to create instability and unrest in the country. Diplomats of the embassies of some western countries visited the NLD headquarters almost daily and gave advice and suggestions. The centres opened by those embassies also conducted various training courses which were not related with education but with antigovernment activities. Although, these centres are opened to further promote understanding between the peoples of the two countries, they are actually providing training courses on antigovernment activities. You friends can consider it is appropriate or not.

The expatriate groups abroad under the guise of democracy, human rights and labour affairs made contacts with NED (National Endowment for Democracy) USAID, etc and provided cash and necessary assistance to antigovernment groups inside the country to launch UG activities. With the funds provided by these foreign financial organizations, the antigovernment groups inside the country made efforts to create unrest and violence.

While the antigovernment groups inside and outside the country were carrying out antigovernment activities collectively, the Government had to refix fuel prices unavoidably. The Government has been subsidizing for fuel prices since 1988. Nowadays in the world, fuel prices are skyrocketing and the Government has to spend huge amount of money for the subsidies. Therefore, balancing the expenditure of State funds and for subsidies and the consideration for relieving the people from the burden of oil price hikes, fuel prices were refixed unavoidably. Yet, the revised fuel prices are still less than the prevailing international fuel prices as the Government continues to subsidize. By taking advantage of the rise in fuel prices, the antigovernment groups started to make instigations to create protests. In other words, they employed their strategies.

At first, the antigovernment groups attempted to infiltrate the students to create unrest. However, the majority of the students know the truth and they could not be instigated. Then, the antigovernment groups tried to infiltrate the workers. And the workers did not accept their instigation. Therefore, the antigovernment groups infiltrated the monks and instigate to create protests. As a result, some monks started to protest beginning 28 August.

In the beginning, the monks did not make political demands and they wandered reciting parittas for the physical and mental well-being of the people. However, authorities handled the issue with restraints and patience. As no restrictions were made by the Government, antigovernment groups turned the situation into political movement so as to make political demands and create unrests.

In fact, there are about 500,000 monks in the whole country and only 2 per cent of monks participated in the protests. Those 2 per cent of the mass of monks include those bogus monks who got their heads shaved and wore monk's robes temporarily as arranged and paid by NLD and the so-called '88 generation students group. The lay persons who took part in the protests were also members of the antigovernment groups. The majority of the people did not participate in the protests. With the passage of time, there emerged dangers to harm the national peace and stability. Some protesters even threatened reverend monks who did not participate in the protests.

The most significant incident was that on 24th September, some 350 monks and NLD members shouted abusive words and attacked monastic buildings with purified water bottles at the monastery of Kyakhatwaing Sayadaw who is the Joint Sasana-paing (the most reverend bishop) of Shwekyin Gana of the Sangha with membership strength of about 50,000 monks all over the country. The Kyakhatwaing Sayadaw's monastery is located in Bago and the residence of about 1,200 monks. Being the Joint Sasana-paing, the Sayadaw is highly respected by the mass of the Sangha. Hence the mass of the Sangha is very frustrated with that incident.

Since the situations was leading to deterioration like in 1988, the Sangha Maha Nayaka Sayadaws tried to settle the issue with Dhamma. In addition to the previous directives, the sangha Maha Nayaka Committee issued the directive No 93 on 24 September for the monks to perform the religious duties only and not to get involved in violence and political affairs. Neglecting the directives, the monks continued to launch protests. As the situation had worsened like in 1988 and the nation was on the brink of disintegration, authorities issued a curfew in necessary places of Yangon and Mandalay. Authorities had to take necessary measures for preventing the 1988 disturbances-like deterioration.

The Government handled the situations with much patience, tolerance and broad-mindedness. Authorities at different levels handled the situation very carefully with much restraints at their best. On the other hand, the protests and violence harmed the transportation, business and daily lives of the people. Thus, the people themselves rounded up the protesters and handed over to authorities. Due to the efforts of the people, the nation has come to normalcy.

Authorities handled the situation without any hatred or prejudice. Focus was made only on ensuring the prevalence of peace and stability. Though the authorities handled the situation with much care and restraints, there have been some arrests and bloodshed incidents. We are more sorrowful than foreigners and foreign nations as this situation rose in our country and to our people. At the bottom of our heart, we absolutely do not want such incident happen. Please understand the fact that the incident that occurred in Myanmar due to sponsorship of the western powers and collective efforts of antigovernment groups inside and outside the country.

Actually, the entire people do not want or accept such protests and unrests. So, mass rallies are being held throughout the country unanimously by the people to denounce violence and protests as well as to support the National Convention and the forthcoming Constitution. More such rallies will take place all over the country.

We would like to ascertain that as the Government has already adopted the seven-step Road Map for building up a discipline-flourishing democratic nation, it will never deviate from its policy no matter how the international community impose sanctions or render assistance. We are eager to have better ties with EU and we welcome the assistance of EU in the procesas of democracy transition and for the development of human resources. The European Union however needs to have true picture of Myanmar's political situation and actual conditions so as to act fair and square without bias. As some member countries of EU are bluntantly interfering in our internal affairs, the progress in the relations between Myanmar and EU will remain far and far. During the recent strikes, some leaders and senior officials of some member countries of EU encouraged the protesters bluntantly to continue to go on strikes. Such acts will tarnish the image of EU and make it difficult to play a fair and square role in Myanmar's affairs.

While EU aspires the flourishing of democracy in Myanmar, the Tatmadaw will see to the emergence of democracy without fail as aspired by the people. It is hoped that this workshop can find ways and means to solve difficulties caused by different approaches although we have the same aspiration. In this context, I would like to express our deep gratitude to Friedrich Ebert Foundation for its endeavours for these workshops through various difficulties.

What I have clarified are underlying facts as regards the progress of the seven-step Road Map and the political transition. Other ministries have also clarified their views frankly as regards the actual conditions and situations of Myanmar and possibilities for cooperation between Myanmar and EU. Thus, it is believed that Excellencies and guests have had more useful facts. You friends can raise questions for further details. And you all are invited for free and frank discussions.

Yangon, 6 Oct - A ceremony to lay cornerstone of Yangon Children's Hospital annexe was held at the hospital this morning.

Medical Super-intendent Dr Aung Kyi Win of the hospital reported on building of the hospital annexe.

Next, Lt-Gen Myint Swe laid a casket and a brick at the designated places. Commander of Yangon Command Maj-Gen Hla Htay Win, Minister for Electric Power No 1 Col Zaw Min, Minister for Health Dr Kyaw Myint, Yangon Mayor Brig-Gen Aung Thein Lin and wellwishers laid the bricks at the designated places.

At the cash donation ceremony, Lt-Gen Myint Swe made a speech, saying that the government has formed the national health committee to improve the health sector of the State. Measures are to be taken systematically through the national health project.

Based on the national health policies, the Ministry of Health is providing health care services for the entire people. Owing to concerted efforts of the government, life expectancy of the people has improved.

In addition, more health infrastructures have been built throughout the Union. Health preventive measures, uplift of health standard of the people, cure and rehabilitation have been carried out.

There were 631 hospitals built in 1988. At present, there have been 834 health facilities across the nation. Each 200-bed hospital has been opened in the 24 special development region.

The children's hospital was put into operation in 1978 and built at a cost of K 18 million. It was upgraded into the 550-bed one in 2006.

Besides, cash donation was made to the hospital funds for the patients on 11 July, 2007.

For the construction of the hospital annexe, a stake driving ceremony was held on 16 July, 2007. And the wellwishers are thanked for the donation, he added.

Later, Lt-Gen Myint Swe accepted K 10 million donated by Yangon Division Peace and Development Council from Commander Maj-Gen Hla Htay Win.

Afterwards, the commander, the ministers and the mayor accepted cash donation from the wellwishers.

Also present on the occasion were directors-general and deputy directors-general, medical superintendents, professors and donors.

People of Sagaing, Mandalay Divsions hold mass rallies to denounce recent protests

Nay Pyi Taw, 6 Oct - The people of YeU and Salingyi in Sagaing Division and Singu and Yamethin of Mandalay Division who wish to see stability of the State, the rule of law and community peace and tranquillity regarded recent protests instigated by some monks and NLD members as a threat to peace and stability. So they held mass rallies to denounce such protests on 4 October after seeking permission form authorities concerned in accord with law.

In YeU, Sagaing Division, some 19,000 people participated in the procession held at 7.30 am on 4 October shouting slogans calling for Our Three Main National Causes' and holding placards that read We want peace. We don't want terrorists. Guard against internal and external destructive elements. The seven-step Road Map must be successful. We support the National Convention and the constitution'.

Similarly, more than 7,500 people of Salingyi, Sagaing Division, more than 20,000 people of Singu Township, Mandalay Division, and about 30,000 people of Yamethin Township, Mandalay Division also held mass rallies shouting slogans and holding placards.

Holding date for 15th Myanmar Traditional Cultural Performing Arts Competitions announced

Nay Pyi Taw, 6 Oct - The 15th Myanmar Traditional Cultural Performing Arts Competitions will be held on a grand scale as from 16 October in Nay Pyi Taw.

The welcoming ceremony will be held at 4 pm on 16 October at the City Hall, the opening ceremony at 8 am on 17 October at the same venue, the prize presentation ceremony at 1 pm on 1 November and the ceremony to present certificates of honour in conjunction with dinner at 5.30 pm on 2 November at the same venues. The competitions will take place from 17 to 29 October at the designated places in Yezin University Campus.

Yangon Division Supervisory Committee for Ensuring Smooth and Secure Transport meets

Yangon, 6 Oct - The Yangon Division Supervisory Committee for Ensuring Smooth and Secure Transport held its work coordinating meeting at the meeting hall of Yangon Command this afternoon with an address by Chairman of the Supervisory Committee Commander of Yangon Command Maj-Gen Hla Htay Win.

In his address, Chairman of the Supervisory Committee Maj-Gen Hla Htay Win stressed the need for officials to assess the weaknesses in rule enforcement as there have been the driving of vehicles and motorcycles without licenses. He added that farming work is being carried out in such areas as U-to, Nyaunghnapin, Hmawby, Bago, Hnawgon for the people to be able to consume meat and vegetables in abundance. Hence, transport along the road leading to those areas needs to be upgraded in the coming open season, he said.

He said that efforts are being made to upgrade the roads leading to universities and colleges as soon as possible. At the same time, the safety of waterways is to be carried out, he said.

Next, officials from universities and colleges, departmental officials and chairmen of the respective private bus lines took part in the discussions.

Nay Pyi Taw, 5 Oct - A ceremony to mark World Teachers Day 2007 was held at the Ministry of Education, here, this morning with an address by Minister for Education Dr Chan Nyein. The minister presented awards to four honorary teachers and one outstanding teacher.

Present on the occasion were ministers, the chairman of Civil Service Selection and Training Board, representatives of NGOs, honorary teachers and outstanding teacher, teachers of university, college, science and basic education schools and guests.

Ninth graders Ma Myat Mi Mi Khin and Ma Khaing Hsu Thwe of Nay Pyi Taw Basic Education High School No 1 acted as masters of ceremonies. The ceremony was opened with a song by students of Nay Pyi Taw No 5 BEHS.

Next, the minister delivered a speech. Later, Rector of Yangon University of Foreign Languages Dr Myo Myint read out the message on World Teachers Day.

Afterwards, Director-General U Bo Win of Education Planning and Training Department presented educational tasks carried out by four honorary teachers and one outstanding teacher.

Minister Dr Chan Nyein presented certificates of honour to Retired Professor U Tun Aung Chein of Yangon University and Retired Professor U Ba Toak of Yangon Institute of Technology. Officials also presented certificates of honour to Retired Director U Than Shwe of Basic Education Department and Retired President Dr Khin Maung Kywe of Myanmar Education Research Bureau and outstanding teacher Daw Kyi Kyi Win of No 40 BEPS, Shwepyitha of Yangon Division.

Next, Minister for Livestock and Fisheries Brig-Gen Maung Maung Thein, Minister for Forestry Brig-Gen Thein Aung and Minister for Energy Brig-Gen Lun Thi presented prizes to winners of competitions to mark World Teachers Day.

The ceremony ended with a song by students of No 1 BEMS Nay Pyi Taw Pyinmana. After the ceremony the guests viewed the booth displayed in commemoration of World Teachers Day.