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Headlines

• Senior General Than Shwe inspects river water pumping projects in Myingyan, NyaungU Districts 
• Senior General Than Shwe pays homage to pagodas in Bagan-NyaungU

International Relations

• Senior General Than Shwe congratulates Pakistani PM

Region

• Special meeting (3/2002) of Central Committee for Drug Abuse Control held 
• National entrepreneurs, department personnel urged to upgrade Yangon into world class capital USDA Annual General Meeting 2002 successfully concludes 
• USDA AGM passes two resolutions, approves one matter, places two matters on record 
• USDA Annual General Meeting 2002 successfully concludes
  
• Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than inspects regional development tasks in Bago Division 
• Measures for ensuring smooth and secure transportation coordinated H&T Minister, hoteliers and tour operators visit National Races Village 
• 55th Anniversary Independence Day commemorative essay and poem competitions held

SPOTLIGHT

• News
  
• Myanmar's boxing steps up

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Headlines

Senior General Than Shwe inspects river water pumping projects in Myingyan, NyaungU Districts
Nine river water pumping projects in Myingyan District to benefit 55,695 acres

Yangon, 23 Nov - Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Senior General Than Shwe arrived in Bagan-NyuntU in NyaungU Township, Mandalay Division, yesterday.

The Senior General inspected Kyawzi river water pumping project in Taungtha Township, Myingyan District and Ngathayauk river water pumping project and Lawkananda river water pumping projects in NyaungU Township, NyaungU District and gave necessary guidance. The Senior General left Yangon by Tatmadaw aircraft yesterday morning and arrived at Bagan-NyaungU Airport, NyaungU Township, Mandalay Division, at 10.15 am.

The Senior General and party were welcomed at the airport by Chairman of Mandalay Division Peace and Development Council Commander of Central Command Brig-Gen Ye Myint, Minister for Construction Maj-Gen Saw Tun, Brig-Gen Than Tun of Kyaukpadaung Station, Chairman of Magway Division Peace and Development Council Col Zaw Min, departmental heads and officials.

Then, the Senior General and party flew to Kyawzi river water pumping project in Taungtha Township, Myingyan District by helicopter. At the briefing hall, the Senior General and party heard reports on the site chosen for undertaking the project, construction of the main pump station and other pumping stations, arrival of pumps, completion of earth work, digging of canals and benefited areas presented by Minister for Agriculture and Irrigation Maj-Gen Nyunt Tin.

Next, Director-General U Win Shwe of Water Utilization Department reported on the purposes for Kyawzi river water pumping project, requirements of fuel, cement and electricity, river water pumping projects implemented and being implemented in Myingyan District, benefited areas and other projects which should be implemented.

Minister for Industry-1 U Aung Thaung also reported on supply of cement to the river water pumping projects, Minister for Energy Brig-Gen Lun Thi on arrangement for supplying fuel and Minister for Electric Power Maj-Gen Tin Htut on the supply of power for the projects. Minister for Transport Maj-Gen Hla Myint Swe reported on flow of water at the project sites along Ayeyawady River. After hearing the reports, the Senior General fulfilled the requirements and gave guidance on Kyawzi river water pumping project to be implemented according to schedule for development of the agriculture sector, for greening the region and for availability of drinking water in the rural areas, feasibility survey to be conducted for extension of irrigated areas through digging the new Kyawzi canal, tasks to be undertaken not only in river water pumping projects implemented and being implemented in Myingyan District but also in Kyauktalon river water pumping project that should continue to be implemented, Ywathit river water pumping project, Ngamyar river water pumping project and Seiknyan river water pumping project to be implemented, maintaining the flow of water at the projects along Ayeyawady River and emphasis to be laid on boosting production of crops in cultivating paddy, sesamum, groundnut, sunflower, cotton, green gram, pedisein, pigeon pea, sugarcane and maize with the use of quality strains in the irrigated areas.

Then, the Senior General inspected the site for the pump station (pontoon), the main water pond and progress in digging the main feeder canal. Water Utilization Department of the Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation is implementing the Kyawzi river water pumping project which will supply water from Ayeyawady River to about 8,000 acres of farmlands in Kyawzi region of Taungtha Township through Soon Pond. Altogether nine river water pumping projects will be implemented in Myingyan District.

These nine projects are: Kyawzi, Seiknyan, Tha-baung (Myingyan), Hsimee-khon (1), Hsimeekhon (2), Hsimeekhon (3) (extension), Ngamyar, Ywathit and Kyauktalon river water pumping projects. On completion, the projects will benefit about 55,695 acres of farmlands.

Kyawzi water pumping project will irrigate about 8,000 acres of farmlands and it will supply water to Soon Pond. In the afternoon, the Senior General proceeded to Ngathayauk river water pumping project in NyaungU Township. At the briefing hall of the project, Minister for Agriculture and Irrigation Maj-Gen Nyunt Tin reported to the Senior General on matters related to the project and Director-General U Win Shwe on progress of work and requirements. The Senior General gave necessary guidance and inspected the charts of the water pumping projects.

Afterwards, the Senior General and party inspected completion of the pump station, pumping water into the main water pond and supply of water through the main canal. Ngathayauk river water pumping project will irrigate about 8,700 acres of cultivated land in NyaungU Township. The project will be implemented in five phases. At present, the first phase of the project is completed and it is supplying water to 2,500 acres farmland.

The Senior General and party left Ngathayauk river water pumping project for Lawkananda project by helicopter. Senior General Than Shwe inspects river water Lawkananda project is designed to irrigate 11,000 acres of land in the western part of NyaungU Township. Minister Maj-Gen Nyunt Tin and the director-general reported to the Senior General on implementation of the project, progress of work, condition of benefited areas with the use of charts.

The Senior General gave guidance on the project tasks to be extended as much as possible and water to be supplied to surrounding areas of NyaungU Airport. Next, the Senior General and party inspected the pump station of the project and condition of Ayeyawady River and its environs. At present, Lawkananda Project is irrigating 2,800 acres of farmlands. In NyaungU Township, Letpanchaypaw river water pumping project has been completed to supply 1,500 acres of land. The Taungzin water supply system has been carried out for supplying drinking water to 101 villages.

Ngathayauk and Lawkananda projects are under construction phase by phase to benefit 8,700 acres of land and 11,000 acres of land respectively. Next, the Senior General and party inspected tasks of Lawkananda river water pumping project and went to Bagan-NyaungU by car.

Senior General Than Shwe pays homage to pagodas in Bagan-NyaungU

Yangon, 23 Nov - Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Senior General Than Shwe paid homage to pagodas in Bagan-NyaungU this morning.

Senior General Than Shwe and party first paid obeisance to Hsinmyashin Pagoda in Bagan at 7 am and donated cash to the pagoda funds through Commander Brig-Gen Ye Myint. Next, the Senior General and party visited Ananda Pagoda. The Senior General presented cash for the pagoda to the pagoda board of trustees and signed in the visitors' book. The pagoda board of trustees presented the Senior General the lacquer Soon-oak (lacquer bowl).

Then, Senior General Than Shwe and party paid reverence to Alodawpyay Pagoda. The pagoda board of trustees presented him a lacquer painting. The Senior General made cash donation and signed in the visitors' book. The Senior General and party proceeded to Shwezigon Pagoda in NyaungU where they paid homage to Kokkasangon Buddha Image at Gandakuhtitaik of Eastern Stairway.

Then, the Senior General and party offered "soon", fruits, flowers, water and lights to the pagoda. The Senior General then made cash donation for the pagoda and accepted the picture of Shwezigon Pagoda as a gift from the chairman of the pagoda board of trustees.

The Senior General and party went round the pagoda clockwise. Then, the Senior General and party went to Lawkananda Tooth Relic Pagoda and offered flowers and lights. The Senior General then signed in the visitors' book and made cash donation. The pagoda board of trustees presented the picture of the pagoda to the Senior General.

International Relations

Senior General Than Shwe congratulates Pakistani PM

Yangon, 23 Nov - Senior General Than Shwe, Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council and Prime Minister of the Union of Myanmar has sent a message of Congratulations to His Excellency Mr Mir Zafarullah Jamali, Prime Minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan on his assumption of the High Office of the Prime Minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan.

Region

Myanmar's actual and practical anti-drug measures internationally known
Special meeting (3/2002) of Central Committee for Drug Abuse Control held

Yangon, 23 Nov - The special meeting (3/2002) of Central Committee for Drug Abuse Control was held at the administrative meeting hall of Drug Elimination Museum at the corner of Kyundaw Road and Hanthawady Road this afternoon, with an address by Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council General Khin Nyunt.

The Secretary-1 said although Myanmar has been engaged in anti-drugs activities systematically with greater momentum, some media of the west are making fabricated accusations on drugs. Moreover, some persons and organizations under the influence of the big western nations are constantly making fabricated accusations on Myanmar's endeavours for combating anti-drugs activities with negative views.

Myanmar's anti-drugs endeavours have existed throughout history. Under the ancient Myanmar kings taking and using of drugs were banned. When Myanmar was under servitude, the imperialists imported poppy seeds and allowed cultivation and trading of opium officially. Therefore, there were cultivation and use of opium among the sincere and honest national races. After regaining independence, Myanmar attempted to eradicate the opium production through the successive governments.

Myanma Tatmadaw with might and main launched narcotic drugs operations over two decades. A great deal of Tatmadawmen sacrificed their lives, blood, sweat and limbs. At this present age, the Government is making efforts to curb the drug smuggling in cooperation with national race organizations and local people. National race organizations returning to the legal fold resulted in the sharp fall in the production of opium.

Moreover, U Khun Sa, formerly known as "Opium Lord", and party, abandoned both opium trading and armed struggle line, and returned to the legal fold. This event stands out as a significant success in drug abuse control tasks. Thus, the marked improvement can be seen in Myanmar's narcotic drugs abuse control tasks, when compared with that of 15 years ago. However, some western media and anti-Myanmar organizations are still manufacturing accusations and taking a dim view of Myanmar's achievements in narcotic drugs combat.

No matter what their allegations are, the Government, with firm pledge, will keep on carrying out this campaign to the extent that the narcotic drugs is totally wiped out in Myanmar. In this regard, the local people with positive attitude and belief, are also rendering assistance to the Government in these tasks. Under the leadership of the Government, success will no doubt be achieved in the 15-year narcotic drugs eradication plan in the designated period, if national organizations and local people actively and unanimously take part in implementing the plan.

As Myanmar is making constant efforts in drug abuse eradication campaigns, the international community now have a clear vision on Myanmar and are engaged in drug eradication tasks of Myanmar. In a statement of United Nations Information Service released on 27 July 2002, there appeared constructive criticism that Myanmar's endeavours to eliminate narcotic drugs are genuine actions; however, for long-term achievement Myanmar alone cannot carry out the tasks without international cooperation. Due to clarification of news on the implementation of the new destiny project to eradicate the cultivation of poppy with necessary documents in international meetings, trusts on the project are now won. It is an encouraging sign that Myanmar was included in the name list of seven Asian nations which will compete in UN Commission on Narcotic Drugs to be held in 2003.

As a result of the implementation of the new goal, farmers, of their own volition, returned poppy seeds and dried opium bulbs to the authorities concerned. Moreover, ceremonies to burn down the poppy seeds and bulbs were held in respective regions. They are significant achievements of Myanmar's endeavours to wipe out the narcotic drugs. Now, poppy growers have come to know the dangers of narcotic drugs. Therefore, it will be needed to add momentum to the long-term progress of the new goal.

Arrangements are being made to implement the New Destiny Project by using the methods of taking preventive measures through law enforcement and administrative means, distributing seeds of poppy-substitute crops and controlling poppy seeds. Under the project, seeds of poppy-substitute crops were distributed to poppy growers spending 50 million kyats in monsoon season this year for the cultivation of poppy-substitute crops. Moreover, another 50 million kyats were spent on cultivation of poppy-substitute crops as winter crops and arrangements are being made for timely distribution of the seeds to farmers.

In this regard, it is targeted to use a total of 67.5 million kyats including 5 million kyats in Shan State (South), 57.5 million kyats in Shan State (North), 2.5 million kyats in Shan State (East), 2 million kyats in Kachin State and 500,000 kyats in Kayah State. Out of these targets, altogether 42.5 million kyats have been spent on cultivation of maze, pigeon pea, soya-bean and buckwheat in Shan State (North) and a total of 12,931.5 acres of farmland have been put under monsoon crops. Another 53,366.21 acres will be put under winter crops such as buckwheat, wheat, beans and pulses, niger and potato. In Shan State (South), 4.262 million kyats have been spent on cultivation of monsoon and winter crops and altogether 935.95 acres of farmland have been put under paddy, beans and pulses, wheat, sunflower, niger, maize and vegetables. In Shan State (East) also, 2.48 million kyats have been spent on cultivation of monsoon crops such as paddy, beans and pulses and corn on 864 acres of farmland.

To promote the agricultural methods for the farmers, experts from the People's Republic of China have conducted short-term courses on utilizing fertilizer and agricultural methods and donated seeds of 11 tons of potato, 600 kilos of China lab bean and 400 kilos of green peas in Shan State (North) Special Region 1 of Kokang region.

Under the joint China-Myanmar cooperation, Htan Minchumk (a) Shikham, 40, the main culprit in trafficking 500,000 stimulant tablets in Lonlin Township, Yunnan Province, in July 1997, was seized in Laukkai and the culprit was handed over to the officials of Yunnan Province, the PeopleÕs Republic of China.

Similarly, Li Kyint Kham (a) Li Kyet Chway, a Chinese drug fugitive who was seized together with 14.62 kilos of heroin in Monton, Yonte District, PRC, was arrested in Namhutan Village, Laukkai and handed over to Chinese officials.

Concerning narcotic drug cases, Myanmar has handed over drug fugitives to China in 2002-2002. In this regard, eight times handing over of culprits and one time handing over of documents including two times handing over of 13 culprits under the arrangement of Wa national races in Special Region 2 in Shan State (North) have been made.

Information received by DEA in Yangon, 140 kilos of heroin were seized in Bangkok, Thailand. The seizure led to the arrest of 13 culprits together with 36 kilos of heroin, 5,030,000 stimulant tablets, 10 kilos of stimulant tablets, 338 kilos of ephedrine powder, 40 kilos of caffeine powder, six weapons, ammunition and magazines.

Under the narcotic drug control programme between Myanmar and Thailand, transborder meetings have been held bi-annually and arrangements are being made to hold the 7th meeting in December, 2002, in Changmai, Thailand.

With the help of Bangkok-based UNDCP, the meeting among Myanmar, India and China on controlling precursor chemicals used in refining narcotic drugs will be held in Yangon in December, 2002.

Under the agreement reached in the senior officials' meeting on drug control, held in Changmai, Thailand, in January, 2002, arrangements are being made to cooperate among representatives of China, Laos, Myanmar and Thailand in controlling trafficking narcotic drugs and precursor chemicals in Mekong River.

Under the programme of Commission of Narcotic Drugs, (CND), the ministerial level meeting on drug control will be held in Vienna, Austria, in April, 2003. Myanmar has been making arrangements to attend the meeting. There are 23 kinds of chemicals controlled by 1988 UN Convention. Myanmar has designated 14 kinds of chemicals in Schedule-1 and 9 in Schedule-2 on 5 June 2002 and according to the requirements of the nation, Caffeine and Thionyl Chloride were added to the list. Therefore, a total of 25 kinds of chemical have been designated as controlled chemicals in Myanmar.

As Myanmar is paying serious attention to drugs control, 27 kinds of psychotropic substances included in the Schedule-I of 1971 UN Convention on Drug Control, 15 kinds included in Schedule-II, 27 kinds included in Schedule-III and 60 kinds included in Schedule-IV were issued with the notification No. 2/2002 on 21 June 2002 and according to the Convention on Narcotic Drugs 1961, Schedule-I and II were issued with the notification No 3/2002 on 29 July 2002.

Under the MoU on Drug Control signed by Myanmar and Thailand in 2001, all-round development project for Yongkha Village in Monghsat Township, Shan State (East) has been implemented with the help of Thailand.

In a bid to control the drug trafficking, narcotic drugs, chemicals and precursors are seized increasingly. It is as clear as the day light that Myanmar is accelerating its momentum in giving assistance to local people for doing poppy-substitute business as well as in a combating narcotic drugs in cooperation with her neighbouring countries. It has been internationally known that Myanmar is making actual efforts in drug elimination campaigns. In addition, Myanmar has made a pledge to carry out the campaigns with or without any assistance from any nations. Under the leadership of the Government, as long as the national people are in unity in doing this task, the drug elimination goal will surely take shape. Therefore, national people and departmental officials are to cooperate in implementing the 15-year narcotic drugs elimination plan.

Later, Chairman of Central Committee for Drug Abuse Control Minister for Home Affairs Col Tin Hlaing reported on the activities being carried out by the CCDAC. He said:

In accord with the guidance of the CCDAC meeting No 2/2002 held on 8-4-2002 the New Destiny Project has been introduced and was being implemented since April for the eradication of poppy cultivation.

To be able to implement the tasks the four ministers who are CCDAC members were assigned duty to make a field trip and carry out survey. As a result, the southern Shan State, the northern Shan State, the eastern Shan State, the Kayah State and the Special Region-5 of the Kachin State were designated as the project regions.

The New Destiny Project was being implemented in accord with the tactics such as prevention of poppy cultivation according to laws, management and administration, distribution of seeds of poppy-substitute crops, making a field trip at the designated regions under the supervision of the local authorities, giving the educative talks and fulfilment of the needs.

The CCDAC members the Deputy Minister for Home Affairs, the Deputy Minister for Agriculture and Irrigation and the Deputy Minister for Livestock and Fisheries have been making a field trip to Kengtung, Taunggyi, Lashio and Kutkai, Kunlong and Laukkai regions to explain the salient points for the project.

Altogether K 65.28 million has been disbursed out of the targeted fund of K 675 million for the five projected states. As a result of the project, the task forces have been formed and field trips made region-wise since April 2002. It has led to handing over the poppy seeds keeping for the year to come by the farmers out of their own volition.

At the same time, the ceremonies to destroy the poppy seeds, the seized narcotic drugs and chemicals have been held at Lashio two times, at Laukkai one time, at Kengtung one time, Pinlaung one time and at Loikaw one time totaling six times.

The poppy seeds already destroyed up to date are 14322.38 kilos,

The handing over of the poppy seeds, the destroying of seized narcotic drugs and chemicals and taking action against the corrupt personnel were presented with firm evidences to ASEAN Ministerial meeting held in August in Brunei by CCDAC Vice Chairman Minister for Foreign Affairs U Win Aung. Those present at the meeting fully accepted the presentation by Myanmar.

The Tachilek Anti-Narcotics Association has been formed according to the resolution of the meeting to eradicate the narcotic drugs in the border regions held on 23 July 2002.

The billboards to agitate the eradication of the drugs were set up with the aims of making the Tachilek District a drug-free region.

He said that he and the Minister for Labour met with officials, social organizations and local people in Tachilek District and explained measures for making the Tachilek District a drug-free region.

The State Peace and Development Council issued the Money Laundering Law as the Notification No 6/2002 prescribed in accord with International Convention on June 2002 and acts are being drawn.

The departmental officials and officials of private banking services have held the workshop to draw the rules on control of the money obtained by illegal means in Yangon and Mandalay.

Based on MoU on cooperation in drug eradication signed on 1-1-2001 in Yangon, Myanmar and the People's Republic of China reached an agreement to grant technological assistance and seeds of poppy-substitute crops worth 300,000 Yuan for cultivation of poppy substitute-crops in the Shan State Special Region-1 (Kokang region).

As part of the agreement the ceremony to hand over winter crops for cultivation of the poppy substitute-crops in the Kokang region by NNCC was held in Lukkai, Kokang region in October 2002. In addition to handing over the winter crops, the PRC has conducted course on agricultural technology two times and the hand over of the culprits between Myanmar and the PRC was carried out. Myanmar will continue to make efforts to cooperate with any country as its cooperation with the PRC.

Under the Aus Aid programme, MoU on AIDS project to be implemented in Myanmar, Vietnam and Guangxin Zhaung region, Yunnan Province, PRC has been signed. Myanmar held a discussion with the drug control donor nations in Vienam, Austria, from 21 to 23 October 2002. The leader of Myanmar delegation to the meeting explained measures in the fight against narcotic drug in Myanmar and UNDCP representative to Myanmar explained the conditions of poppy cultivation in Myanmar, future tasks and financial requirements. Thailand, Japan, PRC, USA and Australia and the European Commission representatives discussed matters on cooperation in Myanmar's efforts in the fight against narcotic drugs.

The leader of German delegation remarked to contribute euro 1.25 million through UNDCP in the coming fiscal years to be used in the fight against narcotic drugs and the French representative to appoint the General Professional Officer at UNDCP Office in Yangon with its expense. The Myanmar and UNDCP conducted ground survey on illegal poppy cultivation in Myanmar in 2001 and Myanmar and USA conducted the survey on poppy production in 1993. Those measures have been conducted eight times and it was known to the world that the rates of poppy production in Myanmar has reduced gradually. Arrangements have been made to conduct the ground survey on poppy cultivation and production by UNDCP and USA in the year to come.

Officials of the work groups of CCDAC are urged to present their respective tasks. Then, Vice-Chairman of CCDAC Minister for Progress of Border Areas and National Races and Development Affairs Col Thein Nyunt reported on border areas development tasks according to narcotic drugs eradication project in Myanmar, distribution of seeds of poppy substitute crops and technological assistance, arrangements for export of buckwheat to Japan and extended cultivation of buckwheat on 4,160 acres of land in 2002, arrangement for development of border areas.

Vice-Chairman of CCDAC Minister U Win Aung reported on the success of his field trip of diplomats in foreign missions to study border areas development, cultivation of poppy-substitute crops and livestock breeding in April 2002, presentation of New Destiny Project in the ASEAN Foreign Ministerial Meeting held in Brunei in August and full accept of the representatives to the meeting.

CCDAC Member Minister for Labour U Tin Winn reported on setting up of the billboards to agitate the drug eradication tasks and drug rehabilitation camps to have the national races realize the narcotic drug eradication measures being under taken in Myanmar as a national task. Then, CCDAC member Minister Brig-Gen Pyi Sone reported on destroying of poppy seeds and distribution of poppy substitute crops in border regions of Shan and Kayah States for reduction of the poppy cultivation and drug using.

Secretary of CCDAC Director-General of MPF Police Maj-Gen Khin Yi reported on progress of work according to resolution of CCDAC Special Meeting No 2/2002. Chairman of Monitoring Committee for Working Groups of the CCDAC member of New Destiny Project Team Deputy Minister for Home Affairs Brig-Gen Thura Myint Maung reported on the supervisory tasks and field trips to ensure the measures for the Working Groups.

Then, member of New Destiny Team Deputy Minister for Agriculture and Irrigation Brig-Gen Khin Maung reported on the success of the field trip made by his team and works being carried out for cultivation of poppy substitute crops, technological assistance, poppy substitute crops granted by PRC and distribution of those crops, measures being taken by the Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation in the project.

Then, Chairman of Livestock Breeding Work Group Member of the New Destiny Project Deputy Minister for Livestock and Fisheries U Aung Thein reported on distribution of milk cow, goat, pig, hen and fish in 2002-2003, distribution of pedigree poultry, pig, cow and fish to Kunhing Township, Homein region, Pinlaung Township and Phekhon Township in Shan State (South), distribution of poultry, pig and fish to Kengtung, Tongtah, Tachilek District, breeding of pedigree draught cattle, milch cow, pig and poultry to Shwepyitha Youth Training Camp in Pyay Township and Shwepyiaye Youth Training Camp in Phekhon Township.

Next, chairmen and officials of the sub-committees and those present at the meeting reported on narcotic drugs elimination and cultivation of poppy-substitute crops, livestock breeding tasks, distribution of seeds of green pea maize, buckwheat and pedigree pepper and poultry, pig, cow, etc, treatment given to drug addicts and rehabilitation tasks, education on danger of narcotic drugs and multiplier courses given to student youths, seizures of narcotic drugs, destruction of poppy plantations, cultivation of opium-substitute crops and drug elimination tasks undertaken by the State in cooperation with international organizations.

Afterwards, Chairman of Myanmar Anti-Narcotics Association Dr U Nay Win, Attorney-General U Tha Tun, Chief Justice U Aung Toe and those present at the meeting discussed knowledge on drug elimination to be given to the youths, legal affairs and poppy-substitute tasks. The Secretary-1 gave necessary instructions. Next, U Kyu family floor mill presented 500 bags of wheat seeds weighing 25 tons worth K 6.1 million for poppy-substitute cultivation. Chairman of CCDAC Minister Col Tin Hlaing accepted the donations and the meeting came to an end.

After the meeting, the Secretary-1 inspected the Drug Elimination Museum and gave necessary instructions.

National entrepreneurs, department personnel urged to upgrade Yangon into world class capital

Yangon, 23 Nov - The City Housing Project Management Committee held its coordination meeting No 8/2002 at the meeting hall of Department of Human Settlement and Housing Development under the Ministry of Construction on Bogyoke Aung San Street here this morning with an address by Chairmen of the committee Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council General Khin Nyunt.

In his address, Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt said that Yangon City was being upgraded to enable it to be in possession of the characteristics of an international capital. Myanmar has further cemented its socio-economic relationship with the ASEAN member nations after becoming a member of ASEAN, he noted. Myanmar has attended the State-level, the ministerial level and the senior official-level meetings held in the ASEAN member nations. Likewise, it has hosted the meetings of the association, he stressed. As Myanmar has further strengthened its ties with the nations of the world it is required to upgrade Yangon, the capital of Myanmar, into a world class one.

Prior to 1988, Yangon had been the city with scattering wards of squatter huts and old buildings which were not conducive to health, thus lacking characteristics of a national capital. Therefore, the satellite towns, he said, were established in the environs of the capital and the housing projects implemented beginning 1990 with the aim of enabling the people to possess houses of their own in healthy environment. The squatters were then settled in the high-rise buildings. Nowadays, Yangon has made significant progress and its appearance has changed for the better as it has been upgraded into a city adorned with modernity and splendor.

However, he said, there are still a lot of tasks to be undertaken for upgrading the city to keep abreast of the international capitals as well as those in the region. This being so, the City Housing Project Management Committee has been formed and measures are being taken in accord with the guidance of Head of State Senior General Than Shwe who called for upgrading Yangon into a world class capital, implementation of city housing projects, emergence of advanced housing projects, promoting the living standard of the Yangonites and enabling them to possess houses at fair prices. The national prestige and integrity will enhance only when Yangon, the capital of Myanmar, becomes an international capital. Hence, City Housing Project are being implemented with added momentum in order to enhance the national prestige and integrity in the time of the present Government.

The housing projects slowed down in 1997 due to the waves of economic recession and financial crisis in South-East Asia region. But the housing projects in Myanmar at present is making progress with the economic recovery in the region, he said. Relentless and sustained efforts will have to be made for the tasks such as emergence of City Housing projects that included ensuring proper flow of traffic, keeping the city lush and green, creating islands and roundabouts on the roads. He called on the national entrepreneurs and departmental personnel to make concerted efforts to make Yangon a capital adorned with modernity and splendor.

Then, CHPMC members and officials reported on matters related to the housing projects, real estate, housing estate and development of housing projects. This was followed by a general round of discussions. The meetig ended with the concluding remarks by Chairman of CHPMC Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt.

USDA Annual General Meeting 2002 successfully concludes

Yangon, 23 Nov - The fourth-day and last-day session of the Annual General Meeting 2002 of the Union Solidarity and Development Association continued at the Union Hall of the USDA central training school and came to a successful end on 18 November afternoon.

USDA Secretary-General U Than Aung presided over the meeting with CEC members U Pyi Sone and U Thaik Tun as members. Daw Aye Aye Maw, the executive of Hmawby Township USDA, acted as master of ceremonies together with Haka Township USDA member Daw Hson Khun Thang as co-MC. USDA Secretary-General U Than Aung, after seeking the approval of meeting in respect of the resolutions to be passed by the meeting, declared that the meeting decided to adopt USDA Patron Defence Services Commander-in-Chief Senior General Than Shwe's guidance as the guideline at different levels of the association. USDA Secretary-General U Than Aung then sought the approval of the meeting concerning the CEC report submitted to the meeting, which was later approved by the representatives to the meeting.

The seven future tasks stated in the CEC report submitted to the meeting, which was later approved by the representatives to the meeting. The seven future tasks stated in the CEC members report were also approved and adopted as the future tasks of the association. The implementation of future tasks state- and division-wise and other points of the meeting were put on record. In his speech, Secretary-General of the USDA U Than Aung said the representatives of the association at different levels took part actively in the annual general meeting, discussions and group seminars. At the meeting, the formation of the association, managerial and economic condition, social, cultural and educational conditions and the participation of the association in implementing the tasks for the development of the Union were discussed.

USDA Patron Senior General Than Shwe gave constant guidance to the success of the association's activities. In his address given this morning, the Patron attached importance to accelerating the activities of the association. He also urged participation of the association in strengthening the State and the association; in safeguarding the nation; in overcoming all obstacles; in conducting the development tasks of development zones; and in cooperating in economic planning and rural development tasks. Strenuous efforts were made for the human resource development in every region. In social sector, economic activity, fund-raising activity, and tasks for health, education and rural water supply were reported to have carried out by different levels of the association. The meeting passed two resolutions.

These resolutions, conformity with the basic principle of the association, reflect the national and economic policy of the State as well as the objectives of conducting human resources and rural area development. Now is the time when efforts are being made for the emergence of a peaceful, modern and developed nation after laying down work programmes. The resolutions passed in unison today for the future work programmes are the duties of the association in marching for the goal of the State. The State is implementing nation-building tasks with momentum. Success has been achieved in building national unity. Upholding Our Three Main National Causes in the fore, all are to safeguard the Union with the power of unity.

Based on the strength built in the nine-year period, the resolutions and future work programmes are to be implemented with the cooperation of the people, youths and social organizations. He expressed his gratitude to Patron of the association Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Senior General Than Shwe for the speech delivered at the meeting. He also took pride in having the chance to honour the outstanding youths and the cooperation of wellwishers. He expressed thanks to the youths who have been cooperating in implementing the work programmes in the nine-year period and the wellwishers, teachers, social organizations and association members who have provided financial, moral and labour assistance.

He also said that leaders of respective work committees, association members and department personnel have been making efforts for the success of the meeting at the new venue under limitations and he expressed thanks to them for their cooperation. He expressed thanks to the basic education high schools, students and teachers who lent themselves to the ceremony to hoist the State Flag and the ceremony to open the Union Hall. He thanked the construction group for the buildings at the Central Training School.

He also expressed thanks to the organizations rendering assistance to smooth transport. Delegates to the meeting which was held for five days reported on their activities. Work programmes for the future were also laid down. In conclusion he called for cooperation of USDA members, the people and social organizations to realize the resolutions of the meeting and implement future work programmes.

Afterwards, delegates to the meeting chanted " Non-disintegration of the Union - Our Cause!, Our Cause! Non-disintegration of National Solidarity - Our Cause!, Our Cause!, Perpetuation of Sovereignty - Our Cause!, Our Cause! Building a modern nation - Our Cause!, Our Cause!. The meeting successfully ended with the USDA song " Eternal Union" composed by Hinthada Myint Ngwe.

USDA AGM passes two resolutions, approves one matter, places two matters on record

Yangon, 23 Nov - The two resolutions were passed, one approval was made, and two matters were placed on record at the Union Solidarity and Development Association Annual General Meeting (2002) held from 14 to 18 November at the USDA Central Training School.

Resolution No 1 is to accept and follow the guidance of Patron of USDA Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Senior General Than Shwe given at the fourth-day session of USDA Annual General Meeting (2002) on 18 November as working guidelines by the USDA at different levels. Resolution No 2 is to approve the motions submitted by the Central Executive Committee to the USDA Annual General Meeting on the first-day session as the seven future work programmes. They are:

- to safeguard the peace and tranquillity and development of the State upholding Our Three Main National Causes - non-disintegration of the Union, non-disintegration of national solidarity and perpetuation of sovereignty,

- to continuously follow 12 Political, Economic and Social Objectives, the Four People's Desires and the Six Resolutions passed at Bagan mass meeting held in Bagan ancient cultural region ushering in the 21st Century for emergence of a peaceful, pleasant and modern nation and development of the State, the goal of the State,

- to secure the people's desires and guard against internal and external destructive acts and dangers will be detrimental to peace and development of the State,

- to participate in tasks for achieving success of the third five-year short-term plan being implemented by the State, the five rural development tasks and thrifty measures being taken by the State,

- to cooperate in tasks for human resource development of the State,

- to uplift four capabilities of USDA, and the association members are to accept the guidance given by the Patron of the association as work guidelines and follow it in their words and deeds.

One matter approved by the meeting was the report of the USDA CEC to the meeting on the first-day session on 15 November.

The two matters placed on record are progress of future tasks carried out in a year's time by respective states and division USDAs submitted to the USDA Annual General Meeting on the third-day session on 17 November, and points of groups on organization, management, economic, social & culture, education, development of the State, participation in Our Three Main National Causes and thrifty measures taken by the State sectors.

Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than inspects regional development tasks in Bago Division

Yangon, 23 Nov - Member of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than of the Ministry of Defence, officials of the State Peace and Development Council Office and departmental officials left here on 22 November.

Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than and the commander met departmental officials of Bago Division at Thiri Oktha Hall. Commander Brig-Gen Aung Min reported on implementation of agricultural, trade, industrial and fish and meat sectors in 2001-2002 and 2002-2003. Chairman of Bago District Peace and Development Council Lt-Col Ohn Myint reported on cultivation of monsoon and summer paddy and various kinds of beans and pulses and reclamation of farmland in wetlands.

Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than said he frequently visited Bago Division and inspected agriculture and livestock breeding and construction of roads and bridges and gave instructions. He said he explained objectives of the plans laid down by the State and region-wise objectives to be implemented in meeting with regional authorities, social organizations and officials concerned. He said his frequent visits are aimed at developing Bago Division, which is of great support to the economic development of the State. Bago Division is rich in water and land resources to conduct agriculture and livestock breeding tasks. With these favorable conditions, it is needed to make efforts to exceed the targeted yields of monsoon and summer paddy, cotton, sugarcane and beans and pulses in the division.

It is also needed to meet the target to put 0.26 million acres of land under summer paddy, and a total of 0.13 million acres of land under beans and pulses. As regards digging fish ponds for the development of meat and fish sector, efforts must be made to dig fish ponds up to 20,000 acres. Therefore, techniques and assistance of the Fisheries Department of the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries must be sought for economic development and for raising the standard of living of the local people. Local authorities, departments concerned, social organizations and local people are to actively carry out the duties assigned to them in a bid to make the city possess the characteristics of a city.

Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than and party inspected cultivation of gram and pedisein at U Htay Lwin's farm and gave instructions. At the briefing hall, Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than and party heard reports on cultivation of summer paddy, beans and pulses and edible oil crops. Then, Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than inspected gram, pedisein, and sunflower plants and gave instructions. On arrival at the construction site of the Tawa Sluice gate in Thanatpin Township, Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than heard reports on matters related to the sluice gate, progress of work, sufficient use of water in summer, and gave instructions.

They were conducted round the construction site of the sluice gate. Tawa sluice gate can prevent the flow of sea water from entering into plantations in summer. In addition, fresh water can be stored for crops cultivation and supply of drinking water. Upon completion, it can irrigate 32,000 acres of land. The sluice gate is of iron reinforced type with the length of 158 feet and height of 19 feet. It has 33 valves. Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than and party went to the 100-acre model paddy field in Htaungmin Village-tract in Thanatpin Township and inspected the cultivation of summer paddy.

Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than and party heard reports presented by officials on cultivation of summer paddy in the township, and arrangements for agricultural techniques by Myanma Agriculture Service. A total of 2,697 acres of land has been put under summer paddy in Kyaikpadaing, Htaungmin and Auksu villages in Thanatpin Township. Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than and party arrived at Kyaungsu Village in Thanatpin Township. Officials reported on construction of the road linking Thanatpin and Waw. Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than gave instructions on implementation of the five rural development tasks and cultivation of monsoon and summer paddy and mixed crops for economic development of rural people.

Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than and party inspected the earth road linking Waw Township and DaikU Township. They then left for Bago in the evening.

Measures for ensuring smooth and secure transportation coordinated

Yangon, 23 Nov - The work coordination meeting of Yangon Division Supervisory Committee for Ensuring Smooth and Secure Transport took place at the meeting hall of All Bus Lines Control Committee (Yangon) Head Office in Tamway Township yesterday evening.

Chairman of the committee Chairman of Yangon Division Peace and Development Council Commander of Yangon Command Maj-Gen Myint Swe attended the meeting and made a speech. First, the commander made a speech on supervision of the committee to ensure smooth and secure transport for the people who are traveling from Yangon Division to all parts of the nation by various modes of transport, opening of Aungmingala Coach Station, cleaning and beautifying of bus terminals, stations, jetties and airports and abiding by the traffic rules and regulations.

Then, members of the Supervisory Committee and the chairmen of the bus lines running in Yangon Division and those present reported on operating passenger cars, trains and ships at the right time and work being carried out for cleaning and beautifying of bus terminals, stations and ports. The commander attended to the needs on their reports and made closing remarks.

H&T Minister, hoteliers and tour operators visit National Races Village

Yangon, 23 Nov - Minister for Hotels and Tourism Brig-Gen Thein Zaw, together with Deputy Minister Brig-Gen Aye Myint Kyu, Chairmen and members of Myanmar Hoteliers Association and Tour Operators Association and hoteliers and tour operators, visited National Races Village near Thanlyin Bridge here by car this morning.

The minister and party were welcomed there by Director-General of the Progress of Border Areas and National Races Department Col Than Swe and officials who conducted them round the village. The minister and party were presented entertainment there by the national races from Manhiro Region in Shan State (North) and Pekhon Township in Kayah Region, who were visiting here. At the briefing hall, the director-general reported on tasks being carried out at the national races village construction project site and future plans.

He also replied to the queries raised by the entrepreneurs. Then, the minister gave necessary instructions. The minister and party left there later in the morning.

55th Anniversary Independence Day commemorative essay and poem competitions held

Yangon, 23 Nov - The 55th Anniversary Independence Day for the year 2003 commemorative basic education high school level essay competitions were held at the Basic Education High Schools in the entire nation from 9 am to 11 pm, and poem competitions from noon to 2 pm today.

Chairman of 55th Anniversary Independence Day Commemorative Essay, Poem, TV Quiz and Computer Drawing Competitions Organizing Subcommittee Deputy Minister for Education Brig-Gen Soe Win Maung, together with members of the subcommittee, directors-general of the departments under the Ministry of Education and officials, viewed round the competition of the students at BEHS-3 in Dagon Township, BEHS-4 in Ahlon Township and BEHS-4 in Botahtaung Township.

Similarly, the university, college and institute level essay competitions were held from 9 am to 11 am and poem competitions from noon to 2 pm in the whole country.

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