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Headlines

• Secretary-1 inspects regional development activities of Shan State (South)
• Secretary-1 attends New Year dinner

Religion

• Cornerstone laid to build 135-foot Maha Rattha Bhisa Meggi Pagoda in Panglong

International Relations

• Fourth ASEAN Heads of Statistical Offices Meeting (AHSOM 4) releases Joint Press Statement
• Fourth ASEAN Heads of Statistical Offices Meeting ends
• Delegates arrive to attend Fourth SKRL Special Working Group Meeting
• Laotian delegation pays homage to the Shwedagon Pagoda
• Korean delegation arrives

Region

• Lt-Gen Kyaw Win inspects preparations for observance of 58th Anniversary Armed Forces Day
• Meeting of the Leading Committee for Organizing the Third Traditional Medical Practitioners' Conference held
• Course on junior civil engineer- 2 concludes
• Agriculture, regional development tasks inspected
• Meeting on review of Myanmar UNICEF cooperation programme held
• New Destiny Project implemented in Kachin State
• Spain-based Trade Leaders' Club awards MOGE
• MWJA officials pay respects' present cash to doyen literati

• News
  

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Headlines

Secretary-1 inspects regional development activities of Shan State (South)

Yangon, 10 Dec - Chairman of the Working Committee for Progress of Border Areas and National Races Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council General Khin Nyunt and party attended a cornerstone-laying and enshrinement ceremony of Maha Ratha Bhisa Maggi Pagoda on Wikathini Hill at Panglong in Loilem Township, Shan State, yesterday morning.

Then, the Secretary-1 and party, accompanied by Chairman of Shan State Peace and Development Council Commander Brig-Gen Khin Maung Myint, left Panglong in Loilem Township for Hsihseng Township in Taunggyi District yesterday and arrived there at 11.30 am.

Next, the Secretary-1 met with national race leader U Takalai and party. U Takalai reported to the Secretary-1 on matters related to regional development tasks; and U Khun Lwin Maung on reclamation of 2,000 acres of farmland, education, communication, health, transportation, regional development tasks and requirements. Ministers also reported on assistance offered by their respective ministries for regional development.

After hearing the reports, the Secretary-1 attended to the requirements and made a speech. He said that their presence in southern Shan State was to fulfil the requirements of the regional development of Shan State (South). Under the guidance of Head of State Senior General Than Shwe, development activities are being carried out in the length and breadth of the nation including rural areas. At present, they were there to help accelerate the development pace of Naunghtaw region. Then, the Secretary-1 called for energetic efforts to speed up regional development activities. Later, U Takalai presented a Buddha image to Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt for reverence. The Secretary-1 in return presented a gift to U Takalai.

Then, Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt, Commander Brig-Gen Khin Maung Myint and national race leaders U Aung Kham Hti, U Takalai and U Sein Shwe posed for a souvenir photo. On arrival at the basic education high school of Naunghtaw Village in Hsihseng Township, the Secretary-1 and party were welcomed by headmaster U Myint Kyu, teachers and students. The Secretary-1 then watched the students learning lessons with teaching aids.

After inspecting the construction of the two-storey school building, the Secretary-1 fulfilled the requirements for speedy completion of the work. Later, the Secretary-1 and party went to Naunghtaw monastery, where they paid homage to members of the Sangha led by Zawanarama Sarthintaik Sayadaw Agga Maha Ganthavacaka Pandita Bhaddanta Kovida and presented offertories to them. The Secretary-1 and party also visited PhaungdawOo Kyaungdaw in Nanhu Village, Inle region, Nyaung-shwe Township, where they were welcomed by members of Taunggyi District and Nyaungshwe Township Peace and Development Councils, departmental staff, members of USDA and social organizations and the pagoda board of trustees. The Secretary-1 and party then paid homage to PhaungdawOo Buddha images kept at PhaungdawOo Kyaungdaw and offered gold foils to the images.

Next, the Secretary-1 and party paid homage to Ovadacariya Sayadaws of the pagoda board of trustees led by Shwebontha Pariyatti Sarthintaik of Inle Heyaywama Sayadaw Agga Maha Pandita Bhaddanta Vepullabhivansa and offered provisions to them. The Secretary-1 signed in the visitors' book and donated cash to the funds of PhaungdawOo Buddha images. Later, the pagoda board of trustees presented the replica of PhaungdawOo Buddha images to the Secretary-1 for reverence.

Next, the Secretary-1 and party arrived at Historic Alodawpauk Pagoda, where they were welcomed by members of the Pagoda Board of Trustees and the Union Solidarity and Development Association, social organizations and students. First, the Secretary-1 and party paid homage to the Buddha images in the east-chamber of the Pagoda and offered Shwethingan to them. Then, the Secretary-1 signed in the visitors' book. Afterwards, members of the Pagoda Board of Trustees presented a Buddha image to the Secretary-1. Later, the Secretary-1 presented cash to the funds of the pagoda.

Then, the Secretary-1 and party paid homage to the Buddha images kept in the chambers. Then, they proceeded to Kyauktalon in Taunggyi Township, where they were welcomed by local authorities, departmental officials, National Race Leader U Aung Kham Hti of of Shan State (South) Special Region-6 and members and local people. Next, the ceremony to open multimedia classrooms of Kyauktalon Basic Education High School, Taunggyi Township was held at the school at 4.30 pm.

Present on the occasion were Chairman of Myanmar Education Committee Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council General Khin Nyunt and members, Chairman of Shan State Peace and Development Council Commander Brig-Gen Khin Maung Myint, members of the District and Township Peace and Development Councils and departmental officials, National Race Leader U Aung Kham Hti and members, members of the Union Solidarity and Development Association and social organizations, wellwishers, the Township Education Officer, the Headmaster, members of the School Board of Trustees and Parent-Teacher Association, teachers and students.

Headmaster U Thant Zin and Chairman of the School Board of Trustees U Konna Thein formally opened the multimedia classrooms. Afterwards, Chairman of Myanmar Education Committee Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt unveiled the signboard of the multimedia classrooms. Next, the Secretary-1 and party inspected the computer aided instruction room, the computer skills room, the audio room (language lab), the audio visual room, the printed media room and the domestic science room. Then, the students presented the artistic skills to the Secretary-1 and party at the assembly hall of the school. After that, the Secretary-1 presented gifts to National Race Leader U Aung Kham Hti and members.

Then, the Secretary-1 presented a computer set for the school through the Headmaster.

Next, Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt and party had a documentary photo taken together with the national race leaders, members of the School Board of Trustees, teachers and students. Then, the Secretary-1 and party arrived in Taunggyi, where they were welcomed by members of Shan State, District and Township Peace and Development Councils, military and civil officers and the USDA members. Then, they arrived at the Guest House of the Eastern Command. In the evening, the Secretary-1 and party paid homage to ‚Culamuni Lawka Chantha Pagoda in Taunggyi, where the Secretary-1 signed in the visitors' book and presented cash to the funds of the pagoda.

Then, the Secretary-1 and party viewed round the pagoda clock-wise and arrived back at the Guest House of the command.

Secretary-1 attends New Year dinner

Yangon, 10 Dec - Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council General Khin Nyunt attended the New Year dinner hosted by Tuesday Club at Traders Hotel on Sule Pagoda Road here at 7.15 pm today.

Chairman Mr Martin Pun extended greetings and explained functions of the club. Then, Minister at the State Peace and Development Council Chairman's Office Brig-Gen Abel spoke words of thanks. Next, Chairman Mr Martin Pun presented gifts to Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt.

Religion

Harmonious efforts of State and people to build pagoda in Panglong constitute strengthening Union Spirit
Cornerstone laid to build 135-foot Maha Rattha Bhisa Meggi Pagoda in Panglong

Yangon, 10 Dec - Cornerstone was laid to build Maha Rattha Bhisa Meggi Pagoda on Wikathini Hill at Union Monument Grounds in Panglong town, Loilem District, Shan State, at 7 am yesterday.

Chairman of the Work Committee for Development of Border Areas and National Races Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council General Khin Nyunt laid the cornerstone. Sayadaw Bhad-danta Vilasabhivamsa administered the Nine Precepts.

After performing the religious rites, Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt, Lt-Gen Aung Htwe, U Aung Kham Hti, U Nandahti, a local Shan national, and Commander Brig-Gen Khin Maung Myint presented the casket, religious objects and offertories to Sayadaw Bhaddanta Vilasa-bhivamsa. The ministers and the wellwishers presented offertories to Sayadaws.

Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt supplicated on religious matters, expressing pleasure for getting the opportunity to pay respects to the Buddhist monks led by Sayadaw Bhaddanta Vilasa who were attending the ceremony. The Panglong town in Loilem District, Shan State, is an unforgettable and prominent place where the national race leaders gathered and started to consolidate the national solidarity in 1947. It is also the land of victory for the Union where Union Spirit was reborn.

Head of State Senior General Than Shwe has given guidance on building a large pagoda in the region in memory of persons who tried to unify the national races, and the patriots who served the interest of the nation and people beginning from the time Union Spirit was conceived in Panglong till the rebirth of the Union after regaining the independence. In accord with the guidance, an ovada was sought on 28 November 2002 from the State Sangha Maha Nayaka Sayadaws of Panglong region, Sayadaws of the State Working Committee of the Sangha and Sayadaws of the Shan State and Township Sangha Nayaka Committees to build a sublime pagoda, with the design similar to that of the Shwedagon Pagoda for propagation and promotion of the Sasana.

The Sayadaws chose the site for the pagoda at Union Monument Grounds in Panglong. Religious rites and stake driving ceremony were held on 29 November 2002 under the leadership of the State Peace and Development Council Members Lt-Gen Soe Win and Lt-Gen Aung Htwe and Commander of Eastern Command Brig-Gen Khin Maung Myint. The local people attended the ceremony and shared the merits gained.

The Secretary-1 said he witnessed local people attending the present ceremony with Union Spirit, and soon the 135-feet high pagoda would emerge. Harmonious efforts of the State and the people to build the pagoda constituted strengthening of the Union Spirit. In conclusion, he wished perpetuation of the Union of Myanmar, national solidarity and sovereignty. Afterwards, State Ovadacariya Shwegu Sayadaw Agga Maha Pandita Bhaddanta Vilasabhivamsa of Nyaungshwe delivered a sermon. The Secretary-1 and party and wellwishers shared merits gained. Then, the cornerstone laying ceremony of the Maha Rattha Bhisa Maggi Pagoda was held. General Khin Nyunt and party, the national race leaders, wellwishers and disciples conveyed the casket, decorated bricks and relics to the place where foundation will be laid and the reliquary.

At the auspicious time, the Secretary-1 put the Yadana casket at the foundation of the pagoda. The Secretary-1, Lt-Gen Aung Htwe of the Ministry of Defence, Commander Brig-Gen Khin Maung Myint, Minister for Commerce Brig-Gen Pyi Sone, Minister for Education U Than Aung, Minister for Religious Affairs U Aung Khin, Special Region-6 National Race Leader U Aung Kham Hti and U Nanda Hti laid cornerstones of the foundation of the pagoda. The Secretary-1 then covered the foundation with the Yadana Mawgun inscriptions. Afterwards, the General and party sprinkled scented water on the foundation. At that time, religious verses were recited, the conch-shell blown and the Mingala drums beaten three times. The ceremony to place relics into the reliquary was held. The Secretary-1 placed relics and Buddha images into the reliquary.

The Secretary-1, National Race Leader U Aung Kham Hti and Shan national U Nanda Hti sprinkled scented water on the relics. The Secretary-1 and party, U Aung Kham Hti, and U Nanda Hti and disciples closed the reliquary. Then, the ceremony came to a close with three time recitation of Buddha Sasanam Ciram Titthatu. To mark the success of the ceremony, the Secretary-1 and party performed rituals of golden and silver showers.

Then, a ceremony to present cash for the pagoda was opened with three time recitation of Namo Tassa at the Mingala Mandat. Then, Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt, Lt-Gen Aung Htwe of the Ministry of Defence, Commander Brig-Gen Khin Maung Myint, the ministers and commander of Loilem Station Brig-Gen Thein Lwin accepted K 132,443,445 donated to the pagoda including K 50 million by the Ministry of Religious Affairs, K 200,000 by Member of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Aung Htwe of the Ministry of Defence and family, K 30 million by U Maung Weik and family, K 20 million by PaO nationals of Special Region-6, K 10 million by the Union Solidarity and Development Association (Central), K 2.5 million each by Eastern Command, Shan State Peace and Development Council and Eden Co, K 2 million by Naung Ton Co, K 500,000 by the Ministry of Commerce, K 100,000 by Minister Brig-Gen Pyi Sone and family, K 1 million by the Ministry of Communications, Post and Telegraph and the Ministry of Hotels and Tourism, K 500,000 by the Ministry of Information, K 100,000 by Minister Brig-Gen Kyaw Hsan and wife Daw Kyi Kyi Win and family, K 1 million by Shan State (South) USDA, K 500,000 by the Ministry for Progress of Border Areas and National Races and Development Affairs, K 500,000 by the Ministry of Mines, K 300,000 each by the Ministry of Science and Technology, the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Electric Power, and the Ministry of Construction, K 100,000 by the Office of the Commander-in- Cheif (Navy), K 300,000 by the Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation, K 540,000 by Tein Kya Htidaw Hoisting Group, K 500,000 by the commandants and staff families of the local intelligence units, K 500,000 by Asia World Co, K 270,000 by U Khun Tun Aung and Daw Naw Shi La, K 200,000 by U Tun Kyi-Daw Thanda Khaing (Heman Oo Guest House), K 150,000 by the 11 Township Peace and Development Councils in Loilem District, K 135,000 by Henan Village-tract (Panglong Township Branch), 132,300 by Panmone Village- tract (Panglong Township Branch), K 110,000 by Chairman of the Township Sangha Nayaka Committee Weluwun Pariyatti Sarthin-taik Sayadaw Bhaddanta Panna Vamsa of Panglong, K 110,000 by Deputy Minister for Religious Affairs Brig-Gen Thura Aung Ko-Daw Myint Myint Yi and family, K100,800 by Shan Literature and Culture Associa- tion (Panglong Township Branch), K 100,800 by Adviser to the State Peace and Development Council Office U Arnt Maung-Daw Tin Tin Wai, K 54,000 each by Ward-1, Ward-2, Ward-3 and Ward-4 in Panglong, K 100,000 by the vendors of Panglong Myoma Market, K 100,000 by U Tun Hla Aung, K 100,000 by U Tun Tun Sein, K 55,000 by Tatical Operations Commander Col Lwin Oo and family, K 55,000 by Staff Officer (Grade-1) Lt-Col Sein Aye-Daw Naing Naing Aye and family, K30,000 by U Tun Win and party and K 20,345 by War Veterans Organization (Panglong Township Branch).

Then, Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt spoke words of thanks. In his address, the Secretary-1 said it is very auspicious to hold cornerstone laying ceremony for construction of Maha Rattha Bhisa Maggi Pagoda and cash donation ceremony for construction of the pagoda in Panglong region in Loilem District where solidarity of the national people of the Union was built under the leadership of the government. Wellwishers donated over K 130 million for construction of the pagoda for the first time. Such donations showed their generosity. Panglong is the land of victory where the Union based on national solidarity was conceived.

The Panglong region development programmes including education, health and economic sectors are being undertaken for development of the whole Loilem District in accord with the guidance of Head of State Senior General Than Shwe. It is still necessary to perform meritorious deeds for patriotic persons who made efforts for emergence of consolidated Union in accord with the Buddhist traditions. Head of State Senior General Than Shwe also gave guidance on building of a pagoda in Panglong region. Therefore arrangements are being made for construction of a replica pagoda of the Shwedagon Pagoda with the concept of perpetuation of the Union as long as the pagoda exists. It was a rare moment to perform meritorious deeds for various national races in the region who gathered at the Union grounds for construction of the pagoda. The government made arrangements to build the pagoda with the contributions of all national races.

Members of the Sangha, various national races, the ministries, social organizations and wellwishers generously donated cash to the pagoda funds. Therefore today's cash donation is very noble, pure and significant. The government, in cooperation with the people, made endeavours for construction of the pagoda with the aims of performing meritorious deeds for the patriotic persons who built the Union with the aim of perpetuating the Union. It is a significant and noble deed. He believed that those who made arrangements for construction of the pagoda and wellwishers would gain merits. He wished for perpetuation of the Union and consolidation of national solidarity as long as the world existed and also wished all the people living in the country blessed with peace and prosperity.

The Secretary-1 inspected the model of the pagoda. Officials reported on arrangements with the aid of charts. The Secretary-1 then gave instructions.

The Secretary-1 and party went to Aungmingala Wan-en Kyaung in Panglong. They paid obeisance to Sayadaw Bhaddanta Rajinda and members of the Sangha and presented offertories to them. The Secretary-1 and party visited Wan-en Pagoda and inspected all-round renovation work. The Secretary-1 donated cash for renovation of the pagoda.

International Relations

Fourth ASEAN Heads of Statistical Offices Meeting (AHSOM 4) releases Joint Press Statement

Yangon, 10 Dec - The Fourth ASEAN Heads of Statistical Offices Meeting (AHSOM 4), hosted by Myanmar released Joint Press Statement. The following is the full text of the Joint Press Statement issued by AHSOM 4 hosted in Myanmar on 9 and 10 December 2002.

Joint Press Statement
The Fourth ASEAN Heads of Statistical Offices Meeting (AHSOM 4)
9-10 December 2002, Yangon, Union of Myanmar

Introduction

1. We, the ASEAN Heads of Statistical Offices, convened our fourth meeting in Yangon, Myanmar, to exchange views on recent developments in official statistics, discuss progress of our regional cooperation, and explore ways to further promote harmonization and development of statistics, as well as to facilitate statistical capacity building.

2. Dr Sein Tin, Director-General of Central Statistical Organization of the Union of Myanmar, presided over our meeting.

Progress of ASEAN Cooperation in Statistics ASEAN Framework of Cooperation in Statistics

3. We have reached an important milestone by signing an ASEAN Framework of Cooperation in Statistics that sets the direction of our cooperation in promoting greater harmonization, strengthened capacities, and higher quality of statistics. Towards that end we agreed to harmonize the definition, classification, concept and measurement of high priority statistics to promote the production of comparable statistical indicators, particularly those that are needed for ASEAN initiatives, planning and policy making, adopt international good practices and promote capacity building.

ASEAN Statistical Indicators

4. In support of ASEAN Initiatives, we have identified a number of core statistical indicators constituting the ASEAN Statistical Indicators, which reflect the following high priority areas of statistics:

a. Trade and Manufacturing Industry
b. General Business and Real Sector Development
c. Tourism and International Trade in Services
d. Poverty, social development and social protection
e. Environment and sustainable development
f. Energy, access and inputs to development

Harmonization of Statistics

5.A sound foundation for further promoting the quality, reliability, and comparability of statistics have been in place by agreeing on the means and measures to promote harmonization and quality of statistics which include the establishment of the following three task forces:

a. Task Force on Harmonization of Statistical Classifications
b. Task Force on Harmonization of Poverty statistics
c. Task Force on Harmonization of International Trade in Services Statistics

6. We have further agreed to commence the Task Force on Harmonization of Statistical Classifications in early 2003.

Statistical Capacity Building

7. We acknowledged the importance of statistical capacity building where more advanced countries transfer knowledge and good practices to less advanced countries. We also are aware of the existing modalities and resources available in the region, including the training facilities, expertise and experiences in member countries as well as the resources and the ongoing capacity building activities in international organizations, and shall take this into account in promoting capacity building in the region.

Adoption of International Good Practices

8. We agreed to promote greater transparency and public awareness and appreciation of official statistics. We further agreed to work towards greater adherence to the United Nations Fundamental Principles of Official Statistics.

Expression of Appreciation to the Government of the Union of Myanmar

9. We thanked the Government of the Union of Myanmar, especially the Central Statistical Organization, for the excellent arrangements made for the meeting and for the warm hospitality accorded to us during the AHSOM 4.

The Fifth ASEAN Heads of Statistical Offices Meeting (AHSOM 5)

10. We thanked the Head of the National Statistical Center of Lao PDR for the proposal to host the fifth meeting.

Fourth ASEAN Heads of Statistical Offices Meeting ends

Yangon, 10 Dec - The second and final day session of the Fourth ASEAN Heads of Statistical Offices Meeting  AHSOM 4; hosted by Myanmar, was held at the Traders Hotel on Sule Pagoda Road at 9 am today.

Leaders of the delegation of Lao People's Republic Democratic Director-General of the Statistical Office Mr Bounthavy Sisouphanthong presided over the meeting and made a speech. Next, the delegates of the ASEAN Secretariat submitted matters related to international standard and good practices and those present took part in the discussions. Then, leader of the Myanmar delegation Director-General of the Central Statistical Organization of Myanmar Dr Sein Tin delivered a speech. A representative of the ASEAN Secretariat submitted a proposal to host the Fifth Heads of Statistical Offices Meeting in Lao People's Republic Democratic in 2003 and those present approved the proposal.

Afterwards, the meeting issued a joint statement and concluded successfully. After that the delegates of the meeting visited Central Statistical Organization, the .Ministry of National Planning and Economic Development on Strand Road here.

Laotian delegation pays homage to the Shwedagon Pagoda

Yangon, 10 Dec - The Laotian delegation led by Minister for Health Mr Penmek Dalaloy and wife paid homage to the Shwedagon Pagoda this morning. Members of the board of trustees of the pagoda U Khin Maung Myint and U Pe Than Lay conducted the delegation round the pagoda. Then, the Laotian minister signed in the visitor's book and donated cash to the all-round renovation fund of the pagoda.

Afterwards, the delegation proceeded to the Drug Elimination Museum in Kamayut, where officials of the Central Committee for Drug Abuse Control and Anti-Drug Unit conducted them round the museum. Later, the delegation visited Yangon General Hospital. Director Dr Tin Win Maung of the Health Department and Medical Superintendent Dr Aung Htut of YGH explained matters related to the healthcare services of the Union of Myanmar and YGH respectively. The delegation also viewed round the patient wards, operation theatres and medical equipment at the hospital.

After that, the delegation went to the Medical Research Department (Lower Myanmar), where Director- General Dr Paing Soe of the department explained the setup and research undertaking of the department, including those on traditional medicine. Then, the delegation viewed the research undertakings on malaria in Phraseology Research Division, research undertakings on treatment of six major diseases using traditional medicine in Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology Research Division , medicine raw material and dry herbal plant museum and poison research division.

The Laotian minister and party visited traditional medicine hospital in Bahan Township where they were conducted round by Director- General of Traditional Medicine Department Dr Thein Swe, Medical Superintendent Dr Thein Kyaw and officials. The Laotian minister signed in the visitor' s book. Next the minister visited the Institute of Medicinal.

Delegates arrive to attend Fourth SKRL Special Working Group Meeting

Yangon, 10 Dec - Delegates from Singapore and the People's Republic of China arrived here by air today to attend the Fourth Special Working Group Meeting on Singapore-Kunming Rail Link. Officials of Myanma Railways of the Ministry of Rail Transportation were on hand to welcome them.

Korean delegation arrives

Yangon, 10 Dec - To further strengthen the cooperation in health care services between the Union of Myanmar and Republic of Korea, the Korean health delegation led by Health Minister Mr Kin Sung-Ho of ROK arrived here by air this evening.

The delegation was welcomed at Yangon International Airport by Minister for Health Maj-Gen Ket Sein, Deputy Ministers Prof Dr Mya Oo and Prof Dr Kyaw Myint, Directors-General and officials of the departments under the Ministry of Health, Ambassador of ROK to Myanmar Mr Lee Kyung-Woo and staff of the embassy.

Region

Lt-Gen Kyaw Win inspects preparations for observance of 58th Anniversary Armed Forces Day

Yangon, 10 Dec - Chairman of the Leading Committee for Holding the 58th Anniversary Armed Forces Day member of the State Peace and Development Council Chief of Armed Forces Training Lt-Gen Kyaw Win, inspected arrangements for holding of the 58th Anniversary Armed Forces Day.

First, Lt-Gen Kyaw Win and party this afternoon arrived at the Resistance Park, where parade drills will be held. At the meeting hall, officials reported on preparations for the drills. Lt-Gen Kyaw Win then inspected arrangements for holding of the Armed Forces Day in the park and fulfilled the requirements. And they proceeded to Myoma Grounds, gathering point of the parade columns. He then gave necessary instructions.

Afterwards, Lt-Gen Kyaw Win and party went to Ayeyawady Naval Region Command and Kyaikkasan Grounds, transit centres for the parade columns. Commander of Ayeyawady Naval Region Command Commodore Maw Thein and Commander of Yangon Station Brig-Gen Myo Myint reported on accommodation for the parade columns and Lt-Gen Kyaw Win left instructions.

Meeting of the Leading Committee for Organizing the Third Traditional Medical Practitioners' Conference held

Yangon, 10 Dec - The meeting of the Leading Committee for Organizing the Third Traditional Medical Practitioners' Conference and Traditional Medicine and Medical Equipment Exhibition as held at d1e hall of the National Health Committee of d1e Ministry of Health this morning, with an opening address by Minister for Health Maj-Gen Ket Sein.

Chairman of d1e meeting Minister Maj-Gen Ket Sein made an opening speech. He said sub-committees are coordinating with respective departments for successful holding of the conference which will be held fro  m 14 to 16 December at Pyidaunghsu Hall of Kyaikkasan Grounds and the exhibition to be held from 16 to 26 December at Covey Hall on U Wizara Road. There will be altogether 66 papers have been accepted and 22 papers have been chosen and most of which are on common diseases and therapies. Altogether 135 booths -18 departmental booths and 117 booths of traditional medicine producers at the exhibition, he added.

Chairman of Work Committee for Organizing the conference and the exhibition Deputy Minister for Health Prof Dr Kyaw Myint, explained arrangements being made by respective work committees. Then, general rounds of discussions followed and the meeting came to a close with concluding remarks by Chairman Minister Maj-Gen Ket Sein.

Course on junior civil engineer- 2 concludes

Yangon, 10 Dec - Training course on Junior Engineer-2, Civil, organized by Public Works of the Ministry of Construction, ended today at the Central Training School of the ministry here. At the concluding ceremony, Minister for Construction Maj-Gen Saw Tun delivered an address. The 32 trainees attended the 12 week course.

At the ceremony, on behalf of the Chiyoda and Public Works Co Ltd, Managing Director Mr H Tatsunokuchi presented five computer and five sets of furniture to the Training School through Managing Director of Public Works U Nay Soe Naing. Then, the minister inspected the computer room at the school and attended to the needs. The meeting was also attached by Brig-Gen Myint Thein. Deputy Minister for Construction, the directors general and officials of the departments under the ministry .

Agriculture, regional development tasks inspected

Yangon, Dec - Chairman of Yangon Division Peace and Development Council Commander of Yangon Command Maj-Gen Myint Swe inspected agriculture tasks and development of Thongwa and Kayan townships this mooring.

Accompanied by Secretary of Yangon Division Peace and Development Council Lt-Col Kyaw Tint and division level departmental officials, the commander arrived at the farmland in Thaiktugan village of Thongwa Township. At the farmland, the commander inspected use of solar power paddy dryer and collective ploughing for cultivation of Petishwewa paddy strain. Officials reported on threshing and winnowing of monsoon paddy and timely cultivation of pulses and beans.

Then, the commander inspected the collective ploughing work and fulfilled the requirements of the local farmers. Next, the commander and party proceeded to the Agricultural educative farm in Thaiktugan village. The commander met with local farmers and explained harvesting of monsoon paddy in time and to keep it under the shelter, cultivation bf cold season crops, pulses and beans and edible oil crops, assistance to be provided by Yangon Division Peace and Development Council to the local farmers for cultivation of cold season crops and distribution of quality strain and technology. Then, Yangon Division Manager U Aung Hsan of Myanma Agriculture Service and local farmers reported on matters related 10 their respective sectors. The commander attended to their needs.

The commander and party went to Apyogyi Tesu agricultural educative farm in Kayan Township. He inspected weeding tasks at Pedishwewa plantations, distribution of folio fertilizers and thriving plantations. Afterwards, the commander met with local farmers and explained matters related to cultivation of pulses and beans and assistance to be rendered. The Yangon Division MAS Manager and local farmers reported on requirements in works and distribution of agricultural technology. The commander fulfilled the requirements. At Kayan Township Peace and Development Council Office, the Commander met with departmental officials, members of USDA, WVO, MCWA, WCWA, Red Cross and Auxiliary Fire Brigades. Yangon South District Peace and Development Council Chairman Lt -Col Sein Hlaing reported on agriculture and regional development matters.

Local authorities of Kayan, Thongwa, Kyauktan and Thanlyin townships also reported on township-wise harvesting of monsoon paddy, cultivation of pulses and beans and edible oil crops and regional development tasks. The commander gave necessary instructions. Then, the commander and party inspected construction of the 16 miles and one furlong long rural road linking Kayan, Nyaung-binkwin, Kayinsu, Kyagan, Phayapyo, Yekyaw, Hsin-kyun,Bogale and Aung-thadan villages. Yangon South District Senior Engineer U Kyi H1aing of Public Works reported on construction tasks. The commander gave instructions on building of the road sections with meeting the set standard and attended to their needs.

New Destiny Project implemented in Kachin State

Yangon, 10 Dec - Chairman of Kachin State Peace and Development Council Chairman of Kachin State Committee for Drug Abuse Control Commander of Northern Command Brig-Gen Maung Maung Swe, arrived at Kanpaikti Village, at the border, on 5 December evening.

On the occasion, Commander Brig-Gen Maung Maung Swe explained measures being taken for elimination of poppy cultivation and eradication of narcotic drugs, steps being taken by the State for development of Kachin State, and called on the local national races to make concerted efforts for successful implementation of the project.

Then, Leader of the New Destiny Project Implementation Group Deputy Minister Brig-Gen Khin Maung gave instructions on their trip to Kanpaikti region, a part of implementation of the New Destiny Project and distribution of the seeds of poppy-substitute crops and fertilizer to farmers. Next, the deputy ministers presented 360 viss of potatoes, 30 viss of garlic, 500 kilos of seeds of Yazin-3 hybrid maize and K 1.94 million and clothes to the national races.

Then, U Layauk Zaylun of Kachin Special Region-1 and a national spoke words of thanks and vowed to give up the poppy cultivation. Likewise, a ceremony to present poppy-substitute crops was held at the primary school in Kandawyan Village on 7 December morning, attended by Leader of NDPIG Deputy Minister Brig-Gen Khin Maung, members deputy ministers, Deputy Commander Brig-Gen San Tun and local people totalling over 200. On the occasion, Brig-Gen Khin Maung explained the presentation of the seeds of poppy-substitute crops, fertilizer and cash and kind according to the New Destiny Project.

Then, the deputy ministers presented 945 viss of potatoes, seven baskets of Sadawpe, five baskets of Santope, 200 kilos of maize and K 1.48 million. U Hsin Wa Naw of Kachin Special Region-2 and a national race spoke words of thanks and pledged to quit the poppy cultivation in the region.

Then, the deputy ministers inspected thriving orange plantations on either side of Myitkyina-Bhamo motor road while other members of the group inspected Kandawyan diversion weir and thriving crops.

Meeting on review of Myanmar UNICEF cooperation programme held

Yangon, 10 Dec -Under the cooperation programme of Myanmar UNICEF 2001- 2005, a meeting to review on the implementation of work programmes for the year 2002 was held at the International Business Centre on Pyay Road at 9 am today, With an address by Minister for National Planning and Economic Development U Soe Tha.

Then, the representative of the UNICEF put into discussion matters related to the implementation of the work programmes. Officials from respective organizations also took part in the discussions.

MWJA officials pay respects' present cash to doyen literati

Yangon, 10 Dec - Chairman of Myanmar Writers and Journalists Association U Hla Myaing (Ko Hsaung), Vice Chairman-2 U Than Maung (Than Maung), CEC members U Khin Swe (Shwe Son Nyo) and U Tin Hlaing (Leidwintha Saw Chit) and officials today went to doyen literati who were not able to attend the respect-paying ceremony marking Sarsodaw Day, paid respects to them and presented cash and gifts. They went to residences of Sayagyi U Htin Phat (Maung Htin), Sayagyi U Soe Yin (Thaitpan Soe Yin), U Tin Aung (U Tin Aung-Sarpay Beikinan), Sayagyi U Wun (Min Thu Wun) and Sayagyi Thakin Ba Hon (Layni) and presented them K 50,000 each and gifts. They a1so presented K 50,00 and gifts for Sayagyi U ma Maung (U ma Maung-Sarpay Beikman) who expired this morning, to his family.

Spain-based Trade Leaders' Club awards MOGE

Yangon, 10 Dec - The Spain-based Trade Leaders' Club annually selects Asian organizations with significant and outstanding ability in trade, service and production and presents awards to them.

This year, Myanma Oil and Gas Enterprise of Myanmar was awarded together with the 32 organizations from 15 Asian nations. In deciding the winners, the prize scrutinizing committee of the Trade Leaders' Club with its office in Spain chooses the winners on basined on data collected from 15,000 members of the committee of 112 countries.

The ceremony to present Golden Asia Award For Excellence was held in conjunction with the meeting in Hong Kong, the People's Republic of China from 1 to 3 December. Myanma Oil and Gas Enterprise obtained the award for its achievements in us $2.5 worth of foreign investment in energy sector in decade, successful production of crude oil and natural gas from Myanmar off-shore, and mass production of oil and gas at home. Yetagun and Yadana off-shore oil and gas fields can produce up to 9,000 barrels of condensate and 950 million cubic feet of natural gas a day. Some 900 million cubic feet of natural gas is being exported to Thailand and arrangements are under way to promote the business.

Managing Director U San Lwin and Deputy General Manager U Kyaw Nyan Tun of Myanma Oil and Gas Enterprise attended the prize presentation ceremony at Hong Kong and arrived back in Yangon on 5 December.

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