Development of a country depends on progress of rural areas, and development of urban areas are underpinned by economic infrastructures in rural areas
Senior General Than Shwe attends Meeting No 1/2006 of Central Committee for Development of Border Areas and National Races

Nay Pyi Taw, 4 Oct — Meeting No 1/2006 of Central Committee for Development of Border Areas and National Races was held here today with an address by Chairman of the Central Committee Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Senior General Than Shwe.

It was also attended by Vice-Chairman of the Central Committee for Development of Border Areas and National Races Vice-Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council Deputy Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Commander-in-Chief (Army) Vice-
Senior General Maung Aye, Members of the Central Committee Member of the State Peace and Development Council General Thura Shwe Mann and Chairman of the Work Committee for Development of Border Areas and National Races Prime Minister General Soe Win, Secretary of the central committee Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Thein Sein, members of the central committee Members of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Ye Myint, Lt-Gen Kyaw Win, Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than, Lt-Gen Maung Bo, Lt-Gen Thiha Thura Tin Aung Myint Oo, Lt-Gen Aung Htwe and Lt-Gen Tin Aye, Commander-in-Chief (Navy) Vice-Admiral Soe Thein, Commander-in-Chief (Air) Lt-Gen Myat Hein, Joint-Secretary of the central committee Minister for Progress of Border Areas and National Races and Development Affairs Col Thein Nyunt, Maj-Gen Myint Hlaing of the
Ministry of Defence, ministers, deputy ministers and departmental officials.

Director-General of the office of the State Peace and Development Council Col Kyaw Kyaw Win acted as a master of ceremonies.

In his address, Chairman of the Central Committee Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Senior General Than Shwe said border areas are nearly all rural areas and rural population makes up over 70% of the population of the country.

Therefore, the State has implemented the special project for progress of border areas and rural areas development programme.

The development of a country depends on the progress of rural areas, and the development of urban areas are underpinned by economic infrastructures in rural areas.

Only when urban areas are developed, will the country become a developed one. This is the reason why the Government has been making efforts for the development of rural areas.

Now, we are witnessing the development of rural areas and border areas.

In implementing the rural areas development tasks, it is needed to step up efforts for promotion of education and health sectors in rural areas.

Similarly, we are to continue to carry out construction and maintenance tasks for roads in rural and border areas. Now, most of rural areas can be accessible by road. Only when roads in rural areas are in good condition, will living standards of rural people improve.

Meanwhile, drinking water supply and irrigation water supply tasks are to be extended in an attempt to boost the economy of rural areas. Moreover, the Government is to encourage rural people to do farming plus livestock breeding. It is required to establish vocational training schools in some less developed areas.

Efforts are to step up for supply of electricity to rural areas generated from hydel power plants and bio gas-used generators. Officials concerned are to encourage the use of bio-diesel extracted from Physic nut seeds to run generators to produce electricity in rural areas.

In conclusion, Senior General Than Shwe called for strenuous efforts for success of the rural areas development projects.

Chairman of the working committee Prime Minister General Soe Win said thanks to the cooperation of the sub-committees, work committees and local people in implementing the development tasks, rural areas are now on track for the development.

In accordance with the guidance of the chairman of the central committee, economic infrastructures such as transportation sector, energy sector and communication sector, and social infrastructures such as education sector and health sector have been constructed in border areas which lagged behind the development. Moreover, while giving encouragement to agriculture and livestock breeding sector, mining sector and forestry sector, the Government has laid down and implemented plans for elimination of narcotic drug. Therefore, socio-economy of people in some border areas has improved and drug production rate has dropped dramatically.

Development tasks have been carried out in border areas since 1989. The Government spent over K 47,783 millions in construction of roads and bridges in border areas. So far, 3,364 miles and 4 furlongs of earthen road, 2,210 miles of gravel road, 385 miles and 7 furlongs of tar road have been constructed and 3,396 miles and 5 furlongs of roads have been renovated in border areas. A total of 73 big bridges, 988 small bridges and 40 suspension bridges have also been constructed. Moreover, all-weather roads were constructed in some major areas to connect border areas and inland regions. Therefore, trade between the regions has increased and rural areas are on the road to development. Meanwhile, major roads and bridges in border areas are being upgraded and renovated.

Regarding the energy sector, small-scale hydel power plants were established in 14 towns in border areas and 265 generators were provided to 199 villages in the areas. Moreover, small-scale hydel power plants could establish in some border areas where water resource is available, so the living standard of the areas has improved. In accordance with the guidance of the
Senior General, the Ministry of Industry-2 is implementing the project for construction a factory to produce turbines and generators.

Prime Minister General Soe Win said in communication sector, construction of 52 post offices, 45 telegraph offices, 85 telephone exchanges contributes towards the rapid development of social, economic and administrative aspects in border areas.

Priority is being given to human resources development process of youths in border areas with the utilization of the infrastructures of the State and regional resources for raising their standard of living. In education sector, the government built 852 primary schools, 90 middle schools and 92 high schools. Moreover, it also built 491 schools and renovated 546 schools in Kachin, Kayin, Chin, Mon and Rakhine States in cooperation with UNDP under the far-flung township development project.

Altogether 27 training schools for the development of national youths in border regions were opened for the needy who have little opportunity to receive education. Textbooks were distributed to students in border areas free of charge under the border area and national races development work committee and UNICEF.

As rice is provided to school-age children of former poppy growers in golden triangle area under the food for education programme in cooperation with WFP, school enrollment rate in the border areas increased. In the past, there were only over 1,500 students in border areas. There are now altogether 183,264 students in the present academic year. Turning out educated youths contributes towards peace and stability and development of the country. Realizing the disadvantages of poppy cultivation, the evil legacy of colonialists, local people have participated in opium eradication project and it is a tangible success.

Two Nationalities Youth Resource Development Degree Colleges were opened in Yangon and Mandalay beginning 2000 for youths to receive higher education. After graduating from the colleges, 574 youths discharge duties in development and administration sectors as government servants in their native regions. Some of them are doing master courses and 714 students are now receiving higher education in present acade- mic year.

Arrangements are being made for giving priority to youths who will take part in health and education tasks in border areas to gain admission to the University for Development of National Races, University of Nursing and nursing training schools.

Girl trainees are being trained at 34 domestic and vocational training schools were opened and 19,354 were produced.

Border area national youths technical training schools for boys were opened in Sittway, Laukkai, Pangsan and Mongla regions.

In public relations 109 TV retransmitting stations were built in border areas and broadcasting of programmes on nation-building tasks contributes towards consolidation of national solidarity and national races realize the State policy, peace and tranquillity and development of the country.

Arrangements are being made for monitoring MRTV and Myawady TV in far-flung areas.

In connection with health sector, emphasis was placed on health care services in border areas in accord with the national health policy. In 1988 there were only 8 hospitals and six dispensaries and now there are 79 hospitals, 105 dispensaries, 58 rural health care centres and 140 rural health care branches. In every special regions, 200-bed hospitals were opened.

In agriculture sector, the first priority is food sufficiency by providing assistance to poor national races in border areas and the second priority is to arrange market for agricultural products. There are 31 Myanma Agriculture Service offices, 117 farms, 46 dams and 11 tractor camps in the border areas.

The Prime Minister spoke at length on development of livestock and fisheries, reclamation of highland cultivation and new farmlands and cultivation of fruits and perennial crops. Based on these better conditions most of the farmers began to give up poppy cultivation. It is a great success, he added. He also spoke on poppy substitute crop cultivation and cooperation with regional work committee and respective sub-committees for seeking local and foreign markets.

In forestry sector, 14 nurseries, 11 forest reserves and four saw mills were established and efforts are being made for extraction of forest products and to protect depletion of forests in cooperation with local people.

In mining sector, extraction of minerals on commercial scale is undertaken in some regions. Depending on social and economic infrastructures, border areas have developed with greater momentum. The government has spent K 55,879 million and various ministries K 34,296 million totalling K 90,175 million on development of border areas since 1989.

In connection with anti-narcotic campaign, the 15-year drug elimination project is being implemented beginning 1999. In carrying out the border area development tasks, priority was given to the construction of social and economic infrastructures in poppy-growing areas. Seventy five per cent of the total spending was used in the drug elimination project and related areas. As a result, other economic opportunities emerged and poppy cultivation became less and less.

According to the data of opium yield survey by Counter Narcotic and Crime (CNC) of the US, poppy cultivation decreased by 81 per cent in 2004 in comparison with that of 1996 and opium production dropped by 88 per cent. Poppy cultivation in 2004 decreased to 23 per cent compared to that of 2003.

That is why poppy cultivation considerably falls thanks to the opium substitute livestock breeding and other economic opportunities and realization of ill of narcotic drugs among the national races in border areas.

Efforts are being made on reduction of poppy cultivation and prevention of importing raw materials and chemical from neighbouring countries that are used in production of narcotic drugs. Preventive measures are being carried out to be set up Tachilek, Myawady and Kawthoung as narcotic free zones.

In elimination of narcotic drugs and regional development tasks in cooperation with international organizations, UNODC and CCDAC has implemented Wa Alternative Development Project (WADP) for education, health, food sufficiency, public development, earning substitute income, disseminating knowledge on narcotic drugs and HIV/ AIDS, building infrastructures and watching and assessing on poppy cultivation, with the contribution of US$ 11.929 million by UNODC in Mongpauk Township of Wa Region (South) since 1998.

Since 2003, WFP has provided 30,576 tons of rice worth US$ 11.794 million to former poppy growers in Kokang region, Wa region, Kutkai, Kaungkha, Mongkoe, Phaungsai, Tarmoenye, Mongton, Mongpan areas, Pinlaung, Hsihseng and Phekhon Townships in Shan State (South) as an emergency food aid programme.

A total of 1,000 tons of rice donated by Thai government were distributed in Wa region in 2005.

Arrangements are being carried out to distribute 10,000 tons of rice to former poppy growers in September 2006.

Poppy substitute cultivation, livestock breeding and production processes are being undertaken.

In conclusion, the prime minister said that remarkable progress can be made in border regions thanks to concerted efforts of the ministries, regional working committee, subcommittees, local national race leaders and the people under supervision of the Work Committee in accord with the policies and guidelines of the Central Committee. The Work Committee will implement the policies of the Central Committee in previous meetings and today’s meeting.

In his discussions, Secretary-1 Lt-Gen Thein Sein explained the accomplishments in implementing the directives of the Central Committee meeting held on 30 December 2004. The No 1 directive is to accelerate the development endeavours, especially in border areas to narrow the development gap. The work committee has been holding meetings every four months and other meetings in accord with the requirements. Integrated efforts are being made to implement nation’s major projects — 24 special zones development project and rural development — in harmony with the border areas development project. The central level officials have been conducting field tours to supervise the on-going projects and meeting with project officials.

Concerning the directive to make efforts for cementing national unity and carrying out development undertakings, priority has been given to development of transport infrastructures and human resources development. In border regions, the government built 3,364 miles four furlongs of new roads and repaired 3,396 miles and five furlongs of existing roads. Transport development has helped enhance love and understanding among the national races and increase income of local people. Human resources development projects are being implemented to raise the qualifications of the people of border areas.

In realizing the directive to raise living standard through farming, transport, health and education sectors, efforts are being made to generate economic opportunities and provide more financial and technological assistance. In connection with the directive to nurture and develop human resources of border areas, 1,034 new schools have been opened there. Moreover, 573 new schools have been opened with international assistance. Over 180,000 students are attending classes at the schools in border areas. There were only about 1,500 students in the areas in 1989. The number of students has increased 120 times. Twenty-seven nationality youth development schools are nurturing youths of border areas. Students who passed their respective courses can attend Nationalities Youths Resource Development Degree Colleges in Yangon and Mandalay. The colleges have produced 574 graduates who are serving the nation in border areas. Other students are also attending AGTI, B Tech, BE and ME courses. UDNR is producing teachers to help develop human resources. Twenty-seven nationality youth development training schools have been opened in the areas to teach vocational education. There are also summer vocational training courses for children of the areas. The areas have also seen the development of small-scale hydel power stations. Mobile generators have been installed in many places of the areas. Over 100 places where water can be harnessed for hydel power have been found in states and divisions. Under the arrangement of the respective regions, 287 small-scale hydel power stations have been erected in the areas. Thirty-four women’s vocational training schools have trained 19,359 young women to earn their own living. Technical schools have also been opened in the areas for the children of national races to study various fields of vocational education.

Joint-Secretary of the Central Committee for Progress of Border Areas and National Races Minister for Progress of Border Areas and National Races and Development Affairs Col Thein Nyunt submitted reports that a total of 27 border area national race youth development training schools along the border areas, and advanced cultural subjects for primary, middle and high school levels are being conducted to the trainees at the training schools for forging the Union Spirit. At present, 326 primary school students, 1,623 middle school students and 625 high school students, totalling 2,574 are being nurtured at the training schools.

In the task for uplift of efficiency of national youths in the border regions, vocational training courses such as mason, carpenter and constructional tasks are being provided to the trainees. With regard to the training matters, Mongla border region youths technical school was opened on 8 July 2006 in Shan State (East), Pangsan border region youths technical school on 4 August 2006 in Shan State (North) and Laukkai border region youths technical school on 7 August 2006. A total of 151 trainees are attending the training schools.

In addition, the Vocational Training School (Mechanical Workshop) was opened on 11 September 2001 in Sittway for the students of border region youth development training schools who had failed the matriculation examination twice and for those who missed the opportunities to pursue education. At the training school, mechanical, welding and basic electronic courses that last six months each are being conducted to the trainees. Out of 129 students from the youth training schools, 88 students have been appointed at the Ministry for PBANRDA.

The Nationalities Youth Resource Development Degree College (Yangon) was opened on 16 June 2000 and a similar degree college in Mandalay on 12 July 2000. So far, both degree colleges have nurtured 193 engineering diploma holders and 381 arts and science graduates, totalling 574. Furthermore, 381 arts and science graduates of both degree colleges have been appointed at the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Ministry of Immigration and Population, the Ministry for Progress of Border Areas and National Races and Development Affairs and the Ministry of Information, and 193 AGTI diploma holders at the Ministry of PBANRDA, the Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation, the Ministry of Construction, the Ministry of Electric Power, the Ministry of Communications, Posts and Telegraphs and the Ministry of Information.

With a view to providing vocational training courses to national race girls in border regions and enabling themselves to do businesses, 26 Women’s Vocational Training Schools have been opened in various regions of the border area since 1992. At the training schools, basic domestic science, advanced tailoring and cookery courses are being conducted.

The knitting courses are being provided at the vocational training schools in Kachin, Shan, Kayah and Chin States and Naga region of Sagaing Division. Likewise, the weaving course and oyster shell art course are being given at the vocational training schools in Haka, Falam and Mindat of Chin State. Similarly, more training schools were opened on 26 December 2005 in Pakokku, Myaing, Yesagyo, Pauk and Seikpyu of Magway Division and Yinmabin, Pale and Salingyi of Sagaing Division. The training schools have nurtured 791 trainees. So far, 34 vocational training schools have produced 19,359 trainees.

To flourish Myanma traditional cultural performing arts in border regions, basic dancing were conducted to 71 trainees, and music courses to 87 trainees at vocational training schools in Kengtung, Loikaw, Hpa-an and Myeik from 24 April to 18 August 2006. At the training schools, the trainees were provided with course materials and teaching aid free of charge. They were accommodated at the hostels free of charge and provided with daily allowance and travel allowance. Moreover, 653 sewing machines have been sold to the trainees at reasonable price by installment.

Minister Col Thein Nyunt went on to report that the Works Battalion of the Committee for Progress of Border Areas and National Races started construction of the 82 miles and two furlongs long Tarkaw-et-Weinkaung-Pangsan Road in 1991, and the one-way earth road was completed in 1993. At present, the road has been upgraded for all weathers purpose. Tarkaw-et-Mongpat gravel road was constructed in 1998 and it was repaved as a tarred-road in 1999. The breadth of the road was extended to 30 feet from November 2003 to January 2004.

The upgrading task of 76 miles and six furlongs long Mongpat-Pangsan Road was carried out from 1993 to 2001. At present, the road can be used in all weathers. Mongpat-Pangsan Road, 67 miles and six furlongs long, was upgraded to the tarred road, beginning 2003-2004 financial year. The tarred road section, 50 miles and two furlongs long, has been constructed with the use of 75 heavy machinery from 2003-04 to 2005-06 financial years. Out of remaining 17 miles and four furlongs, one mile and seven furlong road section has been placed with concrete. Therefore, construction tasks for the remaining 15 miles and five furlongs long road section will be carried out in 2006-07.

Construction of new Kalewa-Mawlaik road commenced in December 2003. The 36-mile earth road from Kalewa to Mawlaik was completed on 21 March 2004, and it was placed with gravel on 31 July 2006. A total of 146 bridges under-100 feet and seven bridges above 100 feet have been built along the road up to 31 July 2006, and the remaining bridges are under construction.

The district-to-district roads are being constructed in accord with the directives of the Central Committee for Progress of Border Areas and National Races Meeting 1/2002, beginning 2002-03 financial year. No 1 district-to-district road from Yangon to Mandalay, 400 miles and one furlong long, is being constructed by Development Affairs Committees of Yangon, Bago, Magway and Mandalay Divisions. So far, the 323 miles and five furlongs earth road section, the 236 miles and six furlongs gravel road section, and the 17 miles and two furlongs tarred road section along the district-to-district road No 1 have been completed. Construction of the remaining road section will continue this year.

The Ministry of PBANRDA has started construction of the district-to-district road No 2 linking Mandalay and Mawlamyine and completed the 147 miles and one furlong earth road section, the 18 mile-gravel road section and the three-tarred road section.

Head of State Senior General Than Shwe gave guidance in April 1999 to implement the 10-year plan for supplying clean and potable water at villages in three divisions of arid region. In line with the guidance, it is necessary to provide clean and potable water to 23,225 villages in the entire nation including 8,042 villages of three arid divisions. A total of 7,792 villages out of 8.42 villages in three divisions, have been supplied with potable water from 2000-01 to the end of August in 2006-07 financial year. Likewise, 8,588 villages out of 15,183 in 14 States and Divisions have been equipped with water facilities. A total of 16,380 villages out of 23,225 in the entire nation enjoy fruits of the water supply plan.

With regard to the rural housing estate project, priority is being given to construction of rural housing estates in Sagaing, Magway, Mandalay, Bago, Bago (West), Yangon and Ayeyawady Divisions. From 2003-04 to 8 September 2006, 2,704 rural houses have been built in the entire nation and 110 houses are under construction.

Kokang region and Wa region abandoned poppy cultivation in 2003 and 2005 respectively. The Government is cooperating with WFP for providing food to farmers who have already abandoned poppy cultivation. Therefore, WFP distributed 760 tons of rice in 2003, 9,855 tons of rice in 2004-05 and 19,961 tons of rice in 2005-06, totalling 30,576 tons of rice worth US$ 11.7 million to the farmers in Kokang region, Wa region, Kutkai, Kaungkha, Mongkoe, Phaungsai, Tarmoenye, Mantung, Manpan, Phekhon, Pinlaung and Hsihseng regions.

In addition, WFP distributed 1,000 tons of rice donated by Thailand in March 2005 to Wa region through Tachilek. Likewise, the People’s Republic of China will donate 10,000 tons of rice worth 30 million yuan or K 5 billion to the farmers who abandoned poppy cultivation at Myanmar-China border area, beginning September 2006. Arrangements are being made for distribution of rice to the farmers through Panwa, Laiza, Laukkai, Pangsan and Mongla.

At present, CCDAC is implementing the Wa Alternative Development Project (WADP) with the contribution of UNODC’s US$ 11.929 million in Mongpauk Township from 1998 to 2007. Similarly, the Government is implementing the human resources development project with the contribution of UNDP’s US$ 38 million from 1994 to 2007. UNDP contributed US$ 2 million to education, health, water supply and businesses to increase family income for the phase I of the project from January 1994 to June 1996, US$ 10.9 million to the phase II of the project from January 1997 to June 1999, US$ 8.2 million to the phase III of the project in September 1999 to August 2002. From 2003 to 2007, the phase IV of the project is being implemented with the contribution of UNDP’s US$ 16.9million in 849 villages of 26 townships in Kachin, Chin, Rakhine, Kayin and Mon States. UNDP had spent US$ 38 million in four phases of the project.

In conclusion, the minister reported that the Ministry of PBANRDA is implementing the policies adopted by the Central Committee for Progress of Border Areas and National Races under the supervision of the Work Committee, and the ministry is striving for achieving success in other duties assigned by the Central Committee.

Minister for Agriculture & Irrigation Maj-Gen Htay Oo reported on the highland reclamation tasks. Minister for Forestry Brig-Gen Thein Aung reported on progress of eradicating slash-and-burn cultivation. Minister for Livestock and Fisheries Brig-Gen Maung Maung Thein presented reports on breeding works in border regions. Minister for Construction Maj-Gen Saw Tun reported on carrying out of construction works. Minister for Electric Power No 1 Col Zaw Min submitted reports on progress of small scale hydel power projects being implemented by the ministry. Minister for Home Affairs Maj-Gen Maung Oo reported on matters related to development of townships.

Chairman of Central Committee for Progress of Border Areas and National Races Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Senior General Than Shwe gave guidance, saying that border regions lagged behind the development due to the various reasons. As those region lacked peace and stability for a long time, most of their villages were ruined, and local people moved to other places. The relations between border regions and inner places were weak due to the lack of smooth and secure transportation system.

Therefore, the government is implementing practically border regions development projects to be developed in education, health and transportation sector and to be strengthened in economic and administration sector in border regions because those are first line of the nation. Thus, it is necessary to strengthen and reestablish in all sectors, he added.

In accord with the development projects laid down by the State, officials at different levels are to make field trips to border areas to find out the weaknesses while they are carrying out the development tasks. The meeting came to an end in the afternoon.

According to the guidance given by the Head of State, the Ministry of Agriculture & Irrigation is implementing five objectives to substitute highland plantation in slash and burn plantation, to assist food sufficiency in region, to establish permanent settlement for farmers in doing agricultural tasks from using slash and burn method, rural and border regions development tasks, to give necessary assistance in cultivation of poppy substitute crops and to make advantage in environmental conservation works.

Since 2002-03, the ministry implemented reclamation of farmlands in Shan State (South), Shan State (North), Shan State (East) and Chin State. A total of 19,088 acres of farmland in hilly regions had been reclaimed by the ministry and farmers.

Not only in border regions but also in Kyaukhtu of Saw Township in Magway Division, 200 acres of highlands had also been reclaimed. A total of 19,292 acres of highlands had been reclaimed throughout the nation. The government had spent over K 236 million in reclamation of highland farmlands. The reclamation tasks continue 2012-13 as a ten-year plan.

The Ministry of Forestry is implementing the first five-year phase (2002-2003 to 2006-2007) for elimination of slash-and-burn cultivation in its drive for contribution towards the highland reclamation project being undertaken by the Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation. That covers 20 townships in Kachin, Chin, Rakhine, Shan (South), Shan (North) and Shan (East) states. Implementation tasks include making a list of slash-and-burn farms, setting up mixed growing of crops and forest plantations, establishment of local people-owned forests, demonstration of growing trees, distribution of seedlings, and forming fund-raising groups.

About K 22.596 million has been spent on the plan from 2002-2003 to 2005-2006. During the same period, the Ministry of livestock and Fisheries distributed through livestock bank 47,825 local species chickens, 3,466 pigs and goats free of charge to local people to the regions where the ministry is implementing its development tasks.

Up to 31st August 2006, 246,658 broilers and 22,441 pigs have been raised in model farms in rural areas.

Veterinary units were established in border areas to vaccinate and treat cows, pigs and chickens. Moreover, model farms could distribute cows, sheep and pigs free to national races groups for the livestock breeding. So far, over K 1,491 millions have been spent in border areas development projects. Ministry of Construction has laid down plans to turn roads in border areas to all-weather roads for smooth transportation and trading in the areas.

Roads in rural areas have been upgraded from earthen roads to tarred ones step by step by the Ministry of Construction.

A total of 10,315 miles and 4 furlongs of road — 4,252 miles and 4 furlongs of earthen road, 868 miles and 7 furlongs of gravel road, 3,007 miles and 6 furlongs of macadam road and 2,186 miles and 3 furlongs of tar road — have been constructed in rural areas. A total of 121 bridges — 180 foot-and-above-long 76 bridges, under 180-foot-long 36 bridges and nine suspension bridges — has also been constructed in rural areas.

Ministry of Electric Power No 1 has made arrangements to establish a total of 185 small-scale hydel power plants in Kachin, Kayah, Kayin, Mon, Rakhine and Shan states and Sagaing, Bago, Magway and Mandalay divisions, and on completion, it is expected that over 187 MW could be generated in total from all plants.

Prime Minister congratulates Thai counterpart

Nay Pyi Taw, 4 Oct— General Soe Win, Prime Minister of the Union of Myanmar has sent a message of congratulations to His Excellency General Surayud Chulanont who has been appointed as Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Thailand on 1st October 2006.

Mr Gambari explains Myanmar issue at UNSC
Positive developments in Myanmar’s cooperation with UN
China, Russian, Qatar, Tanzania support Myanmar
Japan says Myanmar issue delicate
Myanmar representative refutes US slanders

Nay Pyi Taw, 4 Oct — A private meeting was held at the UN Security Council on 29 September for UN Under Secretary-General for Political Affairs Mr Ibrahim Gambari to explain matters concerning Myanmar in accord with the request made by the US through the UNSC chairman after putting Myanmar on the UN Security Council agenda.

Representatives of the 15 UNSC member nations, Mr Gambari and Myanmar Permanent Representative to the UN U Kyaw Tint Swe, Ambassador U Wunna Maung Lwin, Ambassador U Nay Win and Director-General U Win Mra attended the meeting. As the People’s Republic of China does not approve the act of putting Myanmar on the UNSC agenda, it sent a third secretary, the lowest of the PRC officials responsible for the UNSC issues.

Speaking at the meeting, Mr Gambari said that it was of vital importance to understand very well the situations Myanmar is experiencing. Myan-mar is facing hardships in development under-takings and humanitarian issues.

According to the UNODC report, Myanmar has been able to significantly reduce narcotic drug production during these years in her bid to totally free herself from drugs by 2014. The UNSC has many ways to address the Myanmar issue. The UN Secretary-General will continue to get in touch with the Myanmar officials concerned under the good offices mandate entrusted to him by the UN General Assembly.

Mr Gambari said, during his visit to Myanmar in May, he discussed with Myanmar leaders the four main issues. The follow-up result was the release of Su Su Nway. The resumption of the National Convention on 10 October 2006 is a good news.

He was worried about the slow progress in implementing the seven-point Road Map.

He said, positive developments can be seen in Myanmar’s cooperation with the UN.

Later the UN has seen positive progress in forced labour affairs.

It has also witnessed progress in the issue concerning child soldiers. But it still has anxiety over the issue.

Mr Gambari told the meeting that he would strive for achieving progress in connection with the discussions of his previous visit.

UNSC members the US, Britain, Denmark, Argentina, Qatar, Slovakia, Tanzania, France, the Russian Federation, Japan, Ghana, the PRC and Greece took part in the discussions. But Congo and Peru did not participate in the discussions.

The US permanent representative said, human rights violations, HIV/AIDS problems, drug production and human trafficking in Myanmar pose a threat to the regional and international peace. The US welcomes Mr Gambari’s proposed revisit to Myanmar. Mr Gambari should make a clarification concerning his revisit to Myanmar at the UNSC after arriving back to the UN. The US will work for laying down a decision concerning Myanmar agenda at the UNSC at the end of this year. The speech included America’s usual accusation against Myanmar.

The British permanent representative said, UN involvement is required in handling the Myanmar issue. No progress can be seen in human rights, development and humanitarian assistance issues in Myanmar. There is no success in implementing the millennium objectives. After discussing the matter in accord with the American wish, he said Britain would like to extend relations with Myanmar based on cooperation.

The permanent representative of Qatar said, Myanmar’s neighbours have already expressed that Myanmar does not pose a threat to regional and international peace. The UNSC addresses the issues that are harmful to the peace and security. It should not address issues under the jurisdiction of UN agencies. Professionalism, not selectivity is required in addressing the Myanmar issue. In this commection, there should not be confrontation between the UNSC and Myanmar. Hence, priority should be given to methodology.

In his discussions, the Russian permanent representative said, in handling the Myanmar affairs by the UN, the UNSC is not the body to address the Myanmar agenda. There are other UN bodies responsible for human rights, drugs and humanitarian aid issues. Standing by the truth, he said as Myanmar has achieved success in solving the drug problem, it deserves praise.

The Chinese delegate said, the Chinese permanent representative has already opposed the act of putting Myanmar on the UNSC agenda during the session. China continues to stand firmly on the address delivered by her permanent representative on 15 September 2006.

Discussing the matter, the Tanzanian permanent representative expressed worries about Myanmar’s human rights. But the matter should be discussed within the agenda of the Human Rights Council, he said.

The Japanese permanent representative welcomed the proposal to address Myanmar issue under the good offices mandate of the UN Secretary-General. Japan welcomes Mr Gambari’s proposed revisit to Myanmar. It should not be expected that comprehensive success will be achieved only with Mr Gambari’s one or two visits to Myanmar. The Myanmar issue is a delicate matter.

The permanent representatives of Denmark, Argentina, Slovakia, France and Ghana welcomed Mr Gambari’s visit to Myanmar, expressing their views on human rights and the National Convention of Myanmar.

The leader of Myanmar team who is the Myanmar permanent representative responded to the accusations to put Myanmar on the UNSC agenda. He said, Myanmar has been constantly cooperating with the UN. Mr Gambari visited Myanmar last May, and the nation has invited him to visit her in the coming November. There are many other issues the UNSC should discuss as urgent matters. The act of putting Myanmar on the agenda should not be conceived even in mind.

He said, Myanmar has already striven to end internal armed strife that had lasted for nearly five decades. Of the 18 armed groups, 17, with the strength of nearly 100,000, have already returned to the legal fold. Only KNU insurgent group is left behind in the jungle. Peace overtures have been extended to the group. The government is attacking only the Kayin insurgents to protect public lives and property.

As peace and stability is prevailing, Myanmar has been spending millions of US dollars and kyats to implement development projects in regions which were once under the domination of insurgents. Many alternative projects have been implemented for the national races. In addition to reducing opium production up to 80 per cent, the nation can now control drug trafficking and trafficking in persons.

Myanmar has friendly relations with not only her five neighbours, but also with all the regional countries. Throughout history, she has not committed any acts to threaten peace and security of those nations. Myanmar has never been in a position to pose a threat to regional or international peace. Neighbouring countries have already discussed in support of the fact.

Myanmar’s two giant neighbours, China and India, have firmly expressed that Myanmar can never pose a threat to international peace and security. Their confirmation stands witness to the fact that accusations to put Myanmar on the agenda were nothing but lies.

The Chinese delegate unconditionally expressed opposition to the act of putting Myanmar on the agenda. The leader of Indian delegation in his speech at the UNGA said that the UNSC’s act of putting unconcerned matters on its agenda amounts to overruling the rights of other main UN bodies.

With respect to the accusations the US unjustly made to put Myanmar on the UNSC agenda such as social and economic mismanagement, HIV/AIDS, burgeoning flow of drugs, and substantial outflow of refugees, the Myanmar resident representative, to prove the accusations groundless and illogical, referred to the figures and data issued by the UN, saying that—

- regarding the economic development, according to the report (1990) of the UNDP, Myanmar was placed in the list of countries with least human development; that seven years ago, Myanmar was put in the list of countries with normal development; that the report the UNDP issued in 2005 said that Myanmar’s annual GDP growth rate was 5.7 per cent in 2003; that so, it is apparent that Myanmar government has managed to raise the standard of living of the people;

- that the accusation “the outbreak of AIDS in Myanmar is posing a threat to neighbouring countries” is totally baseless; Myanmar is now in the course of fighting AIDS, malaria and TB designating them as the three major diseases to which the nation has to pay a serious attention; that the AIDS spread rate is 1.5 per cent in Thailand regarded as the model country in the fight against AIDS, while Myanmar’s rate stands at 1.3 per cent; that according to the report of the UNAIDS, the spread of AIDS was under control and then reduced;

- that the 15-year plan is being implemented for the elimination of narcotic drugs in the nation; that the UNDOC report (2005) says that Myanmar’s production of narcotic drugs declined by 81 per cent during the period from 1996 to 2003;

- that the issue on refugee camps on Myanmar-Thailand border is just an exaggeration and the majority are illegal workers earning their living there; the ministries concerned of the two nations are addressing that issue through coordination for legalizing the illegal workers there;

- Rohingya refugees living in the northern Rakhine State are indeed those from the neighbouring country who illegally entered Myanmar and Myanmar government showed its magnanimity towards them by granting permission to them to live in the nation; the issue has been tackled in a friendly way by the two nations with the assistance of UNHCR; and so far Myanmar has received more than 230,000 people who fled to Bangladesh.

He said that putting Myanmar that does not pose any threat to international peace and security, on the agenda is contrary to the UN Charter and it may become a harmful precedence in future; the NAM in its letter to UNSC members reiterated that Myanmar does not pose a threat to international peace and security, so putting the situation on the agenda is contrary to Article 24 of the Charter; that is the stance of 118 member countries; UN Charter is the world constitution and any act that violates the Charter is illegal; such an unjust act does not make any contribution towards Myanmar’s democratic transition; and that Myanmar is firmly determined to continue to implement the State’s seven-point road map.

Although Myanmar affairs was put on the agenda under pressure of the US, any decision cannot be made to take action against Myanmar in accordance with the procedures of the Charter. Clearly, it is particularly intended to tarnish the image of Myanmar.

The US is practising double standards to favour its associates and follower countries and to put pressure on and coerce the nations that are opposed to its domination. So, now anti-US tendence is growing worldwide. International researchers have made a view that in order to avoid being hated in the world, to divert the international attention from its invasion of Iraq, and from Israeli-Lebanon incident, the US is implementing its conspiracy to disgrace Myanmar, a soft target to it.

All national races residing in hills and plains striving for development of their respective regions

Using the UN as a tool, the US interference in Myanmar affairs absolutely unacceptableNay Pyi Taw, 4 Oct — The Kayan National Defence Guards (KNG) on 25 September issued the declaration on its stance on the decision to put Myanmar on the agenda of the United Nations Security Council.

The following is the full text of the declaration:

Kayan National Defence Guards

Kayan Region Development Group (Kayah State Special Region-1)

Moebye, Phekhon Township

The declaration of Kayan National Defence Guards (KNG) on its stance on decision to put Myanmar affairs on UNSC agenda

25 September 2006

1. The Kayan National Defence Guards (KNG) issued the declaration on its stance on 25 September 2006.

2. After returning to the legal fold, our organization is actively taking part in the development of Moebye region.

3. Development of the country depends upon peace and tranquillity that plays the most important role in the nation. As peace and stability are prevailing throughout the country, nowadays all the national races residing in hills and plains are striving for development of their respective regions. As a result, the people enjoy fruits of development and prevailing peace and stability.

4. In addition, national brethren are holding open discussions at the National Convention to shape the democratic nation for the future.

5. Indeed, it is a totally wrong decision that the US took a lead in making a decision on 15 September 2006 to put Myanmar on the agenda of the UNSC with an accusation against Myanmar’s situations posing a threat to regional stability and peace.

6. As such, the KNG hereby declares that using the UN as a tool, the US’s interference in the Myanmar affairs is absolutely unacceptable, and the KNG strongly protests against such decision.

Signed
U Htay Ko
Chairman
Kayan National Defence Guards (KNG)

Zaw Zaw Aung (Ba Ka Tha) from across the border writes a letter to Ko Ko Gyi
Clear evidences borne group of Min Ko Naing and Ko Ko Gyi act through connections within and without country
Necessary inquiries and investigation made to expose truth

Nay Pyi Taw, 4 Oct — Authorities concerned, on 17 December 2005, searched a Myanmar woman with suspicious behaviour who illegally crossed Thaungyin river from the other country at Moegoksetwun Gate in Myawady and exposed a letter written by Zaw Zaw Aung (Ba Ka Tha) who entered the other country illegally and a member of “88” generation student group to Ko Ko Gyi, member of the same group.

Zaw Zaw Aung entered the other country illegally in the beginning of November, 2005. In the letter, Zaw Zaw Aung said that before he left for abroad he acted according to the political concept and method taught by Ko Ko Gyi; that political analysis on internal affairs made by NCUB and FDB were the same; that he had made contacts with all groups in the other country, media and groups in foreign countries; that preparatory tasks were made to act harmoniously and unitedly in 2006; that K 100,000 for Ko Mei, K 100,000 for Ma Phyu Phyu Thin and K 50,000 for Ko Ko Gyi were sent; e-Mail and phone numbers were provided in the letter enabling them to inform in time situation in the country and what they wanted to do; and that he was acting as political proxy of Paw Oo Tun (Min Ko Naing) and Ko Ko Gyi.

According to the above-mentioned situation, Min Ko Naing, Ko Ko Gyi, Htay Kywe, Min Zeya and Pyone Cho of the “88” generation student group were called in for questioning by authorities concerned in order to prevent internal unrest and instability in 2006.

At a time when the five including Min Ko Naing were called in for questioning by authorities concerned, fugitives, opposite media and cohorts in the country had camouflaged the true situation and made instigation and signed letters to demand the release of Min Ko Naing and party.

Patriarchs, journalists and people criticized that such an act of signing letters to make demand amounts to making confrontation, launching a campaign of destabilization, instigating to cause unrest and undermining the peaceful pursuit education of students.

Minister inspects regional development tasks in Ayeyawady Division

Yangon, 4 Oct — CEC Member of Union Solidarity and Development Association Minister for Progress of Border Areas and National Races and Development Affairs Col Thein Nyunt met with Secretary of Ayeyawady Division USDA U Than Tun and executives, secretaries of district and township USDAs and executives at the office of Ayeyawady Division USDA on 1 October.

First, the secretaries from the townships and Pathein District USDAs briefed the minister on regional development tasks carried out during 2005-2006 fiscal year, and the requirements of the region and its people.

Next, the secretaries from Pyapon, Maubin, Myaungmya and Hinthada District USDAs briefed the minister on regional development tasks and requirements of the region and the people.

After hearing the reports, Secretary U Than Tun and Joint-Secretary U Aung Tin Myint made clarification on fields of organizing, management, education, social and culture and economic fields.

Next, they gave supplementary reports on guarding against internal and external destructive elements through the united strength of the people, uplift of dynamism of genuine union spirit and implementation of the objectives, future tasks and nation-building endeavours.

Next, the executives from division, district and township USDAs briefed the minister on rural development tasks. In response to the reports, the minister attended to the needs. After reviewing strong points and weaknesses, the minister gave concluding remarks.

Appointment of Ambassador agreed on

Nay Pyi Taw, 5 Oct — The Government of the Union of Myanmar has agreed to the proposed appointment of Mr Giuseppe Cinti as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Italy to the Union of Myanmar.

Mr Giuseppe Cinti was born on 5 May 1945 in Macerata, Italy. He graduated in Law from the University of Macerata. He joined the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Italy in 1974. He served in various capacities at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Italy and at Italian Embassies in Zurich, Nairobi, Tripoli and Lasanne from 1974 to 2004. Since 2004, he has been serving as Director of the office (1) of the Asia and Pacific, Directorate of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Italy.

Mr Giuseppe Cinti is married.

Energy Deputy Minister inspects Pyaytaungtan oil field

Nay Pyi Taw, 4 Oct — Deputy Minister for Energy Brig-Gen Than Htay met with officials and staff of Myanmar Petroleum Products Enterprise in Pyay on 30 September.

After the meeting, the deputy minister went to Pyaytaungtan oil field and also met with the officials of Myanmar Oil and Gas Enterprise. At the meeting, officials reported to the deputy minister on drilling of PSC 2 and PSC 101 oil wells in cooperation with China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC).

The deputy minister went to Magway Division and inspected No 3 Fertilizer Plant (Kyaw Swa) of Myanma Petrochemical Enterprise in Aunglan Township. At the plant, the officials reported on production process and distribution of goods.

National Convention delegates from Kayah, Taninthayi, Kachin arrive

Yangon,4 Oct — Delegates to the National Convention from Kayah State, Taninthayi Division and Kachin State today arrived here by air to participate in the National Convention.

They were welcomed at Yangon International Airport by Chairman of Invitation and Accommodation Sub-committee of National Convention Convening Management Committee Col Htein Lin, members of the sub-committee and responsible persons. The delegates were conveyed to Nyaunghnapin Camp in Hmawby Township where the National Convention will be reconvened.

72 members quit Labutta Township NLD

Yangon, 4 Oct — Altogether 72 members of Labutta Township National League for Democracy including U Myint Aung, U Khin Maung, Daw Aye Aye Than, Daw Kyin Hmway, Daw Khin Yi, Daw Thandar Htwe, U Naing Win, U Maung Maung Lay, U Myint Naing and Daw Than Than, on 4 September, resigned from the NLD of their own volition after sending resignation letters to NLD Headquarters and local authorities.

In their resignation letters sent to Labutta Township Multiparty Democracy General Election Sub-Commission, they said that they no longer wanted to be members of the party due to its misdeeds; that they had lost faith and trust in the party and its leaders; and that is why they, of their own accord, resigned from the party.