96-12 BURMA PRESS SUMMARY From the Rangoon "The New Light of Myanmar" Compiled for the Burma Studies Group by Hugh C. MacDougall Published by the Center for East Asian and Pacific Studies, University of Illinois Volume X, No. 12, December 1996 Table of Contents NOTICE TO READERS POLITICAL Slogans 3 Political Articles 3 Foreign Articles About Myanmar 4 Information Committee Briefing 5 National Races 8 USDA 8 Pyithu Hluttaw Resignation 8 Bombs at Tooth Relic Pagoda 8 DIPLOMATIC Diplomatic Calls 9 New Myanmar Ambassadors 9 New Ambassadors to Myanmar 10 INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION Joint Workshops & Seminars 10 International Cooperation 11 Regional and Border Cooperation 11 Donations from Abroad 12 FOREIGN VISITORS International Agency Visitors 12 Business Visitors 12 Media Visitors 16 Academic and Medical Visitors 16 Religious Visitors 16 Cultural Visitors 16 Brunei Communications Minister 16 US Congressmen 16 Chinese Goodwill Delegation 17 Japanese Diet Representative 17 Malaysian Transport Minister 17 MYANMAR DELEGATIONS Study Delegations 17 Delegations to Meetings 17 Religious Delegations 18 Business Delegations 18 ASEAN Heads of Government 18 Welfare Minister to Laos 20 Delegations Return 20 MYANMAR GAZETTE Appointments 20 Appointments Confirmed 21 GOVERNMENT National Day Message 21 Ministry of Sports 22 Union Day Committee 22 MILITARY Surrenders by Armed Group Members 22 Insurgent Attacks 22 ECONOMIC Economic Articles 22 Trade Fairs and Exhibitions 23 Project Inaugurations 24 Business Openings 24 Advertisements 24 Agreements with Foreign Firms 25 Aviation 25 Gems Sale 26 Tourism 26 Rainfall in Yangon 26 HEALTH Myanma Karuna Foundation 26 Traditional Medicine 26 Polio Immunization 27 SPORTS Sports Articles 27 Myanmar Teams and Delegations 27 Foreign Teams, Coaches, etc. 27 Mayor's Marathon Postponed 28 Hole-in-One 28 Students Sports Festival 28 SLORC Chairman's Bowl 28 CULTURAL Cultural and Scientific Articles 28 Tooth Relic 29 Religion 29 Publications 30 Universities 30 Literary Prizes 31 Pakokku Teaching Method 31 Academies and Institutes 31 MISCELLANEOUS Sunday and Holiday Supplements 31 Crime 32 Anti-Narcotics Activities 32 Obituaries 33 Fires 34 World War II Plane Found 34 UNICEF Postage Stamps 34 NOTICE TO READERS This ends the publication of The Burma Press Summary, after ten years of existence and 118 issues. Why (1) In the fall of 1996, the American Embassy (USIS) in Rangoon abruptly cut off my supply of The New Light of Myanmar as of the end of 1996, citing staff cuts. The Embassy had volunteered several years ago to provide copies of the paper to me directly; before that it had assisted me in arranging a paid airmail subscription from the publisher. My efforts to discuss the situation, via the Department of State, and appeals for a resumption of the supply (at my expense) or assistance in finding an alternative source, proved fruitless. (2) With a subscription list stuck below 50 (despite strenuous efforts by the Burma Studies Group), I have had to consider carefully whether the unpaid thirty hours or more per month required to compile the Summary is the best use of my time. I am not without a backlog of other projects awaiting my attention. (3) A daily summary of The New Light of Myanmar is now issued by the Burmese Government at http://www.myanmar.com/nlm. This summary is confined to 6-8 lead articles, often with photographs, including events of primarily ceremonial significance that I normally ignored; it is archived for the current month. "Ok Kar" of "okkar66127 @aol.com," distributes it to the newsgroup soc.culture.burma and the "mailing list" MAYKHA-L, etc. Ok Kar also distributes texts of SLORC press conference and other official documents (sometimes in fuller form than the translations that appear in The New Light of Myanmar). Other current information about Burma is also more readily available, on the Internet and in numerous newsletters and publications, than was the case in April 1987 when the Summary was launched. Thanks My thanks to all those who have helped to make the Burma Press Summary possible, and especially to Dr. F.K. (Kris) Lehman of the Burma Studies Group and Burma Studies Foundation, whose constant support and frequent assistance are deeply appreciated. My thanks, too, to the Center for East Asian and Pacific Studies at the University of Illinois, which for the past seven years has reproduced and distributed the Summary, and to Ann Hutflies who has in recent years done most of the hard work. And, finally, thanks to the several Political/Economic Counselors and Public Affairs Officers at the American Embassy in Rangoon, and to the Burma Desk Officers and Burma Analysts at the Department of State in Washington, who, until the end of last year, made it possible for me to obtain copies of the Working People's Daily and then The New Light of Myanmar from which to compile the Burma Press Summary. The back files of the Burma Press Summary remain available on disk, and I shall be sending a full sets of disk copies to the Center for Burma Studies at Northern Illinois University, and to the Center for East Asian and Pacific Studies at the University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana. I have enjoyed compiling the Burma Press Summary, and especially the contacts it has forged with readers who share my continued fascination with Burma. I hope to find continued ways of keeping in touch with you. Hugh C. MacDougall 8 Lake Street Cooperstown, NY 13326 jfcooper@magnum.wpe.com ------------------------------------------- HIGHLIGHTS -- Bombs exploding at the Tooth Relic site in Yangon killed 4 and wounded 18. [POLITICAL] -- Senior General Than Shwe returned from the ASEAN Heads of Government Meeting in Jakarta. His statement at Meeting [full text] and delegation departure statement [full text]. [MYANMAR DELEGATIONS] -- Minister for Religious Affairs warns against mixed marriages (religious or racial). [CULTURAL] -- The monthly Information Committee Press Briefing covered the ASEAN meeting, narcotics statistics [many tables -- reprinted herein], and the Nov. 9 incident involving Daw Aung San Suu Kyi's convoy [full text]. [POLITICAL] -- Various long-scheduled events were postponed without explanation, including Yangon academic Convocations [CULTURAL] and the Yangon and Mandalay Mayors' Marathons. [SPORTS] -- A new Ministry of Sports was established, with Col. Sein Win as Minister. [GOVERNMENT] ------------------------------------------- POLITICAL Slogans The bottom of each front page continues to bear the slogan: Emergence of the State Constitution is the duty of all citizens of Myanmar Naing-Ngan The top of each back page has since May 30, 1996 had a new boxed-in "slogan": People's Desire * Oppose those relying on external elements, acting as stooges, holding negative views. * Oppose those trying to jeopardize stability of the State and progress of the nation. * Oppose foreign nations interfering in internal affairs of the State. * Crush all internal and external destructive elements as the common enemy. Religious Slogans: Since August 1991, each issue has included a changing Pali religious slogan at the top of each front page: Dec. 1-31: Pubbe ca katapunnata, to be endowed with merit accrued in the past; this is the way to auspiciousness. The Twelve Objectives: Since July 6, 1995, each issue of NLM has listed the Four Political, Four Economic, and Four Social Objectives of the State Law and Order Restoration Council, generally on the front page [for texts, see January 1996 issue]. Political Articles [Including, as appropriate, editorials] Dec. 1-31: Past, present and future, by Pe Kan Kaung. [(45) Development of the Lanzin Party in 1962. (46) Parties and individuals react to single-party notion. (47) History of Lanzin Party; dissolution of other parties, 1962-66. (48) Lanzin party activities and change from a Cadre party to a People's party. (49) More on formation of Lanzin People's Party. (50) General Amnesty of 1963. (51) Peace negotiations. (52) Negotiations with Red Flag Communists. (53) Meetings with Shans, Kachins, and the BCP. (54) Talks with BCP, KNU, etc. (55) Talks with Ma Da Nya Ta. (56) Talks with Kayin Revolutionary Council. (57) More on Kayin talks. (58) Meetings with the Burma Communist Party. (59) Breakdown of talks with AFPFL; anti-insurgent operations after breakdown of talks with Kayins. (60) Anti-insurgency; the 1968 meeting between Gen. Ne Win and 33 political leaders. (61) Meetings of advisory body, 1968-69. (62) Recommendations for a Unity Front. (63) Report of Advisory Body, continued, and Revolutionary Council's reaction; the first Lanzin Party Congress. (64) Revolutionary Council Advisory Body, 1971. (65) More on Advisory Body. (66) More on Advisory Body; writing the 1974 Constitution. (67) Further on Constitution. (68) 1974 Constitution Drafting Commission. (69) Preparations for national referendum. (70) December 1973 Referendum. (71) The 1974 Constitution. (72) Promulgation of the 1974 Constitution; Paper by Robert H. Taylor on "Burma's National Unity Problem and the 1947 Constitution." (73) Josef Silverstein's book "Burma, Military Rule and Politics of Stagnation." Preparation of first elections under the 1974 Constitution. (74) Conducting the elections. (75) Handing over of power after elections.] Dec. 1: The warmth of Cambodia, by Tin Than Oo. [Cont. (5) Appreciative account of Senior General Than Shwe's visit to Cambodia, and a history of the country.] Dec. 4: The first day on the journey of worthy aspirations of ASEAN and Myanmar, by Tekkatho Tin Kha. [Account of Senior General Than Shwe's trip to attend the Informal ASEAN Heads of Government meeting in Jakarta, Nov. 28-Dec. 1.] Dec. 5: The right and auspicious place for the ASEAN and Myanmar, by Tekkatho Tin Kha. [Review of ASEAN-Myanmar relations.] Dec. 11-12: Informal ASEAN summit, by Tekkatho Tin Kha. [Minister for Foreign Affairs U Ohn Gyaw's review of the Summit.] Dec. 12: Investments for future, by MMA. [Senior General Than Shwe's guidance to the USDA. Upgrading of colleges and universities under SLORC.] Dec. 13: Keep vigil against destructive and subservient traitors, by Ko Soe. [Senior General Than Shwe guidance to the USDA.] Dec. 14: We shall safeguard our floral nurseries, by Kaythari. [Of the over 5 million members of the Union Solidarity and Development Association, 49 per cent are students, 13 per cent workers, 22 per cent farmers, and 16 per cent intelligentsia, intellectuals and businessmen.] Dec. 15: The association with noble aims, by Tin Maung Than. [Union Solidarity and Development Association.] Dec. 16: Quantitative and qualitative improvement, by MMA. [Through the USDA.] Dec. 19: The Philippine leader's outlook towards Myanmar's entry into ASEAN, by Tekkatho Tin Kha. [Philippine President Ramos endorses Myanmar's entry into ASEAN.] Dec. 20: The Malaysian leader's outlook towards Myanmar's entry into ASEAN, by Tekkatho Tin Kha. [Malaysian Prime Minister Dr. Mahathir endorses Myanmar's entry into ASEAN.] Dec. 21-23: Towards stability, peace and prosperity in South-East Asia, by Tekkatho Myat Thu. [(1) Basic facts about ASEAN member countries. (2) US and KMT troops, CIA infiltration, Vietnam war, etc. Bandung Conference. (3) Formation of ASEAN.] Dec. 25: Personalities worthy of gratitude for helping pave way for Myanmar's entry into ASEAN, by Tekkatho Tin Kha. [Notably the ASEAN Secretary-General, Dato Ajit Singh.] Dec. 26: May Myanmar national character continue to last long, by Tekkatho Tin Kha. [Literature prizes, etc.] Dec. 27: Let's convert our anger into strength, by U Phyo. ["Strive to catch red-handed all destructive elements who are wickedly plotting their evil schemes in our country, townships, wards and villages." Unite to build the nation.] Dec. 27: The bomb of Devadats who will be swallowed by earth before sun-down, by U Pyay Gyaw. [History of tooth relic. "Buddhists have known that Devadat tried to kill the Lord Buddha by pushing a boulder onto Him.... Devadat...ended up his life being engulfed by earth.... Let me name the bomb explosion of the heretic destructionists at Maha Pasana Cave on 25-12-96 'Devadat Bomb'. They are Devadats who will be engulfed by earth before dusk."] Dec. 27: Editorial: Keep vigil against destructive elements. ["It is shocking and outrageous that destructive elements were so brazen and evil as to cause death and injury at such a sacred place as the Maha Pasana Cave, the venue of the Buddha's Sacred Tooth Relic from the People's Republic of China. Their intention for committing such foolish and ruthless acts is quite obvious. It could be concluded that it is designed to harm the friendly relations between China and Myanmar, disrupt the stability in the country and cause terror and anxiety among the people. So, we should be mindful to ensure that it does not turn out to be as hoped for by the destructive elements and internal axe-handles with negative views. We will have to be vigilant to pre-empt recurrence of anything like the loss we have just suffered. It is necessary to act with rational appraisal and control. We must keep our eyes and ears alert and keep vigil with security awareness against the danger of destructive elements' brazen perpetrations and endeavour to expose them before they could strike again...."] Dec. 28: Don't try to divide us who have been united since our birth, by Tekkatho Tin Kha. [Myanmar and China.] Dec. 30: BBC and VOA which air skyful of lies; and Mrs. Doi who applies ointment to the wrong place, by Kyaw Gaung. [Japanese politician Mrs. Yueitakako Doi (head of Japanese Socialist Democratic Party and Asia Human Rights Fund) is "meddling in the affairs which she has nothing to do with her." American crimes in Japan and Korea; American use of A-bomb, etc.] Foreign Articles About Myanmar Dec. 2: Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar to join Asean together, by Susan Sim. Singapore Sunday Times, Dec. 1, 1996. [The three will be admitted together, says Indonesian Foreign Minister Ali Alatas. Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad defended the results of constructive engagement with Myanmar.] Dec. 3: How should ASEAN treat Myanmar? by Nazaruddin Sjamsuddin. Jakarta Post, Nov. 30, 1996. [Indonesia and Malaysia favor Myanmar's admission; the Philippines and Thailand want democratization first. Myanmar preparations are not as good as those of Laos and Cambodia. But these should not prevent admission.] Dec. 9: Doubts over anti-pipeline claims, by Boonsong Kositchotethana. Bangkok Post, Nov. 26, 1996. [Claims of forced labour have nothing to do with the pipeline, but rather with the Ye-Tavoy railway project. The pipeline does not cut across primary tropical forest, as claimed.] Information Committee Briefing Dec. 3: The Fifth Information Committee Press Briefing was held, in the presence of officials, local and foreign journalists, visiting correspondents from NHK, WTN, Time, TV Asahi, Fuji TV, Reuter, Asia Times, AFP, Ambassadors from Russia, UK, Bangladesh, Italy, Egypt, Laos, Malaysia, Indonesia, Israel, France, and Nepal, and diplomats from China, Russia, Japan, Sri Lanka, Singapore, Australia, India, Indonesia, USA, Germany, Yugoslavia, Vietnam, Philippines, Thailand, and Korea, and UN officials from UNDP, UNIC, UNICEF, etc. Minister for Information Maj-Gen. Aye Kyaw said the Briefing would deal with the visit of Senior General Than Shwe to the Jakarta ASEAN meeting, anti-narcotics activities, and the Nov. 9 incident involving Daw Aung San Suu Kyi's convoy. He went on to discuss border development. There were questions from journalists. [ASEAN Meeting] Minister for Foreign Affairs U Ohn Gyaw discussed SLORC Chairman Senior General Than Shwe's visit to Djakarta, which he described as "very significant and very important." He reviewed the history of Myanmar's developing relationship with ASEAN, and said the Jakarta meeting was a "meeting of old friends on the first name basis." He noted that Indonesian Foreign Minister Mr. Alatas had told the press that Myanmar, Cambodia, and Laos would be admitted to ASEAN simultaneously. [Narcotics] Col. Kyaw Thein of the Office of Strategic Studies reviewed Myanmar's anti-narcotic activities, and cited statistics (published in NLM -- reproduced at end of Summary). He went on to say that "I regret to say that a responsible senior official of the United States, Assistant Secretary of State Robert S. Gelbard chose to take a cheap and totally inaccurate shot at our nation and its anti-narcotics measures in the 21 November issue of The Far Eastern Economic Review, when he could have dealt constructively with the serious issue of cooperation. It is an undeniable fact that Myanmar accounts for the major production of opium in the infamous golden triangle area. But one ought to study the problem in depth rather than superficially just to be able to put the burden of blame on one country alone." He reviewed the history of narcotics in Myanmar, from the encouragement of poppy growing by the British to the surrender of U Khun Sa and 14,949 men of the MTA, noting that from 1989-January 1996 the Tatmadaw had lost 700 killed and 2,100 wounded in anti-narcotics operations. He said that the surrender terms for U Khun Sa provided: "1. that the MTA Army troops would unconditionally surrender all their arms and ammunition. "2. that they would faithfully abide by the arrangements made for them by the State. "3. that after their surrender they would in no way become involved again with narcotic drugs." From 1988-1996, the Government had seized 2,309 kilos of heroin, 14,801 kilos of opium, 3,050 kilos of ephedrine, 5,677,525 amphetamine tablets, 7,363 gallons of acetic anhydride, and other chemicals and paraphernalia. In 1996 a new drug, Amphetamine and its precursors, was seized for the first time: nearly 4 tons worth US $300 million at street prices. [Convoy Incident] Major Hla Min of the Office of Strategic Studies briefed on the Nov. 9 convoy incident, as follows [full text]: "I shall give a brief presentation on the incident that took place on the 9 November in Yangon regarding Daw Aung San Suu Kyi's convoy. That afternoon at 3.25 pm Daw Aung San Suu Kyi left her 54 University Avenue residence with a convoy of four cars for U Kyi Maung's residence. The security officer in charge was informed by Daw Aung San Suu Kyi of the place where they were going. Since the destination was known to the security officer, the security car led the convoy to U Kyi Maung's residence. The formation of the cars were as follows:-- "The first was the security car, followed by Daw Aung San Suu Kyi's car, the NLD youths' car in which there were ten youths and the police car. "The convoy arrived U Kyi Maung's house after five minutes, roughly about 3.30 pm. The convoy again left U Kyi Maung's residence for an unknown rallying point with U Kyi Maung and U Tin Oo in an additional car at about 3.45 pm. "The convoy included the NLD youths' car, that of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, that of U Tin Oo and U Kyi Maung and the security car and the police car. "The convoy with five vehicles left U Kyi Maung's house for rallying point unknown to the security and police officials in the convoy. The security car was put in the convoy in the 4th place which was after the 3rd car which was carrying U Tin Oo and U Kyi Maung. The security and the police cars were told by Daw Aung San Suu Kyi to follow the first three cars and she did not mention where they were going. After leaving U Kyi Maung's residence and just as the convoy reached the main road (the Kaba Aye Pagoda Road) the convoy was attacked by a group of people. "At that instant the first three cars -- that of the NLD youths, that of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and that of U Tin Oo -- drove away while the security and police cars were caught in the attack for a few minutes. The 4th car which carried the security officials was badly damaged while the mob was attacking the car. At this moment the security official from the last car, No. 5, came out of his car and waved his handgun to disperse the crowd. Then only the security officials from the No. 4 car could come out. The damaged security car was then left behind while the persons from the damaged car rode in the 5th car, that of the police, to continue to follow the first three cars which drove away when the incident just about started. The police car caught up with the three cars at the Shwegondine Traffic junction and from there onwards this car followed from the rear and Daw Aung San Suu Kyi stopped for a few minutes at the corner of Saya San Road and U Chit Maung Road to give a roadside speech to a group of people waiting for her there. Then the convoy headed for the University Avenue and stopped at the road-closed sign in front of the Korean Embassy and proceeded to U Tin Oo's house on Thanlwin Road. It has also been reported that while entering Thanlwin Road someone or some persons probably from the food stalls there threw pebbles at the convoy and disappeared. Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and her group stayed at U Tin Oo's house until 7.45 pm. While at U Tin Oo's house Daw Aung San Suu Kyi gave a press briefing at 6.00 pm which I was sure some of you might have attended. Regarding this incident there are reports of various versions. There even was a report saying that somebody attacked Daw Aung San Suu Kyi with a knife while she gave a few minutes' road-side speech at the corner of Saya San and U Chit Maung Roads. Of course, this was not true but it came out in some foreign publications and news media. It is also interesting to learn that except for a few foreign news agencies the rest seemed to have deliberately failed to mention in their reports the security cars being attacked by the mob on that day. The majority of the media focused on what happened to Daw Aung San Suu Kyi's and U Tin Oo's cars reporting only part of the incident probably to make it more sensational. There are also reports accusing the government of inspiring this incident. "But the question is what has the government to gain by it." (a) We had the visit of Mr. Ajit Singh (the ASEAN Secretary-General) to Myanmar where he left with favourable impression on the country. (b) Senator McCain was arriving the following day to meet with high-ranking government officials as well as leaders of some political parties and national races. (c) In New York the United Nations was convening the 3rd committee on social questions. (d) The Visit Myanmar Year opening ceremony and the informal meeting of ASEAN Heads of Government and the Heads of Government of Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar was just around the corner. (e) Under the recently passed US legislation such an incident against NLD automatically calls for sanctions. Well, in this regard we also have to put into consideration on certain factors, like:-- (a) Who opposed Myanmar joining the ASEAN. (b) Who are against foreign investment coming into Myanmar. (c) Who are calling for sanctions against Myanmar. (d) Who are against the Visit Myanmar Year, 1996. If the government does not benefit by inspiring such incident, logically speaking, why should the government take a no gain option? In the government's part, in order to avoid such unwanted incidents, (a) The government has provided security to Daw Aung San Suu Kyi after she was released from house restriction. (b) The NLD was also informed not to hold road side talks but to have it inside her own compound in a more disciplined and secure manner. (c) Also Daw Su Kyi's anti-tourism and anti-investment stance has become very unpopular among the majority of the population. This policy of hers is like putting a curse on her own country and people. She is actually breaking rice bowls of the Myanmar people from all walks of life. I am sure a lot of the pro-NLDs and NLD members themselves are not in favour of her anti-Tourism and anti-Investment policies. There are opposition parties in almost every country and none of these parties would use such tactics to play politics. It is understood that whether it is opposition or the party in power, their main objective is to create better living standard for the people of their own country and not make them suffer and starve. This, I am telling because, reality is that she has created doubt and hatred among the mass including her own party. It has also been learnt that U Tin Oo had filed a complaint at the local police station on the 11th of November. Regarding the 9th Nov. incident and Yangon Division police has also filed a separate complaint at the police station on the same day. The local police station requested U Tin Oo to give an official statement on the incident since 12th of November. But for various reasons U Tin Oo did not come to police station until a week later. He then provided the police with names of 12 witnesses and later deleted one. Up till today only three witnesses have showed up at the police station to give statements and the police are still waiting for the other witnesses to cooperate and give their respective statement. Surprisingly, on the other hand the NLD has accused the government through the foreign media of not taking any action on the incident. Concerning matters of legal proceedings on this matter the relevant authorities from the Home Ministry will give further explanations later...." [Questions and Answers] Asked by Stephen Brooks of Asia Times about "the demonstration of the students of Yangon Institute of Technology (YIT) the previous day," Col. Kyaw Win said the YIT students "started their activity on the previous day." There was an anonymous letter to the YIT, and there was an incident involving two policemen at the Sawbwagyi bus terminal. The SLORC knew nothing about the letter ("such kinds of letter come to students often"), and due action has been taken regarding the Sawbwagyi incident. The two policemen have been expelled from the police force and sentenced to two years' rigorous imprisonment. The student had been gently handled, and conveyed peacefully back to their campus. Asked by U Maung Maung of Ji Ji News Agency about amphetamine seizures, Col. Kyaw Thein said "it was quite alarming that there were more than five million amphetamine tablets in the seizures," some of them in transit through the country. Although it was still uncertain, some of them might have been produced in the country, as precursor chemicals had been seized. Asked by U Hla Htwe of Nihon Keizei Shimbun about President Clinton's remark, Col. Kyaw Thein reiterated "that subjecting international effort to fight drug trafficking and money-laundering to narrow political interests and addressing individual elements of equation without taking others into account would never solve the problem; what he meant was some people who were biased naturally might have sent some erroneous and slanted reports, concerning the drug situation in the country, to the US President...." Asked by U Hla Htwe about talks with the KNU, Col. Kyaw Win said the KNU had been asked to "give up their armed way and come into the legal fold," and had agreed to discuss it. On Nov. 22, the KNU representatives wanted to skip the point, and go on to troop placement and area development. But this would go against the procedures followed with the other national groups that had renounced the armed way, and the KNU was asked to consider this and return in December. On Nov. 16th the KNU said it had been asked to lay down its arms; this was not true, it was only asked to renounce the armed way, like the other groups, which are "still carrying their arms." Asked by Vithoon Amorm of Reuters about the attack on Daw Aung San Suu Kyi's convoy, Police Maj-Gen. Soe Win said the police are investigating in accordance with law. U Tin Oo made a statement on Nov. 20; out of nine prosecution witnesses, three including himself, U Khin Maung Win, and U Aung Kyi Nyunt were examined on Nov. 23. Others have not shown up; the two witnesses so far say they could not recognize the assailant except that he was wearing a hat. Asked by U Aung Shwe Oo of NTV said some opposition political parties hindering Myanmar's ASEAN application. Minister for Foreign Affairs U Ohn Gyaw said Myanmar would become a full member simultaneously with the other observer members. Asked by Stephen Brookes about economic relations with the US after the Jakarta meeting, Minister for National Planning and Economic Development Brig-Gen. Abel said Myanmar has always sought good economic relations with all countries. Asked by Matthew Pennington of AFP about the University Avenue road block, Col. Kyaw Win said whether the road block would be "on or off" depended on Daw Aung San Suu Kyi; she could hold meetings in her compound, and "whether the blockade would be on would depend on her wanting to hold it outside of the compound." (NLM 12/4) National Races Dec. 13: Leader of Kachin Special Region 1 U Za Khun Ting Rang and party called on Minister for Progress of Border Areas and National Races and Development Affairs Lt-Gen. Maung Thint. (NLM 12/14) USDA [There were frequent news items reporting mass applications from towns or villages to join the Union Solidarity and Development Association.] Dec. 10: Senior General Than Shwe gave guidance to the graduates of USDA No. 7 Management Course for USDA Executives. As excerpted in NLM, he said: -- Association members should be firmly equipped with the four points of the People's Desire. -- Millions of students include over five million members of the Association. -- Member students and non-members need to concentrate on studies in order to attain a high level of education. -- Students urged to follow the instructions and guidance of their parents and teachers while observing discipline and conducting themselves as students of good discipline. -- If peace and tranquillity is marred due to lack of restraint and thoughtlessness of some politicians, arrangements for the building of a modern nation will meet with delay, hindrance or disruption. -- Peasants in the rural areas who constitute the vast majority of the nation and their children need to be organized to become Association members. -- All must keep vigil and prevent negatively-oriented destructive and subservient traitors from intruding into educational realm and using students in bids to gain political power. (NLM 12/11) Pyithu Hluttaw Resignation Dec. 12: Election Commission Announcement No. 1317 of Dec. 12 authorizes National League for Democracy Pyithu Hluttaw representative-elect U Win Kyaing (Bogalay-1) to resign "as he is not able to do politics due to his ill health." (NLM 12/13) Bombs at Tooth Relic Pagoda Dec. 25 [full text]: "Bombs explode while large number of pilgrims pay homage to Sacred Tooth Relic. A bomb exploded in the shadows south of two lion statues at the Kaba Aye Pagoda's eastern stairway at 8.20 pm today, but no one was hurt. "As the authorities were investigating the explosion, while a large number of pilgrims were paying homage to the Sacred Tooth Relic in the Maha Pasana Cave as it was Christmas Day and Full-moon Day of Nadaw, a second explosion occurred from within a vase at the place where flowers were offered at 10.35 pm. "Seven security members on duty, one Red Cross member, four Union Solidarity and Development Association members, one member of the Sangha and five pilgrims totalling 18 were injured and one security member, two USDA members and one Red Cross member totalling four were killed. "The Secretary-1 and the Secretary-2 of the State Law and Order Restoration Council, the Minister for Religious Affairs, responsible personnel and the Ambassador of the People's Republic of China came out there for inspection. "It is learnt that such explosion was due to planting of a timed mine by the group of dastardly destructive elements with extremely wicked and ruthless intent to harm the friendship between China and Myanmar, disrupt the stability in the country, disturb the Buddhist laity's faith and reverence in the religion, cause terror and anxiety among the people, and that there was no damage whatsoever to the Sacred Tooth Relic." (NLM 12/26) Dec. 26: SLORC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt visited the injured at the North Okkalapa People's Hospital. (NLM 12/27) Dec. 27: Minister for Health U Saw Tun visited the injured. SLORC Secretary-2 Lt-Gen. Tin Oo visited families of the dead. Sayadaws, accompanied by Minister for Religious Affairs Lt-Gen. Myo Nyunt, conducted ceremonies in memory of those killed in the bomb explosion. (NLM 12/28) Dec. 27: A spokesman for the Chinese Embassy in Yangon issued the following statement: "We are shocked at the bomb explosion in the Maha Pasana Cave on the evening of 25th December and strongly condemn this terrorist action. The Chinese Buddha's Tooth Relic came to Myanmar for enshrinement with the request of the Myanmar Government and the desire of the great majority of the Myanmar Buddhists. The bomb attacks on the Sacred Shrine killing and injuring the innocent people blaspheme the Buddha and go against the will of the people." (NLM 12/28) Dec. 27: Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, Russian Ambassador Mr. Valeri Nazarov sent the following letter to Minister for Foreign Affairs U Ohn Gyaw: "I was deeply distressed to learn about the unimaginable atrocity committed by dastardly unscrupulous elements at the Kaba Aye Pagoda and in the Maha Pasana Cave on the 25th of December, 1996, amidst a large number of pilgrims paying homage to the Sacred Chinese Buddha's Tooth Relic, resulted in killing four and injuring eighteen innocent people. "This unprecedentedly cynical act of terrorism can cause nothing but the strongest feelings of shock, indignation and protest. Such a disgusting crime is totally incompatible with fundamental values of any civilized society and must be unconditionally condemned. My staff and, I am sure, my colleagues in the Diplomatic Corps share these sentiments. "May I ask you to convey our heartfelt sympathy and condolence to the bereaved families and to those injured in the bomb attack." (NLM 12/28) Dec. 28: A Memorial service for those killed in the bomb explosion was performed by Chinese Buddhist monks who have been escorting the Tooth Relic. Minister for Health U Saw Tun visited hospitalized victims of the blast. (NLM 12/29) Dec. 29: Minister for Health U Saw Tun visited the hospitalized victims. (NLM 12/30) Dec. 30: Rector Dr. Kyaw Myint Tun of the Institute of Medicine 1, Rector Dr. Tha Hla Shwe of the Institute of Medicine 2, and specialists led by Director-General Dr. Hla Myint of the Department of Health and Director-General Dr. Mya Oo of the Medical Science Department visited the hospitalized bomb victims. (NLM 12/31) DIPLOMATIC Diplomatic Calls [The following calls were paid on Burmese officials by foreign Embassy or UN officials accredited to Burma. Details of the meetings are rarely reported. Ambassadors generally accompany foreign visitors from their countries on official calls, and their presence is generally not noticed in this Summary. Newly arrived and departing Ambassadors generally make the rounds of Cabinet Ministers and other leading officials.] Dec. 17: Senior Col. Nguyen Ngoc Lu, first Vietnamese military attache assigned to Myanmar, called on SLORC Vice-Chairman Deputy Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Commander-in-Chief (Army) Gen. Maung Aye. (NLM 12/18) Dec. 19: UNICEF Resident Representative Dr. Juan R. Aguilar Leon called on Minister for Agriculture and Irrigation Lt-Gen. Myint Aung. (NLM 12/20) Dec. 27: Singapore Ambassador Brig-Gen. Patrick Choy Choong Tow called on Minister for National Planning and Economic Development Brig-Gen. Abel to discuss Myanmar's preparations to join ASEAN. (NLM 12/28) New Myanmar Ambassadors Dec. 10: U Win Aung on Dec. 4 presented credentials in London to Queen Elizabeth II as new Myanmar Ambassador to the United Kingdom. (NLM 12/10) Dec. 19: The Government has appointed U Khin Soe as new Myanmar Ambassador to Vietnam. (NLM 12/19) Dec. 19: The Government has appointed U Maung Maung Lay as new Myanmar Ambassador to Australia. (NLM 12/19) New Ambassadors to Myanmar Dec. 3: The Government has approved the appointment of Mrs. Cristina Funes Noppen as new Belgian Ambassador to Myanmar. Mrs. Noppen was born Oct. 6, 1945 in Como, Italy, and has a Masters in Political and Social Sciences. She joined the Belgian Foreign Ministry in 1973, and has served in Rome, Amsterdam, Paris, New Delhi, Geneva, Lusaka, and Nairobi. She is currently Belgian Ambassador to Thailand, with residence in Bangkok, and will be accredited to both countries. (NLM 12/3) Dec. 6: The Government has approved the appointment of Mr. Cesar Gonzalez-Palacios as new Spanish Ambassador to Myanmar. He was born in 1936 in Castellar (Jean, Spain) and joined the Foreign Ministry in 1966. He has served in Baghdad, Agadir, Geneva, London, Ottawa, and San Francisco. He is concurrently Ambassador to Thailand, with residence in Bangkok. (NLM 12/6) Dec. 20: The Government has approved the appointment of Ms. Lyndall Alexandra McLean as new Ambassador of Australia to Myanmar. She was born Jan. 15, 1955, joined the Department of Defence in 1975, and the Department of Foreign Affairs in 1980. She has served in Seoul, Hanoi, and Phnom Penh, and was recently Assistant Secretary in the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade in Canberra. (NLM 12/20) Dec. 24: Mr. Gad Nathan presented credentials to SLORC Chairman Senior General Than Shwe as new Ambassador of Israel to Myanmar. (NLM 12/25) Dec. 30: The Government has agreed to the appointment of Mr. Jozef Bozek as Ambassador of the Slovak Republic to Myanmar. He was born Feb. 16, 1935 in Poprad, Slovakia and graduated from the Slovak Technical University (Civil Engineering) in 1958 before joining the Czechoslovak Foreign Ministry in 1972. He served in various Czechoslovakian missions until the Slovak Republic was born in 1993, when he became head of the Slovak Embassy in Bangkok; he is concurrently Slovak Ambassador to Thailand, with residence in Bangkok. He is married with two sons. (NLM 12/31) INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION Joint Workshops & Seminars Nov. 29: A two-day Workshop on Trading of Firewood Fuel in Myanmar, co-sponsored by the Forestry Department and the FAO Regional Firewood Fuel Energy Development Programme, opened in Yezin. (NLM 12/1) Dec. 5: Clinical lectures on oral and maxillofacial surgery, co-sponsored by the Institute of Dental Medicine, the Myanmar Dental Association, and the Japanese Cleft Palate Foundation (JCPF) will be held at the Institute of Dental Medicine from Dec. 10-12. (NLM 12/6) Dec. 10: An International Business Education Seminar, jointly sponsored by the MBA programme of the Institute of Economics (Yangon) and Ngee Ann Polytechnic of Singapore began; it will last until Dec. 16. A 23-member study group form Ngee Ann Polytechnic will conduct market research on department stores, etc. (NLM 12/11) Dec. 10: A Workshop on Protection and Security of Working Children, cosponsored by the Social Welfare Department, UNICEF, CARE Australia and the YWCA began at the Social Welfare Department. (NLM 12/11) Dec. 10: A Seminar on Development of Human Resources, co-sponsored by the Ministry of National Planning and Economic Development and the Nomura Science Research Ltd., represented by President Mr. Tadao Chino, opened. The 11-day seminar is being attended by 35 high-ranking delegates. (NLM 12/11) Dec. 13: A Workshop on Shrimp Aquaculture Industry, co-sponsored by the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries and the FAO, was held, with papers by Director U Win Aung of the Fisheries Department (review of shrimp farming status in Myanmar), Dr. Nyan Taw of FAO (strategies for development of shrimp aquaculture), Assistant Lecturer U Zaw Lun of Mawlamyine University (fresh-water prawn hatchery technology), U Tint Wai of the Fisheries Department (post-harvest handling and quality control), U Aung Naing Oo of Annawa Mon Cooperative Ltd. (shrimp feed production), U Myint Soe of the Myanmar Aquaculture and Fisheries Association (shrimp aquaculture activity of MAFA), U Mann Soe Win of the Honesty Group (shrimp processing in Myanmar), U Khin Maung Soe of the Fisheries Department (capacity of prawn and shrimp seed production and potential of systematic grow-out farming), U Aye Kyaw of Fisheries Department (shrimp hatchery operation technology), and Dr. Nyan Taw of FAO (status, potential and strategy of shrimp aquaculture industry). (NLM 12/14) Dec. 17: A two-day Seminar on Treasury Bonds, co-sponsored by the Central Bank of Myanmar and Daiwa Institute of Research Ltd. of Japan was opened by Minister for Finance and Revenue Brig-Gen. Win Tin. Daiwa resource persons Mr. Kochi Suzuki, Mr. Tadanori Urabe, and Mr. Nobuyuki Arisawa will participate. So far, the Minister said, K 2,880 million of treasury bonds have been issued. (NLM 12/18) International Cooperation Dec. 2: Bilateral aviation talks were held between Myanmar, represented by Director-General U Tin Aye of the Department of Civil Aviation, and Qatar, represented Director Mr. Abdul Aziz Mohd Al Nouaimi of Qatar Airlines. (NLM 12/3) // Dec. 3: The Director called on Minister for Transport Lt-Gen. Thein Win. (NLM 12/4) Dec. 11: The Myanma Agricultural Service, represented by Managing Director U Sein Win, and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), represented by Dr. Shoji Miyazaki, signed "approval of the discussions on implementation of cooperation in technical knowhow and equipment for seed bank project" at Yezin. (NLM 12/ 12) Regional and Border Cooperation Nov. 30: The International Cooperative Alliance Regional Symposium on the Impact of Globalization on the Competitive Strength of Agri-Business Co-operatives opened at the Mya Yeik Nyo Royal Hotel, in the presence of Regional Director Mr. Robby Tulus of the International Cooperative Alliance and officials from Indonesia, Malaysia, Canada, Sri Lanka, South Korea, India, Kuwait, Myanmar, and the ICA Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific. (NLM 12/1) Dec. 3: A Seminar on Myanmar-Thai Studies, co-sponsored by the Universities Historical Research Department (UHRD) and Chulalongkorn University (CU) of Thailand continued for its final day. Papers were read by Senior UHRD Researcher Dr. Khin Hla Han (Function of History in Myanmar Society), Association Professor Dr. Withaya Suchari Thanarugse of CU (Function of History in Thai's Society), Dr. Myo Myint of the History Department (Problems in Myanmar Historiography), Professor Dr. Charnvit Kasetsiri of Thamasat University (Problems in Thai's Historiography), Deputy Director U San Nyein of UHRD (Research on Myanmar-Thai Historical Relations), and Professor Acharn Chalong Soontravanich of CU (Research on Thai-Myanmar Historical Relations). A concluding speech was made by UHRD Director Daw Ni Ni Myint. (NLM 12/4) Dec. 3: A Regional Consultation on Cooperatives in the Changing Socio-Economic Environment in Asia and Pacific Region was held at the International Business Centre, attended by various ministers and officials, Senior Adviser to the International Cooperative Alliance Mr. G. K. Sharma, ICA Director Mr. Robby Tulus, Regional Director Ms. Jo-Anne Ferguson of the Cooperative Syndicate of Canada, diplomats, officials, and 18 representatives from ICA member countries. (NLM 12/4) // Dec. 4: The Consultation continued. (NLM 12/5) // Dec. 6: The Consultation concluded. (NLM 12/7) Dec. 6: Discussions for a Thai loan of 300 million baht to upgrade the Tachilek-Kengtong road to a two-lane tarred road were held Dec. 3-5 in Tachilek. The Myanmar delegation was led the Chairman of the Tachilek District LORC. The Thai delegation included Governor Mr. Vicharn Jayanananda of Chiang Rai District, Managing Director Mr. Virayuk Puntupetch of the Economic Development and Cooperation Funds for Neighbouring Countries of the Thai Ministry of Finance, and others. A draft of the loan agreement was prepared. (NLM 12/7) Dec. 11: A delegation led by Lieut-Gen. Thanom Wacharaput, Thai Third Army Area Commander, arrived to attend the 14th Meeting of Myanmar-Thailand Regional Border Committee, which will begin Dec. 12 in Taunggyi. (NLM 12/12) // Dec. 14: Following the meeting in Taunggyi, the Thai delegation returned to Yangon, visited the sights, called on SLORC Vice-Chairman Deputy Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Commander-in-Chief (Army) Gen. Maung Aye, and went home to Thailand. (NLM 12/ 15) Dec. 28: A delegation from Thailand led by Deputy Director-General Mr. Boonrawd Bosereewong of the Revenue Department of the Thai Ministry of Finance, accompanied by Director Mr. Sirote Swasdipanich of the Revenue Policy and Planning, Mr. Proedpiboon Kaewanthit, Mr. Paul Thirikhupt, and Mr. Songkean Grachangnetara of the Revenue Department arrived to hold discussions on double taxation and prevention of fiscal evasion with respect to taxes on income. It held talks Dec. 23-26 with a Myanmar delegation led by Director-General U Than Nyunt of the Internal Revenue Department, and departed on Dec. 27. (NLM 12/29) Donations from Abroad [We report here donations apparently from foreign sources, except for those incidental to visits reported elsewhere; foreign sources are presumed if gifts are in foreign currency, or donors are identified as "Mr.". We do not normally report the numerous articles on Burmese donations to government, religious, and social organizations and charities, including the current favorite recipient, the Myanmar Karuna Foundation headed by Patron for Life Minister for Trade Lt-Gen. Tun Kyi.] Dec. 3: Adviser U Kyaw Nyunt of Ambur International Co. Ltd. presented K 1 million to the Myanmar Karuna Foundation. (NLM 12/4) Dec. 3: Managing Director U Htin Aung of Delta (Myanmar) International Group Ltd., Imperial Jade Purified Drinking Water, donated K 1 million to the Myanmar Karuna Foundation. (NLM 12/4) Dec. 4: Japan donated polio vaccines, lab equipment, and AIDS testing equipment worth $1.3 million to the Ministry of Health. (NLM 12/5) Dec. 4: Chief Executive Officer Mr. Christophe Le Yoanc of True North Co. and Mr. Akiyoshi Yoshida of Rohto Co. presented 100 bottles of V Rohto eyedrops worth K 60,000 to the Eye, Ear, Nose and Throat Hospital. (NLM 12/5) Dec. 4: Director U Soe Soe Lwin and party of Lwin and Swan Trading Co. Ltd. and Great Paulian Co. Ltd. donated K 1 million to the Myanmar Karuna Foundation. (NLM 12/5) Dec. 16: Managing Director U Win Aung of Dagon Star Ltd. and General Manager Mr. Moon Sung Hwan of L. G. Electronics, Inc., donated K 2 million to the Myanmar Karuna Foundation. (NLM 12/17) Dec. 18: The ASEAN Women's Association donated medicines worth K 500,000 to the Myanmar Maternal and Child Welfare Association. (NLM 12/19) Dec. 19: Managing Director Mr. Benny Ban and party of Daya Technology Pte. Ltd. of Singapore donated $50,000 to the Myanmar Karuna Foundation. (NLM 12/20) Dec. 24: Mr. Young Woo Lee of Seoil Textile Co. presented two sets of Dr. Golf Clinic, worth $7,000 each, to the City Golf Resort. (NLM 12/25) FOREIGN VISITORS [Although we rarely note the fact, foreign visitors calling on Myanmar officials are often accompanied by their Ambassadors. -- HCMacD.] International Agency Visitors Dec. 10: Dr. Devendra and Dr. Derrick Thomas of the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) called on Deputy Minister for Livestock Breeding and Fisheries U Aung Thein. (NLM 12/11) Business Visitors [May include Governmental delegations with predominantly commercial aims, as well as foreign businessmen resident in Myanmar. Foreign delegations are often accompanied on their calls by their country's Ambassador or other diplomatic personnel in Yangon, but we do not normally record the fact.] Nov. 30: Chairman Mr. Kazuo Tanikawa of Japan Trans-Techno Co. Ltd. (JTT), and former Japanese Minister of Justice, called on Chairman of the Myanmar Investment Commission Deputy Prime Minister Vice-Adm. Maung Maung Khin. He hosted a dinner in honor of the Union Solidarity and Development Association. (NLM 12/1) Dec. 1: The Yunnan Province Transport and Communications Delegation travelled the Ayeyawady River from Pyay to Hinthada on Nov. 29. On Dec. 1 they it visited the Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon. (NLM 12/2) // Dec. 4: The delegation departed. (NLM 12/5) Dec. 2: Managing Director Ms. Anurat Tiamtan and party of Thai Pineapple Public Co. Ltd. called on Chairman of the Myanmar Investment Commission Deputy Prime Minister Vice-Adm. Maung Maung Khin. (NLM 12/ 3) Dec. 2: Chairman Mr. Khong Soo Har of Myanmar Besin Island Resort and party called on Chairman of the Myanmar Investment Commission Deputy Prime Minister Vice-Adm. Maung Maung Khin. Chairman Major General Dong Zhou Liang of China (Guangdong) San-U Southern Group and party called on Minister for Hotels and Tourism Lt-Gen. Kyaw Ba to discuss construction of a beach resort on Salon Island with the Myanmar Besin Island Resort Co. Ltd. of Malaysia of Mr. Khong Soo Har's group. (NLM 12/3) // Dec. 3: The two parties called on Minister for Transport Lt-Gen. Thein Win. (NLM 12/4) Dec. 2: President Mr. Sul Bum and party of Taihan Textile Co. Ltd. of Korea called on Chairman of the Myanmar Investment Commission Deputy Prime Minister Vice-Adm. Maung Maung Khin. (NLM 12/3) Dec. 2: Executive Managing Director Mr. Noboru Kishido and party of Mitsui & Co. Ltd. of Japan called on Chairman of the Myanmar Investment Commission Deputy Prime Minister Vice-Adm. Maung Maung Khin to discuss the Mingaladon Industrial Zone. (NLM 12/3) Dec. 2: A 14-member Japanese Delegation led by Chairman Mr. Takai of Japan Trans-Techno Co. Ltd. visited the Visit Myanmar Year Market Festival at the Myoma Sports Ground. (NLM 12/3) Dec. 3: Investment Manager Mr. Achmad Luthfi and party of Pertamina Oil Co. of Indonesia called on Minister for Energy U Khin Maung Thein. (NLM 12/4) Dec. 3: Executive Vice-President Mr. Isama Nitta and party of Toshiba Corporation called on Minister at the Deputy Prime Minister's Office Secretary of the Myanma Investment Committee Brig-Gen. Maung Maung. (NLM 12/4) Dec. 4: Assistant General Manager Mr. Aful Muchhala and party of P. T. Prima Comexindo of Jakarta called on Minister for Health U Saw Tun. (NLM 12/5) Dec. 4: Leader Mr. Akiyoshi Yoshida of the Pharmaceutical Exporters Association of Japan, and party, hosted a dinner for the Ministry of Health and pharmaceutical companies. [see also under donations] (NLM 12/5) Dec. 4: Chairman Mr. Nobuo Hasegawa of Itochu Machinery Co. of Japan and party called on Minister at the Deputy Prime Minister's Office Secretary of the Myanma Investment Committee Brig-Gen. Maung Maung. (NLM 12/5) Dec. 4: President Mr. Vison Chongsuksiri and party of Gold Bell Furniture Ltd. of Thailand called on Chairman of the Myanmar Investment Commission Deputy Prime Minister Vice-Adm. Maung Maung Khin. (NLM 12/ 5) Dec. 4: Mr. Thomas Chan of Traders Hotel Regional Promotion Board called on Minister for Hotels and Tourism Lt-Gen. Kyaw Ba. (NLM 12/5) Dec. 4: Regional General Manager Mr. H. A. Hemmer of KLM Royal Dutch Airlines called on Minister for Transport Lt-Gen. Thein Win. (NLM 12/5) Dec. 9: Executive Chairman Dato Mohd Zahrain Hashin of the Penang Port Sdn. Bhd. (owned by the Malaysian Ministry of Finance) called on Minister for Transport Lt-Gen. Thein Win, and on SLORC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt. (NLM 12/10) Dec. 9: Chairman Mr. Katsuhiko Umehara of the Working Group in Economic Cooperation in Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar formed with ASEAN nations and Japan, and party, called on Minister for Hotels and Tourism Lt-Gen. Kyaw Ba. They are here "to hold the third Expert Group Meeting on Tourism." (NLM 12/10) Dec. 10: A delegation led by Chairman Mr. Ybhg Dato Azlan Hashim of the Federation of Public Listed Companies Bhd. (FPLCB) of Malaysia called on Minister for Hotels and Tourism Lt-Gen. Kyaw Ba. (NLM 12/11) // Dec. 12: He called on Minister at the Deputy Prime Minister's Office Secretary of the Myanma Investment Committee Brig-Gen. Maung Maung;, and on Minister for Finance and Revenue Brig-Gen. Win Tin. (NLM 12/13) Dec. 10: Secretary to the Chairman Mr. Li Shuming of China Carrie Enterprises Ltd. met with Minister at the Deputy Prime Minister's Office Secretary of the Myanma Investment Committee Brig-Gen. Maung Maung to discuss a paper mill. (NLM 12/11) Dec. 10: Mr. Takashi Koreeda of The Daimaru Inc. Trade Division, Japan Transport Cooperation Association (JTCA) met with Minister for Transport Lt-Gen. Thein Win to discuss airport construction. (NLM 12/11) Dec. 10: Vice-President Mr. F. Rochereau of Myanmar CIT Ltd. (SOCATA) called on Minister for Transport Lt-Gen. Thein Win to discuss jetty construction and a civil aviation course. (NLM 12/11) Dec. 10: A delegation led by Mr. Meiki Kinjo of Okinawa called on Minister at the Deputy Prime Minister's Office Secretary of the Myanma Investment Committee Brig-Gen. Maung Maung. (NLM 12/11) Dec. 10: Vice-President of Delta International Mr. Mohammed A. Al Omar of Saudi Arabia and party called on Minister at the Deputy Prime Minister's Office Secretary of the Myanma Investment Committee Brig-Gen. Maung Maung. (NLM 12/11) Dec. 10: Vice-Chairman Mr. Toshihiro Uemura and party of Japan Construction Industry Employees' Union called on Minister at the Deputy Prime Minister's Office Secretary of the Myanma Investment Committee Brig-Gen. Maung Maung. (NLM 12/11) Dec. 10: President Director Mr. Hashim S. Djojohadikusomo and party of P. T. Semen Cibenong & Prima Comexindo Co. of Indonesia, who is also Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Tirtamas Group of Indonesia, called on SLORC Vice-Chairman Deputy Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Commander-in-Chief (Army) Gen. Maung Aye, and on Chairman of the Myanmar Investment Commission Deputy Prime Minister Vice-Adm. Maung Maung Khin. (NLM 12/11) // Dec. 11: He called on Minister for Mines Lt-Gen. Kyaw Min. (NLM 12/12-13) Dec. 12: General Manager Mr. Shamsuddin Vin Jaafar and party of Land and General Berhad of Malaysia called on Minister at the Deputy Prime Minister's Office Secretary of the Myanma Investment Committee Brig-Gen. Maung Maung. (NLM 12/13) Dec. 12: Dr. L. Gazzini M.A. of Italian Trade International called on Minister at the Deputy Prime Minister's Office Secretary of the Myanma Investment Committee Brig-Gen. Maung Maung. (NLM 12/13) Dec. 12: Managing Director Mr. Wang Yu-Feng of Weifang Diesel Engine Works I/E Corporation, and Mr. Tan Xuguang, called on Deputy Minister for Livestock Breeding and Fisheries U Aung Thein. (NLM 12/13) Dec. 12: Chief Executive Officer Mr. S. Au Yong and party of Sanda Plastics Sdn. Bhd. of Malaysia called on Deputy Minister for Livestock Breeding and Fisheries U Aung Thein. (NLM 12/13) Dec. 13: General Manager Mr. Osamu Takahashi and party of Mitsui & Co. Ltd. of Japan called on Minister at the Deputy Prime Minister's Office Secretary of the Myanma Investment Committee Brig-Gen. Maung Maung. (NLM 12/14) Dec. 13: President Mr. Yasuhiro Matsuda and party of Myanmar Business Information Centre called on Minister for Hotels and Tourism Lt-Gen. Kyaw Ba to discuss renovation of the Inwa Hotel (Mandalay). (NLM 12/14) Dec. 13: Chairman Mr. J. M. Beaujolin and party of Europ Continents Co. Ltd. of France called on Minister at the Deputy Prime Minister's Office Secretary of the Myanma Investment Committee Brig-Gen. Maung Maung. (NLM 12/14) Dec. 15: Director Mr. Keh Eng of the Planning and System Division, CIAS, Singapore, called on Minister for Transport Lt-Gen. Thein Win to discuss civil aviation. (NLM 12/16) Dec. 16: General Manager Ms. Claire of Diethelm & Co. Ltd., sole distributor of Cesebas (Thailand), presided over Brand's lucky draw programme; winner will be announced Dec. 26. (NLM 12/17) Dec. 16: Chairman Mr. Eiichiro Okumoto of Daiwa Institute of Research called on Minister for Forestry Lt-Gen. Chit Swe. (NLM 12/17) // Dec. 17: He called on Chairman of the Myanmar Investment Commission Deputy Prime Minister Vice-Adm. Maung Maung Khin. [see also INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION: Workshops and Seminars] (NLM 12/18) Dec. 17: Managing Director Mr. Maarten N. Brusselers of Fantasea Divers Co. Ltd. called on Minister for Hotels and Tourism Lt-Gen. Kyaw Ba to discuss "cooperation in aquatic tourism at sea in the south of Myanmar." (NLM 12/18) Dec. 17: President Mr. Ben Lee and party of Raf International Forwarding Inc. called on Minister at the Deputy Prime Minister's Office Secretary of the Myanma Investment Committee Brig-Gen. Maung Maung. (NLM 12/18) Dec. 18: Chairman Mr. Roussin and party of SAE (Thailand) called on Minister for Hotels and Tourism Lt-Gen. Kyaw Ba to discuss tourism from France. (NLM 12/19) Dec. 18: President and Chief Executive Officer Mr. S. Hashimoto of the Nomura Research Institute called on Chairman of the Myanmar Investment Commission Deputy Prime Minister Vice-Adm. Maung Maung Khin to discuss a symposium on human resources in development of the market-oriented economic system. (NLM 12/19) Dec. 18: Vice-Chairman Mr. Shyong Jyh Chen of EVA Airways Corporation called on Minister for Transport Lt-Gen. Thein Win. (NLM 12/19) Dec. 18: Managing Director Mr. Dan Sung Lee of Myanmar-Korea International Timber Enterprise Ltd. attended its fourth annual meeting; it is a joint venture of Myanmar Timber Enterprise and Daewoo Corp. of Korea. (NLM 12/19) Dec. 19: Mr. Lee Hong Hai and party from SETT Enterprise called on Minister for Transport Lt-Gen. Thein Win to discuss civil aviation. (NLM 12/20) Dec. 19: Managing Director Mr. Dato Young Tu Sang and party of Mizan Group from Malaysia called on Minister at the Deputy Prime Minister's Office Secretary of the Myanma Investment Committee Brig-Gen. Maung Maung. (NLM 12/20) Dec. 19: General Manager Mr. Hiroshi Oya of Toyota Tsusho Corporation called on Minister for Transport Lt-Gen. Thein Win to discuss port facilities. (NLM 12/20) Dec. 19: Chairman Mr. E. C. Toh and party of Diesel Tech Pte. Ltd. of Singapore called on Minister at the Deputy Prime Minister's Office Secretary of the Myanma Investment Committee Brig-Gen. Maung Maung. (NLM 12/20) Dec. 19: Chairman Mr. Kokei Onodera of MCG Co. called on Minister for Hotels and Tourism Lt-Gen. Kyaw Ba to discuss the opening of the Yangon International Hotel and of a Myanmar Information Centre in Japan. (NLM 12/20) Dec. 19: Managing Director Mr. Yoshio Ebina of Indochina Venture Forum of Japan called on Minister for Hotels and Tourism Lt-Gen. Kyaw Ba. (NLM 12/20) Dec. 19: Managing Director Mr. John S. Karamoy of P. T. Exspan Sumatera Oil Co. of Indonesia called on Minister for Energy U Khin Maung Thein. (NLM 12/20) Dec. 19: Executive Director Mr. Tuan Sayed A. Al-Attas and party of Dajanti Holdings Sdn. Bhd. of Malaysia called on Minister for Livestock Breeding & Fisheries U Aung Thaung to discuss fishing. (NLM 12/20) // Dec. 20: He called on Minister for Hotels and Tourism Lt-Gen. Kyaw Ba to discuss resorts on southern Myanmar islands. (NLM 12/21) Dec. 20: Mr. James Macleod Baster and party of Nusantara Support Services Pte. Ltd. called on Minister for Transport Lt-Gen. Thein Win. (NLM 12/21) Dec. 20: Director Mr. Albert Hong Hin Kay and party of Sinmardev International Pte. Ltd. called on Minister for Energy U Khin Maung Thein. (NLM 12/21) Dec. 21: Managing Director Mr. Kazuhito Konno of Keith Enterprise Co. Ltd. of Japan and party called on Minister for Hotels and Tourism Lt-Gen. Kyaw Ba to discuss issuing Myanmar visas in Okinawa. (NLM 12/22) Dec. 21: Vice-President Mr. Toshiji Mugikura of Japan Air System (JAS) called on Minister for Transport Lt-Gen. Thein Win; on Jan. 31, 1997, it will begin Yangon-Hiroshima-Yangon service with a 330-seat DC-10, on charter flights. (NLM 12/22) Dec. 21: Chairman and Managing Director Mr. Albert H. K. Hong of RSP Architects Planners & Engineers (Pte.) Ltd. called on Minister for Transport Lt-Gen. Thein Win to discuss the Thilawa Port. (NLM 12/22) Dec. 23: An Indian economic delegation led by Chairman Mr. S. M. Dewan of the Projects and Equipment Corp. of India Ltd. (PEC) called on Minister for Industry 1 Lt-Gen. Sein Aung, and on Minister for Home Affairs Lt-Gen. Mya Thin. (NLM 12/24) Dec. 23: Chairman Mr. Arnaud Vaissie and party of A. E. A. International Pte. Ltd. called on Minister for Hotels and Tourism Lt-Gen. Kyaw Ba, to discuss emergency health and medical services for tourists. (NLM 12/24) Dec. 23: Grand Wynne Enterprise Ltd. and S. C. Artisty Co. Ltd. of Thailand displayed Lolane cosmetics and other products, which were demonstrated by President Mr. Prasertsak Arnakorn of the Beauty Culture Association of Thailand and Thai hair-stylists. (NLM 12/24) Dec. 23: General Director Mr. G. M. Bouev and party of the Helicopter Dept. of V/O Aviaexport of Russia called on Minister for Transport Lt-Gen. Thein Win. Dec. 23: Chief Operating Officer and Director Tan Shri Datuk Dr. Augustine S. H. Ong and party of Country Heights Education Sdn. Bhd. of Malaysia called on Minister for National Planning and Economic Development Brig-Gen. Abel. (NLM 12/24) Dec. 24: General Manager Mr. S. Kaku of Fujita Corp. of Japan and Mr. T. Tanizumi of Jims Inc. of Japan called on Minister for Commerce Lt-Gen. Tun Kyi. (NLM 12/25) Dec. 24: General Manager Mr. Graham Frost of South East Asia Yacht Charter Co. Ltd. of Phuket, Thailand, called on Minister for Hotels and Tourism Lt-Gen. Kyaw Ba. (NLM 12/25) Dec. 24: Vice-Chairman Mr. Chamlong Uchukomul and party of Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand called on Minister for Mines Lt-Gen. Kyaw Min to discuss coal production. (NLM 12/25) Dec. 27: Yunnan Province Vice-Governor Mr. Liang Gong Qing and party called on Chairman of the Myanmar Investment Commission Deputy Prime Minister Vice-Adm. Maung Maung Khin. (NLM 12/28) // Dec. 28: He called (jointly) on Chairman of the Myanmar Investment Commission Deputy Prime Minister Vice-Adm. Maung Maung Khin, Minister for Hotels and Tourism Lt-Gen. Kyaw Ba, Minister at the Office of Deputy Prime Ministers U Khin Maung Yin, Minister at the Office of Prime Minister Brig-Gen. Lun Maung, Minister for Information Maj-Gen. Aye Kyaw, Deputy Minister for Hotels and Tourism Brig-Gen. Tin Aye and others. He also called separately on Minister for Hotels and Tourism Lt-Gen. Kyaw Ba. (NLM 12/29) Dec. 28: Executive Director Mr. Michael Chang of Myanmar Suki Thai Co. Ltd. called on Minister for Hotels and Tourism Lt-Gen. Kyaw Ba. (NLM 12/29) Dec. 28: Chairman Mr. Lee Fee Huang and party of Sing Holdings Ltd. of Singapore called on Minister for Commerce Lt-Gen. Tun Kyi. (NLM 12/29) Media Visitors Dec. 19: Mr. Yoichi Masuzoe and party of TV Tokyo called on SLORC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt. (NLM 12/20) Academic and Medical Visitors Dec. 15: A delegation led by President Mrs. Kayoko Hosokawa of the Japan Committee for Vaccines for the World's Children attended the launching of the Second National Immunization Days (Dec. 15, 1996-Jan. 18, 1997), and observed immunization against polio in Hmawby. She arrived Dec. 12, and on Dec. 13 called on Minister for Health U Saw Tun and other officials; on Dec. 14 she visited Thanlyin. [see also under HEALTH] (NLM 12/16) Dec. 17: Resident Representative Mr. David Tegenfeldt and Dr. Kayinhla of World Concern called on Northern Commander Brig-Gen. Kyaw Win in Myitkyina on Dec. 12. (NLM 12/18) Dec. 20: Director Mr. Nguyen Kim Ninb of the Cow Breeding and Pasture Research Centre of Vietnam National Institute of Animal Husbandry and party called on Minister for Livestock Breeding & Fisheries U Aung Thaung. (NLM 12/21) Dec. 28: French liver specialist Prof. D. Dhumeaux called on Minister for Health U Saw Tun to discuss scholarships for Myanmar doctors. (NLM 12/29) Religious Visitors Dec. 7: Deputy Director-General Mr. Liu Shu Xiang of the Religious Bureau of the State Council of China and party, who are escorting the Tooth Relic, called on Minister for Religious Affairs Lt-Gen. Myo Nyunt, accompanied by Chinese Rev. Jinh Hui of the Mahayana Sect and Chinese Ambassador Ms. Chen Baoliu. (NLM 12/8) // Dec. 10: The delegation visited Bagan and Mandalay on Dec. 8-10. (NLM 12/11) // Dec. 12: The "security group" returned home to China. (NLM 12/13) Dec. 8: A Chinese Youth Buddhist Association delegation led by Chinese monk Sik Cheong Wai offered robes and soon to the Sangha. (NLM 12/9) Dec. 12: Chinese Buddhist pilgrims led by Nun Ti Yi Far Sil of Feng Tone Ton San Nunnery offered robes and soon to the Sangha. (NLM 12/13) Dec. 18: 216 Chinese Buddhist pilgrims will visit from Singapore, with trips organized by Myanmar Voyages International Tourism Co. Ltd. 100 arrived, and another 100 will arrive on Dec. 19. (NLM 12/19) // Dec. 20: They donated 182 "gold foils" to the Shwedagon Pagoda. (NLM 12/21) // Dec. 21: They offered soon to 1,000 members of the Sangha, and donated five motor vehicles. (NLM 12/22) Cultural Visitors Dec. 18: A two-member delegation from China TV Theatre Production Centre, led by Deputy Director-General Mr. Hu En, arrived under the cultural exchange program, and called on Deputy Minister for Information U Thein Sein, who hosted a dinner for the pair. (NLM 12/19) Brunei Communications Minister Nov. 30: Brunei Minister of Communications Dato Seri Laila Zakaria Sulaiman stopped over at Yangon International Airport, en route "home from England," and met with Minister for Transport Lt-Gen. Thein Win. (NLM 12/1) US Congressmen Dec. 9: A US Congressional delegation led by Mr. J. Dennis Hastert called on SLORC Vice-Chairman Deputy Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Commander-in-Chief (Army) Gen. Maung Aye. He was accompanied by Congressmen Mr. Bill Paxon, Mr. Tom Delay, Mrs. Deborah Pryce and party. (NLM 12/10) Dec. 11: On Dec. 9, SLORC Vice-Chairman Deputy Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Commander-in-Chief (Army) Gen. Maung Aye gave a dinner for the visiting delegation. On Dec. 10, it flew to Mandalay Dec. 10 by special Tatmadaw aircraft, and visited Mandalay before flying on to Bagan, where a dinner was hosted by Minister for Science and Technology U Thaung. The delegation returned to Yangon Dec. 11, and visited the Myanma Gems Museum prior to departing for Singapore by SilkAir in the afternoon. [this last item seems to have been in error!](NLM 12/12) Dec. 12: On December 11, the Congressmen, accompanied by US Charge d'Affaires Kent Wiedermann and by Minister for Energy U Khin Maung Thein, went by helicopter to visit the Yadana Natural Gas Project Kanbauk Base Camp, and also viewed the project from the air, returning from Dawei to Yangon by Tatmadaw aircraft in the afternoon. (NLM 12/13) Dec. 13: The Congressmen on Dec. 12 flew by special Tatmadaw aircraft to Kengtung, to look at anti-narcotics efforts and UNDCP crop substitution projects. They met with Leader U Sai Lin of No. 4 Special Region, and visited Mongla. They returned to Kengtung for the night, and inspected seized opium. Then they flew back to Yangon, and departed for Singapore by SilkAir. (NLM 12/14) Chinese Goodwill Delegation Dec. 11: A goodwill delegation led by Chairman Mr. Wang Damang of the Political Consultative Conference Beijing Committee arrived, at the invitation of Yangon Mayor U Ko Lay, and called on Deputy Prime Minister Vice-Adm. Maung Maung Khin. (NLM 12/12) // Dec. 12: It toured sights in Yangon, including the Defence Services Museum, the National Museum, and the Thakayta Viewpoint Amusement Park, and called on Yangon Mayor U Ko Lay. (NLM 12/13) Japanese Diet Representative Dec. 12: Member of the Japanese House of Representatives and its Foreign Affairs Committee Mr. Shingo Nishimura and party called on SLORC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt. (NLM 12/13) Malaysian Transport Minister Dec. 23: A 27-member delegation led by Malaysian Minister of Transport Dato Seri Dr. Ling Liong Sik and wife arrived, and was given a dinner by its host, Minister for Transport Lt-Gen. Thein Win. The Malaysian Minister called on SLORC Chairman Senior General Than Shwe, on Minister for Rail Transportation U Win Sein, and on Minister for Hotels and Tourism Lt-Gen. Kyaw Ba. (NLM 12/24) Dec. 24: He called on SLORC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt, on Deputy Prime Minister Vice-Adm. Maung Maung Khin, on Deputy Prime Minister Lt-Gen. Tin Tun, on Minister for Transport Lt-Gen. Thein Win, on Minister for National Planning and Economic Development Brig-Gen. Abel, on Minister for Finance and Revenue Brig-Gen. Win Tin, and on Deputy Minister for Labour U Kyaw Aye. (NLM 12/25) Dec. 25: The delegation departed, after visiting Mandalay. (NLM 12/26) MYANMAR DELEGATIONS Study Delegations Dec. 23: 43 agriculture graduates left for 11 months of on-the-job training in Israel, cosponsored by the Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation and the Israeli Ministry of Agriculture. (NLM 12/24) Delegations to Meetings Nov. 30: A delegation including Director-General U Myint Thein of the Civil Service Selection and Training Department, headed by Training Board member U Aung Thein, left for the Philippines to participate in the First ASEAN Conference on Examination and Testing, to be held in Manila Dec. 2-4. (NLM 12/1) // Dec. 7: The delegation returned. (NLM 12/9) Dec. 3: A delegation led by Deputy Minister for Hotels and Tourism Brig-Gen. Tin Aye left for Laos to attend the Dec. 3-9 Meeting for Promotion and Cooperation of Tourism between Myanmar and Laos. He was accompanied by Deputy General Manager U Tin Maung Shwe and Assistant Manager Daw Kyin Nwe of Hotels and Tourism Services. (NLM 12/4) // Dec. 12: The delegation returned. (NLM 12/13) Dec. 5: A delegation led by Deputy Minister for Energy U Tin Tun left for Goa, India, to attend the Dec. 6-8 Fifth International Energy Conference. Other members are Chief Engineer U Yan Naing of Myanma Electric Power Enterprise, Director U Tin Maung Yi of Myanmar Oil and Gas Enterprise (MOGE), and Deputy Director U Shwe Pin of the Energy Planning Department. (NLM 12/6) // Dec. 12: The delegation returned. (NLM 12/13) Dec. 8: A 10-member delegation led by Minister for Commerce Lt-Gen. Tun Kyi left for Singapore to attend the Dec. 9-13 First Ministerial Conference of World Trade Organization. Members include Minister for National Planning and Economic Development Brig-Gen. Abel, Adviser U Aung Kyi of the Ministry of Commerce, Director-General U Maung Maung Yi of the Directorate of Investments and Companies, Director U Ye Myint of the Customs Department, Vice Presidents U Thein Tun and U Hla Myint Thein of the Union of Myanmar Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Ministers' PSOs Maj. Moe Kyaw and U Tin Maung Hay. Myanmar Ambassador to Singapore U Kyaw Myint, Counsellor U Naing Tun, and Third Secretary U Aung Saw Min will also be part of the Myanmar delegation. (NLM 12/9) // Dec. 14: The delegation returned. (NLM 12/15) // Dec. 15: The Conference was began Dec. 9, and was addressed by Minister Lt-Gen. Tun Kyi on Dec. 12, who praised WTO activities and summarized Myanmar trade policies. (NLM 12/16) Dec. 8: A delegation led by Deputy Minister for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement Brig-Gen. Maung Kyi left for New Delhi to attend the Dec. 9-12 Symposium on Role of Women in Information Sector. He was accompanied by Staff Officer U Myint Thein of the Social Welfare Department. (NLM 12/9) // Dec. 15: The delegation returned. (NLM 12/16) Religious Delegations Dec. 3: A delegation led by Minister for Religious Affairs Lt-Gen. Myo Nyunt left for China to escort the Tooth Relic on its visit to Myanmar. The Minister was accompanied by Director-General U Arnt Maung of the Department of Religious Affairs and others. (NLM 12/4) Business Delegations Dec. 15: Director-General Dr. Sein Tin of the Central Statistical Organization, accompanied by Director U Thaung Tin (Computer), left for Indonesia to study Information Technology from Dec. 16-20 at the invitation of the Astra Graphia Business Group in Information Technology of Jakarta. (NLM 12/16) ASEAN Heads of Government Nov. 30: SLORC Chairman Senior General Than Shwe made the following statement at the ASEAN Heads of Government Meeting in Jakarta [full text]: Mr. Chairman, Your Majesty, Excellencies, It is a great honour for me to attend the Informal Meeting of the ASEAN Heads of Government and the Heads of Government of Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar held in this beautiful city of Jakarta. I am delighted to have the opportunity to meet again with close friends and colleagues and exchange views on enhancing friendship and cooperation in the region. I would also like to express my sincere thanks and appreciation to our host His Excellency President Soeharto, and to the Government and people of the Republic of Indonesia for the warm welcome and generous hospitality accorded to us and for the excellent arrangements made for this meeting. With the attainment of observer status by Myanmar during this year, all the nations of Southeast Asia are now formally associated with ASEAN. Moreover, with a view to further deepening our commitment to regional unity and solidarity, Myanmar submitted application for full membership last August. It may be recalled that although the opportunity was there for Myanmar to join the ASEAN in numerous occasions in the past, we had not done so due to the domestic priorities as well as prevailing circumstances at that time in the region and in the world at large. Traditionally, Myanmar has stayed by herself not associating with regional and international organizations except her participation in the United Nations system and the Non-aligned Movement. However, after the assumption of responsibility by the State Law and Order Restoration Council, Myanmar has readjusted the perceptions regarding regional cooperation in line with the introduction of political, economic and administrative reforms in the country. It is in this spirit that Myanmar is trying to fit in with the trends and mainstream of the region and decided to endeavour for closer association with ASEAN. It is the reflection of our conviction that unity and solidarity of the nations of Southeast Asia not only benefits individual countries but serves the interests of the region as a whole by promoting collective peace, stability and shared prosperity. I would like to take the opportunity to express our sincere appreciation to all the member countries of ASEAN for the support given towards Myanmar's integration into ASEAN. Mr. Chairman It is our sincere belief that Myanmar's participation in the ASEAN family will be of mutual interest to Myanmar as well as to the member countries. Myanmar today enjoys unprecedented peace, stability and security with the return to the legal fold by 16 armed groups. Taking into consideration that some of these groups have been involved in armed struggle against successive Governments since the time of regaining independence nearly 50 years ago, the complexity and the difficulty of the task can be appreciated. On the economic side, Myanmar has successfully completed the 1992-1995 Four Year Plan, achieving an average growth rate of 8.2 per cent, thus surpassing the initial target of 5.1 per cent. A new Five Year plan, envisaging and average growth rate of 6 per cent per annum, is being implemented. While agriculture remains the economic base of the nation, we hope to initiate steps towards industrialization, particularly in energy-related sectors during the present economic Plan. We are convinced that Myanmar will be on the verge of economic take-off by the end of this Plan. I wish also to take this opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to ASEAN. Significant headway has been reached in Myanmar's preparations for ASEAN membership. We have already initiated measures for Myanmar to be ready for integration by implementing necessary institutional, legal and human resource development. Towards this end, I would like to thank the ASEAN countries for their assistance. We also had the pleasure of welcoming ASEAN Secretary General Dato Ajit Singh to our country earlier this month and was [sic] able to engage in extensive discussions on the matter. In this regard, I am happy to inform that the results of the consultation with the ASEAN Secretariat have been most gratifying. Mr. Chairman, In the fast changing world of today, no nation can stand alone and the concept of regional cooperation is in the forefront of international trends. In this regard, the countries of Southeast Asia have taken the lead with the existence of an organization in which the entire region will be represented. With a population of nearly 500 million people, abundant natural and human resources, technology and financial capabilities to a certain extent, it is our firm belief that our region is poised for greater heights of achievement and progress. There may exist some differences in our levels of development, in our priorities; there may even be instances where our views and perceptions may not coincide; but given the common commitment of the countries to make Southeast Asia a region of One, we shall surely be able to overcome any small issue that we may encounter. There may be diverse features but we are united in purpose to improve the welfare of our peoples through friendship and cooperation. The principles of mutual respect, equality and non-interference in internal affairs expounded and agreed to at the last Summit will serve as the foundation for the bright future of our Association. In this regard, we are happy to note that the determination for mutual prosperity shown at the last Meeting is being implemented. The progress achieved in the ASEAN Mekong Development Cooperation Project is a welcome development and we believe the framework of development cooperation between ASEAN and the Mekong Riparian States will merge into an important mechanism linking Southeast Asia and the rest of the world. To this end, Myanmar is committed to contribute her share for the growth and prosperity in the Mekong River Basin. In the same spirit, Myanmar has dedicated herself towards the noble ideals and aspirations of ASEAN through closer and effective cooperation with the other Member states. At this point, I would like to reiterate our commitment to be a worthy member of the ASEAN family once we are admitted. In conclusion, Mr. Chairman, I would like to assure you, and through you, our ASEAN colleagues that we will undertake our share of responsibility in enhancing our cooperative efforts in the interest of regional peace, stability and prosperity. Thank you. (NLM 12/3) Dec. 1: The Myanmar delegation returned from the ASEAN meeting in Indonesia. SLORC Chairman Senior General Than Shwe, accompanied by SLORC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt and others, attended the Nov. 30 Informal Meeting of the ASEAN Heads of Government and the Heads of Government of Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar, in Jakarta. He held bilateral talks with Indonesian President Soeharto, Laos Prime Minister Khamtay Siphandone, Vietnam Prime Minister Vo Van Kiet, and Malaysian Prime Minister Dato Seri Dr. Mahathir Bin Mohamad. Minister for Progress of Border Areas and National Races and Development Affairs Lt-Gen. Maung Thint met with Indonesian Minister for National Development Planning Dr. Ginandjar Kartasasmita. Minister for Science and Technology U Thaung met with Mr. Iman Soedarwo, Assistant to the Indonesian Minister for Research and Technology. SLORC Chairman Senior General Than Shwe also met with Philippines President Fidel V. Ramos, Brunei Darussalam Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah. On its departure from Indonesia on Dec. 1, the delegation issued the following statement [full text]: "At the invitation of His Excellency President Soeharto of Indonesia, His Excellency Senior General Than Shwe, Chairman of the State Law and Order Restoration Council and Prime Minister of the Union of Myanmar, visited Indonesia from 28 November to 1 December 1996 and attended the Informal Meeting of the ASEAN Heads of Government and the Heads of Government of Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar held at the Lagoon Tower Hilton Hotel in Jakarta on 30 November 1996. At the Meeting, the Heads of Government of the ten Southeast Asian nations exchanged views on matters relating to political, economic and social fields in an atmosphere of cordiality. Cooperation among the Southeast Asian countries at the regional level and the international level were also discussed. "During the brief stopover in Singapore, en route to Indonesia on 28 November, His Excellency Goh Chok Tong, Prime Minister of the Republic of Singapore hosted a luncheon in honour of His Excellency Senior General Than Shwe and the Myanmar Delegation. "While in Jakarta, His Excellency Senior General Than Shwe called on His Excellency President Soeharto at the Merdeka Palace on 29 November 1996. At the discussion, the two leaders noted with satisfaction that the traditional ties of friendship and cooperation between Myanmar and Indonesia have been further enhanced in recent years and stressed the need for the strengthening of regional solidarity. "Chairman Senior General Than Shwe also has separate meetings with His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah of Negara Brunei Darussalam; His Excellency President Mr. Fidel V. Ramos of the Philippines; His Excellency Dato Seri Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, Prime Minister of Malaysia; His Excellency Mr. Vo Van Kiet, Prime Minister of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, and His Excellency Mr. Khamtay Siphandone, Prime Minister of the Lao People's Democratic Republic, during which the leaders had fruitful exchange of views on bilateral relations and matters of mutual interest. "On the morning of 30 November 1996, His Excellency Senior General Than Shwe visited the ASEAN Secretariat where the Secretary General Dato Ajit Singh gave a presentation on the organization and functions of ASEAN. "The Delegation of the Union of Myanmar believes that the Informal Meeting of the Heads of Government of the ten Southeast Asian nations has served to further promote the existing ties of friendship and cooperation between the countries of the region. Myanmar therefore looks forward to make meaningful contribution towards peace, stability and prosperity of the region as a whole. The Meeting also provided an opportunity to renew Myanmar's commitment to the noble ideals and aims of ASEAN." [two pages of photos] (NLM 12/2) Dec. 2: ASEAN Secretary-General DAto Ajit Singh "said Myanmar is more prepared than Laos and Cambodia to participate in free trade as envisaged in the ASEAN free trade area (AFTA) scheme." (NLM 12/3) Welfare Minister to Laos Dec. 26: An 8-member delegation led by Minister for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement Maj-Gen. Soe Myint returned from Laos. (NLM 12/27) Dec. 27: The goodwill delegation visited Laos, at the invitation of Lao Minister of Labour and Social Welfare Dr. Thonoloun Sisoluith, from Dec. 23-26. The Ministers met on Dec. 23, Maj-Gen. Soe Myint also called on Lao Vice President Mr. Sisaxath Keoboun Phanh. (NLM 12/28) Delegations Return [Return to Yangon of delegations which had left in previous months, or whose departure had not been noticed in NLD] Dec. 1: The delegation led by Deputy Minister for Home Affairs Col. Tin Hlaing returned from India. (NLM 12/2) Dec. 22: Deputy Director U Khin Maung Yi returned from the Nov. 18-Dec. 21 Seminar on Human Resources Development Management held in Tokyo by the Japan International Cooperation Agency. (NLM 12/24) MYANMAR GAZETTE Appointments The State Law and Order Restoration Council has appointed: Dec. 4: U San Kyi, Managing Director, Myanma General & Maintenance Industries, to be Managing Director, Myanma Textile Industries, Ministry of Industry-1. U Than Shwe, Managing Director, Myanma Foodstuff Industries, to be Managing Director, Myanma Ceramic Industries, Ministry of Industry-1. (NLM 12/5) Appointments Confirmed The State Law and Order Restoration Council has confirmed, after one-year's probation: Dec. 26: U Kyaw Tun as Director-General, Prisons Department, Ministry of Home Affairs. U Ohn Myint as Director-General, Irrigation Department, Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation. Col. Thura Maung Ko as Managing Director, Myanma Agriculture Service, Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation. U Khin Maung Win as Director-General, Political Department, Department of Foreign Affairs. U Maung Toe as Director-General, Revenue Appellate Tribunal, Ministry of Finance and Revenue. GOVERNMENT National Day Message Dec. 5: SLORC Chairman Senior General Than Shwe issued the following message on the occasion of the 76th Anniversary National Day [full text]. To all the national people, Today is the 76th Anniversary National Day which brings out dynamism of patriotic spirit of the people. It was in 1920, on this day 76 years ago, that the great anti-colonialist movement was started by staunch patriots inflamed by the passage of Rangoon University Act by the colonial rulers in Myanmar. As the result of relentless anti-colonial and national liberation struggles waged beginning with the great movement for national liberation, our nation regained its sovereignty and independence in 1948. The anti-colonialist movement waged in 1920 was a politically shining movement 35 years after the whole nation fell under servitude of others. As Rangoon University Act that came out in 1920 was a law that not only discouraged but also hindered Myanmar nationals from their pursuit of education and an oppressive law made with the aim of prolonging servitude, all patriotic people, young and old, unitedly put up their opposition. It should be noticed as a characteristic obvious not just in this era but since long ago that alien colonialist rulers did not encourage or have goodwill for prosperity and progress through extensive education of Myanmar people. Acquirement of and brilliancy in education and enhancement of knowledge of the nationals are the underlying factors for effecting prosperity of the nationals' life and national development. It is also specially needed for every national in our Myanmar Naing-Ngan to be endowed with noble qualities such as abidance of law, loyalty to the State and nationals with awareness of it, preservation of national culture, uplift of national prestige and integrity, etc. along with the need for extensive education. So, it is needed for all the national people, in their marching towards a modern, developed, peaceful democratic nation, to participate vigilantly and actively in whatever role they are in for the realization of the four political objectives, the four economic objectives and the four social objectives laid down and being implemented by the State Law and Order Restoration Council. It is obvious that the State Law and Order Restoration Council, with serious emphasis laid on emergence of a peaceful, modern developed nation as its goal, is at present giving priority to building fine foundations on the political, economic and social fronts. It has striven for the development of education sector as a special priority and spent K 37,960 million on education from 1988 to 1996, making a large amount of expenditure in its multifaceted constructive endeavours. On the occasion of the 76th Anniversary National Day, our Myanmar national people have the duty to continue to safeguard and perpetuate what they already have firmly in hand -- national unity, stability of the State, community peace and tranquillity and prevalence of law and order -- for their further consolidation. It is needful for all of us to strive unitedly and vigilantly for building a peaceful, modern developed nation expeditiously without losing sight of the goal. Just as the peasantry and the workers need to produce goods with further improved quality and quantity, so also do students need to work hard in discipline, without letting anything mar peaceful pursuit of education, to achieve mastery and brilliance in studies of modern sciences and arts, to become good sons and daughters who will be able to give the best services to the State and the citizenry. The mass of people including students and youths must strive for successful implementation of the four social objectives -- uplift of the morale and morality of the entire nation; uplift of national prestige and integrity and preservation and safeguarding of cultural heritage and national character; uplift of dynamism of patriotic spirit; and, uplift of health, fitness and educational standards of the entire nation. At the same time, it is needed for every citizen to conduct themselves accordingly and strive for the three objectives of the 76th National Day: -- uplift of dynamism of patriotic spirit; -- national unity, and -- perpetuation of national independence and sovereignty. So, on this auspicious and profoundly significant occasion of the 76th Anniversary National Day, I would like to urge all the national peoples to strive in unison with full tenacity and perseverance for -- stability, peace and tranquillity of the State; -- realization of political, economic and social objectives of the State; -- and emergence of a peaceful, pleasant, developed, modern nation. (NLM 12/5) Ministry of Sports Dec. 18: SLORC Notification No. 40/96 of December 18, Formation of Ministry, reads [full text]: "In order to bring about further effectiveness and success in endeavouring for the promotion of sports standard in the nation, the State Law and Order Restoration Council has formed the Ministry of Sports." (NLM 12/19) Dec. 18: SLORC Proclamation No. 7/96 of December 18, Appointment of Minister, appoints and assigned Col. Sein Win as Minister for Sports. (NLM 12/19) Union Day Committee Dec. 18: SLORC Notification No. 41/96 of Dec. 18, Formation of the 1997 Golden Jubilee Union Day Observance Central Committee, provides that "in order to be able to hold the 1997 Golden Jubilee Union Day ceremony successfully in accord with the national objectives and with full political essence, the 1997 Golden Jubilee Union Day Observance Central Committee has been formed as follows:" Chairman: SLORC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt; Vice-Chairman: SLORC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt; 43 Members [named]; Secretary: Director-General Lt-Col. Pe Thein, SLORC Office; Joint-Secretary: Director-General U Myo Nyunt, Pyithu Hluttaw Office. (NLM 12/19) Dec. 19: 1997 Golden Jubilee Union Day National Objectives are: -- all the national races to safeguard the Union and ensure its lasting existence with the Union spirit; -- all the national races to strive together for the emergence of enduring State constitution; -- all the national races to exert their utmost efforts for the successful implementation of the political, economic and social objectives of the State; -- all the national races to take part in building a peaceful, modern and developed nation; -- all the national races to oppose and crush internal and external destructive elements who are disturbing and disrupting the stability and progress of the nation. (NLM 12/19) MILITARY Surrenders by Armed Group Members Dec. 4: On Dec. 2, 22 members of the KNU Armed Group returned to the legal fold in South East Command. (NLM 12/5) Dec. 8: Four members of the Kayin armed group returned to the legal fold on Dec. 4 in Thayetchaung Township [names and details]. (NLM 12/9) Dec. 16: Two members of the Myeik/Dawei District United Front returned to the legal fold in Kawthoung Township on Dec. 5 [names and details]. (NLM 12/17) Dec. 22: From Nov. 3-28, 20 remnants of armed groups returned to the legal fold [names and details]. (NLM 12/23) Insurgent Attacks Dec. 13: A land mine planted by the Kayin armed group wounded a villager Dec. 5 in Kawkareik Township. (NLM 12/14) ECONOMIC Economic Articles Dec. 3: Enjoy recreation at Kanthaya Beach Resort, by Hla Tun (Twantay). [Visit to new resort in Gwa Township, Rakhine State.] Dec. 3: Significance of ICA Regional Symposium and Regional Consultation, by Soe Naung. [Positive effects of Cooperatives meeting in Yangon.] Dec. 22: Myanmar Naing-Ngan and the "First ASEAN Conference on Examination and Testing," by Prof. U Aung Thein (Retired). [Dec. 2-4 conference in the Philippines.] Dec. 23-24: Myanmar Airways International making headway, by Hla Tun (Twantay). [New routes inaugurated, including service to Singapore and Jakarta.] Trade Fairs and Exhibitions [see also under Visit Myanmar Year 1996, above.] Dec. 5: Myanma Machinery Expo '96, co-sponsored by the Ministries of Industry-1 and Forestry, will be held from Dec. 7-9 at Tatmadaw Hall on U Wisara Road. 90 companies and organizations from abroad will take part. (NLM 12/6) // Dec. 6: Senior General Than Shwe inspected the Expo. "The items displayed at the exposition include textile, fabrics and sewing and weaving machines displayed by 91 companies of 16 countries and various small, medium and large machinery equipment exhibited by over 200 foreign entrepreneurial representatives. (NLM 12/7) Dec. 9: Plans were launched for the Technology Myanmar 97 Exhibition, jointly organized by Myanma Industrial Development Committee and Munich International Trade Fairs Pte. Ltd. Also participating will be International Exhibition and Services Ltd. (IMAG). (NLM 12/10) Dec. 17: The annual Horticulture Show, sponsored by the Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation, was opened by SLORC Secretary-2 Lt-Gen. Tin Oo. Shops sell horticultural produce, etc. There are 23 flower competitions. The show will continue until Dec. 24. (NLM 12/18) Dec. 20: The First Myanma Ten Traditional Arts and Crafts Exhibition and Competition opened at the Hsinbyukan Sports Ground in Mandalay, and was addressed by SLORC Secretary-2 Lt-Gen. Tin Oo, who warned that "Myanmar Naing-Ngan will find it very difficult to exist as long as the world lasts if the morality and character of the people is affected and own culture and own national character get lost in spite of a great measure of stability and progress achieved in political and economic spheres. Myanmar Naing-Ngan will be able to exist for long together with its own culture if it can enhance national pride and honour while preserving cultural traditions.... "Myanma ten traditional arts and crafts, namely, pan chi (painting), pan pu (sculpture), pan yan (masonry), pan pe (blacksmith), pan htein (goldsmith), pantin (the art of making items cast or wrought from bronze, copper or brass), pan tawt (wood carving), pan tamawt (stucco), pan yun (the art of making lacquerware) and pan put (turnery) born with the origin of Myanmar society have long history; they are high standard skills representing Myanma culture, Myanma art and Myanma national character.... "The objectives of the First Myanma Ten Traditional Arts and Crafts Exhibition and Competition are: (1) for the development and promotion of Myanma traditional fine arts and culture, (2) for long-term flourishing of Myanma ten traditional arts and crafts, the national heritage, (3) for the traditional artists and artisans to implement one of the Four Social Objectives of the State -- Uplift of national prestige and integrity and preservation and safeguarding of cultural heritage and national character, (4) for making Myanma ten traditional arts and crafts internationally known, (5) for promoting the living standard of traditional artists and artisans and have them handing down that national heritage to the new generation artists and artisans. "It is the national duty of all our nationals to undertake revitalization, preservation and propagation of traditions and culture...." The Exhibition will last until Dec. 30. (NLM 12/21) Dec. 25: On Dec. 23-25, trade agreements worth over K 277 million were signed between cooperative syndicates at the Visit Myanmar Year Market Festival, as well as agreements worth $800,000 between cooperative syndicates and foreign companies. The Festival is in its 55th day. (NLM 12/26) Dec. 28: Myanmar Trade Fair '97 will be held at the Yangon Trade Centre in Mingala Taungnyunt Township in February, 1997. (NLM 12/29) Project Inaugurations Through the month there were continued news stories on the repaving of streets in Yangon, some of them repaved "on self-reliance basis." Dec. 1: A ceremony to "lay inland natural gas pipeline of Yadana Natural Gas Project" was held at Phaungdaw Village, Yebyu Township, Taninthayi Division, in the presence of Minister for Energy U Khin Maung Thein, Vice President Mr. J.M. Beuque of Total Oil Co. of France, General Manager Mr. H. Madeo of Total Myanmar Exploration and Production Co., General Manager Mr. P. Poulard of Spie Capag Co. of France. "A total of 525 million cubic feet of natural gas from Yadana Natural Gas deposit will be exported to Thailand through 260-mile 36-inch pipeline and some 220-mile pipelines will be under the sea. Laying of 40-mile inland pipeline will be undertaken by Spie Capag Co. and will complete in 1996-97 open season." (NLM 12/2) Dec. 7: Yangon University Diamond Jubilee Hall was formally opened by SLORC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt. (NLM 12/8) Dec. 7: The Zaungtu Diversion Weir in Bago Township was inaugurated by SLORC Secretary-2 Lt-Gen. Tin Oo. (NLM 12/8) Dec. 8: A new building of the Tisanda Wihara Singapore Kyaung was opened at the Shwedagon Pagoda "with the patronage of Singapore-Penang Sayadaw Agga Maha Pandita Bhaddanta Pannavamsa and Singapore Kyaung Presiding Sayadaw U Tilokasiri," in the presence of SLORC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt. (NLM 12/9) Dec. 18: A [long delayed] topping-off ceremony was held at the Hotel Sofitel and LP Grand Tower, at the corner of Sule Pagoda Road and Merchant Street, in the presence of Minister for Hotels and Tourism Lt-Gen. Kyaw Ba, Minister at the Deputy Prime Minister's Office Secretary of the Myanma Investment Committee Brig-Gen. Maung Maung, Managing Director Mr. K. Lertsak Nopuranand of LP Holding Co. Ltd., Chairman Mr. Michel Roussin and Project Manager Mr. Pierre Gauthier of SAE Co., the main contractor, and others. The twin tower building will have 270 rooms. LP Holding will pay US$ 2.1 million plus 5% of gross income as rent on the 1.07 acre parcel of land. (NLM 12/19) Dec. 22: The 42-mile Kyaukkhwet-Ayadaw natural gas pipeline was inaugurated in Magway Division by Minister for Energy U Khin Maung Thein. (NLM 12/23) Dec. 30: Three Inland Water Transport vessels, the Aungdagun-2, Aungdagun-3, and Danyawady-3, built in China, arrived in Sittway (Rakhine) and will operate in Rakhine State. (NLM 12/31) Business Openings Dec. 1: TMW Enterprise Ltd. and Sony International Singapore Ltd. (Myanmar Branch) opened a showroom at the News and Periodicals Enterprise building at 173/ 175 Pansodan Street; officers donated furniture worth K 500,000, and two sets of Sony colour TV and VCP, also worth K 500,000 to the Yangon University Diamond Jubilee Hall. (NLM 12/2) Dec. 3: The Central Floating Hotel at Wadan Jetty, built "cent per cent" by the Central Group of Hotel of Thailand, was formally inaugurated by Minister for Hotels and Tourism Lt-Gen. Kyaw Ba and others, including President Khum Suthikiati Chirathivat of Central Group of Hotel, Chairman Khum Vanchai Chirathivat of Central Groups of Companies, and others. The 132 room floating hotel was built in Finland and brought to Yangon in 1994; its "soft opening" was June 17, 1995. (NLM 12/4) Dec. 13: Director Mr. C. Takano of Nichimen Corporation opened a Yangon Branch to distribute pesticides. (NLM 12/14) Dec. 17: Cycle & Carriage Golden Star Co. Ltd. (CCGS) opened a Mitsubishi motor showroom at No. 138/142 Theinbyu Road, in the presence of SLORC Secretary-2 Lt-Gen. Tin Oo, Minister for Commerce Lt-Gen. Tun Kyi, CCGS Chairman U Thein Tun, General Manager Mr. Kohya Okamoto of Mitsubishi Motors Corp., and Group Managing Director Mr. Philip Eng of Cycle & Carriage Ltd. (Singapore). K 1 million was presented to the Myanmar Karuna Foundation. (NLM 12/ 18) Dec. 20: The City Mart Super Market was opened by Minister for Hotels and Tourism Lt-Gen. Kyaw Ba at the northern stand of Aung San Stadium. Owned by Innwa International Trading (Myanmar) Co. Ltd., it will sell cosmetics, medicines, kitchen items, and electrical appliances. (NLM 12/21) Advertisements Dec. 3: Half page ad for a Fashion Extravaganza by Living Colour at the Club Pioneer, Yuzana Garden Hotel, on Dec. 4. Dec. 3: Full page of ads congratulating the opening of the Central Floating Hotel. Dec. 3: One third page ad for the Sedona Hotel. Dec. 6: Full page ad for Myanmar Airways International, announcing new Dec. 6 schedules for service to Bangkok, Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur, Kunming, Singapore, and Jakarta. Dec. 7: Full page ad for Myanmar Airways International. Dec. 10: Full page ad for Myanmar Airways International. Dec. 16: Full page ad for Myanmar Airways International. Dec. 17: Two pages of ads commemorating the opening of Cycle & Carriage Golden Star Co. Ltd. (Mitsubishi vehicles distributor). Dec. 20: Half page ad for CityMart Supermarket. Agreements with Foreign Firms Dec. 3: A contract was signed between Myanma Farms Enterprise, represented by Managing Director Thura U Maung Ko, and Kee Aun (Tong San) Pte. Ltd. of Singapore, represented by Chairman Mr. Teh Boon Mook, for "reclamation of low-lying areas in Pantanaw Township, cultivation of high quality paddy, establishment of rice mill, milling and local and foreign marketing." (NLM 12/4) Dec. 10: A contract for feasibility studies of large-scale wood-pulp plantations was signed by the Department of Forests, Nippon Paper Industries Co. Ltd. (NPI), and Marubeni Corporation (MC). (NLM 12/11) Dec. 10: A contract for production of wood-based finished products was signed between Myanma Timber Enterprise, represented by Managing Director U Shwe Baw, and Yunnan Machinery and Equipment Export and Import Corporation (YMEC) of China, represented by Chairman Mr. Lin Zai You. (NLM 12/11) Dec. 10: A contract for a Joint Venture to produce mosquito repellants was signed between Myanmar Agricultural Services, represented by Managing Director U Sein Win and Sumitomo Corporation (Thailand) represented by Chairman Mr. Y. Tamura. (NLM 12/11) Dec. 10: A contract to "jointly produce concrete sleepers under BOT system" was signed by Myanma Railways, represented by Managing Director Thura U Thaung Lwin, and China National Complete Plant Import & Export Yunnan Corporation (Complant), represented by Mr. Yang Fa. Complant will invest $12 million in a factory in Myitnge to produce 300,000 concrete sleepers [railway ties] per year. (NLM 12/11) Dec. 11: An agreement for extension of the Kengtung-Tachilek Road was signed between Public Works, represented by Managing Director U Tint Swe, and Tueng Ltd. Part Co. of Thailand, represented by Managing Director Mr. Manoon Pin Sarn. The 102-mile two-way road will be extended within 30 months under the Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) system, at a cost of 440 million bahts. (NLM 12/12) Dec. 12: A contract for construction of service apartments was signed between Myanma Port Authority, represented by Managing Director U Tin Oo, and YKK Development (S) Pte. Ltd. of Singapore, represented by Managing Director Mr. Yoshiki Takeda. A 12-storey building with 186 apartments will be built in three years at 24/26 Kaba Aye Pagoda Road, at a cost of $35 million; the apartments will be transferred to the port authority after 30 years. (NLM 12/13) Dec. 13: A contract was signed for the purchase of machines and parts with a loan of 50 million Yuans, between Managing Director U Myint Thein Lwin of Myanma Heavy Industries and General Manager Mr. Chen Longbo of China National Complete Plant Import and Export Corporation (Group). (NLM 12/14) Dec. 18: A Project Development Agreement for Yadana Domestic Gas Utilization Project was signed by Director-General U Soe Myint of the Energy Planning Department, Vice-President Mr. D. Stangor of UNOCAL Myanmar Offshore, Project Manager Mr. R. Huitric of TOTAL, and Deputy Chief Executive Officer Mr. T. Sakuraba of Mitsui & Co. Ltd. It includes construction of a "20-inch-diameter natural gas pipeline from Yadana Gas Field to onshore Myanmar;" a "300-megawatt gas turbine power plant," and a "570,000 tons per year capacity urea fertilizer plant." (NLM 12/19) Aviation Dec. 6: A press conference was held by Myanmar Airways International at which Financial Controller Mr. Loh Kai Keong discussed the new Boeing 737-400 aircraft which will be put on the Jakarta route. (NLM 12/7) Dec. 7: The first charter flight from Japan Air Lines arrived in Yangon from Fukuoka with 163 passengers. (NLM 12/8) Dec. 10: Myanmar Airways International began its Yangon-Singapore-Jakarta flight. (NLM 12/11) Gems Sale Dec. 10: Union of Myanmar Economic Holdings Ltd. has put on display 496 lots of gems valued at $3,511,360, and 219 lots of jade valued at $2,791,449 at Myanma Gems Emporium Hall. Auction sales will be held on Dec. 13-14. (NLM 12/11) // Dec. 12: 58 foreign and 550 local merchants attended. (NLM 12/13) // Dec. 13: During the sale, 53 jade lots were sold for $886,029 and 214 gems lots for $606,555. 73 foreign and 542 local merchants are taking part; the sale continues Dec. 14. (NLM 12/14) // Dec. 14: The remaining 156 gems lots (of 496) were auctioned off. 78 gems lots were sold for $3,656,980. In the sale as a whole, 55 jade lots fetched $952,029, and 291 gems lots brought $4,262,545, for a total of $5,214,574. (NLM 12/15) Tourism Dec. 11 [full text]: "Tourist arrivals to Myanmar in 1996-97 may reach from 250,000 to 300,000 due to 50 per cent annual increase in the arrivals and further extension of international flights, said an official report today. Nearly 104,000 tourists have visited Myanmar from 1 April to 30 November in 1996-97 indicating 49 per cent rise from the previous year's arrivals of 69,748 in the same period. Myanmar enjoyed 51 per cent increase in arrivals in that year from 1994-95's 46,223 visitors in the same period. This number of tourist arrivals in Myanmar in 1994-95 is a 50 per cent rise from the year before. More and more visitors are coming to Myanmar due to tourism promotion endeavours being made under the State Law and Order Restoration Council." (NLM 12/11) Dec. 13: The cruiseliner ms Mermoz arrived with 391 passengers, who visited Yangon. 135 visited the Shwedagon Pagoda, while 74 went to Bago. (NLM 12/14) // Dec. 14: 120 tourists visited the Shwedagon; 103 visited Bago; 51 flew to Bagan. (NLM 12/15) // Dec. 16: 165 tourists visited Yangon; 63 flew to Inle Lake. (NLM 12/17) Dec. 28: The cruiseships mv Calypso arrived with 130 tourists, and mv Silver Wind arrived with 270 tourists; they visited sights in Yangon. (NLM 12/29) // Dec. 29: One group visited Bago, and another flew to Bagan. The Silver Wind departed. (NLM 12/30) Dec. 30: Basic Tourist Guide Course No. 3/96 began at Karaweik Hotel. Deputy Minister for Hotels and Tourism Brig-Gen. Tin Aye "said licenses were already issued to 550 tourism services, 392 hotels, motels, inns and guest houses, 1,465 travels and tours operators and 2,091 tourist guides. He noted foreign entrepreneurs invested over US$ 7.08 billion in hotel industry and local entrepreneurs also increased their investment in the business. He said the number of tourists visiting the country increased annually at the rate of 52 per cent to 57 per cent beginning 1992. The figure last year was 150,000 and it could rise to 230,000 present year if that rate was maintained, he said...." 332 trainees are attending the 11-week course. (NLM 12/31) Rainfall in Yangon Rainfall, in inches, at Yangon's three weather stations of Yangon Airport (YA), Kaba-Aye (KA), and Central Yangon (CY) was: YA KA CY 1987 97.01 100.98 95.43 1988 99.17 100.00 107.76 1989 96.22 100.59 102.76 1990 118.35 109.92 122.84 1991 91.81 83.78 96.65 1992 81.34 96.02 95.98 1993 82.64 111.18 95.12 1994 120.16 120.94 117.36 1995 104.84 100.47 98.27 1996 as of December 1 115.67 119.33 118.03 December 15 115.94 119.76 118.31 December 30 115.94 119.76 118.31 HEALTH Myanma Karuna Foundation Nov. 30: A Myanmar Karuna Foundation clinic was opened in Ngetoe Village, Amarapura Township, bringing the total to 20. (NLM 12/1) Traditional Medicine Dec. 9: Senior General Than Shwe visited the Institute of Traditional Medicine in Mandalay, where he was met by Director-General Dr. Nyunt Lwin of the Department of Traditional Medicine, and called for scientific research and the manufacture of traditional medicines in pure form. (NLM 12/10) Polio Immunization Dec. 15: The Second Year National Immunization Days was opened at the Institute of Nursing, by Chairman of the National Health Committee SLORC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt, who said that 5.6 million children would be immunized against polio. (NLM 12/16) // Dec. 16: Minister for Health U Saw Tun and representatives of WHO, UNDP, UNICEF, and Rotary International took part in oral polio vaccination in Thakayta Township. Immunization took place in other areas as well. (NLM 12/17) SPORTS Sports Articles Dec. 14: Shwewei Thiri Square to bring honour and glory to Taninthayi, by Kyaw Soe Myint. [The site of the Dec. 16-25 Seventh Students Sports Festival, in Dawei {Tavoy}.] Myanmar Teams and Delegations Dec. 7: President of Myanmar National Olympic Committee Minister at the Prime Minister's Office Brig-Gen. Lun Maung left for Bangkok to attend the Dec. 7-9 15th OCA General Assembly. He was accompanied by MOC General Secretary Director U Kyaw Mra of the Sports and Physical Education Department, and the Minister's PSO Capt. Tin Htut Aung. (NLM 12/8) // Dec. 11: He returned. (NLM 12/12) Dec. 10: A 10-member delegation headed by Vice President U Myat Thet of the Myanmar Traditional Sports Federation left for Thailand to attend the Dec. 10-17 2nd World Traditional Sports Festival in Bangkok. Members are Police Lt-Col. Sai Aung Min, U Aung Thein, U Ngwe Thein, U Khin Maung Myint, Daw Aye Aye Mon, Daw Aye Shwe, Daw Thida Swe, U Thein Tun, and Daw Thein Thein Win. (NLM 12/11) // Dec. 17: The delegation returned. Teams from 42 countries took part, plus 21 observers. "Spectators applauded demonstration of Myanma traditional sports Htoke-see-toe and chinlon with keen interest." The 1998 festival will be in Australia. Dec. 13: A 10-member gymnastics delegation left to participate in the Dec. 12-18 3rd ASEAN Junior Class Gymnastics Competition in Manila. It includes U Htay Win and Daw Khin Khin Kyawt (Managers), General Secretary U Myint Aung of the Myanma Gymnastics Federation, coaches U Myint Aung and Daw Ni Ni Aung, and athletes Thuya Ko Ko, Aung Kyaw Swa Hein, Thant Zaw, Ma Nyein Chan Mye, Ma Nan Hnin Wai Mar Soe, and Maw Nwe Nwe Tun. (NLM 12/ 14) Dec. 15: A 21-member Tatmadaw new generation football team led by Commandant Col. Sein Tin Win of the Defence Services Self-defence and Sports Institute returned after playing goodwill matches in China. (NLM 12/16) Dec. 17: A track and field team returned from the Dec. 14-15 Brunei Invitational Track and Field Meet. Led by President of the Myanmar Track and Field Federation Brig-Gen. Kyaw Tint (Retd) the team won seven gold and one bronze medals. Khin Khin Htwe won gold in 800-metre, 1500-metre, and 3000-metre events; Than Than Htay in 100-metre and 200-metre events; Kyaw Swa Moe in Javelin; and Thein Win in 5000-metre. Kyaw Swa Moe also won bronze in 1500-metre. Five nations (Myanmar, Brunei, Thailand, Singapore, and Philippines) participated. (NLM 12/18) Dec. 20: An 11-member Tatmadaw Judo team returned from the Dec. 16-17 First ASEAN Armed Forces Judo Competition in Jakarta, where it took second place. It was led by Commandant Lt-Col. Tint Swe of the Non-Commissioned Officers Training School No. 2. Seven teams, from Myanmar, Singapore, Vietnam, Malaysia, Cambodia, and Indonesia, competed. Gold medals were won by Sgt. Zaw Lwin (under 78 kilos), Sgt. Maung Maung Than (under 86 kilos), and Sgt. Nyan Soe (under 95 kilos). Silver medals were won by Warrant Officer Maung Maung Hlaing (under 71 kilos) and Sgt. Aung Naing Oo (over 95 kilos). Bronze medals were won by Private Than Soe Win (under 60 kilos), Sgt. Saw Naing (under 65 kilos), and Warrant Officer Kyaw Nyunt (open division). (NLM 12/21) Foreign Teams, Coaches, etc. Dec. 2: A delegation led by Secretary-General Mr. Paul Chua of the Asia Body Building Confederation arrived to supervise the Second South-East Asia Body Building Championships. Ten nations will participate. (NLM 12/3) // Dec. 5: Participants arrived from Indonesia, Singapore, Brunei, Laos, Vietnam, Philippines and Thailand. (NLM 12/ 6) // Dec. 6: Mr. Chua called on Yangon Mayor U Ko Lay, and addressed a press conference. A coordination meeting was held, and a dinner in honor of Mr. Chua given. (NLM 12/7) // Dec. 7: The highest award of the International Federation of Body Building (IFBB) was presented to SLORC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt as Chairman of the National Health Committee. (NLM 12/8) // Dec. 13: The Myanmar Bodybuilding Team, which won first prize, was honoured. (NLM 12/13) Dec. 2: General Manager Mr. Tomohisa Saito of Konica Corporation (Japan) attended the opening of the Konica Judo Clinic at the National Swimming Pool on U Wisara Road. (NLM 12/3) // Dec. 4: The clinic concluded. (NLM 12/5) Dec. 2: Prizes were distributed for the 36th South East Asia Amateur Team Golf Championship Tournament (Putra Cup). Team prizes went to Philippines (first) and Indonesia (second). Individual prizes went to Antonio Lascuna of Philippines (first) and Reynaldo Pa-gunsan (second). (NLM 12/ 3) Dec. 10: President of Singaporean Basketball Federation Mr. Ho Kah Leong and a 22-member team arrived to play goodwill matches with the Myanmar Women's National Team on Dec. 11-12. (NLM 12/11) // Dec. 11: Myanmar defeated Singapore 76-43. (NLM 12/12) Mayor's Marathon Postponed Dec. 11: The 7th Yangon Mayor's International Marathon, scheduled for Dec. 14, has been postponed to a date to be announced. [There had been heavy publicity for the event, including maps of the routes to be followed, extensive donations, etc.] (NLM 12/12) // Dec. 20: It was rescheduled for Dec. 30. (NLM 12/21) // Dec. 21: The new routes were announced [maps]. (NLM 12/22) // Dec. 26: It was postponed again. (NLM 12/27) Dec. 27: The 4th Mandalay Mayor's Marathon, scheduled for January 5, has been postponed. (NLM 12/28) Hole-in-One Dec. 13: U Shwe Sein scored an ace at the fifth hole of the Myanmar Golf Club. (NLM 12/14) Students Sports Festival Dec. 14: Music artistes left for Dawei [Tavoy] to take part in the Seventh Students Sports Festival 1996. (NLM 12/15) Dec. 15: Ministry showrooms were opened in the compound of the Dawei Technical High School. (NLM 12/16) Dec. 16: The Festival opened at Shwewei Thiri Square in Dawei, and was addressed by SLORC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt, Minister for Progress of Border Areas and National Races and Development Affairs Lt-Gen. Maung Thint, and others. New sports this year are cycling, bodybuilding and physical culture, and badminton. (NLM 12/ 17) Dec. 26: The Festival came to its grand finale, and was closed by Minister for Education U Pan Aung. (NLM 12/27) SLORC Chairman's Bowl Dec. 29: The 1996 State Law and Order Restoration Council Chairman's Bowl Golf Tournament was held Dec. 28 at the Defense Service Golf Course in Mingaladon, in the presence of SLORC Chairman Senior General Than Shwe, SLORC Vice-Chairman Deputy Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Commander-in-Chief (Army) Gen. Maung Aye, SLORC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt, Deputy Prime Ministers Vice-Adm. Maung Maung Khin and Lt-Gen. Tin Tun, etc, with Senior General Than Shwe teeing off first. The Tournament continued on Dec. 29. In team handicap play, Ministry of Defence was first with 662 strokes, Ministry of Home Affairs second with 720, and Ministry of Forestry third with 767. In team scratch play, Ministry of Defence was first with 877, Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation second with 932, and Ministry of Home Affairs third with 934. In individual handicap play, Major San Oo Hlaing (Defence) was first with 105 strokes, Major San Tun second with 111, and Police Capt. Thein Zaw (Home Affairs) third with 111. In individual scratch play, Major Kyaw Nyunt (Defence) was first with 136 strokes. Major Tun Htay second with 145, and Col. Ye Htut (Agriculture and Irrigation) third with 148. (NLM 12/30) CULTURAL Cultural and Scientific Articles Dec. 1: Let us welcome and pay deep homage to the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha from the People's Republic of China, by Ba Sein (Religious Affairs). [It will arrive Dec. 6.] Dec. 7: Let us pay deepest obeisance to the Sacred Tooth Relic Pagoda of Mandalay for the great grand auspicious ceremony for the Final (Upper) Enshrinement and Hoisting the Sacred Umbrella, by Ba Sein (Religious Affairs). [Dec. 9-14.] Dec. 11: 50th anniversary of UNICEF, by UNICEF. [General history of UNICEF.] Dec. 21: The most noble and unique monastery, by Tekkatho Tin Kha. [The Maha Atula Waiyan (Atumashi) Kyaungtaik in Mandalay, rebuilt after it was burned down by greedy British soldiers in 1892. It's Buddha image was consecrated on Dec. 15, 1996.] Tooth Relic Dec. 2: Schedule for the "Tooth Relic's places of residence for public homage." It will arrive on Dec. 6, and be taken to Maha Pasana Cave at Kaba Aye for 30 days. On January 5, it will be conveyed to Mandalay, with one-night stops at Bago, Nyaunglebin, Toungoo, Pyinmana, Meiktila, and Kyaukse. The Relic will be kept at the Atumashi Kyaungdaw and the Mandalay Tooth Relic Pagoda for 21 days. On Feb. 1, it will be returned to Yangon with one-night stops at Myingyan, Bagan-NyaungU, Magway, Aunglan, Pyay, and Thayawady. It will be kept at the Yangon Tooth Relic Pagoda from Feb. 7 to March 5, when it will go back to China. (NLM 12/3) Dec. 6: Buddha's Tooth Relic (Upper left eyetooth) arrived from China, and was met at the airport by Senior General and Madame Than Shwe, who paid homage to it. It was then ceremoniously conveyed to the Maha Pasana Cave at Kaba Aye, where it will remain for public reverence until January 4. [two pages of photos] (NLM 12/7) Dec. 9: Senior General and Madame Than Shwe participated in the conveyance of sacred relics for enshrinement at the upper reliquary of the Mandalay Tooth Relic Pagoda. [page of photos] (NLM 12/10) Dec. 14: Senior General and Madame Than Shwe conveyed the Shwehtidaw (golden umbrella) to the top of the Mandalay Tooth Relic Pagoda. [page of photos] (NLM 12/15) Religion There were regular reports of donations and volunteering of labour for the Tooth Relic Pagodas under construction in Yangon and Mandalay, as well as for renovation of the Shwedagon and other major pagodas. Reports continued of donations for Bagan Pagoda Restoration, with continued daily publication of the official Advertisement requesting donations under the "adopt a Bagan Pagoda" program. Dec. 2: Minister for Religious Affairs Lt-Gen. Myo Nyunt distributed prizes to those who passed the Abhidhamma and Buddhist Culture examinations, totalling 160. Elaborating on the code of youth conduct, and warned against mixed marriages: "He spoke of the need to safeguard the lineage of the parents and pointed out the dangers of losing it if one chooses the wrong marriage partner or a marriage partner of different religion or alien race. The Minister underscored that if one chooses a person of different religion or alien race, the offspring would find it difficult to choose the religion to worship, or the country for rendering his or her allegiance. He pointed out that it would be more difficult for him or her when the two nations were at war. He questioned 'Which country would the person render his or her allegiance, the father's or the mother's?' He called on the youths to protect the lineage to safeguard national cause ...." (NLM 12/3) Dec. 15: Senior General and Madame Than Shwe attended the consecration of the Buddha image at the Maha Atula Waiyan Kyaungtaik in Mandalay. [page of photos] (NLM 12/16) // Dec. 16: They paid homage to pagodas in Mandalay. [page of photos] (NLM 12/17) Dec. 21: The Sagaing Division Buddhology and Cultural Museum on Sagaing Hills was opened by SLORC Secretary-2 Lt-Gen. Tin Oo. It cost K 30 million, of which K 15 was from public donations. (NLM 12/22) Dec. 22: The shwe htidaw (golden umbrella) was installed on the restored Tham Buddhay Pagoda (pagoda No. 378) in Bagan, in the presence of SLORC Secretary-2 Lt-Gen. Tin Oo. (NLM 12/23) Dec. 24: Catholic Bishop of Loikaw Rev. Sotero Pharmo issued the following Christmas Message [full text]: "Christmas is an auspicious day which recalls the greatest and most exceptional even in the human history. Prior to this event is called BC (before Christ) and after the event AD (Christian Era) in history. "Jesus Christ Himself brought to us happiness and joy of the Bible or good news. "Christmas (birthday) marks the birth of Jesus Christ, creator of peace, who came to the world to set the human beings free from all entanglements of sin and save them. The essence of Christianity is to have faith in Jesus Christ who was thus born and accept and keep Him in our heart, to ensure prevalence of peace and justice in the world and serve with profound loving kindness and sympathy the poorest people in the lowest condition suffering all the strains as the Christ the Saviour would do the same. "According to Isaiah, righteousness would contribute towards peace; the results of righteousness would be permanent peace and security; our people would live in a quiet place, secure town or village, and place of no harm. "'For He is our peace....' (Ephesians 2:14) "'Grace to you and peace from God our Father; and the Lord Jesus Christ.' (Romans 1:7) "Lord Jesus Christ as stated above came to the world to enable every man to enjoy genuine peace, so every Christian faithful must constantly strive for prevalence of genuine peace in the world and keep it alive in accordance with the wishes of the Christ, the creator of peace. "You have received the good news which the Christ has brought to you. Being human beings you show kindness and metta of Jesus Christ towards fellow human beings. Instead of feeling unhappy because of a certain glaring error or even in life or the sins, you can take refuge in the loving kindness of the Lord Christ as Christmas is there. "Lord Christ took the lowly human beings as His own offspring on the day when He became a human being. It was the day of salvation. We are heartened to see the greatest event. "When he was born in Bethlehem he took us as His sisters and brothers. We were then the offspring of God. 'The kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared' (Titus: 3:4) There was light in the world where dark reigned. People hungry for loving kindness then knew the access to it. "The blessing of the birthday may spread throughout the Union of Myanmar making it always peaceful and developed in all aspects." (NLM 12/25) Publications Nov. 30: Epistle to the Moon Poems, by Poet Maung Kyin Nwe, has been published by San-yay See-than Sarpaytaik in order "to let the world know about Myanmar poetry." It contains 71 poems in Myanmar and English. Also published is Myanmar Hnint Achar Kabyarmyar, with 85 poems. (NLM 12/1) Nov. 30: The Myanmar Tabino Tomo tour book, published quarterly in Japanese by the Ministry of Hotels and Tourism, is distributed in Japan. Vol. 2 will be issued in January. (NLM 12/1) Dec. 3: The Yangon University Physics Department has published a Basic Education High School Level Physics Journal, including suggestions by Dr. Sein Tun for BEHS students, "exercises and answers to the old questions." (NLM 12/4) Dec. 4: A Map of Bagan is available free of charge, published by the Information Subcommittee of the Tourism Development Management Committee, and will be distributed through tourism facilities in the Bagan area. (NLM 12/5) Dec. 30: Yangon Street Directory 1996 now on sale, published by the Ministry of Commerce. "For Your Business and Any Other Needs, You Can check Where You Want to Know [sic] by Using Street Index, Place Index and (138) Numbers of Colorful Sectional Maps." [advertisement] (NLM 12/ 31) Universities Nov. 11: Government Notification No. 17/ 96 of November 11, 1996, Founding and organization of Yangon Cooperative Degree College, upgrades the Yangon Cooperative Regional College to the Yangon Cooperative Degree College, to be managed by the Department of Cooperatives. (NLM 12/10) Dec. 8: The 88th Convocation of Yangon University, scheduled for Dec. 13-14, has been postponed. (NLM 12/9) Dec. 12: The 30th Convocation of the Yangon Institute of Technology, scheduled for Dec. 21, has been postponed. (NLM 12/ 13) Dec. 12: The 8th Convocation of Mawlamyine University was held on Dec. 7, with Rector Dr. Hla Pe giving out degrees as follows: MA (11), MSc (20), MPhil (1), BA(Hons) (47), BSc(Hons) (162), BA (312), BSc (1009). 117 degrees were awarded in absentia. (NLM 12/13) Dec. 12: The 5th Convocation of the Institute of Traditional Medicine (Mandalay) was held on Dec. 11. Principal U Wa Tun conferred diplomas on 90 graduates, including 35 in absentia. (NLM 12/13) Dec. 13: The 88th Convocation of Yangon University, scheduled for Dec. 27-28, has been postponed. (NLM 12/14) Dec. 21: The first Convocation of Magway University will be held January 18-19, 1997. (NLM 12/22) Literary Prizes Dec. 11: The National Literary Awards and Sarpay Beikman Manuscript Awards for 1995 were presented by SLORC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt [winners announced in November], who "exhorted" the writers "to education youths to get free of dangers from ill-motivated elements." (NLM 12/12). Dec. 16: The poet Htila Sitthu (Deputy Minister for Culture U Soe Nyunt) was presented with the "honorary award of the Great Poet Laureate" by Indochina Venture Forum of Japan, represented by Mr. Yoshio Ebina. (NLM 12/17) Dec. 19: The winners of the Pakokku U Ohn Pe Literary Award Contest, sponsored by the Pakokku U Ohn Pe Literary Trust Funds Supervisory Committee of the Ministry of Information, were announced, as follows: Collected poems: (1) Tin Maung Aye (Pakokku) for Bawa Ponyeik Apaing Asa Myar. (2) Salin Phone Kyaw for Apyanlan Ye Santhawda. (3) Tint Tun (Chauk) for Sein Tabwint Shwe Tabwint. Novel: (1) Htoo Swe Aung for Myin Moh Taunghteik Hma Thebwint Galay. (2) Myay Wathon for Chway. (3) Khin Lapyay Wun for Aphaw. Collected short stories: (1) Ko Nay (Kawlin) for Hmwe Hmwe Cho Cho Wuthtuto Myar. (2) Khin San Mon for Seinyaung Shweyaung Taphyakphyak Wuthtuto Myar. (3) Nwe Ta Mei for Kyaylet Yanant Thinn Pyant Kyaing Hlaing. Treatise: (1) U Myat Kyaw (Myanmar Language Commission) for Myanmarsar Myanmarhmu Thuttan Yadana. (2) Shwenaga Tin Win for Ziwa Dratdu Swan-in Phwint Phyo Yay. (3) Zaw Aung Htut for Myanmar Naing-Ngan Pitakat Taik Sarkyi Taik Myar Ei Amyo Asar Hnint Thabaw Thabawa. Research: (1) U Than Htut and Daw Htoo Htoo Aung for Amyothar Pyinnyaryay Magazine Myargo Laylar Tinpyachin. (2) Tekkatho Maung Maung Hlaing for Zartaka Htakahta Kyanlar Ok-choke-yay Saingyar Kyan. (3) Thanlyin Maung Win War for Myanmar Zatgyi. Literary Award for Life: Sayagyi U Htin Gyi (Tekkatho Htin Gyi), age 81. Cash awards are K 50,000 for first, K 30,000 for second, and K 20,000 for third prize. The Literary Award for Life is K 80,000. Prizes will be presented at the National Theatre on Jan. 9, 1997. (NLM 12/20) Pakokku Teaching Method Dec. 11: A ceremony was held to celebrate the centenary of the "Pakokku method of teaching Pariyatti" or "lecturing the Dhamma," begun by the Yesagyo Sayadaw who founded the Pakokku Maha Withutayama Kyaungtaik. Present were SLORC Secretary-2 Lt-Gen. Tin Oo, 2,916 members of the Sangha, Minister for Religious Affairs Lt-Gen. Myo Nyunt, and others. (NLM 12/12) Academies and Institutes Dec. 20: The Myanmar Accountancy Academy was opened at Shwebontha Yeyeiktha by Director-General Col. Soe Win of the Myanmar Police Force, in the presence of U Nyan Win Aung of the Academy and others. (NLM 12/21) Dec. 21: Stanford-City Business Institute held its first graduation ceremony, attended by Principal Ms. Suzanne Pun and Chairman Mr. Serge Pun of Serge Pun & Associates (Myanmar) Ltd. 308 trainees attended "secretarial, management, English proficiency, accounts, and computer diploma courses." (NLM 12/22) MISCELLANEOUS Sunday and Holiday Supplements Sunday Supplement for November 24 not received. Dec. 1,8,15,22,29: For several years, each weekly Sunday Supplement has listed "Our Three Main National Causes," two lists of "Special Projects," and "Slogans" for the National Convention [for texts see issue of January 1996]. It has now added the "People's Desire" slogans contained in each daily issue. Like the regular paper, it also usually includes the list of 12 National Objectives, and a notice (in English) about the Adopt a Bagan Pagoda project. To this were added in some issues the five Golden Jubilee Union Day National Objectives, and the Five Objectives of the First Exhibition and Competition on Ten Myanmar Traditional Arts and the seven objectives of the Third National Sports Festival. Dec. 1,8,15,22,29: Victories of the State, the people and the Tatmadaw, by Tekkatho Tin Kha. [Cont. (19) Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries. (20) ASEAN. (21) The Zaungtu hydel power project. (22) Tooth Relic. (23) Traditional arts and crafts.] Dec. 1: Oil palm to fulfil cooking oil need, by Ahtet Minhla Nyunt Aung. [History of oil palm in Myanmar since 1921. Plans to increase acreage to 50,000.] -- Tatmadaw mightiness in the interest of the people, by Reporter Myint Naing. [Work of the No. 66 Light Infantry Division on construction projects.] -- Thanlwin River (Hpa-an) Bridge in Kayin State, by Sit Htwe. [3,200 foot bridge project over the Thanlwin (Salween) River.] Dec. 5 [Special Supplement]: -- Senior General Than Shwe attends Informal Meeting of ASEAN Heads of Government and Heads of Government of Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar. [four pages] Dec. 8: Goodwill for border area development, by Myint Soe. [In Homein, Monhtaw and Monhta region.] -- Ayeyawady River (Chauk) Bridge construction project, by Tin Aung. [Senior General Than Shwe's visit of Oct. 10.] -- To develop national economy through agriculture, by Ye Myint Swe. [Importance of rice, cooking oil, and beans and pulses.] Dec. 15: Figure of Thungedaw: Logo of Visit Myanmar Year, by Ahtet Minhla Nyunt Aung. [The logo of the Visit Myanmar Year is the thungedaw (clever boy), or royal page boy of the traditional Myanmar marionette theatre.] -- New generation youths: health educational eye-openers of national races in border regions, by Taungdwin Bo Thein. [Health programs, especially against AIDS, in the border areas.] -- K 40 million worth Kanthaya Dam in Rakhine State, by Kyaw Aung. [A new dam in Gwa Township.] Dec. 22: Progressive and dynamic Centre Co-operative Society Ltd., by Ahtet Minhla Nyunt Aung. [Wood product coop.] -- Co-operative Market Festival (Dawei) hailing the Seventh Students Sports Festival, by Thura Nyunt. ["The co-op market festivals are much beneficial to the local populace as they can buy local products from all over Myanmar and goods on sale by companies at the same price. The objective in holding these market festivals is not to earn profit but to maintain constant contact with local populace and establish national unity. Market for commodities can also be extended."] -- Generous Shan nationals are going to build a pagoda, by Kengtung Mya Maung. [On Soonsetkon hill in Kengtung.] Dec. 29: Rakhine State with Buddha's heritage, by Maung Myint Khaing. [Review of Buddhist history in Rakhine, and renovation of relics.] -- A beneficial achievement by Myanma Railways, by Minbu Aung Kyaing. [Rail connection between Bagan and Mandalay.] -- Zaungtu diversion dam in Bago Township, by Theimm Htut. [New power dam.] Crime Nov. 30: A youth who "looted two gold chains" from an Israeli woman, Mrs. Sara Raphael, on Nov. 23 in Hline Township, was arrested Nov. 26. (NLM 12/1) Dec. 3: Two burglars were arrested for stealing 921 watches, 57 calculators, and other property totalling K 1,122,325 from a Yangon Video Store on Oct. 31; the stolen items were recovered. (NLM 12/4) Dec. 3: A man was arrested in Mingaladon Township for trying to rob a taxi. (NLM 12/ 4) Dec. 17: The North Okkalapa Township Court sentenced a driver to seven years in prison for "hitting three [teenage] runners to death" on Nov. 25. (NLM 12/18) Dec. 19: Hline Township police on Dec. 11 seized two thieves who stole 2 computers and 4 telephones worth K 1.02 million on Nov. 11. (NLM 12/20) Dec. 24: Four youths have been arrested for various robberies in Yangon on Dec. 14-17. (NLM 12/25) Anti-Narcotics Activities Dec. 3: 2.9 kilos of heroin was seized Nov. 18 in Muse. 7.5 kilos of raw opium were seized Nov. 4 in Mandalay. (NLM 12/4) Dec. 5: From Nov. 22-Dec. 3, 3,991 acres of poppy plantations were destroyed in Shan State. (NLM 12/6) Dec. 6: 0.25 kilo of heroin block was seized Nov. 9 in Kyukok (Pangsai). (NLM 12/7) Dec. 7: 175 gallons of acid used in refining heroin were seized Nov. 11 in Hopang. (NLM 12/8) Dec. 9: 3.4 kilos of raw opium were seized Oct. 18 at Mandalay Railway Station. (NLM 12/10) Dec. 11: The Tatmadaw on Nov. 25 seized 484 gallons of drug refining chemicals in Shan State (North). (NLM 12/12) Dec. 12: The Tatmadaw on Dec. 11 seized 280 gallons of chloroform and 150 kilos of ammonium chloride, used in refining heroin, in Muse. (NLM 12/13) Dec. 13: 0.2 kilo of heroin was seized Nov. 20-Dec. 5 in Mingaladon Township. (NLM 12/14) Dec. 15: 4.7 kilos of opium were seized Dec. 7 in Nawnghkio. (NLM 12/16) Dec. 17: 7.2 kilos of opium were seized in Phakant on Nov. 29. (NLM 12/18) Dec. 21: The Tatmadaw on Dec. 5 seized chemicals (40 litres of spirits, 85 litres of ether, and 50 kilos of soda) in Mongkoe Region, Muse Township. (NLM 12/22) Dec. 22: 7.2 kilos of opium were seized Nov. 29 in Phakant. (NLM 12/23) Dec. 26: Six bottles of Pheticol were seized Dec. 11 in Namhkam Township. (NLM 12/27) Dec. 28: 0.4 kilo of heroin was seized Dec. 20 on a bus arriving in Bhamo. (NLM 12/29) Obituaries [English language obituaries; there are obituaries in Burmese as well, some of which we have sought to transliterate.] Nov. 28: State Ovadacariya Sayadaw Bhaddanta Vicitta Maha Thera, vassa 70, Patron of Chanthagyi Arthintaik in Myingyan Township, Mandalay Division, died, aged 90. [article] (NLM 12/1) Nov. 29: State Ovadacariya Sayadaw Bhaddanta Ottamavamsa Maha Thera (Agga Maha Pandita), vassa 71, Patron of Maha Visuttayama Taikthit in Minbu, Magway Division, died, aged 92. [article] (NLM 12/1) Nov. 29: Edward Than Pe, aged 81. [Burmese text]. (NLM 12/2) Nov. 30: Mariam Bibi, widow of Cassim Mohamed Ajam Ismail, died in Yangon, aged 83. [Muslim] (NLM 12/3) Nov. 30: U Myint Swe (a) SM Reassuddin, Pyin Oo Lwin, Retired Supervisor of Myanmar Shipping Department, husband of Daw Ma Ma Gyi, died in Pyin Oo Lwin, aged 75. (NLM 12/3) Dec. 2: Mr. Lawrence Alfred Thompson, retired DCA, husband of Naw Pauline, father of...Patricia Khin Sann Wai-Peter (USA)..., brother of Brenda and Merlyn (UK) Bran and Betty (Australia)...died in Yangon, aged 65. [Christian] (NLM 12/3) Dec. 3: Daw Khin Pyo Mu, died, aged 39. [Burmese text] (NLM 12/4) Dec. 3: Khin Maung Latt died, aged 51. [Burmese text] (NLM 12/4) Dec. 5: U Thaung Din (a) Ronald Ke, Manager (Retd), Construction and Electrical Corporation; Chief Instructor, Myanmar Akai-Kai, husband of Daw Nyunt Nyunt Aye (Daphne), Teacher International School Yangon (Retd)...died in Yangon, aged 66. [Baptist] (NLM 12/7) Dec. 5: U Htun Khin died, aged 70. [Burmese text] (NLM 12/6) Dec. 5: Daw Hla Yin died, aged 84. [Burmese text] (NLM 12/7) Dec. 7: Doris Parkinson (a) Daw Tin Tin Mya, widow of Mr. D.S. Martin, mother of Delphine (a) Khin Khin Aye, International School, Yangon...died in Yangon, aged 72. [Catholic] (NLM 12/8) Dec. 8: Jackie Yeo, aged 73. [Burmese text] (NLM 12/10) Dec. 8: Naing Ba (Mon Dhammayon) died, aged 76. [Burmese text] (NLM 12/9) Dec. 8: U Aung Myint, Chief Officer, m.v. Kien Hwa II, Well Trade Cargo Services Co., husband of Daw Htay Htay Hla, died in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, aged 40. (NLM 12/ 20) Dec. 9: U Tin Nyunt (a) David Cardozo, Marketing Manager, Merlion (Myanmar) Co. Ltd., husband of the late Marie Nu Nu Win, died in Yangon, aged 38. [Christian] (NLM 12/10) Dec. 14: U DJW Bartlett, BS., Secretary to Kayah State (Retd), Thaton, husband of Daw Yin May, died on a visit to Brunei, aged 86, and will be cremated there. (NLM 12/15) Dec. 15: Mrs. Edith Chen, wife of Mr. Paul A. Chen, died in Yangon, aged 85. [Christian] (NLM 12/16) Dec. 15: Daw Ni (a) Mrs. Catherine Angeles, Thanlyin, wife of Mr. Michael Angeles (a) U Tin Myint...sister-in-law of Daw Khin Yee U Thet Zin (USA), Rita Abreu-TG Abreu (USA)...died in Yangon, aged 63. [Catholic] (NLM 12/16) Dec. 16: U Aung Tun Kyi, Managing Director, Lakshmi Trading Co. Ltd., husband of Ma Thazin Mar (Sweety), died, aged 26. [Hindu] (NLM 12/23) Dec. 17: U Khin (a) U Hla Khun Cho died, aged 79. [Burmese text] (NLM 12/18) Dec. 18: Daw Aye Tin (a) Ina, Colgate High School, Pyin Oo Lwin, wife of U Mye, died in Yangon, aged 82. [Christian] (NLM 12/19) Dec. 19: Saw Yaw Bat Dun died, aged 88. [Burmese text] (NLM 12/20) Dec. 20: Agga Maha Gandhavasaka Pandita Bhaddanta Obasa, Presiding Nayaka of Ashay Gangawkyaung Pariyatti Sarthintaik in Mawlamyine, vassa 49, died in Mawlamyine, aged 69. [article] (NLM 12/23) Dec. 20: Thakin Lwin, Retired Minister, husband of Daw Myint Myint Lwin, died in Yangon, aged 84. (NLM 12/23) Dec. 22: Htun Yin Maung died, aged 57. [Burmese text] (NLM 12/23) Dec. 24: U Maung Maung Set (Edward), Tomoe Shipping Co. (Rtd), husband of the late Daw Sint Sin and of Dr. Doreen Set (Canada), father of...Dr. Lu Set-Julie (Canada)...brother of Daw Aye Set-Dr. Aye Kyaw (USA), died in Canada, aged 79, and will be cremated in Toronto. (NLM 12/26) Dec. 24: Joseph, son of Rev. U Pe Than and Sayama Naw Mu Gay, died in Mawlamyinekyun Township, aged 17. [Christian] (NLM 12/30) Dec. 28: Daw Than Than (Kyaukse), relict of Thiripyanchi Lt-Col. Ba Kyin (Rtd), died in Yangon, aged 77. (NLM 12/30) Dec. 28: U Khin Maung (Pakokku), husband of the late Daw Saw Shwe, died in Pakokku, aged 70. (NLM 12/31) Fires Dec. 3: During October 1996, there were 57 fires in Myanmar, which destroyed property worth K 1.9 million; of them, 45 were kitchen fires due to negligence, 9 were electrical, and 3 were arson. 16 houses were destroyed, leaving 27 homeless. (NLM 12/4) World War II Plane Found Dec. 7: The remains of the crew of a US Airforce C-47 that crashed 60 miles southwest of Myitkyina during World War II were handed over to the US Charge d'Affairs Mr. Kent M. Wiedemann. News of the downed plane had been heard in 1987, and the remains were found and brought to Yangon in 1991, and identified as belonging to James B. Heise, Roy T. Torbert, and F.P. Reynolds. (NLM 12/8) UNICEF Postage Stamps Dec. 9: Myanmar will issue three postage stamps, in denominations of 1, 2, and 3 kyats, in honor of the 50th Anniversary of UNICEF on Dec. 11. [picture] (NLM 12/10) ----- SUBSCRIPTIONS & RENEWALS ATT: Burma Press Summary Center for East Asian & Pacific Studies University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign 230 International Studies Building 910 South Fifth Street Champaign, IL 61820 Tel: (217) 333-7273. Fax: (217) 244-5729 Annual Subscriptions: Individuals - US$50.00 Libraries & other Institutions - US$60.00 Add Postal surcharge for air delivery to: Canada - US$18.00 Europe - US$37.00 Asia - US$47.00 [additional charge for US$ check drawn on a foreign bank - $5.00] NOTE: Checks should be payable to: University of Illinois, with "Burma Press Summary" annotated on check. Correspondence concerning subscriptions, missing issues, etc., should be sent to the Center for East Asian and Pacific Studies in Champaign, Illinois EDITORIAL CORRESPONDENCE Editorial correspondence, and requests for full texts of articles, should be sent to: Hugh C. MacDougall Glimmerglass Cottage 8 Lake Street Cooperstown, NY 13326-1016 email: jfcooper@magnum.wpe.com Burma Press Summary No. 118, Dec. 1996