------------------------ BurmaNet ------------------------ "Appropriate Information Technologies, Practical Strategies" ---------------------------------------------------------- The BurmaNet News: July 23, 1997 Issue #779 HEADLINES: ========== BKK POST: AMNESTY SAYS RIGHTS ABUSES CONTINUING BURMA LAWYERS' COUNCIL: FORCED REPATRIATION TACDB MEDIA RELEASE: HUNGER STRIKE IN BANGKOK TIMES OF INDIA: INDIA WILL TAKE DIVERGENT STAND BKK POST: FROM CONSENSUS TO CONTROVERSY BKK POST: TRADE DROPS AMID FEARS OVER THE KYAT THE ASIAN WALL STREET JOURNAL: ASEAN'S OPPORTUNITY SLORC: INFORMATION SHEET A.0068(I) ----------------------------------------------------------------- BKK POST: AMNESTY SAYS RIGHTS ABUSES CONTINUING July 22, 1997 Reuters Criticism stepped up ahead of Asean entry Human rights violations continue in Burma, especially against ethnic minorities, and hundreds of thousands of refugees have fled the country because of the abuses, Amnesty International said yesterday. An Amnesty report, issued to coincide with Burma's entry into the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean), says Burma has shown no improvement in human rights violations against members of ethnic minority groups. "As Asean ministers meet in Kuala Lumpur to usher Myanmar [Burma] into the regional grouping, they will be admitting a government which is systematically targeting political opponents, ethnic minorities, creating regional instability by causing refugees to flee, and subjecting its citizens to forced labour in inhuman conditions,"Amnesty said. Asean ministers will meet on July 23 in Malaysia to formally admit Burma to the regional group, despite protests from human rights organisations and many Western nations who say admission is tantamount to acceptance of the regime's rampant human rights violations. "These abuses, including extrajudicial executions; ill-treatment in the context of forced potering and labour and intimidation during forcible relocations occur both in the context of counter-insurgency operations, and in areas where ceasefires hold," the London-based rights organisation said. "Asean leaders are welcoming a government whose army regularly kills and tortures civilians and coerces women, children and the elderly to build roads, railways and dams in slavery-like conditions,"Amnesty said. The report said more than 200,000 refugees have fled Burma into neighbouring countries-most into Thailand. *********************************************** BURMA LAWYERS' COUNCIL STATEMENT: FORCED REPATRIATION July 21, 1997 From: blcsan@ksc.th.com Statement on the Forced Repatriation of Refugees by the Government of Bangladesh July 21, 1997 According to the BBC ( British Broadcasting Corporation) report on July 21, 1997, it was known that about 200 refugees from Burma, taking refuge in Maobra camp, southeastern part of Coxbazaar in Bangladesh were forcefully repatriated by the Government of Bangladesh on 20th July. Before repatriation, the riot police forces reportedly entered the refugee camp; surrounded the refugees, the majority were women and children as the men had escaped; beat the refugees who screamed, cried, refused to be repatriated and laid themselves down on the floor; and, finally, they were forcefully dragged and taken into the ship for repatriation. The UN High Commissioner for Refugees said an estimated 5,000 to 7,000 Burmese Muslims have entered Bangladesh over the past two months, some of them claiming that they were tortured or subject to forced labor in Burma. The Burma Lawyers' Council strongly objects to the action of the Government of Bangladesh on the refugees from Burma. The recent development of the non-refoulement of refugees into a norm, or customary international law, binds States, even those who have not ratified the Refugee Convention. The principle obliges States not to return or force back refugees seeking asylum on their soil, who if returned or sent to their State, would face the possibility of persecution. The principle is embodied in the 1951 Convention, the 1967 Protocol, the Convention against Torture, the 1967 Declaration on Territorial Asylum, the Principles concerning Treatment of Refugees(Asian-African Legal Consultative Committee Bangkok 1966, referred to as the "Bangkok Principles") The Burma Lawyers' Council endorses the following recommendations: 1. The Government of Bangladesh should grant asylum to the refugees fleeing persecution in Burma. 2. The Government of Bangladesh should allow the United Nations High Commission for refugees to provide protection to these refugees. 3. The Government of Bangladesh should abide by the United Nations' Covenants and treaties it has ratified. 4. The UNHCR should abide by its repatriation rules and the principles document of the Lawyers Committee for Human Rights. 5. The international community should provide material assistance to the refugees from Burma taking refuge in the neighbouring countries of Burma. 6. The SLORC should desist from its current oppressive form of rule and abide by the results of the 1990 May election. Contact to the Burma Lawyers' Council Tel (66-1)920 8286 APPENDIX General Principles Relating to the Promotion of Refugee Repatriation (Lawyers Committee for Human Rights, May 1992 New York USA) 1. Repatriation should not be promoted unless all countries involved in the repatriation can ensure the protection of and respect for the fundamental human rights of the refugees. 2. Refugees must not be returned to any country where they would face persecution. 3. Refugee repatriations must be voluntary. 4. Repatriation should be promoted only if it can be accomplished in a manner that ensures safety and dignity upon return. 5. The UNHCR should be involved in a meaningful way from the inception of the repatriation plan to its conclusion. 6. Non-governmental organizations, in addition to the UNHCR, should have independent access to the refugees, both before and after their return. 7. Any repatriation plan should establish that the conflict has abated and its attendant risks eliminated before promoting return. 8. Repatriation should be promoted only if there is no longer a likelihood of recurrence of the human rights abuses that precipitated flight. 9. Particular emphasis must be placed on the unique protection needs of returning women and children, who are a high-risk group within and already vulnerable population. 10. These principles and considerations may apply as well to unassisted repatriations. *********************************************** TACDB MEDIA RELEASE: HUNGER STRIKE IN BANGKOK July 22, 1997 Thai Action Committee for Democracy in Burma Students Federation of Thailand (SFT) in Coalition with exiled Burmese Student Groups in Thailand Thai and Burmese Students On Hunger Strike In Protest to Burma's Admission to ASEAN 22nd July 1997 The official ASEAN welcoming ceremony for Burma's ruling State Law and Order Restoration Council (SLORC) is to be held tomorrow in Malaysia. Amid the festivities in Kuala Lumpur, a more sombre crowd will gather in Bangkok, Thailand to stage a hunger strike in one final protest against ASEAN's acceptance of ruling military regime. The Students Federation of Thailand (SFT), in coalition with representatives from the exiled Burmese Student movement in Thailand, will gather outside of the Malaysian Embassy at 10am on the 22nd of July until such a time as their demands have been met (see attached statement). Similar actions are being planned by students in other parts of Thailand. Ko Kyaun Tha, a 27 year old former student who participated in the 1988 uprising inside Burma stated that, "ASEAN has exposed itself as nothing more than a association of frauds who have charmed the rest of the world with the ideal of a peaceful, co-operative and just South East Asia, but who have consistently failed to act in accordance with such ideals. Acceptance of SLORC as a legitimate 'government' has rendered ASEAN complicit in the gross human rights abuses perpetrated by the SLORC against the Burmese people. Today is a day of shame for our region". The coalition of students, at great risk to their personal security, have gathered together to remind ASEAN and the international community that many of the citizens of Thailand, Burma, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia and the Philippines are opposed to the union. ASEAN's behaviour has left a great many people in the region, especially those who have some regard for the principles of human rights, peace and democracy, concerned and disappointed. Many people in neighbouring countries have lodged their dissatisfaction with their own governments, but with little effect. "One wonders about the actual life- expectancy of democracy in our region" challenged Khun Naksusaa, one Thai student leader. The hunger-strikers will highlight the hypocrisy inherent in ASEAN's move to embrace and legitimise the 'government' with one of the worst human rights records in the world in a joint statement issued today. The Bangkok declaration of 1967 states that the Association (ASEAN) shall promote regional peace and stability through abiding respect for justice and the rule of law and through the adherence to the principles of the United Nations Charter. Khun Naksusaa asserted that "ASEAN has threatened regional peace and security, shown blatant disrespect for justice and the rule of law and has distanced itself from the principles enshrined in the UN Charter in aligning itself with SLORC" She questioned, "What do we have to do to put an end to the suffering and exploitation of the Burmese people by the military? How many people have to be tortured and imprisoned? How many people have to be forced labourers and porters for the military? How many? ASEAN and the international community are aware of what is going on- why isn't something being done?". For further information about the hunger strike and for further comments, please contact Khun Naksusaa and Ko Kyaun Tha at the site of the hunger strike, Malaysian Embassy, 15F Regent House, 183 Rajdamri Road, Bangkok. _________________________________________________________ JOINT STATEMENT ON BURMA'S OFFICIAL ACCEPTANCE INTO ASEAN Burma has become known throughout the world as the country with the most appalling human rights record. Additionally, it has been dubbed the world's least developed nation since 1987. It is widely known that the State Law and Order Restoration Council (SLORC) is governing the people of Burma without legitimacy of any kind. They rule the country at gunpoint and by fear. That the ASEAN nations have agreed to welcome such an illegitimate 'government' into it's ranks is a matter of great concern for many citizens of ASEAN nations, including Burma and Thailand, who hold the principles of peace, democracy and human rights in high regard. ASEAN's constructive engagement policy has, over time, failed to produce any positive outcomes. Instead, we have seen a rising number of refugees along Burma's border regions, more frequent and open arrests of opposition members, and a worsening economy and social system- for example, all schools inside Burma have remained closed since December 1996. Burma is indeed becoming more confident in practising it's policy of repression and abuse. ASEAN leaders, by accepting SLORC into their ranks, are complicit in the human rights abuses perpetrated by the SLORC. The presence of SLORC within ASEAN can only bring trouble to our region. Whenever there has been some internal conflict brewing within Burma, the SLORC has responded by creating border tensions to divert attention from political problems. In this sense, the SLORC are a threat to regional security. Further, ASEAN's credibility within the international community as being a zone of peace, freedom and neutrality (Zone of Peace, Freedom and Neutrality Declaration, Malaysia, 27/11/71). ASEAN has shamed itself with Burma. The 'Bangkok Declaration' of 1967 stated that the Association shall promote regional peace and stability through abiding respect for justice and the rule of law and through the adherence to the principles of the United Nations Charter. Instead, ASEAN has blatantly threatened regional peace and security, shown appalling disrespect for justice and the rule of law and has distanced itself considerably from the principles en-shrined in the UN Charter. In order to draw world wide attention to the shame of ASEAN's acceptance of SLORC, we, a coalition of Thai and Burmese Student Organisations, have decided to stage a hunger strike. We will continue to protest against Burma's relationship with ASEAN until the following demands have been met; 1. ASEAN must consult with the democratic opposition within Burma, including Nobel Laureate Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, as a matter of urgency and encourage tripartite dialogue to take place between SLORC, the democratic oppostion and the ethnic groups. 2. ASEAN must withhold the benefits of full membership rights from the SLORC conditional upon seeing significant improvements in the civil, political and economic situation inside Burma. 3. ASEAN must negotiate for the immediate and unconditional release of political prisoners inside Burma, as well as those dissidents detained in Thailand at the Special Detention Center in Bangkok, and at other prisons throughout the country. 4. ASEAN should oversee the transfer of political power to the NLD who won an overwhelming victory in the 1990 general election. We will continue our hunger strike from 10am on the 22nd of July outside of the Malaysian Embassy in Bangkok, in protest to the shameful actions of ASEAN and the official welcome of SLORC as a ASEAN member in Malaysia. We will continue our hunger strike until such a time as our demands are met. We represent a coalition of Burmese Student Groups in Thailand and the Students Federation of Thailand (SFT). ---------------------------------------------------------------- Thai Action Committee for Democracy in Burma (TACDB), 328 Phayathai Road, Rajthevee, Bangkok 10400, THAILAND. tel/fax: (+662) 216 4463 email: carol@ksc.th.com ****************************************************** TIMES OF INDIA: INDIA WILL TAKE DIVERGENT STAND ON CAMBODIA AT ASEAN July 22, 1997 [abridged] By Prakash Nanda New Delhi: India will be taking a different stand from the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) on the prevailing situation in Cambodia during the forthcoming ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) meet at Kuala Lumpur on July 27. "What is happening in Cambodia is an internal development of that country. We agreed with the ASEAN that peace should prevail in Cambodia and that country carries. But, unlike the ASEAN, we are of the opinion that it is up to the Cambodians themselves how they bring normalcy and peace in their country. We need not suggest any guidelines for this" a highly-placed official in the ministry of external affairs (MEA) told the "Times of India" on Monday. It may be noted that the ASEAN wants the restoration of the Cambodian government that existed prior to the coup by its second prime minister Hun Sen against the first prime minister RANARIDDH. The ASEAN has postponed granting the membership of Cambodia, which, otherwise, would have joined the organisation as a full member along with Laos and Myanmar at Kuala Lumpur. India will also differ on Myanmar situation at the ARF meet. "It is true that our stand on Myanmar is very closed to that of the ASEAN. But, the Western members of the ARF (apart from the seven ASEAN members, it consist of 14 other countries, including United States, Australia, Japan, Russia and China) are against any dealing with Myanmar because of the nature of its regime and record on human rights. We do not buy that logic. While we believe equally in democracy and human rights, we , at the same time, cannot forget that Myanmar shares 1600 KM boundary with us. We have been embassy there. Our people indulge in border trade with that country. We cannot cease interaction with the regime at Yangon," said official. ******************************************** BKK POST: FROM CONSENSUS TO CONTROVERSY July 22, 1997 Debbie Stothard The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) has stuck its neck out on the issue of Burma. Its apparent unconditional support for Burma's State Law and Order Restoration Council (Slorc) has placed it in an uncomfortable, if not embarrassing, position. The smooth talking men in suits of Asean now have to grapple with the reality of one of the most repressive regimes in the world. Their new SLORC "brothers" unfortunately happen to be extremely clumsy and seemingly ignorant of the intricacies of international diplomacy. The awkward situation has been exacerbated by increasing international concern and pressure. The rarefied air of courtliness and syrupy karaoke consensus of the Asean club has now become sullied with the strains of controversy. Golf games and durian feasts are not going to be the same again for our dear leaders. As Asean and Slorc drew closer together a significant number of countries, international organisations and people within the region witnessed the farce in horrified fascination and chorused "Why?". Why indeed has Asean adopted Slorc, a gang of boys that nobody else in the international community dares play with? The answers vary, depending on one's political position. On one end of the spectrum we have human rights activists, particularly those in Asean member states already struggling against a stifling political arena, who view this latest "shotgun marriage" as no surprise. After all, isn't Asean a club of mostly wannabe and/or accomplished dictators who suffer from Slorc-envy? Those of a more moderate voice may acknowledge that Asean is well intentioned but uninformed and inexperienced in dealing with Slorc. Others even go so far as to claim that constructive engagement, Asean's stated policy on Burma, has worked and even contributed towards the release of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi two years ago. Several facts remain clear: Asean's interaction with Slorc has been characterised by a series of miscalculations based on arrogance, ignorance and inexperience. Asean's claim to know better what appropriate approach to take on the crisis in Burma is based solely on the fact that Burma is a close neighbour. In other words: "Butt out, this is in our backyard, so we're the experts." Fair enough. This confidence is undermined by the knowledge that, apart from Thailand (the Asean member state which has been coping with the vagaries of Slorc and its predecessor, the Ne Win regime), no other government of Asean has had extensive multi-level links. Perhaps this is why Asean has been relying on the language of "family" and "marriage" when dealing with a "home-wrecker". Prior to the early 1990s, no other government in Asean has had experience negotiating with Slorc on key issues. Even at this stage, on the eve of the "wedding", policy-makers are beginning to wonder if they have not already been out-manoeuvred and robbed of their "dowry". Weeks before the ceremony scheduled to welcome Slorc, Laos and -Cambodia (following the recent coup, Cambodia's admission has been postponed), Asean announced its stated desire for Slorc to commence dialogue with the democracy movement, a request which for a number of reasons lacks leverage. Asean is going to have to increase its assertiveness to get what it wants from Slorc the "bride". Asean had already bought into farce when it kowtowed to Slorc on the matter of contact with Ms Suu Kyi. Instead of negotiating successfully for access to the Nobel Laureate, a cowed Asean retreated hurriedly before Slorc's hysterical tantrums when the request was made in mid-1995. The knowledge that Ms Suu Kyi led the National League for Democracy (NLD) in national elections in 1990 to win 82 percent of the parliamentary seats as opposed to the Slorc-backed National Unity Party winning a measly 5 percent somehow makes this scenario distasteful. Trundling out worn-out phrases such as the dreaded "it's an internal affair", "it's up to the people to decide", etc. invites outrage. Burma clearly is a matter for international concern. The consequences of Slorc's brutality and irresponsibility are a direct threat to the security of this region. The people of Burma decided to eject Slorc through the 1990 election, a desire thwarted by Asean's inability to grasp the fact that this matter is about the lives of 45 million men, women and children not about point-scoring with world powers. Indeed, Asean lost its opportunity to score points with anyone by failing to take the lead to ensure Slorc delivered reform. Rather than developing a better understanding of the crisis in Burma before developing a considered position, Asean grabbed at the straws of "constructive engagement". Ostensibly, this policy would influence Slorc to become better boys by asking nicely. Unfortunately, constructive engagement is assuming the status of myth. Like the unicorn, many people can describe one but cannot deliver proof of its existence. Many countries and international organisations have attempted to engage Slorc but were unsuccessful partly because there was insufficient co-ordination and political will among the key players. Asean refused to learn from this experience and instead squandered most of its leverage early on in the game. Asean's chances of "influencing" Slorc towards reform are a little doubtful since Slorc seems to have demonstrated a clumsy contempt for the grouping. One begs to seek the logic of defending a junta which appears to embark deliberately on crackdowns and attacks on refugees close to the time of every key Asean meeting. Recent examples include the arrest of more than 30 members of the NLD days before the Asean Foreign Ministers meeting to decide on Slorc's application for membership. Instead of being prudent in delaying the decision on Slorc's entry, the foreign ministers decided to "reward" the scamp with a favourable decision. On the other hand, the decision could have been rushed deliberately in case the situation in Burma worsened and increased momentum in the international community made a review unavoidable. Slorc has ensured that this "family tradition" is being kept up; it has decided to keep universities and schools closed indefinitely and, to top it off, cooked up an international terrorist plot using a rice cooker as part of its evidence, and stepped up its harassment of Ms Suu Kyi and the NLD. Judging from the enthusiasm of Slorc in this particular crackdown, the summit this week must be a big affair for them. One dreads to think what will happen to our neighbours in Burma at the gala commemorative summit Asean has scheduled for December to celebrate its 30th anniversary. It is glaringly obvious that unless Asean engages immediately in an effective mix of assertion and persuasion to salvage the situation, it is not going to gain any leeway with the junta. More significantly, Asean has made itself a target of controversy, not just to the international community but also a range of organisations, academics, political leaders and citizens within the region. This tension has manifested itself within the governments of Asean. Member states including Thailand, Singapore and Philippines broke ranks temporarily from the consensus club to express concern publicly over the haste of Slorc's application. Unfortunately, the concerns, particularly those of Thailand which should have a key say owing to its experience with Slorc, were over-ridden. When these members have since taken special pains to support the decision, it is clear that the fraternity fracture has not completely healed. The past 28 months has seen an upsurge in activities focused on Asean's relationship with Burma throughout the region. A wide range of groups and individuals in different Asean member states have begun to co-ordinate their activities targeting Asean as an organisation. The charmed life that Asean had in the past is on the verge of changing. For too long Asean has been able to evade the scrutiny of international and regional human rights movements. For too long Asean has not had to make itself accountable to the peoples of this region. By espousing Slorc, Asean has presented itself as target to the peoples of this region, who are beginning to become concerned about Asean's potential to wreak havoc on democratic development in the region. It's time Asean changed to become more responsible and responsive to the people. The early failures of Asean vis-avis Slorc is sending a signal to Asean that there's no such thing as a free lunch. Asean has to be prepared to take responsibility for the consequences of its decisions. It can no longer wriggle out of difficult situations by hiding behind a phalanx of hollow excuses. In its stated attempt to "change" Slorc, Asean has opened itself up to change from within. Burma's struggle for democracy and human rights could well have become the catalyst for a more vibrant Asean-specific peoples movement. This is certainly one outcome Asean's constructive engagement did not anticipate. How this unfolds is worth observing, and supporting. ** Debbie Stothard is co-ordinator of the Alternative Asean Network on Burma. The above chapter appeared in the book "From Consensus to Controversy, published by the Alternative Asean Network on Burma. ************************************************** BKK POST: TRADE DROPS AMID FEARS OVER RIDDING OF THE KYAT July 22, 1997 Supamart Kasem There has been a sharp drop in Thai-Burmese border trading in Mae Sot district of Tak as many Thais fear Rangoon may soon scrap the kyat currency. Over the past few days Thai traders reportedly exported goods to only their regular clients in Burma, refusing to deal with new customers. Jirasak Paiboonthamrote, chairman of the border trade committee of Tak Chamber of Commerce, said the situation resulted from reports that dealers in Rangoon had bought a quantity of foreign currencies, causing the Burmese currency to drop from 180-200 to 280-300 kyat per US dollar. This had prompted Burmese to speculate that their government might soon scrap the kyat and start exchanging it for gold and other valuables, he said. The kyat-baht exchange rate has also dropped in Mae Sot. A hundred kyat could fetch 12.75-13 baht early this month but decreased last week to some 11 baht, Mr Jirasak said. A major exporter of medicines to Burma, Mr Jirasak said his export volume had dropped by more than 30 percent, adding most of his goods went to regular clients. ********************************************* THE ASIAN WALL STREET JOURNAL: ASEAN'S OPPORTUNITY July 21, 1997 Whatever the merits of expanding Asean, the membership criteria are vastly different from those of an organization like Nato. A security organization, Nato considers democratization both a requirement and a goal by which it hopes to reduce and even eliminate the possibility of conflict. Asean, by contrast, styles itself primarily as an economic organization, the chief requirement for which is a willingness to trade freely with other members. Although some member states pay lip service to democracy and a few practice it, Asean holds the doctrine of non-intervention in much higher esteem. Yet this week, as it welcomes another communist member, Laos, and the narco- dictatorship of Burma into the fold, Asean finds itself at a policy cross roads. In Cambodia, member Vietnam's former puppet, Hun Sen, has just overthrown his elected co-premier Prince Norodom Ranariddh, and gotten his own puppet, the ostensible royalist Ung Huot, to pose as Ranariddh's successor. Asean has responded by postponing Cambodia's entry into the organization and refusing to recognize the new arrangement. Over the weekend. it sent a delegation of foreign ministers to Phnom Penh with a proposal for establishing a temporary, neutral regime. Mr. Sen, whose forces continue to hunt down and execute political enemies, told Asean to get lost. Though the Cambodian strongman is not without his own private channels of money, he is clearly counting on toughing it out until Asean-and the U.S., Japan and other sources of half his operating income-lose interest in criticizing what he's done and find face saving ways to accept a fait accompli. After all, as Thailand's Nation newspaper mused cynically in a recent editorial against Asean expansion, if the organization can embrace Burma's democracy smashing generals, why make a fuss about Hun Sen shooting his way into, sole power? One difference is that Hun Sen was party to the 1991 Paris peace agreement which sealed an end to Cambodia's civil war with pledges of democratic elections under the auspices of the United Nations. Another is that while Burma has been effectively pacified, a tumultuous Cambodia-more impoverished than ever if foreign aid is cut off-is not exactly what Asean had in mind when it dreamed of happy, uncomplicated commerce with new members. Moreover, when Asean first extended its membership invitation, Cambodia was a shaky but functioning democracy with a mixture of voices, including nationalist ones. If Vietnam's ally Hun Sen remains in power, Phnom Penh can be expected to vote solidly in a three country bloc behind communist Vietnam, with more muscle than Asean ever intended. If China-itself not eligible for membership-lines up behind this group, as it well may in a gesture designed to appear merely conciliatory towards Vietnam, Asean could find itself dancing to Beijing's tune in ways it never expected. It is not too late for Asean to reassert its original vision and reclaim control of its destiny. The search for peace in Cambodia during the 1980s was Asean's defining moment as a distinguished regional grouping with the authority and skill to play a leadership role not only in Asia but in the international arena. The time has come for the group to show leadership again. Privately, many Asean officials are kicking themselves for not paying closer attention last May, when a non-governmental group of distinguished academics and other experts among the members submitted a report warning that the Cambodian experiment in peace and democracy was fast unraveling. The report urged Asean to deploy its diplomatic resources to mediate an end to the crisis before something like Hun Sen's coup happened. But no one was listening. What policy-making there was took place in the leadership vacuums of far-away capitals like -Canberra and Washington where, as one Asian analyst points out, "What happened is that the man on the spot was really dictating policy, and the same with the Australian ambassador, and many of these people are more inclined towards a strongman like Hun Sen than to Ranariddh." Alarmed at the result, the United States Congress has begun inquiries into America's Cambodia policy. On Friday, Secretary of State Madeleine Albright appointed former congressman and Asia expert Stephen Solarz as a special emissary. After travelling to Beijing and other Asian capitals, he will report to Secretary Albright in Kuala Lurnpur at the end of this week. The goal of everyone concerned is to reverse Cambodia's lurch toward dictatorship and put it back on the peaceful, democratic path envisaged by the Paris agreement. But that cannot happen unless Asean leads the way. Acting Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has already pointed in the right direction. In an article in the July 21 edition of Newsweek, he argues for "constructive intervention" in Cambodia. Far from being against Asean doctrine, he notes, efforts to help build a civil society there would fulfill the organization's highest purpose, and an obligation not only to the Cambodian people but to its own citizens: to help them all live in increasing prosperity and security. A tall order this may be. Yet it reflects precisely the kind of vision that the situation so badly needs. ******************************************************* SLORC: INFORMATION SHEET A.0068(I) July 21, 1997 From: OKKAR66127@AOL.COM Construction & Real and Estate Development in Myanmar today by the Private Sector. In the Union of Myanmar, construction has been greatly expanded to raise the standard of living since 1990. Those who come to visit Myanmar will witness constructions being carried out all over the country by various local private companies, foreign companies and government ministries. In this regard, (5) private companies have been selected from a wide range of companies involved in construction and real estate development to be presented to our readers. (1) OLYMPIC COMPANY LIMITED Established in 1991 for the commercial purpose of export, import and construction work. Since 1994, the company dedicated to raise the standard of living in Myanmar has greatly expanded its construction work with its motto, "from bush huts to brick homes" clearly a coinage from the well-known expression, "from rags to rich." Completed projects- So far the Olympic Company has completed four projects and is engaged in implementing nine projects. The four projects completed are: Tamwe Min-Ye-Kyaw-Zwa Project, implemented in three stages, the last stage being construction of an apartment, Pazundaung Township Housing Project, consisting of apartments, detached and duplex houses totalling 18; Asia Wealth Bank Ltd. Building project, Asia Wealth Branch Bank Building Project. Current Housing Projects- The Company is currently engaged in the implementation of nine housing projects. They are; "Thumingala Condominium Housing Project", comprising shop houses, apartments, duplex and school, the first phase of the project having been completed; "Aye-Yeik-Mon Housing Project", comprising 2,000 detached houses and apartment, building, of which 93 units have been completed as the first phase and transfered; "Myaing-Hay-Wun Housing Project" comprising apartment building, detached house and bungalow houses and 14 storey condominium totalling 500 housing units, expected to be completed in 1998; "Bandoola Plaza Project", requiring pile driving work and construction of 18-storey building, 2 storeys for business and showing rooms and 18 storeys for apartments, of which structural works have been completed and interior decoration being effect; "Min Nandar Housing Project", comprising 100 detached houses construction of which is in progress; "River View Garden Housing Project", vacant land area where garbage dump used to be is expected to be completed within two years; "Dagon Avenue Garden City Project", the biggest real estate development project yet undertaken by the Company, on a 500-acre plot, comprising detached houses, apartment buildings, primary and middle school, medical centre, shopping centre and shop houses, and student hostels totalling over 4000 to 5000 buildings; "Hlaing Thar Yar Housing Project", on 300-acre site comprising 12-storeyed condominium, showrooms, hostel and apartments; "Morton Tower Project", requiring construction of a modern 26-storey tower of international, standard with advanced construction technology and modern structural design. (2) CHIN SU MYANMAR COMPANY LIMITED Established in 1993. Completed Undertakings. The Company has completed implementation of 6 Projects altogether so far. They are; "Yadanar Garden Condominium Project", "Kama Kyi Garden Housing Project", comprising 13 detached houses and a row of 10 shop houses, "Aung Yadanar Garden Housing Project", "Ze Za Wah Garden Housing Project", comprising a swimming pool, club house, landscaped garden overlooking the swimming pool totalling 43 buildings, "Golden Triangle Town-House Project" at Tachilek, Shan State, comprising international standard golf course, sport stadium and resorts; "Nawaday Garden Housing Project", requiring development and construction of community centre comprising school building, medical centre, sports stadium, garden, swimming pool etc. Current Housing Project- The Company is currently implementing 3 housing projects. They are "Nawaday Housing Project", comprising over 1,000 detached houses, duplex houses and shop houses, and a community centre on a more than 200 acres site with apartment buildings, school, shopping centre, sports stadium and medical centre; "Ze Za Wah Estate Housing Project"- comprising upscale condominium, 4 blocks of 5-storey apartment houses and town houses, 8 blocks of 3-storey apartment house, and "May Garden Housing Project" to be implemented in Tachilek, Shan State. (3) ZAY KABAR COMPANY LIMITED Established in September, 1990. Completed Undertakings- has completed implementation of several construction and real estate development projects. They are (1) "Sedona Hotel Yangon Construction Project", constructed jointly with Mitsui & Co,.Ltd; (2) "Cigarette factory Construction Project" and (3) "Gem Centre Construction Project." Current Undertakings. Zay Kabar company is currently engaged in the implementation of three projects involving real estate development and construction in varying degrees. They are "Mariner Square Project", requiring landscaping and construction of a 12-storey building. "Mingladon Industrial Zone Infrastructure Development Project", under an agreement entered into by Department of Human settlement and Housing Development, Ministry of Construction and Mitsu & Co. Ltd., Mingladon Industrial Park Co,.Ltd .(MIPC) has been formed out of mutual interest to build what will become Asia's modern industrial zone on a spacious 225-acre site. Granted a 50- year lease - the longest ever, the projected industrial Zone is meant exclusively for foreign factories, mills, plants and works. The first phase "Mingaladon Industrial Zone Project" will take up real estate development and landscaping work for 50 industrial establishments and the second phases - for further 50 establishments. "Mingaladon Garden City Development Project". Project area covers more than 1,200 acres. Destined to become one of the largest modern real - estate developments in Asia, the Project calls for building of infrastructure with the most advanced technology, high-class land scaping, construction of high grade residential and, commercial buildings, development of a community centre complete with social and religious institutions such as pagodas, monasteries, ponds, parks, schools, libraries, hospital and golf course. (4) NAING GROUP CONSTRUCTION COMPANY LIMITED First established as Naing Family Construction Group in 1989, it was reconstitued for effective operation as Naing Group Consruction Co. Ltd., in 1995 with eight experienced building contractors as directors. Since its reconstitution, the company has completed construction of residential buildings downtown Yangon at rough rate of five buildings a year per director. Completed undertakings include construction of 80- room 8- storey residential building and several others. Building projects currently inplemented include plush 6- storey residential building together with car park, and installation of transformer, meter gauge for each of the 48 apartmennts. (5) MYANMA A-HLA CONSTRUCTION (MAC) Established in 1987. Completed Projects - During the period between 1987 to 1990, MAC implemented to completion four construction projects. They are : "Myaing Haywun Garden City Project" comprising construction of 76 - apartment buildings with a total of 312 rooms on the site area of 11 acres and on the adjacent site construction of 12 high-rise landmark including super market, condominium and tower; "Kyi- daw Housing Project", 12- storey upscale landmark including commercial centre and shop houses with a total of 72 rooms. "Pazundaung Garden Housing Project", comprising construction of 36- storey apartment buildings, 46- storey apartment buildings, 28- storey apartment buildings and commercial centre: "Capital Feature Project", construction of MAC Tower a 14 - storey landmark, 2- stories for business and showrooms, and 12- stories for apartments. Current Projects. They include, "Housing Project" - 3- storey Shop Houses on a 2.7 acre site, construction work of which is currently in progress; "Dagon Myo Thit Housing Project", an undertaking for mutual interest with the Department of Human Settlement and Housing Development, Ministry of Construction, to develop and construct on a 50 - acre site 60- ft. to 100-ft wide roads; a public centre, market, school, public park, swimming pool etc, and projected to be completed within three years. ----------------------- Myanmar Minister for Foreign Affairs Leaves to attend ASEAN Admission Ceremony in Malaysia At the invitation of the 30th Chairman of the ASEAN Standing Committee and Minister for Foreign Affairs of Malaysia Mr. Datuk Abdullah bin Ahmad Badawi, Foreign Minister U Ohn Gyaw left Yangon on the morning of the 21st July for Kuala Lumpur to attend the Admission Ceremony of Myanmar to the ASEAN, 30th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting ( AMM), 4th ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) and the post Ministerial Conference to be held from 23 to 29 July in Subang Jaya, Malaysia. NAWADEI BRIDGE COMPLETION NEAR The NAWADEI BRIDGE which is under construction is scheduled to be completed in September 1997. Completion of this bridge will ensure direct link to Rakhine State from Bago, Magway and Ayeyawady Divisions. In addition the driving time to Ngapali Resort Beach in Thandwe Township, Rakhine State will be reduced to well within a day. The construction of the bridge commenced in March 1994. It is (11.5) meters wide and (1275) meters long. The bridge is a steel truss type constructed solely with Myanmar Engineers and Technicians. OFFICE CALL IN YANGON FOR BUSINESS President of Chiyoda Corporation, Mr. H. WAKAYAMA called on the Chairman of the Myanmar Investment Commission VADM. Maung Maung Khin at his office on the 21st July. On the same day Deputy Chairman of Pacrim Energy NI Co., Mr. E. Stoyle called on Deputy Prime Minister Lt. Gen. Tin Tun at his office, it is learnt. ********************************************