Because of the gratitude owed to our forefathers of the successive eras, who lived in unity with high vision, attaching themselves with bonds of amity, with the family spirit — love and friendship, helpfulness, sympathy, mutual reliance, understanding, forgiveness, and cooperation based on common interest — as the foundation, the national races of the Union have been able to live together with hands joined for a long time.

Senior General Than Shwe
Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council
Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services
(From the message sent to the 57th Anniversary of Union Day)

YANGON, 1 Feb— Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Senior General Than Shwe received Supreme Commander of Royal Thai Armed Forces of the Kingdom of Thailand General Chaisit Shinawatra and party at Zeyathiri Beikman Hall on Konmyinttha this morning.

Also present were Vice-Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council Deputy Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Commander-in-Chief (Army) Vice-Senior General Maung Aye, member of the State Peace and Development Council General Thura Shwe Mann of the Ministry of Defence, Prime Minister Lt-Gen Soe Win, Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council Adjutant-General Lt-Gen Thein Sein, member of the State Peace and Development Council Quartermaster-General Lt-Gen Thiha Thura Tin Aung Myint Oo, Commander-in-Chief (Navy) Vice-Admiral Soe Thein and Commander-in-Chief (Air) Lt-Gen Myat Hein.

Supreme Commander of Royal Thai Armed Forces of the Kingdom of Thailand General Chaisit Shinawatra and party were accompanied by Thai Ambassador to Myanmar Mr Suphot Dhirakaosal and Military Attaché Col Prissapa Suvanatat.

YANGON, 1 Feb— At the invitation of Vice-Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council Deputy Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Commander-in-Chief (Army) Vice-Senior General Maung Aye, a goodwill delegation led by Supreme Commander of Royal Thai Armed Forces of the Kingdom of Thailand General Chaisit Shinawatra arrived here on an official visit to Myanmar this morning.

Members of the goodwill delegation led by Supreme Commander of Royal Thai Armed Forces General Chaisit Shinawatra were welcomed at the Yangon International Airport by Vice-Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council Deputy Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Commander-in-Chief (Army) Vice-Senior General Maung Aye, member of the State Peace and Development Council General Thura Shwe Mann of the Ministry of Defence, Commander-in-Chief (Navy) Vice-Admiral Soe Thein, Commander-in-Chief (Air) Lt-Gen Myat Hein, Chairman of Yangon Division Peace and Development Council Commander of Yangon Command Maj-Gen Myint Swe, senior military officers of the Ministry of Defence, Thai Ambassador to Myanmar Mr Suphot Dhirakaosal and Military Attaché Col Prissapa Suvanatat.

Vice-Senior General Maung Aye and General Chaisit Shinawatra went to the dais in the reception hall of the airport and took the salute of the Gurard of Honour.

Vice-Senior General Maung Aye and General Chaisit Shinawatra inspected the Guard of Honour.

General Chaisit Shinawatra and party went to No 1-Tatmadaw Guest House.

YANGON, 1 Feb—Vice-Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council Deputy Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Commander-in-Chief (Army) Vice-Senior General Maung Aye hosted dinner in honour of Supreme Commander of Royal Thai Armed Forces General Chaisit Shinawatra and party at Zeyathiri Beikman on Kon-myinttha here this evening.

Also present at the dinner were Member of the SPDC General Thura Shwe Mann of the Ministry of Defence, Secretary-1 Adjutant-General Lt-Gen Thein Sein, SPDC members Lt-Gen Ye Myint, Lt-Gen Aung Htwe, Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than, Quartermaster-General Lt-Gen Thiha Thura Tin Aung Myint Oo, Chief of Armed Forces Training Lt-Gen Kyaw Win and Lt-Gen Tin Aye of the Ministry of Defence, Commander-in-Chief (Navy) Vice-Admiral Soe Thein, Commander-in-Chief (Air) Lt-Gen Myat Hein, Yangon Division PDC Chairman Yangon Command Commander Maj-Gen Myint Swe, Minister for Foreign Affairs U Nyan Win, senior military officers of the Ministry of Defence, Thai Ambassador to Myanmar Mr Suphot Dhirakaosal, Thai Military Attache Prissapa Suvanatat and officials.

Before and during the dinner, artistes of the Fine Arts Department of the Ministry of Culture entertained those present with songs and, after the dinner, with Myanmar traditional dances and songs.

After the entertainment programmes, the Thai Supreme Commander presented a bouquet to the entertainers, and posed for a documentary photo.

YANGON, 1 Feb—Vice-Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council Deputy Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Commander-in-Chief (Army) Vice-Senior General Maung Aye met Supreme Commander of Royal Thai Armed Forces General Chaisit Shinawatra and party at Zeyathiri Beikman on Konmyinttha here this evening.

Also present at the call were SPDC Member General Thura Shwe Mann of the Ministry of Defence, Secretary-1 Adjutant-General Lt-Gen Thein Sein, SPDC members Lt-Gen Ye Myint, Lt-Gen Aung Htwe, Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than, Quartermaster-General Lt-Gen Thiha Thura Tin Aung Myint Oo, Chief of Armed Forces Training Lt-Gen Kyaw Win and Lt-Gen Tin Aye of the Ministry of Defence, Commander-in-Chief (Navy) Vice-Admiral Soe Thein, Commander-in-Chief (Air) Lt-Gen Myat Hein, Yangon Division PDC Yangon Command Commander Maj-Gen Myint Swe, Minister for Foreign Affairs U Nyan Win, Thai Ambassador to Myanmar Mr Suphot Dhira Kaosal and Thai Military Attaché Col Prissapa Suvanatat.

Before and during dinner, artists of Fine Arts Department entertained the guests.

General Chaisit Shinawatra presented flower basket to the artists and posed for documentary photos with them.

YANGON, 1 Feb— Information Committee of the State Peace and Development Council held a press conference (1/2005) on National Convention which will resume on 17-2-2005, relief works for victims of Tsunami in Myanmar on 26-12-2004 and subversive acts committed by internal and external destructive elements at the Ministry of Information on Theinbyu Road this morning.

Present were Minister for Information Brig-Gen Kyaw Hsan, Deputy Minister Brig-Gen Aung Thein, Deputy Minister for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement Brig-Gen Kyaw Myint, Deputy Minister for Labour Brig-Gen Win Sein, Deputy Minister for Transport U Pe Than, Maj-Gen Khin Aung Myint of the Ministry of Defence, Director-General of Myanmar Police Force Brig-Gen Khin Yi, heads of departments, officials, U Sein Win of Kyodo News Agency, Patron U Hla Htwe, President U Sao Kai Hpa and members of Myanmar Foreign Correspondents Club, staffs of journals and magazines and guests.

First, Minister for Information Brig-Gen Kyaw Hsan clarified matters relating to National Convention which will resume on 17-2-2005. He said: At this press conference today, we, the Information Committee, will clarify matters relating to the National Convention to be reconvened on 17 February 2005; matters relating to losses and casualties caused by the Tsunami which occurred on 26 December 2004 and relief works; and matters relating to destructive acts committed by internal and external destructive elements. First of all, I will clarify matters relating to the reconvening of the National Convention.

As known to you journalists, the National Convention which began in 1993 was temporarily adjourned for various reasons on 31 March 1996. However, the State without losing sight of the establishment of a new democratic nation as desired by the entire national people, reconvened a phase of the National Convention from 17 May to 9 July 2004.

During the period from 1993 to 1996, the National Convention laid down and approved 104 fundamental principles to be based in formulating the State Constitution as well as the basic detailed principles. At the National Convention held from 17 May to 9 July 2004, some basic detailed principles were discussed and coordinated.

Now, it is the time when crops have been harvested, a phase of the National Convention will be reconvened on 17 February 2005. It has been announced by the National Convention Convening Commission.

Invitations have also been sent to National Convention delegates beginning 15 January 2005. The delegates are to report at the Nyaunghnapin Camp not later than 15 February 2005. The list of invited delegates is as follows:

(a) Delegates from political parties — 29

(b) Delegates of representatives-elect — 13

(c) Delegates of national races — 633

(d) Delegates of peasants — 93

(e) Delegates of workers — 48

(f) Delegates of intellectuals andintelligentsia — 56

(g) Delegates of State service personnel — 109

(h) Delegates from 17 armed groups of national races which have returned to the legal fold and other groups — 105

Total — 1086

In so doing, it is learnt that the National Convention Convening Commission has invited those delegates as invited to the National Convention held from 17-5-2004 to 9-7-2004.

The list shows that there are 633 persons invited to the National Convention.

To be exact, there are 41 delegates from Kachin State, 19 delegates from Kayah State, 26 delegates from Kayin State, 13 delegates from Chin State, 61 delegates from Sagaing Division, 15 delegates from Taninthayi Division, 50 delegates from Bago Division, 44 delegates from Magway Division, 56 delegates from Mandalay Division, 37 delegates from Mon State, 36 delegates from Rakhine State, 67 delegates from Yangon Division, 46 delegates from southern Shan State, 39 delegates from northern Shan State, 29 delegates from eastern Shan State, and 54 delegates from Ayeyawady Division totalling 633 delegates.

It shows that delegates from various States and Divisions include in the list. It is also worthy to note that at least one delegate from each township is included in the list.

Moreover, 93 delegates of peasants have been invited and these delegates are from various States and Divisions of the country. Likewise, 29 delegates from political parties as well as 13 delegates of representatives-elect have been invited.

Hence, it shows that the invited delegates include those representing political parties. In addition, 48 delegates of workers, 109 delegates of State service personnel, 56 delegates of intellectuals & intelligentsia and 105 delegates from 17 armed groups of national races which have returned to the legal fold & other groups have been invited. Thus it can be seen that delegates from all walks of life are included in the list.

Personal data of these delegates invited to the National Convention have been collected since the reconvening of the National Convention on 17-5-2004. Of all the 949 delegates, the data show that 15 have acquired doctorate degrees; 54 are post-graduates; 600 are graduates and 280 are diploma holders or those who have passed high school level education.

It shows that 87.4 per cent of the delegates are educated persons.

Although the remianing delegates have not acquired formal education, they are knowlegeable, well-experienced and respected by local populace of respective regions. To put it into a nutshell, the delegates include those who are experienced in political, military, economic, administrative, legislative, judicial and national solidarity affairs.

The delegates who attended the recent National Convention in May 2004 were of eight categories representing masses and classes.

The delegates individually or in groups freely discussed and presented papers. The following papers were submitted at the National Convention in May 2004.

(a) The delegate group of political parties presented seven papers of seven political parties on 24 June 2004.

(b) The delegate group of representatives-elect presented five papers on 28 June 2004.

(c) The delegate group of national races presented a paper on 29 and 30 June 2004.

(d) The delegate group of peasants presented a paper on 1 July 2004.

(e) The delegate group of workers presented a paper on 2 July 2004.

(f) The delegate group of intellectuals & intelligentsia presented a paper on 5 and 6 July 2004.

(g) The delegate group of State service personnel presented a paper on 7 and 8 July 2004.

(h) The delegate group of armed national groups which have returned to the legal fold and other groups presented a paper on 9 July 2004.

As regards the National Convention to be reconvened on 17 February 2005, arrangements have been made for transport, reception and accommodation, health care, welfare, entertainment, communication and sports of the delegates as well as sanitation and keeping the Nyaunghnapin Camp green and pleasant.

In conclusion, I would like to mention that basic detailed principles for sharing the legislative power which were discussed at the previous phase of the National Convention held from 17 May to 9 July 2004, will be approved at the coming phase of the National Convention. Likewise, discussions and coordinations will also be made for formulating basic detailed principles for sharing executive and judicial powers.

Next, the Deputy Minister for Transport U Pe Than clarified Tsunami caused by earthquake at Sea west of North Sumatra on 26 December 2004. He said: On 26 December 2004, an earthquake with magnitude of 9.0 Richter Scale jolted at the bottom of the Sea about 155 miles southeast of Banda Aceh in North Sumatra. The epicenter of the earthquake was between 3 degrees 31 minutes North and 95 degree 97 minute East, off the west coast of North Sumatra. The earthquake occurred at 7:28:53 am local time. Tremors from the earthquake off Sumatra Island were felt in Myanmar at 7:32 am MST. Aftershocks struck in succession for 265 times till 14 January 2005. The northernmost epicenter reached to 13 degree 74 minute North and 92 degree 99 minute East, about 60 miles southwest of Cocogyun. The highest aftershock measuring 7.1 Richter Scale struck at 6 degrees 88 minutes North and 92 degrees 24 minutes East near Nicobar Islands. Habour waves (Tsunami) generated by the aftershock, reached Phuket of Thailand in the East and Somalia of Africa in the West. Active subduction of plate and aftershocks took place between 2 degrees South and 14 degrees North. Aftershocks reached about 60 miles southwest of Cocogyun and survey works are under way to investigate the effects between Cocogyun and Mawton Cape as well as between Mawton Cape and offshore of west coast of Rakhine State.

The aftershocks and Tsunami were felt by Myaybon and Kyaukpyu in Rakhine State; Pyinsalu, Labutta, Ngaputaw and Kaingtaung in Ayeyawady Division; and Palon-tonetone in Taninthayi Division. Only some buildings were affected. Tsunami arrived in Myanmar only with the height of 3 to 7 feet.

As our country is affected by weak Tsunami, loss and casualties caused by the Tsunami were much less. Myanmar sustains lower casualties and damages than other Tsunami-hit countries.

Documentary photos show collapse of buildings caused by the earthquake as well as habour waves at Palon-tonetone and Awgyi near Kawthoung.

A significant point along Rakhine coast was that water level declined for about eight feet before Tsunami. However, no effects were found at Chaungtha and Ngwehsaung beaches as well as at Cocogyun north of Andaman Islands.

After the occurrence of the natural disaster, relief and resettlement works were carried out actively by the Ministry of Social Welfare, Relief & Resettlement and the Ministry of Health in affected States and Divisions. Donations of cash and kind were also received and they were being sent to the affected regions.

Due to three points mentioned below, Myanmar suffered less losses and casualties.

(1) There is a seismic gap between north of Cocogyun to south of Rakhine State. There is less chance for strong earthquake to occur.

(2) The Tsunami sent strongest waves to the east and west parallel to Myanmar coast. In addition, Myeik archipelago serves as a natural barrier to the habour wave.

(3) The geological condition and shoal (shallow sea bottom off the coast) of Myanmar stretching 15 to 20 miles weakened the wave.

UNICEF has also expressed that it was sorry for issuing inaccurate information.

Historical records also show that a strong earthquake with magnitude of 7.9 Richter Scale took place at Nicobar Islands on 31 December 1881 and another earthquake with magnitude of 8.7 Richter scale occurred at Andaman Islands on 26 June 1941.

In short, Tsunami gets stronger and its destructive power increases while approaching the coast. It can come into rivers and creeks as habour wave with the height of 50 to 100 feet and can reach over 3,000 feet inland.

No Tsunami can be predicted and the extent of the consequences of subduction caused by aftershocks is unknown. However, the time when Tsunami will reach the shore can be forecast by calculating the speed and velocity of the wave. In this way, early warning system can be established to avoid heavy loss and casualty.

At present, earthquake warnings are issued by the Meteorology & Hydrology Department under the Ministry of Transport. A significant symbol of Tsunami is sudden decline of water level at shore.

As Tsunami had taken place in the Indian Ocean, the following actions should be taken for the people living at the shore.

(a) To set up early warning system.

(b) To foresee Tsunami when water level at the shore declines suddenly.

(c) To foresee Tsunami when earthquake takes place at sea bottom, when a volcano erupts, when a subduction of plate at sea bottom occurs and when a meteorite falls into the sea.

(d) To move towards higher place when Tsunami is foreseen.

The following preventive measures should be taken by the people living at the shore.

(a) Mangroves should be conserved as a natural barrier to Tsunami as the habour wave comes from the sea.

(b) Buildings should be built off the shoaling space.

(c) If built, buildings should be constructed in conformity with endurance norms for Tsunami.

(d) Educative works should be carried out for those living at the shore.

(e) Communication and transport facilities should be kept ready to move people and things to areas where Tsunami cannot hit.

(f) Supply system of water, food and medicines for Tsunami refugees and security system should be set up.

(g) Tsunami early warning system and moving towards safe areas should be rehearsed region-wise.

(h) Projects for relief works for the dead and the wounded caused by Tsunami should be drawn up.

(i) Relief measures for Tsunami-hit areas should be taken.

(j) The impact of Tsunami in Myanmar and relief works were explained at the workshop held in Beijing, China, on 25 and 26 January 2005 and officials of regional and international organizations and world’s experts approved them.

(k) When Tsunami comes, vessels locating in offshore with the depth of 164 feet and within 21 miles away from the shore are not safe. In the deep sea about 154 miles away from the shore, the wave is only about one foot high. When the information on Tsunami is received and vessels could not have enough time to sail out to the deep sea to have depth of over 164 feet, those on board should leave the vessel and move to higher places inland.

Next, Director-General U Than Oo of Relief and Resettlement Department of the Ministry of SWRR clarified relief works for loss and casualties caused by Tsunami in Myanmar on 26 December 2004. He said: Myanmar’s some coastal regions of Ayeyawady Division, Taninthayi Division, Yangon Division and Rakhine State were hit by tidal waves triggered by the aftershocks with their epicentres in the Andaman Sea following the earthquake that occurred in the Indian Ocean, about one thousand miles northeast of Jakarta, the Republic of Indonesia, at 7 o’clock 32 minutes and 4 seconds in the morning of 26 December 2004. As a consequence, the nation suffered loss of lives and property.

To be exact, the natural disaster left 31 people dead, 41 injured, 517 homes destroyed and 2,145 persons homeless in Ayeyawady Division; eight dead, one injured, 83 homes destroyed and 447 persons homeless in Taninthayi Division; 22 dead but without damage to homes in Rakhine State; and one home damaged in Yangon Division. Totally, Myanmar lost 61 lives, while 42 people were left injured, 601 homes damaged, and 2,592 persons homeless, with a total loss of property valued at about 1,585.56 million kyats.

Immediately after being informed about the disaster, the Government made arrangements for relief works under the guidance of the Head of State. Ayeyawady Division Peace and Development Council Chairman South-West Command Commander Maj-Gen Soe Naing and Minister for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement Maj-Gen Sein Htwa and party together with medical specialists and bringing along relief items and medicines left by helicopter for Tsunami-hit villages in Labutta, Pyinsalu and Ngapudaw Townships and inspected round on 27 and 28 December 2004. The group provided relief aids for the victims and 50,000 kyats each for the dead. The relief items included foodstuff such as rice, edible oil and eggs, clothes, blankets, towels, pans, bowls and warm clothes. The value of cash assistance amounted to 2.455 million kyats and relief items totalled over 5.198 million kyats.

The commander and the minister visited the victims warded in Pyinsalu Township Hospital and provided them with cash and kind. They also met and comforted other Tsunami victims and briefed them on the State’s relief works. The Department of Health too provided medicines, chlorine tablets and pesticides, gave medical treatments to the victims and took preventive measures against outbreak of infectious diseases.

Similarly, a group led by Taninthayi Division Peace and Development Council Chairman Coastal Region Command Commander Maj-Gen Ohn Myint made an inspection tour of the disaster-hit villages in Kawthoung Township on 30 December 2004 and rendered cash assistance of 60 million kyats together with K 1.54 million worth relief items including 180 bags of rice, clothes and foodstuff donated by wellwishers and the Government.

Likewise, a group led by Rakhine State Peace and Development Council Chairman Northern Command Commander Brig-Gen Min Aung Hlaing inspected disaster-stricken villages and townships in Rakhine State and provided 11 emergency relief items worth over 1.1 million kyats to the Tsunami victims.

Commander-in-Chief (Navy) Vice-Admiral Soe Thein together with Yangon Command Commander Maj-Gen Myint Swe, Minister for Agriculture & Irrigation Maj-Gen Htay Oo, Minister for Transport Maj-Gen Thein Swe, Deputy Minister for Social Welfare, Relief & Resettlement Brig-Gen Kyaw Myint and senior military officers, visited Cocogyun in Yangon Division on 30 December 2004. The inspection tour revealed that the region hardly sustained damage with no casualties.

Likewise, Minister for Social Welfare, Relief & Resettlement Maj-Gen Sein Htwa, Minister for Health Dr Kyaw Myint, and directors-general of various ministries, together with WHO, UNICEF and UNDP officials, visited Kawthoung in Taninthayi Division on 14 January 2005. They inspected the Palon-tonetone Bridge and Awgyi Village, which were hit slightly by the tidal waves. The Division lost eight lives with property valued at 173.443 million kyats. They provided necessary assistance for the Tsunami victims. Similarly, groups of UN agencies made field tours of Ayeyawady Division and Rakhine State to witness damages.

The relief works and latest data on damages were informed to the public through newspapers and TV and radio broadcasts. Myanmar did not request any aid or help for Tsunami victims. However, it receives voluntary contributions and donations. The State Peace and Development Council has formed a Committee for providing assistance to the victims and to distribute donated relief items to the victims. The Committee held a meeting on 17 January 2005 and discussed matters on systematic distribution of donated cash and kind. Up to 28 January 2005, donations amounted to US$ 200,000, Myanmar currency 8.1294 million kyats, foodstuff worth K 1.14 million, clothes and medicines worth K 9.43 million, household goods worth K 0.96 million, and 2000 corrugated iron sheets with estimated value of K 4.44 million.

In this context, I would like to clarify points on how donated cash was provided to Tsunami victims in Myanmar.

On 31 December 2004, the Shwekyaung Sayadaw of Singapore donated 1 million kyats, the Indo-Myanmar Merchants 0.5 million kyats and Sri Asia Travel & Tour and Yangon Bodh Gaya Pilgrimage Tour 0.5 million kyats totalling K 2 million. That K 2 million had been handed over to Ayeyawady Division Peace and Development Council.

The Chinese Embassy, Consulate and Chinese businessmen donated K 6.1294 million. The donation was received on 7 January 2005 and distributed to the victims through local authorities. Cash assistance of K 50,000 each was provided to 34 dead persons. Hence, K 1.7 million was given away.

US$ 200,000 donated by China was received on 5 January 2005. A man’s longyi (lower garment) and a man’s vest each were given to 1307 men and two yards of cloth for upper garment and two yards of cloth for lower garment were given to 1285 women. For 601 destroyed houses, 25 corrugated iron sheets each and two tons of timber each were provided for each household. The remaining cash will be spent in providing two bags of rice to each household.

Wellwishers donated 150 bags of rice, 130 bales of used clothes, 31 shirts and 44 women’s garments on 3 January 2005.

These donated items were handed over to the Ayeyawady Division Peace and Development Council on 6 January 2005.

Altogether 650 mosquito nets, 650 blankets, 650 towels and 5400 clothes donated by Thilawa International Port Terminal were received on 7 January 2005. Altogether 10 mosquito nets, 30 blankets, 30 men’s longyis and 30 women’s longyis, 676 bottles of medicines, 206 items of household goods, one bag of rice and ten viss of edible oil donated by Royal Ruby Company were received on 11 January 2005. Altogether 600 alluminium pots (of sizes 6" and 8" in diameter), 300 frying pans and 300 spoons donated by Latterday Saint Charity were received on 23 January 2005. Altogether 75 per cent of these donated items have been sent to Ayeyawady Division, 15 per cent to Taninthayi Division and 10 per cent to Rakhine State. The Latterday Saint Charity donated again 2000 corrugated iron sheets on 27 January 2005. These iron sheets will also be distributed to the victims. On 25 January 2005, UN agencies and international social organizations donated medicines, relief items, rice and foodstuff for the Tsunami victims.

On that occasion, UNICEF Resident Representative Ms Carrol C Long and Representative of World Vision International Mr Roger Walker explained matters on the donations of cash and kind worth US$ 1,358,942 including UNDP’s cash donation of US$ 150,000; WHO’s cash donation of US$ 78,797; UNICEF’s cash donation of US$ 94,963; World Food Programme’s cash donation of US$ 500,000; Humanitarian Service International’s cash donation of US$ 30,000; World Vision International’s cash donation of US$ 505,000; and medicines donated by Support Fund Myanmar. These cash and kind donations are being sent directly to the victims by wellwisher organizations themselves in coordination with local authorities.

Relief Committee Chairman Minister for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement Maj-Gen Sein Htwa went to Pathein in Ayeyawady Division on 28 January 2005 and together with Commander Maj-Gen Soe Naing, he handed over the donations to authorities properly.

The Myanmar Natural Disaster Relief Committee has been formed. Under it, the State/Division level committees, the District level committees and the Township level committees have been formed and assigned duties to take precautionary and preventive measures. When a disaster occurs, relief and resettlement works are carried out and food, clothing and shelter needs of victims are fulfilled by the central level and regional level committees in parallel with the passage of time.

The recent Tsunami hit strongly and the impact was great in Indonesia, Sri Lanka, India, Thailand, Maldives which suffered great loss and casualties. Myanmar sustained less impact due to particular geographical conditions and having unspoilt mangroves and coral islands as well as having uninhabited islands. Another factor was that the wave moved to the East and West strongly but slowly to the North and South. Myanmar is located in the North. The Tsunami victims here have now returned to normal life due to relief works and donations of the Government and local and international wellwishers.

Next, Director-General Brig-Gen Khin Yi of Myanmar Police Force clarified subversive acts committed by internal and external destructive elements. He said: Now, it will be made known to you, journalists, regarding the destructive acts of domestic and foreign saboteurs who are undermining the interests of the country and people.

The events related to these subversive acts had been explained at the previous press conference. Now, the findings of the investigation into these cases will be explained.

In front of Taw Win Restaurant at the corner of Merchant Street and Pansodan Street and in Maha Bandoola Road on 7 January this year, Mr Joseph Theodore Moynahan, a US citizen aged 82, conducted a solo protest that could be detrimental to peace and stability of the country. The security concerned brought him to Zar Chi Win Guest House, where they investigated him. According to the investigation, it is found that the US citizen had a link with Washington-based US Campaign For Burma (USCB).

Further investigation showed that Free Burma Coalition (FBC) had a hand in the protest of foreigners involved in Yangon unrest in 1998. USCB is an organization split from FBC in 2003 and is formed with foreigners and Americans who are against the Myanmar Government. Aung Din is the only Myanmar national. USCB survives depending on the assistance they receive from some members of the US Congress and the Senate.

Those who steer the USCB are Larry Dohrs of Seattle, Washington State, and Stephen Dun, a former KNU member, Simon Billenness of Boston, Massachusetts State, and Jeremy Woodrum of Washington DC. Some students of American University and George Washington University are members who have links with expatriates and destructionists.

Andrew Samet, one of the Board of Members of USCB, had worked as deputy labour minister at the time of the Clinton Administration. It is also known that he was son-in-law of Sibaw Sawbwa and Maha Devi.

As the US citizen’s solo protest was an act of instigating the people to take wrong views upon the Government, action can be taken against him. However, in consideration of his old age and the friendly ties between the two countries, the Government, broad-mindedly sent him back home on 8 January 2005 via Bangkok Airways.

You journalists might have learnt another related news. On the evening of 1 January 2005, some 50 American students led by an US citizen named Boysett came to a refugee camp at Onphan in the other country, made provocative acts and studied destructive works of the destructionists.

As it is known to you all, the destructionists have opened so-called refugee camps in the other country with various reasons. Their motive is to ask for funds in the name of refugees from some foreign countries and organizations to seek their own interests. These have been explained in the previous press conferences. It can be found that the acts of expatriates were merely self seeking.

I will continue to clarify points relating to destructive acts of internal and external destructive elements. On 9 December 2004 at the NDD (National Democracy Development Committee) office in Yonhtaung compound in Maesok of Thailand, Maung Maung Taik of NDD and Phado Aung Than Lay of KNPP met with BBC correspondent Win Myint and NLD (LA) organizer Kyaw Hla. They discussed matters relating to intelligence to be carried out in Myanmar. According to their discussions and collaborations, they arranged to send two saboteurs who have been trained at Bonphaing village of Maesok by a destructive group, to Myanmar through Myawady route in December 2004.

Likewise, former Bakatha (All Burma Student Union) members Thein Win and Min Naing organized some Myanmar nationals working in Thailand illegally to commit terrorist acts in Mawlamyine. They arranged to send explosives through Phayathonsu jungle route to Kyaikmaraw. Together with the two former Bakatha members, four other Bakatha members are operating terrorist acts, disguised as monks at a monastery in Maesok.

The overseas FTU (Myanmar Labour Union) provided cash assistance to Party for New Society and made arrangements for committing terrorist acts in Myanmar in November 2004. The duty to explode bombs and commit subversive acts was assigned to Yan Kyaw (a) Yarma who blew up a cinema hall in Pyu.

Similarly, Min Thein of NLD (LA) based in Maesok, Thailand, paid 8,000 bahts to a Myanmar woman of about 40 years of age for carrying 2 mines to Bago, it is learnt.

Soe Moe Tun of the Vigorous Myanmar Student Army, a terrorist group based in Kanchanaburi of Thailand, took the name of deceased Myint Than (alias) Beda arrived in Ranong via Hsansaphangwe in the first week of January 2005. He arranged to mobilize new recruits. Other three members Ye Thiha, Soe Thiha and Kyaw Soe also arrived Ranong on 7 January and met with a Myanmar national.

In addition, a group led by Ye Thiha (alias) San Naing of Vigorous Myanmar Student Army, with the technical assistance on blowing up explosives of Moe Thee Zun who took part in the 1988 disturbances, sent three saboteurs to Yangon via Myawady, Thanbyu-zayat and Phayathonsu routes with the aim of disturbing the National Convention. Another fact I would like to mention is that pro-democracy citizens of some big nations are providing training to expatriate destructionists to commit terrorist acts in Myanmar.

At a camp near Kyauktaung, six miles north of Maesok, Thailand, a six-week commando training course conducted by a terrorist group began at the end of December 2004. A US citizen and a Briton are conducting training as coaches. Those drop-outs of the training course are to infiltrate to Myanmar for committing terrorist acts. In connection with the movements of internal and external destructive elements, two incidents took place in Myanmar.

The first incident was that at about 6:40 am on 6 January 2005, a hand-made bomb measuring one inch and five centimetres kept in green powder container of one inch by one inch in a card box measuring 5 inches at the back lane of Ward Peace and Development Council Office at #61, Yadana Street, Minyat ward of Myitkyina, Kachin State, exploded. There was no casualty and loss of property. The second incident was that at 6:40 am on 27 January 2005, a bomb exploded at western brick fence of highway bus terminal in Dawei of Taninthayi Division. A six-foot portion of the brick fence was damaged. Consequently at 7 am the same day, another bomb exploded at the western brick fence of Dawei highway bus terminal. There was a hole of about one foot at the bottom of the brick fence. No casualty was caused by the two local-made time bombs.

Moreover, I would like to disclose a review concerning the Vigorous Myanmar Student Army, a terrorist group which has been committing terrorist acts in Myanmar. As you journalists have known, the Vigorous Myanmar Student Army claimed responsibility for the bomb explosion at Zawgyi House in Yangon on 24 December 2004. In connection with this, one Maximilian Wechsler presented a review on the Internet.

He said that the Vigorous Myanmar Student Army while advocating for democracy, is in fact launching terrorist acts as raiding the embassy, hijacking, raiding hospital and planting explosives among the public. Myanmar expatriates cannot deter such terrorist acts openly and some expatriates are abetting and adding fuel to the flame. Indeed, terrorist acts of the Vigorous Myanmar Student Army are not harmful to Myanmar Government but harming the public.

Consequently, NCGUB (National Coalition Government of the Union of Burma) leader Sein Win obtained funds by advocating democracy from some foreign countries and those who do not know well about Myanmar. And he used these funds for his own interests, it is learnt. On 12 January 2005, he distributed instigative letters abroad to raise funds and launch anti-Government activities. On the other hand, he is organizing movements to launch terrorist acts.

Most of Myanmars are earning their livelihood simply by pursuing education and doing businesses. They do not have any intention to oppose the Myanmar Government. Thus although the opposing expatriates are enticing them very hard to make anti-Government acts, their attempts were in vain. That is the reason the opposing expatriates are circulating instigative letters to create misunderstanding against the Government.

The latest news reveals that NCUB secretary Pyithit Nyunt Wai (alias) Maung Maung of FTUB accused Sein Win of deterring his group from getting international contacts and aids. It shows that the expatriates are not in good terms with one another. It is learnt that Pyithit Nyunt Wai (alias) Maung Maung is attempting to form a parallel government as a rival to Sein Win’s group. Pyithit Nyunt Wai is trying hard to get the Prime Minister post in his parallel government. However, some expatriates even in his group do not like him and support his programme. Yet Pyithit Nyunt Wai is bribing some members in his group who are antagonizing him. Pyithit Nyunt Wai and group of NCUB are trying hard for their parallel government to be accepted by other groups. So, they are planning to hold a meeting in February at the border of the other country. It is quite clear that the expatriates are boldly commiting anti-Government activities not in the interests of the nation and the people but in their own.

The terrorist acts, conspiracies and plots of internal and external destructive elements are, in fact, aimed at disturbing stability and security of the nation and the people through various ways and means. They never consider the interests of the nation and the people. Instead they aim only for their own interests and seek chances for their party or group to seize power. Their acts indeed are desperate and terroristic.

Today, a consolidated force of the State, the people and the Tatmadaw is making collective endeavours for crushing all obstacles and destructive elements in view of implementing the seven-point Road Map step by step and successfully holding the National Convention needed as a basis for establishing a peaceful, modern, developed and discipline-flourishing democratic nation, which is the national goal.

Hence, authorities concerned and security members are taking preventive measures to safeguard the State’s infrastructures as well as lives and properties of the people. The public on their part are to be vigilant to expose and prevent destructive and terrorist acts while joining hands with the security forces.

Next, Minister Brig-Gen Kyaw Hsan, Deputy Minister U Pe Than and Brig-Gen Khin Yi replied to queries raised by media persons. The press conference ended at 10 am.

The minister and guests observed documentary photos on National Convention, incidents caused by Tsunami, providing cash and kind to people living in the regions of Ayeyawady and Taninthayi Division hit by Tsunami and subversive acts.

YANGON, 1 Feb — A ceremony to hail the Union Day and support the National Convention took place at Kyauktan Model Village in Mahlaing Township, Meikhtila District, Mandalay Division, this morning.

It was attended by USDA members from Meikhtila District, Meikhtila, Mahlaing, Wundwin and Thazi Townships and villages in the district, members of War Veterans Organization, Women’s Affairs Organizations, Red Cross Society and Auxiliary Fire Brigade and local people totalling 11000.

Meikhtila District USDA Secretary U Saw Htay presided over the ceremony together with Mahlaing Township Maternal and Child Welfare Association Chairperson Daw Ni Ni Lwin, Meiktila District Women’s Affairs Organization Chairperson Daw Khin Win, Mahlaing Township WVO Chairman U Win Myint and U Kyaw Thaung, an elder of the township. Mahlaing Township USDA Executive Daw Win Thida acted as MC and Executive Daw Thanda Tun as co-MC.

First, the MC announced the start of the ceremony and the presiding chairman U Saw Htay delivered a speech.

Next, Mahlaing Township USDA Joint Secretary U Soe Thein, Thazi Township USDA Executive Daw Kyu Kyu Maw and Meiktila District USDA Executive U Khin Maung Zaw tabled their motions, calling on those present to honour the Union Day, and to support the National Convention and rural development tasks being carried out in Meiktila District.

Afterwards, Meiktila District USDA Executive U Khin Maung Zaw presented K 1.8 million for the repair of four schools in Meiktila, Mahlaing, Wundwin and Thazi townships and K 1 million for construction of bio-gas power plant for power supply in Kyauktan Model Village to Mahlaing Township USDA Secretary U Shwe Nan.

Later, the presiding chairman passed resolutions after seeking approval from those present. Then the ceremony ended with the shouting of slogans.

YANGON, 1 Feb—Minister for Industry-1 U Aung Thaung this morning inspected the ECU Battery Charger Project being implemented by the Myanma General and Maintenance Industries near Maha Bodhi Kyaung Street in Hline Township.

Officials reported on work progress, requirements, and assistance. Deputy Minister Brig-Gen Thein Tun gave a supplementary report. The minister provided necessary assistance and called for speedy implementation of the project, and beautifying of the factory and its surrounding areas. The minister viewed snake-bite-proof boots, and other kinds of boots and production process at Shoe Factory No 1. He also visited the Enamel Ware Factory No 1 in Mayangon Township.

YANGON, 1 Feb— Minister for Health Dr Kyaw Myint met Professor Robert C Gallo of the University of Maryland, the United States, currently here to attend the Technical Forum on HIV/AIDS Prevention and Care in the 21st Century organized by WHO at his office this morning.

Also present were Deputy Minister Dr Mya Oo and officials of the ministry.

The professor was accompanied by WHO Resident Representative Dr Agostino Borra.

YANGON, 1 Feb—The National Convention Convening, Invitation and Accommodation Subcomittee held its coordination meeting at the meeting hall-2 of the Defence Services Records Office in Yankin Township here this morning.

It was attended by Chairman of the Subcomittee Commandant of Defence Services Records Office Brig-Gen Myo Myint, the secretary of the Subcommittee and members, officials of the respective subcommittees and others.

In his address, Chairman of the Subcommittee Brig-Gen Myo Myint stressed the need for officials of the Subcommittee to take measures systematically for the convenience of the delegates to the National Convention.

Next, Secretary of the Subcommittee Major Myint Tun reported on work carried out and future tasks.

Later, officials of the subcommittees took part in the discussions.

The coordination meeting ended with the concluding remarks by the chairman.

YANGON, 1 Feb—A ceremony to present cash donated by well-wishers to social organizations recognized by the Social Welfare Department was held at the meeting hall of the Ministry of Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement in Mayangon Township here yesterday.

The ceremony was attended by Minister for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement Maj-Gen Sein Htwa, Deputy Minister Brig-Gen Kyaw Myint, Deputy Minister for Immigration and Population U Maung Aung, OSD Brig-Gen Thura Sein Thaung, directors-general of departments under the ministry and wellwishers.

Minister Maj-Gen Sein Htwa and Deputy Minister Brig-Gen Kyaw Myint accepted the donations and presented certificates of honour to the wellwishers.

The donations included K 2.04 million donated by Daw Kyin Hmwe and family of Sangyoung Township; K 1 million by Daw Mya Yin and family of Mayangon Township; K 300,000 by U Ko Ko Aung-Daw Ni Ni Toe of Hlaing Township; K 200,000 by U Tin Maung Win-Daw Yupa Myint (ILBC); K 100,000 by U San Thein-Daw Tin Tin of Bahan Township; K 50,000 by Dr Soe Thein-Dr Than Nu Shwe (MRD) and K 6,000 by Daw Khin Pyon Yi of Tamwe Township totalling K 3,696,000.

It was the first donation ceremony and the second donation ceremony will also be held. Those wishing to make cash donation may contact the director of the SWD (Tel 662591) or the deputy director (Tel 662586).