The Information Committee of the State Peace and Development Council held the press conference (2/2005) on the arbitrary pressure put on Myanmar by ILO, endeavours of Myanmar in combating the danger of narcotic drug abuse, matters relating to producing and trafficking of narcotic drugs by the SURA insurgent group led by Ywet Sit under cover of Shan State liberation movement and other related matters at the meeting hall of the Ministry of Information on 15 March 2005.
The press conference was attended by Minister for Information Brig-Gen Kyaw Hsan, Minister for Labour and for Science and Technology U Thaung, Deputy Minister for Information Brig-Gen Aung Thein, Deputy Minister for Labour Brig-Gen Win Sein, Maj-Gen Khin Aung Myint of the Ministry of Defence,Director General of Myanmar Police Force Brig-Gen Khin Yi, departmental heads, journalists, U Sein Win of Kyodo News Agency, President of Myanmar Foreign Correspondents Club U Sao Kai Hpa, Secretary U Nyunt Tin and member correspondents, editors of local magazine and journal publishing houses and invited guests.
First, Director-General of Labour Department of the Ministry of Labour U Soe Nyunt made clarification regarding the arbitrary pressure put on Myanmar by ILO.
At this press conference today, I would like to deal first with the one-sided pressure put on Myanmar by ILO siding with expatriate destructionists.
As known to you journalists, some big nations with the aim of manipulating our country through an individual or a party they favour, are fabricating exaggerations and putting one-sided pressure on Myanmar. In order to influence the entire world by advocating democracy and human rights, those big nations are keeping some international organizations in their pockets and making accusations against Myanmar on labour affairs, women's affairs and child conscription.
History stands witness to the fact that since regaining independence Myanmar has not involved in the world's blocs, regional blocs and treaty organizations but remains non-aligned. Our country co-exists and maintains friendly ties with neighbours, other countries in the region and friendly nations while contributing towards stability and development of the region. With no concealment nor deceit, Myanmar maintains ties with honesty and good neighbourliness. It always refrains from interfering in internal affairs of other countries as well as in group disputes. In addition, it always accepts the leadership of the United Nations Organization and abides by international laws and conventions in the international community.
Myanmar became a member of the UN on 19-4-1948 and a member of ILO (International Labour Organization) on 18-5-1948. Regarding the ILO conventions, there are 19 conventions ratified by Myanmar.
Of them, one is “Forced Labour Convention No 29, 1930”. That convention was ratified with effect from 4 March 1955.
Myanmar submits a report on its observance of the convention to the ILO every year. During the period from 1955 to 1988, there were internal strife in Myanmar and the Tatmadaw had to sacrifice lives and blood in launching operations to crush insurgents who were supported by external groups. During that period, under the people’s militia strategy, people's strength was obtained. However, there were no complaints concerning the ILO convention No 29.
After the Tat-madaw had taken over State responsibilities in 1988, some big nations began levelling accusations against and putting pressure on Myanmar with a view to manipulating it at will.
The big nations of the west bloc also used ILO as a political forum to put pressure on Myanmar in order to install their puppet government in power.
The first step in putting pressure politically was that under the influence of the big nations, 25 representatives of ICFTU (International Confederation of Free Trade Unions) accused Myanmar of failure to abide by ILO Convention No 29 and made complaint to take action against Myanmar under Convention No 24.
With the first step taken, they used Maung Maung (a) Pyithit Nyunt Wai as an axe-handle. You journalists have already known who is Pyithit Nyunt Wai. He is a son of NLD CEC member U Nyunt Wai and action was taken against him for loss of gems at Diplomatic Store of Myanma Gems Enterprise in August 1988 while he was discharging duties as a sales manager there. In 1989 he fled to a neighbouring country to escape arrest. Then he disguised himself as a democracy activist.
Maung Maung, forming the FTUB with a couple of members lodged such complaints based on false news.
Such false accusations were not ignored by Myanmar. Our country provided the ILO with facts concerning the accusations in conformity with the procedures of international organizations. However, these facts were ignored.
In 1993 ICFTU lodged a complaint to ILO to take action against Myanmar under Article 24 of the ILO constitution. Myanmar gave replies to ILO with relevant photographs, video records and testimony. Yet it continued to accuse Myanmar.
To continue to arbitrarily put pressure upon Myanmar politically, William Brett, representative of Trade Union of Britain and 24 other representatives made a complaint to take action against Myanmar in connection with forced labour under Article 26 and form an investigation commission in 1996. Myanmar's reply with sound evidences were denied and ILO formed an Inquiry Commission in 1996. The Commission was formed despite the sound reply supported by relevant facts of the Myanmar Government.
In review of Commission's report and recommendations issued in July 1998, it is found that the report is based on fabricated accusations of Maung Maung (a) Pyithit Nyunt Wai of FTUB, terrorist insurgents under the disguise of refugees at the border areas opposing the government.
The Commission urged three points as follows:
(1) to ensure the 1907 Village Act and the 1907 Towns Act to be in conformity with Article 29 not later than 1-5-1999;
(2) to stop all acts of forced labour and promulgate administrative law to inform the public;
(3) to take action against those who practised forced labour under section 374 of Penal Code.
With political commitment to end forced labour and in view of improved conditions in the nation, the Ministry of Home Affairs issued Order No 1/1997 on 14-5-1999 directing the relevant authorities not to exercise the powers under certain provisions of the 1907 Towns Act and the 1907 Village Act.
It showed the goodwill and righteousness of the Government. At the same time, it is similar in essence to the recommendations of the Inquiry Committee. Although Myanmar responded with positive attitude, some big western countries bent on manipulating Myanmar continued to blantantly put arbitrary pressure upon our country.
At the 87th International Labour Conference, the US President addressed the meeting. In his address he blantantly said pressure would be put on Myanmar with added momentum. This became the drive for the ILO to impose sanctions against Myanmar.
At the 87th International Labour Conference in June 1999, Myanmar’s constructive efforts were ignored and a sanction was imposed on Myanmar accusing her of not complying with the resolutions of the Inquiry Commission. The resolution includes the point “To give no aid to Myanmar except the aid for Myanmar to comply with Convention 29 and not to invite Myanmar to meetings, workshops and paper reading sessions sponsored by ILO”.
In this context, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Myanmar rejected it by issuing a Press Release on 17-6-1999. It is mentioned in the Press Release as follows.
“In view of the unfairness of the exercise, its lack of balance and objectivity as well as the underlying political motives, Myanmar finds it impossible to accept such deplorable and unscrupulous action on the part of those nations who want to interfere and meddle in the internal affairs of Myanmar. Myanmar has therefore disassociated herself from this unfair and bias resolution and henceforth will cease participation in activities connected with Convention 29 and Convention 87 until such time that Myanmar receive fair and equitable treatment that must necessarily be accorded to members of the ILO. However, as a responsible member of the international community, Myanmar will continue to comply with the Conventions to which she is a party.
“It is most regrettable that such an august assembly like the ILO should fall victim to the machinations and political tricks of western nations particularly Britain. It demonstrates the complete disregard of these countries to the rules and procedures of the international organization as well as the dignity of these international fora. It is a move which has many dangerous implications for the small and developing countries. It will also dissuade those nations who have not yet signed the ILO core conventions from signing them, much to the detriment of the ILO membership as a whole.”
The Myanmar Government with honesty and positive attitude complied with resolutions of the Inquiry Commission of ILO. However, the other side did not respond with better arrangements, it can be found.
ILO was not satisfied with passing of resolutions. At its 277th Governing Board meeting in the year 2000, ILO unprecedentedly passed unjust resolution to take action against Myanmar under Convention No 33 for not complying with ILO's recommendation.
Myanmar responded it with a Press Release. It is mentioned in the Press release as follows:
“ILO did make such things without reasons to put pressure on Myanmar. It neglected Myanmar's constructive efforts time and again and gave favour to those who have ill-will towards Myanmar. Taking of action by ILO upon Myanmar is very regrettable. Myanmar with sincerity proposed to cooperate with ILO and make discussions. But ILO rejected them all. Thus Myanmar fully rejected the resolution and recommendations of ILO Governing Board to be submitted to the 88th International Labour Conference under Convention 33. Action taken by ILO Governing Board is not fair and absolutely unsound. Hence, Myanmar assumes that the resolution and action of ILO are not concerned with Myanmar. She respects the view of friendly nations that instead of criticising and keeping Myanmar to be lonely, a chance should be given to coordinate for solving the problem. Myanmar in no way can accept the ILO resolution. Myanmar will not get nervous over such pressure and never allow interferences in her internal affairs.”
As Myanmar stood steadfastly in this regard, the 14th ASEAN Labour Ministers' Meeting held in Manila, the Philippines in May 2002, the ASEAN nations issued a joint statement on Myanmar. In the joint statement, it is mentioned that the ASEAN Labour Ministers welcomed the constructive development; and the problem between Myanmar and ILO should be solved through mutual cooperation. The ILO director-general was urged to send a technical co-operation mission of ILO to Myanmar before the 88th Conference.
Consequently, Myanmar received ILO technical cooperation missions beginning early 2000 to improve conditions between ILO and Myanmar concerning Convention 29, to construct mutual trust & understanding between them and to get legal advice.
During the period from May 2000 to February 2005, the ILO expert teams made five visits to Myanmar, the senior official team once and the special high-ranking officers team once.
In October 2000, after discussing with the ILO expert team which made the second visit to Myanmar, the Ministry of Home Affairs issued Supplementary Order to the Order No 1/99 dated 27-10-2000. Moreover, the State Peace and Development Council issued a directive dated 1-11-2000 that not only relevant authorities but also policemen and Tatmadawmen are to abide by the Order 1/99 as well as the Supplementary Order to the Order 1/99.
However, at the 279th meeting of ILO Governing Board of ILO held in November 2000, leader of ILO labour representative Lord Brett mentioned that it was too little too late as there was a little progress in eradicating forced labour in Myanmar; thus action should continue to be taken under Convention 33 in accordance with the resolution of the 88th International Labour Conference. Therefore, the resolution of the 88th ILC came into effect beginning 30 November 2000.
Although ILC imposed sanction on Myanmar, she continued to make efforts to eradicate forced labour with her own strength as she has dedicated herself to do so. Myanmar formed the Ministerial Committee and the Convention No 29 Implementation Committee and made continued efforts. However, ILO suggested that Myanmar's legal, executive and management measures and their effectiveness be assessed objectively; and only if Myanmar cooperated with ILO, Myanmar's progresses in this context could win the credibility and the international community would accept her.
Afterwards under the agreement between Myanmar and ILO, a senior officials team headed by former Governor General of Australia Sir Ninian Stephen visited Myanmar from 17 September to 6 October 2001. The team submitted a report together with four major suggestions to ILO Governing Board.
The first suggestion demanding constant ILO representation to properly assess Myanmar's progress was accepted by Myanmar and an ILO liaison office has been opened in Yangon beginning 6 May 2002.
The second suggestion demanded the appointment of an Ombudsman to take care of complaints on forced labour. Myanmar did not agree to it as the Ombudsman would receive complaints, make inquiries and take action by himself. However, both sides reached agreement to insert a phrase “the role of facilitator” in the Joint Plan of Action.
The facilitator is to review complaints, put forward those he assumes as true to ILO Convention 29 Implementation Committee and make coordinations. Hence, when the Joint Action Plan is implemented the role of facilitator will be included.
As a measure to cooperate with the third suggestion, the General Administration Department under the Ministry of Home Affairs published 168,544 books on the Order No 1/99 and the Supplementary Order to Order No 1/99 in various ethnic languages and distributed them to over 63,000 villages (all villages in Myanmar).
The fourth suggestion deals with provision of assistance to Myanmar's endeavours for economic development with a view to eradicating forced labour. It also urges the international community to maintain constructive relations with Myanmar. In this context, ILO and many countries still need to make economic cooperation with Myanmar.
Afterwards, the ILO director-general wrote a letter to the Labour Minister of Myanmar suggesting that Myanmar should select a region to translate negotiations for eradicating forced labour into action; draw up Plan of Action; and then take further steps in other regions. He also pledged that ILO was ready to give necessary technical assistance.
Accordingly, discussions and coordinations were made with the ILO liaison officer in Yangon for drawing up Plan of Action. In Geneva, the Myanmar Ambassador and ILO Executive Director Mr Kari Tapiola made detailed discussions on matters relating to the role of facilitator. Both sides sign the agreement on 8-5-2003. The Joint Plan of Action was signed in Yangon on 27-5-2003 by the Director-General of Labour Department and the ILO liaison officer. As the Joint Plan of Action has been signed, it is now in the implementation stage. However, at the 91st ILC held in June 2003, based on an incident not related to labour affairs in Myanmar, the ILO unilaterally postponed the implementation.
In delivering an opening address at the ILC, the director-general of the ILO called on Myanmar Government to take immediate action to release Aung San Suu Kyi and her supporters. He also said that appropriate measures be taken for eradication of forced labour as well as for ensuring rights and benefits of the labourers in Myanmar. He also said that recent incident in Myanmar reflected the uncertain conditions. In fact, he delayed the whole process by mixing political affairs with labour affairs.
So, you journalists can vividly see that ILO unilaterally postponed the signing of Joint Plan of Action between Myanmar and ILO.
However, without losing sight of it Myanmar continued to implement the Joint Plan of Action with its own strength and arrangements.
Now I will deal with matters on the visit of ILO special high ranking official team to Myanmar. According to the concluding remarks at the 291st meeting of ILO-GB, the ILO director-general sent a letter dated 12 January 2005 to the Labour Minister of Myanmar expressing the wish to send a special high ranking official team of ILO to Myanmar. The Ministry of Labour replied a letter dated 24 January 2005 to the ILO director-general stating that although it coincided with the reconvening of National Convention, the special high ranking official team will be welcomed and received by the Chief Justice, the Attorney-General and Ministers concerned.
Regarding the visit of the team, coordinations were made between the director-general of Labour Department and the temporary liaison officer of ILO in Yangon on 8 February 2005. In the tentative programme, the reception of the team by the State Peace and development Council Secretary-1 was included.
The ILO special high-ranking official team headed by former Governor-General of Australia Sir Ninian Stephen comprising two members arrived in Yangon on 21 February 2005. It was received by the State Peace and Development Council Member and Prime Minister (Head of Government) whose rank is higher than the Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council. The team also met with the Labour Minister and the Foreign Affairs Minister.
In fact, Myanmar accepted the visit of the ILO special high-ranking official team as a token of cooperation with ILO. The team was received by the Prime Minister who is Head of Government as well as Member of the State Peace and Development Council. Thus, his status is politically high. Myanmar Government assumes that his reception of the team on behalf of the State Peace and Development Council is quite sufficient.
Myanmar has been busy with reconvening of the National Convention and the high authorities are also fully occupied. The ILO team assumed that it could not accomplish the mandate of GB, shortened the itinery by itself and left Yangon on 23-2-2005 evening.
Then, the ILO team issued a press release demanding certain points to be fulfilled by Myanmar Government. Its demand and Myanmar's actual fulfilments are displayed on respective boards.
By reviewing cooperation between Myanmar and ILO, it can be seen that Myanmar is a member executing its obligations and the ILO has been ignoring Myanmar's fulfilments. Instead, it is putting pressure on Myanmar again and again.
Myanmar is a sovereign nation and it has the right to shape its destiny itself. In harmony with the actual conditions of the country, the Government and the people in Myanmar are unitedly striving hand in hand for the betterment of the entire citizens. Since 1991, ILO has been accepting one-sided complaints from ICFTU and, without asking for clarifications from Myanmar or forming inquiry commission, it is putting pressure on Myanmar by imposing sanctions through ILO-GBs and Conferences.
ILO's demands based on political matters Myanmar honestly and frankly replied to reflecting its actual conditions. Matters relating to eradicating forced labour pointed out by the ILO have never been neglected by Myanmar. It constantly replies to and reacts to the complaints in accordance with the obligations of a member country.
However, ILO is not a political forum but it has been used as a boxing ring and powerful nations and organizations are attacking and putting pressure on Myanmar which is just a developing country. This should be realized by the journalists and the entire people as well as the developing contries.
Myanmar has respected international organizations in line with its obligations. However, ILO does not consider the interest of over 54 million people of Myanmar and it has been supporting FTUB (Federation of Trade Union-Burma) led by expatriate terrorist Maung Maung (a) Pyithit Nyunt Wai.
Maung Maung absconded to a neighbouring country in 1989 as fugitive and joined Da-nya-ta (the so-called united front for democracy) of expatriates. Then he had been committing terrorist acts continuonsly. To conceal his moral decay and to attack the Government from inside and outside the country, he contacted western organisations and formed the FTUB (Federation of Trade Union-Burma). The one who made Maung Maung somebody under the flag of FTUB was an American named John Osolink Jr of AAFLI (Asian American Free Labour Institute) based in Bangkok. If a terrorist absconder is supported officially, critics would emerge in international community. Thus, they made Maung Maung to wear the mask of FTUB and kept him under their influence.
What has Maung Maung done under the disguise of FTUB? He committed terrorist acts together with Da-nya-ta secretary Than Lwin. He sent Myo Aung Thant and Khin Kyaw to Myanmar in June 1997 to explode mines at foreign embassies and strategic places in Yangon. Authorities concerned arrested Myo Aung Thant and Khin Kyaw. Their confessions before the court and evidences revealed that the one who masterminded the plot to explode mines was Maung Maung (a) Pyithit Nyunt Wai. Hence, the court heard the case and approved Maung Maung as a fugitive under section 122 (2) of Penal Code and section 512 of Criminal Procedure Law on 15-8-1997.
Similarly, a case was filed at a Yangon North District Court against nine persons including terrorist Nai Yekkha who was arrested with explosives in July 2003. Of the culprits, Shwe Mann (a) Zeya Oo and Nai Min Kyi (a) Min Kyi confessed that Maung Maung (a) Pyithit Nyunt Wai provided financial assistance and asked them to commit atrocities.
Maung Maung who engineers terrorist acts is given shelter under the signboard of FTUB. His fabricated complaints to ICFTU are put up to ILO.
We have clarified with sound evidences that Pyithit Nyunt Wai has been financing elements to commit terrorist acts in Myanmar and sending saboteurs with explosives to Myanmar time and again.
There are 11 conventions ratified by Myanmar. Of them, one is “International Convention for Suppression of Terrorist Bombing” and another is “International Convention for Suppression of Financing of Terrorism”.
As mentioned above, Pyithit Nyunt Wai has been committing terrorist acts. According to the article 3 of constitution of ILO, the ILO can be attended by governmental delegates, employers and labour representatives only. In the text of standing order article 2 issued by the ILO, it is stated in detail the Rights of Admission to the Sittings of the Conference. However, terrorist fugitive Pyithit Nyunt Wai has been allowed to attend the ILO meetings. It is contrary to ILO's articles and orders. It is just putting a terrorist on the limelight or glare of publicity.
Myanmar is a member of ILO as well as a member of the UN. The article 2 (7) of the UN Charter states that UN has no right to interfere in the cases which are within the judiciary power of a member country. To have ties with the UN, the ILO has signed the agreement between UN and ILO. According to an article of the Agreement, UN recognizes ILO as a special agency. Thus, it is incumbent upon ILO to abide by UN Charter. ILO's putting pressure on Myanmar shows that ILO is neglecting the article 2 of UN Charter and interfering in the internal affairs of Myanmar.
In the Preamble and Annex (Declaration concerning the aims and purpose of the ILO) of the ILO constitution, it is mentioned that ILO is formed to deal with labour affairs only.
It is not appropriate for ILO to support any terrorist opposing an incumbent Government as the terrorist is labelled with ILO logo. Hence, ILO's lop-sided criticism and actions against Myanmar are not in conformity with ILO's constitution.
Myanmar is a developing country and trying hard to stand on its own feet despite many restrictions and difficulties. Myanmar has been cooperating sincerely with ILO as regards many spheres including eradication of forced labour.
The ILO, an international organization, tried to take action unprecedentedly in its 87 years against Myanmar under article 33 is not fair. Is it a true action of ILO which usually gives priority to cooperation?
Myanmar has been cooperating and complying with ILO. But it tried to take action against Myanmar under article 33 unprecedentedly. Other developing countries are to be aware of this.
Myanmar people have the tradition of contributing voluntary labour with religious faith. Eradication of forced labour affects this tradition. As some do not understand the tradition of Myanmar, we have to suffer traditional cultural loss.
In ratifying a convention, all member countries have obligation to promulgate it in local laws. After that there are two portions — law and practice. In ratifying Forced Labour Convention No 29, Myanmar has complied with law promulgation and practice.
In implementing law promulgation and practice, Myanmar lays emphasis on the rule of law. Action is taken against all violators without bias.
ILO is also responsible for ensuring full employment in member countries. ILO which is responsible for solving unemployment problems should not make efforts to harm the interest of labourers.
In connection with Convention No 29 of ILO, the USA imposed trade sanction against Myanmar. Consequently, over 160 garment factories had to be closed and about 40 factories laid off workers. Thus over 80,000 workers lost jobs. It affacted over 400,000 dependants of the workers who lost their jobs.
It indirectly harms service enterprises, rents of apartments & hostels, restaurants, transport enterprises, etc. The demand of workers who lost jobs also declined. The employers had to pay over K 1,200 million and over FEC 80,000 as compensations. The individual demand also declined.
Myanmar has been endeavouring for ensuring prevalence of peace and tranquillity; bringing about development in all regions including border areas; and promoting health and education standards of the entire national people. There is no reason for Myanmar not to be able to make efforts for eradicating forced labour. Over 54 million people of Myanmar know well how the Government has been fulfilling the needs of citizens.
In Myanmar, there are many regions which lagged behind in development due to various reasons throughout successive periods. To narrow down the development gaps, the Government is making concerted efforts. Due to the correct and noble deeds of the Government, participation of the national people and helpful hands rendered by NGOs, development of all the regions are being brought about. Instead of rendering a helpful hand, ILO's schemes and plots are not in conformity with the status and dignity of an international organization. Nevertheless, Myanmar has been exerting efforts with full political commitment for eradicating forced labour and it will continue to cooperate with ILO. With or without help from any organization, Myanmar will continue to strive for serving the interests of the nation and the people.
Next, Brig-Gen Khin Yi made clarifications on drug eliminiation efforts and cooperation with international community. At this Press Conference, I will explain matters relating to endeavours of Myanmar in combating the danger of narcotic drug abuse.
In Myanmar, cultivation of opium began in border areas of Shan State during the period while the country was under the rule of colonialists. In Myanmar, anti-narcotic drug campaign has been launched as a national duty throughout successive periods.
In so doing, the Tatmadaw launched Operation Moe Hein phases 1 to 12, Operation Ngayepan phases 1 to 8, Operation Taungyanshin phases 1 to 4, Operation Taunghteikpan and Operation Aung Moe Hein before 1988. After 1988, Operation Mone Kyut and Barkyan battles were launched to crush opium smuggling gangs. To gain such achievements, we had to sacrifice many lives and properties.
During the anti-drug operations from September 1988 to 1998, altogether 259 Tatmadaw members sacrificed their lives and 937 were wounded. No country has sacrificed such loss and Myanmar alone did so.
The drug menace was crushed with momentum. Seized drugs are incinerated or destroyed at the International Anti-drug Day every year and so far 18 such ceremonies to destroy narcotics have been held. The volume and quantity of narcotic drugs destroyed in those 18 destruction ceremonies are displayed on boards. Opium growing areas are located in northern and eastern Shan State. In the past, these areas were insurgent areas and the Government's law enforcement hardly reached there. At present, 17 armed groups have returned to the legal fold, joining hands with the Government in serving the interests of the Union with full conviction and conscientiousness. As a result, opium growing acreage decreased and opium production declined. The socio-economic lives of the former opium growers have also been enhanced.
In Myanmar, the Government has been implementing the 15-year narcotic drugs elimination plan since 1999-2000. The 15-year plan is divided into three 5-year plans. Up to 2003-2004, the first five-year plan had been implemented successfully. In the first five-year plan period, the momentum of suppression work was raised and beginning April 2002 the New Destiny Project for annihilating narcotic drug production was launched.
Under the New Destiny Project, the Government distributed opium-substitute crop seeds to former opium growers. In addition, for enabling them to give up opium cultivation, the Government distributed 11,000 bags of rice and 300 bags of salt. In response to the goodwill of the Government, the former opium growers handed over poppy seeds to the Government. These poppy seeds were set on fire in States and Divisions for 11 times. Altogether 16,372 kilos of poppy seeds were destroyed and it can be said that 4057 hectares were prevented from being put under poppy and production of 44 tons of heroin was also prevented.
Hence, in recognition of the accomplishments of the New Destiny Project, World Food Programme and international NGOs provided 760 tons of rice in the year 2003 and 4269 tons of rice in the year 2004.
According to the world drug report of UNODC, Myanmar produced estimated amount of 1897 tons in 2001; 828 tons in 2002; 810 tons in 2003; and 370 tons in 2004. It shows the decline in production thanks to the effective elimination work. Such a drop in production was the result of effective elimination work.
Similarly, the joint survey by USA's Counter Narcotic Center (CNC) and our country on poppy cultivation and opium production is made annually. In 1996 there were 163,000 hectares of poppy cultivated area with the production of 2560 tons of opium. In 2004, there were 30,888 hectares of poppy cultivated area with the production of 292 tons of opium. It shows the remarkable success.
In review of data from 1996 to 2004, it can be found that elimination work was successful. In the 2002-2003 poppy cultivation season, 1560 acres of poppy cultivated areas were destroyed. In the 2003-2004 poppy cultivation season, 7610 acres of poppy cultivated areas were destroyed. In this 2004-2005 poppy cultivation season, 8951 poppy cultivated areas have been destroyed.
As regards the seizure of narcotic drugs, altogether 1863 kilos of opium were seized in 2002; 1481 kilos in 2003 and 606 kilos in 2004. As of March this year, 304 kilos of opium have been seized.
Heroin seizures can be seen as 334 kilos in 2002; 568 kilos in 2003 and 974 kilos in 2004. As of March 2005, about 37 kilos of heroin have been seized. Since 1991 to date, altogether 148 opium refineries have been exposed and destroyed. Altogether nine opium refineries were destroyed in 2002; seven in 2003 and two in 2004.
Seizures of stimulant tablets began in 1996. Stimulant tablets were seized every year. Altogether 9.4 millions of stimulant tablets were seized in 2002; 4 million pills in 2003; 8.4 million pills in 2004 and 0.74 million pills as of March 2005. Machines for producing stimulant tablets have been also seized every year since 1998. So far altogether 20 stimulant pill producing machines have been destroyed. The list of seizures of narcotic drugs year by year are put on display on the nearby boards. In producing narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances, essential ingredients are chemicals. Chemicals are essential in producing heroin as well as stimulant pills. Hence, control of chemicals is important in drug abuse control activities. Accordingly, the Ministry of Home Affairs promulgated a bye-law on restricted chemical supervision on 1 July 2004. In fact, chemicals are not produced in Myanmar. They are officially imported from neighbouring countries for industrial use. Under the bye-law, 25 kinds of chemicals used in producing narcotic drugs are prohibited from import, export, transportation, distribution, sale and consumption.
Training courses with the aids of video records on investigation of smuggling of these chemicals and exposing of illegal laboratories were conducted under the aegis of UNODC in China, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines. The seizures of chemical liquids were 26440 litres in 2002; 36904 litres in 2003; 17971 litres in 2004; and 2546 litres as of March this year. Normally, chemical liquids are seized abundantly in raiding opium refineries.
Under the UNODC’s coordination for anti-drug control in the Sub-region, the MoU was signed between Myanmar, China, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam and it is under implementation. The senior officials’ meeting regarding the MoU is held annually and the ministerial meeting every two years. According to the resolutions of MoU meetings and in conformity with the Sub-regional Action Plan of UNODC, narcotic drugs elimination work, demand reduction work and supply reduction work are carried out effectively. In this way, efficiency of officers involved in the anti-drug activities and law enforcement bodies has been enhanced and mutual trust and cooperation among neighbouring countries and anti-drug forces were promoted.
Myanmar has signed agreements with India, Bangladesh, Vietnam, Russian Federation, Laos and the Philippines. Myanmar has also signed MoUs on drug abuse control with China and Thailand. The Sino-Myanmar MoU on joint drug-abuse control was signed on 21-1-2001 in Yangon. According to the MoU, it was agreed to carry out cultivation of poppy-substitute crops, livestock breeding work and regional development works in northern Shan State (Kokang region). Under the border area drug control plan of Myanmar, China and UNODC, border meetings were held and Border Liaison Offices were opened in Chinshwehaw of northern Shan State and Lweje of Kachin State. Information is being exchanged between the two countries. The Myanmar-Thai MoU on joint drug-abuse control was signed in June 2001. Under the MoU, border meetings are held and information exchanged. In addition, under the six-nation transnational drug related crimes suppression project, border liaison offices have been opened in Tachilek, Myawady and Kawthoung.
To enhance cooperation with neighbouring countries such as China, Thailand and Laos, Myanmar is making arrangements to open more border liaison offices in Monekoe of northern Shan State and Wankyin of eastern Shan State.
Significant case was that information was received that stimulant pills would be trafficked in Tachilek on 17 January this year. Those pills would be sold only to a Thai citizen, it was learnt. Co-operation was then made between Tachilek special anti-drug squad and Thai anti-drug unit. The Thai anti-drug unit made a Thai informer to pretend as a customer for trapping the sellers. Hence, 400,000 stimulant pills worth about 800 million kyats were seized from back cabin of white Toyota Corolla saloon with no official license together with driver Aik San (alias) Aik Kyaing in the compound of Pay Li at Tawkawt Atwin village, Hawnleik village-tract, Tachilek Township. Further search of the house led to the seizures of 3 pistols with 3 magazines, 53 bullets, 1 Remington long-barrel gun with 9 bullets and 470 stimulant tablets. It was the result of cooperation between the Myanmar and Thai anti-drug squads.
On 14 January 2005, a Taiwanese named Linzinmin was searched at the Yangon International Airport before departure and 12 packets of heroin weighing 0.619 kilo (worth 48.7 million kyats) hidden in his underwear, trousers and shoes were seized. Further information led to the arrest of another Taiwanese named Chu Tae Wai at Grand Plaza Park Royal Hotel. Altogether 3 blocks and 4 packets of heroin weighing 0.85 kilo (worth K 68 million) were also seized from him.
Further information led to the seizure of 178 kilos of stimulant ice hidden in 396 finished timber rods to be exported. Further interrogation to Taiwanese named Ah Chin (alias) San Sin Chin led to the search of the house of Sai Nyi Nyi Lwin in Shwepyitha Township on 27-1-2005. Altogether 15.28 kilos of heroin (worth 1222.4 million kyats) hidden in sanitation tank were seized.
On 10-2-2005, altogether 2.8 kilos of heroin (worth about 224 million kyats) were seized from a baggage of a Taiwanese named Lin Wai Lia before his departure for Taipei from Yangon. Further information led to the seizure of 2.82 kilos of heroin (worth 225.6 million kyats) from a porcelain urn in Kwanyinsi temple in Shwenantha ward, Bahan Township. These facts are mentioned to reflect the endeavours of Myanmar in anti-drug campaign in cooperation with international community.
Next, Brig-Gen Kyaw Hsan made clarifications. He said:
At this Press Conference, I will make a wind up clarification. It is common knowledge for journalists that the Government has seriously accepted the narcotic drug eradication programme as a national task. Throughout the past successive years till now, it has been launching the effective alternative crops plantation and drug eradication projects, and cooperating with global countries including its neighbours. The data and facts presented at the press meet and the data shown on boards here indicate the extent of endeavours the Government has made and the blood, sweat and lives it has sacrificed in the anti-drug drive. And these facts reflect how much success we have achieved.
Although the Government is striving to annihilate the drug menace, the SURA insurgent group led by Ywet Sit with its base at the border area are producing and trafficking narcotic drugs under cover of Shan State liberation movement. You journalists might have read the news on seizures of heroin produced by that group in the other country near the border. The Government is crushing terrorist acts of the insurgents who are harming the stability, peace and development of the country. At the same time, the Government is also suppressing the production and trafficking of narcotic drugs. However, it is regrettable to see that some NGOs and some groups are stealthily encouraging and supporting drug-trafficking insurgents like Ywet Sit.
I would like to mention some points on the acts of Ywet Sit and his connections. With a view to making political cooperation, SSA (Shan State Army) and SSNA (Shan State National Army) which have returned to the legal fold have made contacts with an legal political party, SNLD (Shan Nationalities League for Democracy) since 1996. In 1996, SNLD chairman U Khun Tun Oo visited SSA headquarters at Sein Kyawt and held discussions on politics, development and cultural matters with U Hsay Htin and officials of SSA and SSNA. Then, SSJAC (Shan State Joint Action Committee) made up of SSA, SSNA and SNLD was formed in 1996. In fact, it was formed with the aim of making cooperation for development, literature and cultural affairs as well as making political cooperation. SSJAC is consist of SNLD chairman U Khun Tun Oo as chairman, U Hsay Htin as vice-chairman, U Kan Ywet of SSA as secretary and U Lwe Maung of SSA as member. After the death of U Kan Ywet, U Sai Nyunt Lwin became secretary of SSJAC. Afterwards, SSPC (Shan State Peace Council) was formed in 1996 by SSA and SSNA in accordance with the coordinations of SSJAC. The list of SSPC chairman, vice-chairman, secretary and members has been put on boards for the journalists to study. The major aim of SSPC is to avoid fighting each other but to act in coordination among all including insurgent groups in political affairs.
Plans were then drawn to form three military divisions under SSPC to see that there was no fighting with existing insurgent groups such as KNU, ABSDF, KNPP led by U Khuhtair Bupe and U Aung Than Lay as well as with former armed groups which have returned to the legal fold. The Government did not recognize the formation of SSPC as its formation is not in line with conditions set at peace negotiations and it was to have alliance with remaining insurgent groups. North-East Command Commander Maj-Gen Myint Hlaing informed the personnel concerned that the Government did not recognize the formation of SSPC.
On 13-9-1996, SURA leader Ywet Sit arrived at Sein Kyawt and signed a tripartite agreement of SSA, SSNA and SURA. Col Sai Naung of SSA and Col Kam Ywet of SSNA also signed the agreement. Based on SSPC, SSNO (Shan State National Organization) was formed as a sole organization and SSA was designated as a sole Shan State Army.
On 7-3-2005, Ywet Sit group issued a statement as regards the seizure of heroin from a member of drug trafficking group of Ywet Sit by Thai authorities. In the statement, Ywet Sit denied that heroin and traffickers were related with RCSS and SSA. It can be witnessed that Ywet Sit used the name SSA instead of his original group SURA. It shows that Ywet Sit is the one with SSA. The statement is displayed on nearby boards.
Moreover, Ywet Sit's group has formed the 15-member RCSS (Restoration Council of Shan State) with Ywet Sit as chairman, Sai Aung Mat as vice-chairman, Sao Hsay Sam as secretary, Sai Htai as joint secretary, Sai Tha Oo as treasurer, Sai Ouk Kyaw as military leader and Sao Wein Mein as organizer. The set-up of SSPC, SSJAC and RCSS are shown on boards.
Now, I would like to explain matters relating to the Shan State Intellectuals Advisory Council.
On 4-11-2004, the SSA (North) marked the 15th anniversary of attaining peace at Sein Kyawt village in Hsipaw Township, Shan State. It was attended by representatives of peace groups such as SSA, SSNA; SNLD chairman U Khun Tun Oo and secretary Sai Nyunt Lwin, representatives of Joint Action Committee and U Myint Than and members of New Generation (Shan State) group and other invited persons. SNLD Chairman U Khun Tun Oo presided over the meeting and all those present agreed to form the Shan State Intellectuals Advisory Council. The formation committee was then formed.
On 6-11-2004, a day after the set up of the formation committee, its first meeting was held at SSA headquarters in Sein Kyawt village. The meeting decided that the Shan State Intellectuals Advisory Council must be formed not with chairman, secretary, etc and U Myint Than was to lead the entire programme.
After that, the second meeting was held on 22-12-2004 at the house of SSA patron U Hsay Htin on Myawady Street in Lashio. At the meeting the Shan State Intellectuals Advisory Council was formed. The members were:
1. U Khun Pan (representative of SSA (North), Phayaphyu village, Taunggyi)
2. U Sao Oo Kya (representative of SSNA, Hsipaw)
3. U Myint Than (New Generation Shan State)
4. U Kyaw Win (Inntha) (New Generation Shan State)
5. U Ba Thin (New Generation Shan State)
6. Sai Kham Hseng (Lashio)
7. Dr Sai Mauk Kham (Lashio)
The second meeting also urged peace groups from Shan State who were to attend the National Convention to discuss seriously matters on the emergence of a genuine Union and a democratic nation.
The third meeting was held on 7-2-2005, the Shan State Day. The meeting was sponsored by the following persons.
1. U Hsay Htin
2. U Ba Thin (New Generation Shan State)
3. U Shwe Ohn (former defunct of liquidated Shan Nationalities League for Democracy)
4. U Myint Than ( New Generation Shan State)
5. U Nyi Moe (New Generation Shan State)
6. U Myo Win Tun (New Generation Shan State)
7. U Tun Nyo (New Generation Shan State)
8. U Sai Hla Aung (SNLD central committee member)
9. U Tha Oo (SNLD member)
At the meeting, SSA leader U Hsay Htin delivered an address. U Shwe Ohn supported the formation of the council. Next, “Declaration of Shan State Intellectual Advisory Council”, “Declaration of New generation (Shan State)” and “Declaration of Student Youths” were read. Then, the Shan State Intellectuals Advisory Council was reconstituted with the following persons:
1. U Khun Pan (representative of SSA, Taunggyi)
2. Sao Oo Kya (representative of SSNA, Hsipaw)
3. U Myint Than (New Generation group, Taunggyi)
4. U Ba Thin (New Generation group, Taunggyi)
5. U Kyaw Win (Inntha) (New Generation group, Taunggyi)
6. Dr Sai Mauk Kham (Lashio)
7. U Sai Kham Hseng (Lashio)
Although the Shan State Intellectuals Advisory Council was formed, it was manipulated by U Hsay Htin, U Khun Tun Oo, U Sai Nyunt Lwin, U Myint Than, U Nyi Moe, U Myo Win Tun, U Tun Nyo, U Sai Hla Aung, U Tha Oo and U Shwe Ohn.
In addition, objectives have been laid to form other advisory councils in the remaining six states as well as other advisory committees in the remaining seven divisions. After the meeting, a dinner was held at Sein Taungdan restaurant in Taunggyi. It was hosted by SSA group. At the dinner, the Shan State Day commemorative Declaration of Shan State Intellectuals Advisory Council; Declaration of New Generation Students (Shan State) group; and Declaration of New Generation (Shan State) were distributed. (Those declarations are shown on boards).
The Declaration of New generation (Shan State) urges that it was the first step taken to enable Shan State to shape its own destiny. It also calls on all nationalities to unitedly participate.
In review of the above-mentioned combination, aims and declaration of SSA, SSNA, SURA, SNLD and Shan State Intellectuals Advisory Council, it is found that the Union will be formed with the emphasis on a genuine Union. The genuine Union means the Union made up of eight states namely Kachin state, Kayin state, Kayah state, Chin state, Mon state, Rakhine state, Shan state and Bamar state which will be made up of the existing seven divisions. The entire national people might be misled by the beautiful wording “Genuine Union”. In fact, they aimed to form a nominal Union and later secede from the Union.
The activities of the groups are very dangerous to the stability of the State, national solidarity and it will lead to disintegration of the Union.
Since taking over State responsibilities, the Government has been upholding Our Three Main National Causes — Non-disintegration of the Union; Non-disintegration of National Solidarity and Perpetuation of Sovereignty — as a policy and carrying out nation building tasks. At the same time, seven-step Road Map has been laid to introduce multi-party democracy system desired by the entire people. Hence, the Government has been effectively deterring and taking action against those activities detrimental to Our Three Main National Causes.
Thus, 4 members of New Generation Shan State, U Hsay Htin and 2 members of SNLD were detained on 8-2-2005; and SNLD chairman U Khun Tun Oo and secretary U Sai Nyunt Lwin on 9-2-2005. U Shwe Ohn who played a major role has been kept under house arrest. The rest who attended the meeting did not know their aim in advance. They attended the meeting as they were invited. They did not practically take part in the discussions. Hence, action was not taken against them.
Furthermore, I would like to explain matters relating to ILO. As clarified by Director-General of the Ministry of Labour U Soe Nyunt, the Government with genuine goodwill and sincerity has been cooperating at its utmost with ILO.
In 1991, 25 labour representatives of ICFTU (International Confederation of Free Trade Unions) complained that Myanmar failed to observe Convention No 29 and action should be taken action against it under article 24 of ILO constitution.
Regarding this, Myanmar gave replies on prevailing situations to the ILO in accordance with the procedures of an international organisation. However, ICFTU complained in 1993 to ILO to take action against Myanmar under article 24. Myanmar again explained to ILO with evidences of photos, video documents and testimony.
Then, labour representative William Brett representing ICFTU and other 24 representatives with the aim of putting pressure on Myanmar politically instead of labour affairs, complained to the ILO that there had been forced labour in Myanmar and an inquiry commission be formed under article 26. Myanmar replied with facts and figures. ILO neglected the explanation and formed an inquiry commission in 1997.
With political commitment to put an end to forced labour in the country, Myanmar Government issued a directive dated 14-5-1999 in order not to practise the 1907 Towns Act and the 1907 Village Act. Such efforts are in conformity with the recommendations of the inquiry commission in essence.
Although Myanmar has been cooperating with sincerity, the ILO neglected it and put pressure on Myanmar again and again.
In the latest development, ILO proposed to send a high-ranking official team to Myanmar. Myanmar accepted the proposal and replied that the Chief Justice, the Attorney-General and ministers concerned would receive the ILO team. In the tentative programme of the visit of the ILO team, it was arranged to receive the team by State Peace and Development Council Secretary-1 in addition to the above-mentioned personnel. When the ILO team arrived, it was received not only by the Foreign Affairs Minister and the Labour Minister but also by State Peace and Development Council Member and the Prime Minister.
In review of the incidents properly, ILO neglected the actual conditions and endeavours of Myanmar. Its consideration was not based on the aspirations and activities of over 54 million of Myanmar people and local NGOs representing the people. But ILO's consideration was based on fabrications of FTUB including a handful of expatriates and insurgents at border areas.
FTUB (Free Trade Union of Burma) was formed by Maung Maung (a) Pyithit Nyunt Wai. To be able to form FTUB and to get access to ICFTU, he was assisted by an American named John Osolink Jr of Asian American Free Labour Institute with his office based in Bangkok. It can be seen what is their motive.
Maung Maung (a) Pyithit Nyunt Wai is a son of NLD CEC member U Nyunt Wai. While serving as a sale manager of Myanma Gems Corporation at Diplomatic Store, action was taken against him for loss of gems. He was a corrupted service person. He absconded to a neighbouring country as a dissident in 1989 and stayed in disguise of politician.
Maung Maung joined Da-nya-ta which is made up of expatriates. He has then been committing terrorist acts. Maung Maung in collusion with Da-nya-ta secretary Than Lwin sent Myo Aung Thant and Khin Kyaw with explosives to Yangon to assassinate State Leaders and blow up foreign embassies and important places. Before the court, Myo Aung Thant and Khin Kyaw confessed that Maung Maung (alias) Pyithit Nyunt Wai manipulated the scheme.
Hence, the court heard the case and declared Maung Maung (alias) Pyithit Nyunt Wai as fugitive on 15-8-1997 under section 122(2) of Penal Code and section 512 of Criminal Procedure Law.
Similarly, nine persons including Nai Yekkha arrested with explosives in July 2003 were filed a case at Yangon North District Court. Of them, Shwe Mann (alias) Zeya Oo and Nai Min Kyi (alias) Min Kyi confessed that they were provided with monetary assistance by Maung Maung (alias) Pyithit Nyunt Wai. Thus, it can vividly be seen that Maung Maung (alias) Pyithit Nyunt Wai is a fugitive insurgent terrorist.
The false information given by FTUB which is led by such fugitive terrorists are none other than fabrications.
Similarly, fabricated news given by a handful of expatriate dissidents and a fistful of insurgents at border areas cannot be true.
True information and actual situations can be found amidst over 54 million of the people. Authentic news and true facts can be obtained from local NGOs representing the majority of the people. ILO should consider and review the information.
And ILO is allowing Maung Maung (alias) Pyithit Nyunt Wai who is a terrorist dissident to attend ILO meetings. It is like putting a terrorist on the limelight or glare of publicity.
Next, Ministers Brig-Gen Kyaw Hsan and U Thaung and Director-General Brig-Gen Khin Yi gave answers to queries raised by the journalists. The press conference concluded at 5.15 pm. Journalists viewed the data, facts and photos displayed there.