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Speech by H.E General Khin Nyunt,
Prime Minister of the Union of Myanmar
on the Developments and Progressive Changes
in Myanmar Naing-ngan
30-8-2003
I would like to first of all wish all the responsible members of
the State, Heads of Department and specially invited guests health
and happiness.
In my address today, I shall be explaining about important matters
of the State that responsible members of the State and the general
public should be aware. The address will be in three parts.
In the first part, I would be explaining about the
all round development achieved in the country from the time of the
assumption of responsibilities by our government, an achievement made
possible through day and night efforts of responsible persons and
the cooperation of the entire people in keeping with the objective
for the emergence of modern and developed State.
In the second part, I shall be briefly touching on
the political developments in the country.
In the third part, I shall be speaking about the
various steps of the political program which will be implemented for
the emergence of a modern, developed and democratic State that corresponds
to the political, economic and social conditions of the country and
is based on Myanmar's historical background and experiences as well
as the culture and civilization of the people.
If I may now turn to the first part of my address-
Today, the State Peace and Development Council is endeavoring in
all aspects for the emergence of a peaceful, modern and developed
State with the aim of transforming our nation into one where the level
of development of the country is comparable to those in the international
community; where our national economy will be strong; and where the
people will enjoy a high standard of living.
In marching towards this national goal of a peaceful, modern and developed
State, we have laid down and are vigorously implementing political,
economic and social objectives that would not only yield positive
results such as peace and stability, progress and development but
will also strengthen national unity spirit and Union spirit that constitute
the main pillars for the perpetuation of the Union.
Peace and stability, economic development, national unity, and perpetuation
of the Union are matters that are not only interlinked but are also
mutually reinforcing.
The nation will only be peaceful and tranquil if there is national
unity. Likewise, it is only when there is a peaceful environment can
there be development of the basic infrastructure for national development.
Moreover, it is only through these developments that the national
economy will grow with momentum.
Similarly, sound economic foundation strengthens national unity and
perpetuation of the Union as well as contributes to peace, stability
and prosperity of the country.
Therefore, since the time of the assumption of responsibilities by
the Tatmadaw Government, it has been systematically striving for national
reconsolidation, peace and tranquility and prevalence of law and order
as first priority task. It is also simultaneously implementing national
projects that would strengthen national economic life and the economic,
social and development infrastructure necessary for the emergence
of a modern and developed State.
The national projects for development are being implemented on a pragmatic
manner based on the strength of our natural resources; on the strength
of our intellectuals, technicians and people; and on the strength
of the economic and development infrastructure that are being built
or are in the process of being built.
It can be seen that today, due to the efforts of the government based
on the strength and capabilities of its own national resources and
the participation of the entire people, the Union of Myanmar is on
the right path for development. Moreover, sound foundation and fruitful
results are being attained in respect of the fundamentals for national
unity, basic infrastructures for national economic progress, for national
development, for social development, as well as in technology.
I believe everybody will remember that at the time of our assumption
of State responsibilities, the economy was in recession and, because
of the destruction and looting by destructionists, almost all the
basic infrastructure necessary for development, such as factories
and workshops were in ruins.
Moreover, communication and transportation system in the entire country
had broken down and all activities in the country had grounded to
a halt.
Starting from 1986, the economy of the country had declined and in
the 1988-98 financial year, the gross domestic product (GDP) of the
country was at its lowest at (47141) million kyats.
After the assumption of responsibilities, the market oriented economic
system that encourages the private sector was introduced and the national
economic projects that were being implemented were also changed to
correspond with the new economic policy.
At the same time, even while the factories, workshops and the economic
infrastructure that had been destroyed or damaged were being repaired
and reconstructed, development infrastructures such as roads, river-crossing
bridges, dams and reservoirs, universities and colleges as well as
hospitals were built throughout the nation.
Due to the day and night efforts of the government, the GDP of the
nation, which stood at only over (47000) million kyats in fiscal year
1988-89, recovered from its decline and by the 1990-91 financial year
reached (50260) million kyats. In the three years period from 1989-90
to 1991-92, the GDP of the nation achieved an average annual growth
rate of (5.9) percent.
At the end of 1992-93 to 1995-96 Short Term Four Year Plan, the GDP
of the country grew by an average annual rate of (7.5) percent. Next,
from 1996-97 to 2000-2001, the Second Short Term Five Year Plan was
laid down and implemented. During this Second Short Term Five Year
Plan, systematic implementation was carried out to ensure that the
present sound economic foundations would be further consolidated and
that Myanmar's economy will be placed on a path of steady and durable
economic growth. As a result, at the end of the Second Five Year Plan,
the GDP grew by an average annual growth rate of (8.5) percent.
The present 2003-2004 fiscal year represents the third year of the
current 2001-2002 to 2005-2006 Short Term Five Year Plan. During this
Five Year Plan, the planned target is to realize an average yearly
GDP growth of (10.7) percent. During the 2002-2003 fiscal year i.e.
the second year of the Plan, (11.1) percent GDP growth was achieved.
Moreover, at the end of the 2002-2003 fiscal year, per capital GDP
had increased to (105940) kyats.
In addition, in order to diminish unemployment in the country, our
Government created employment opportunities by using various methods
and means. Consequently, we were able to find employment for nearly
10 million workers and the work force increased from (19) million
in 1988 to the present (29) million.
Let me now turn to the Agricultural Sector-
In trying to achieve growth and development with momentum in national
economic life, the government pays special attention for all round
development of the country based on an economic policy which calls
for taking of agriculture as the basis and development of other economic
sectors as well. In the initial stage, taking paddy which is the main
crop in the country as the basis, the government focused its attention
on measures to increase sown acreage, to utilize modern agricultural
techniques and high yield seed varieties as well as to use various
methods to ensure the availability of adequate water for agricultural
purposes. At the time, when we first assumed responsibilities, paddy
production in the nation was only (654) million baskets a year. Therefore,
the government encouraged the farmers to grow paddy not only during
the raining season but also during summer as double cropping and set
the target of reaching an annual production of (1000) million baskets
a year. Consequently, paddy production reached over (800) million
baskets from 1995-96 to 1997-98 and increased to (965) million baskets
in the 1999-2000 fiscal year. The original target of (1000) million
tons had been realized since the 2000-2001 fiscal year. As availability
of water for agricultural purposes is a main requirement for development
of the agricultural sector, the government has constructed dams, reservoirs,
weirs and implemented water pumping and underground water tapping
projects across the country.
In order to obtain necessary water for agricultural purposes, a network
of dams including small and medium size projects, some coupled with
power generation facilities, were constructed across the country.
Since 1988, during the time of our government, (150) dams and reservoirs
as well as (265) river water pumping projects in areas where water
is scare had been constructed. Due to the projects undertaken for
obtaining water, agricultural land increased by more than (2) million
acres.
More than (63494) million kyats were used from government funds to
construct the (150) dams, reservoirs and weirs. Presently, 39 irrigation
projects are in the process of being built and there are plans to
construct (84) more.
With regard to the Livestock and Fisheries Sector-
Together with the agricultural sector, the government is also focusing
on the development of the livestock and fisheries sector as Myanmar's
geographical features has made this sector as one of the most economically
promising sector.
Since both the government as well as the private sector have expanded
with great momentum livestock breeding and marine industries, the
livestock and fisheries sector achieved an average annual growth rate
of (4.6) percent during 1992-93 to 1995-96 First Short Term Economic
Plan and (12.7) percent during the 1996-97 to 2000-2001 Economic Plan.
In the 2001-2002 fiscal year the sector grew by (12.6) percent and
in 2002-2003 by (12.0) percent. The production of fresh water and
salt water fish and prawns in 1987-88 was only (681,000) tons. However,
this has increased to (1,579,000) tons in 2002-2003.
With respect to the Forestry Sector-
Together with the agricultural and livestock and fisheries sector,
another great natural resource of our country is the forestry sector.
(52.28) percent of our total land area is still covered with forests
containing diverse valuable wood and bamboo resources including the
internationally renowned teakwood. In 1988-89, reserved and protected
public forest accounted for (24.8) million acres and protected area
system amounted to (1.35) million acres. Due to the preservation and
reforestation efforts, by the 2002-2003 fiscal year, the reserved
and protected public forest area has increased to (35.05) million
acres and protected area system acreage amounted to (3.36) million
acres.
Moreover, between 1998-99 and 2002-2003 fiscal years, forest plantation
including special teak plantations, has been implemented in (1.1)
million acres. Due to the progress in the forestry sector, wood-based
industries have been established and value added wood products are
on the increase.
With regard to the Industrial Sector-
In order to achieve economic growth based on modern industrial production
during the time of our government, we are endeavouring to increase
the capabilities of the state own large industrial enterprises as
well as to increase industrial production on the whole. Moreover,
to increase the industrial capabilities of the regions and to be able
to offer more jobs opportunities, the private sector had set up (18)
industrial zones and additional expanded industrial zones in various
States and Divisions. At the moment, the private industrial zones
are now capable of producing motor vehicles, agricultural machinery
and equipment, electronic goods, spare parts needed for large factories.
Moreover, there are also small factories such as factories that produced
soap and detergents.
With a view to increase industrial production, to improve the quality
of the products as well as to produce import substitution goods, (257)
new large, medium and small sized factories have been established
in the state sector. On the other hand, the private sector also constructed
(24,293) new factories. Therefore, the number of state and private
owned factories increased from (27,430) in 1988 to (51,980) at present.
These efforts and achievements show the endeavours by both state and
private sectors to develop the industrial sector in order to realize
the goal of the emergence of the modern industrial country.
Regarding the developments in the Roads and Bridges Sector-
What is contributing effectively to significant achievement
in building sound foundations for economic development is the dynamic
growth of the transportation infrastructure including roads and river-crossing
bridges that is being constructed by the government all over the country.
During the time of our government, river-crossing bridges and major
roads have been constructed so that now there is a network linking
east and west and south and north of the nation. Thus, all parts of
the country including regions like Rakhine State and Ayeyawady Division
that are full of rivers and creeks as well as the border areas are
now linked by this network.
In 1988, there were only (461) roads in the country with a total length
of (13600) road miles. In the time of our government, we were able
to construct (55) new roads measuring nearly (2000) road miles.
If we look at the bridges, before 1988, there were only (2) major
bridges namely the Sagaing Bridge across the Ayeyawady and the Sittoung
Bridge across the Sittoung river. Today, (158) new bridges of more
than (180) feet span have been constructed including (7) large bridges
spanning across the Ayeyawady river, (2) across the Chindwin river
and (3) across the Thanlwin river.
Presently, (35) new bridges including the Thanlwin bridge (Mawlamyine)
which will be the longest bridge in Myanmar and Ayeyawady bridge (Yadanabon)
are under construction. Moreover, plans are underway to construct
another (23) bridges.
As for the Rail Transport Sector-
New rail lines that would link the important centres of the country
have been constructed. These include Nyaungshwe - Yatsauk rail line,
Aungban - Pinlong - Loikaw rail line, Namsam - Mone rail line, Shwenyaung
- Namsam rail line in the Shan State. Moreover, Chaung Oo - Pakoku
- Gangaw - Kalay rail line which would involve the construction of
a high standard tunnel as well as a rail line that would circle the
Yoma are also being built.
In 1988, the rail systems in Myanmar consisted of (1976) miles of
railroads. In our times, another (1012) miles of railroads have been
added and thus the rail system now consists of over (2900) and nearly
(3000) miles of railroads.
As for Aviation and Maritime Transport Sector-
With the increased momentum in various economic and development sectors,
the government has systematically implemented measures so that international
aviation and maritime transportation as well as internal aviation
and inland water transportation would also develop in tandem.
Due to these efforts to upgrade the air transportation sector, the
number of airports in the country has increased to (27) from (21)
airports in 1988. Moreover, at that time, there were only (6) airports
in the nation where a Fokker F-28 jet aircraft can land. Today, there
are (18) such airports.
Moreover, the runways of the various airports are being lengthened
so that larger aircrafts can land. In addition to the upgrading of
airports, (7) new airports are under construction.
Similarly, with regard to maritime transportation, international terminals
such as International Thilawa Terminal, Thakayta Terminal, Alon Terminal
and Myanmar Industrial Terminal as well as modern cargo handling systems
and equipment, international standard container terminals testify
to the achievements in this sector.
One development which deserves a special mention in the aviation and
maritime transportation sector is the establishment for the first
time ever in Myanmar of the Myanmar Maritime University and Myanmar
Aerospace Engineering University where international standard marine
technicians, architects and engineers as well as aviation technicians,
architects and engineers are being trained.
In the Communication Sector-
Efforts to upgrade the communication sector with momentum have been
implemented in order to facilitate contacts between the people living
in different parts of the nation. Furthermore, it can be seen that
there has been a dramatic increase in linkages with the international
telecommunication network by using rapidly changing information and
communication technology.
In addition to establishing cellular, CDMA and GSM phone systems in
the country, Data Communication, E-Mail, Internet, Intranet facilities
are now available through the use of Information and Communication
Technology (ICT).
As Packet Switching System has been installed in both Yangon and Mandalay,
it is now also possible to use Data Line and E-Mail.
Regarding the Electricity Sector-
With the advancement of the nation and the raising of the standard
of living and quality of life of the people, there has been a significant
increased in the consumption of electricity. The government is therefore
implementing systematic measures to meet the increased demand for
electricity.
In 1988, the consumption of electricity amounted to (2226.45) million
units. However, due to the systematic implementation of electricity
projects, people are now using up to (5064.20) million units of electricity.
In other words, electricity consumption has increased 2.27 times.
To increase the generation of electricity, the government has built
hydroelectric plants, steam turbine plants, natural gas plants, as
well as electricity plants using diesel oil. As a result, the installed
capacity increased nearly (2) times to (1219.81) megawatts as compared
to (706.82) megawatts in 1988.
This increase in production of electricity is made possible because
the government constructed (28) Hydropower Projects and (6) natural
gas plants.
(11) new Electric Power Projects including Paunglaung Hydroelectric
Project that would produce (280) megawatts and Yeywa Hydroelectric
Project that would produce (780) megawatts are also under construction.
When these (11) projects are completed, additional (1960) megawatts
of electricity will become available to the public.
Turning to the Education Sector-
The national task of the education sector is to nurture and develop
human resources in all fields in order to maintain and promote for
the future the benefits accrued from the advancement of the nation.
It must also systematically implement measures so that the rapidly
progressing science and technology in international arena will reach
and spread in the country.
The Four Year Special Plan to raise the national education level involves
not only the Education Ministry but also Health, Science and Technology
and other Ministries concerned with Higher Education.
In order to provide opportunities for education, basic education schools,
universities and colleges have been opened across the country.
As a result, in 1988 the number of basic education schools amounted
to (33,747) schools. However in 2003, this has increased to (40,049)
including branch schools and affiliated schools.
With a view to providing the rural areas with the opportunities to
get basic middle school education, (3,800) post primary schools have
been opened in the country.
As the increase in basic education schools requires additional teaching
staff, the number of teachers has been increased to (222,000) in 2003
from (173,000) in 1988. In 1988, the number of students attending
basic education was over (5.2) million (5,239,878). This has now increased
to over (7.5) million (7,550,896).
There were many illiterate people in our country because of the colonial
legacy and the weaknesses of the succeeding periods. Therefore, after
we assumed responsibility, adult literacy classes were arranged throughout
the nation including the remote border areas in order to decrease
the number of illiterates with the eventual aim of totally eliminating
illiteracy in the country. Because of these classes, today (500,963)
adults are now able to read and write. The literacy rate also increased
from (78) percent to (92.2) percent.
With regard to higher education, universities and colleges have been
opened in the (24) special development regions established in (14)
States and Divisions with the aim of providing all parts of the nation
with opportunities for higher education as well as for human resource
development of the region.
Due to the opening of new universities and colleges, the number of
universities and colleges has increased from (32) in 1988 to (154)
at present.
The expanded opening of universities and colleges have provided the
people with greater educational opportunities and as a result, the
number of students studying at colleges and universities increased
from (130,000) to over (890,000) in 2003.
Similarly, the teaching faculties have also seen great increase. Previously,
there were only (5,600) university teachers, ranging from professors
to tutors and demonstrators. Today, the number stands at (16,600).
Moreover, in 1988, it was only possible to study up to a Master Degree.
However, in 2003, various universities and colleges under the Education
Ministry are providing (150) different post-graduate diploma and degree
courses including (18) kinds of Master Researcher Degree, (40) kinds
of Master Courses and (20) kinds of Doctorate Courses.
If we include the (90) different kinds of Master and Doctorate Courses
opened by Medical Colleges, (73) kinds of Master and Doctorate Courses
opened by Universities of Technology and Universities Computer, then
the number of post graduate diploma and degree Courses being arranged
by Universities and Colleges in Myanmar amounts up to (313).
In 1988, only (266) students obtained the Master Degree. As the government
has greatly expanded post-graduate Master and Doctorate Courses, in
a period of (3) years between 2001 and 2003, (9,474) students obtained
the Master Degree and (206) received their Doctorates.
With respect to the Technical Education Sector-
In the time of our government, Science and Technology Universities
and Colleges have been opened in all the States and Divisions in the
country. Therefore, at present, there are four Universities of Technology,
(2) Computer University, (1) Aerospace Engineering University, (26)
Government Technical Colleges, (24) Government Computer Colleges and
(9) Government Technical Institutes.
In previous days, the Technology Universities could only offer Master
Classes. Indeed, in 1988, there were only (22) students who received
the Master Degree. However, in the time of our Government, it is now
possible for students to study in (73) different kinds of post-graduate
degree and diploma courses including (19) Doctorate Courses and (27)
Master Courses. Consequently, from 2000-2001 to 2002-2003, within
a space of (3) academic years, (1,424) students obtained their Master
Degrees and (128) students received their Ph.D.
Turning to the Health Sector-
In endeavoruring for the development of the nation, it is necessary
for our people not only to have higher standards of education, but
also to be healthy and strong. The greatly increased availability
of health care and a higher standard of health care reflect the rising
social standards of the nation.
If we look at the progress made in health infrastructure, it can be
seen that while in 1988, there were only (617) hospitals including
specialist hospitals and generalist hospitals, in 2003 this has increased
to (757) hospitals. Similarly, (84) local dispensaries and (1,414)
rural health centres have been established in all parts of the country.
In addition to (140) new hospitals, existing hospitals are being upgraded.
(25) bedded hospitals have been upgraded to (50) bedded hospitals,
(100) bedded hospitals to (200) bedded hospitals and even up to (300)
bedded hospitals. Altogether (114) hospitals were upgraded.
In 1988, there were only (4) Medical Universities. Today, there are
(14) Medical Universities under the Ministry of Health. In previous
times, only (10) Diploma Classes and (13) Master Classes were available.
Today, the Medical Universities are offering (28) different Diploma
Courses, (26) Master Courses, (7) Dr. Med. Sc. Courses and (29) Ph.D
Courses.
With regard to development of Border Areas Sector-
During the time of our government, we were able to build up
unity among our national races; and to restore peace and stability to
the border areas. As a result, we are now able to implement, in a systematic
manner, projects for the development of border areas and national races.
To provide more momentum to border area development works a separate
Ministry for Borders was established. Thus, the development of border
areas and national races and the raising of the standard of living are
being implemented with greater impetus.
Although, in the initial stage, border area development programs were
carried out only in areas where peace had returned, it has now been
extended to cover all the areas in the country that have lagged behind
the development.
Presently, border area development programs are being carried out in
(18) different areas of the country covering (68) Townships in (7) States
and (2) Divisions covering (83,415.34) square miles. The population
in these areas is over (5.3) million and the government is providing
wide ranging humanitarian assistance to them.
The sectors in which development activities are being carried out for
border area development are ones that directly impact on the backwardness
of the region and include roads and bridges, education, health, agriculture,
livestock breeding, electricity, communication, mineral exploration
etc. and therefore are of great benefit to the people.
Border area development projects were implemented phase by phase starting
from the 1993-94 to 1995-96 First Short Term (3) Year Plan, 1996-97
to 2000-2001 First Five Year Plan and 2001-2002 to 2005-2006 Second
Five Year Plan. These plans also correspond with the overall national
plans.
As border areas and national races development programs are being undertaken
with momentum, the government has already spent (45,762.87) million
kyats and over (506) million dollars from the time when border area
development programs started in 1989 to the present. Due to these efforts,
it can be seen that there have been significant all round development
in the border areas.
In previous times, border areas such as Panwa in Kachin State, Laukkai,
Namtit, Panhsan, Mongla in Shan State were very backward in development.
Today, they have been transformed into towns with modern buildings,
international standard hotels, department stores, that are comparable
to those in the capital city of Yangon. These endeavours, moreover,
have strengthened the spirit of national unity and union spirit in the
country.
In the Second Part, I will be informing the responsible
persons and the people the true facts about the reasons why our government
had to assume responsibilities as well as the political developments
after our assumption of responsibilities.
It is because of the historical necessity that we were compelled to
assume State responsibilities on 18 September 1988. It may be recalled
at that time there arose a most alarming movement towards chaos and
anarchy due to the political influences behind the violent demonstrations
in the country. It is because of this situation that we unavoidably
had to assume responsibilities.
Some unscrupulous persons distorted the undeniable historical fact and
tried to term the unrest and demonstrations that happened during 1988
as a movement for democracy. However much they try to persuade with
sweet words, a careful analysis of the events of 1988 will show that
people who tried to get political gain, people who were swayed by instigations
and encouragement of western countries and people with leftist views
who had donned the cloak of democracy united to deliberately create
anarchism among the demonstrators and protestors who had grievances
against the previous government. As the group who were making demonstrations
and launching struggles and demands with the aim of getting political
gain and the group of people who were waiting for an opportunity to
loot and destroy combined to form the majority, anarchism reigned over
the nation and the Union was on the verge of disintegration. The people
were facing untold hardship and difficulties and the Tatmadaw which
has the responsibility for national defense and security of the nation
had to unavoidably assume State responsibilities.
From the time of the assumption of duties of the entire country, the
historical task of restoring peace and tranquility to a nation where
unrest and instability had spread to the entire nation as well as to
transform the future Union of Myanmar into the peaceful modern and developed
State was thrust onto our government. It is our belief that in keeping
with the changing political and economic conditions in the world, we
should systematically lay down and implement national policy and programs
in keeping with democratic practices so that the Union of Myanmar will
become a peaceful, modern, and developed State. In other words, we believe
that we must give shape for the emergence of a democratic State that
corresponds with our country and our people.
Therefore, as you all are aware, at the time of the assumption of responsibilities
it was declared that elections will be held and that multi-party system
will be introduced. Political reforms were carried out step by step
for the transformation to a genuine multi-party democracy system. Our
endeavours were not done in a haphazard way but to ensure the best possible
future after studying the weaknesses and strength of the democracy system
that had been practiced in the past as well as to treat the historical
wounds that have not been healed yet.
Democracy can only materialize after taking into account the historical
background and objective conditions of the country concerned. It is
also a truth that democratic practices differ from one country to another.
There exist differences between the countries that practice democracy
today and the historical background, geographical conditions as well
as the culture and character of the people of our country.
It is an undeniable fact that because of these differences, we cannot
directly copy or import a democratic system that is being practiced
abroad. Neither can such a change be affected overnight.
Because of the nature of our geography, there are many fast flowing
creeks and rivers in the Union of Myanmar. There also exists steeped
mountains and dense forests. Therefore, transportation connections between
one place and another are inadequate and communication is difficult.
Many national races live in the Union of Myanmar. There are slight differences
in language and culture between them and they live in all the regions.
Because of the transportation and communication difficulties, some regions
lagged behind in development.
Moreover, since the time of the regaining of independence, armed insurrection
emerged across the country due to the differences in philosophy and
thinking, thus greatly hindering internal peace and stability as well
as development and progress. This is a reason why we lagged behind in
development. Even today, in some parts of the border areas there still
exists armed opposition from some national brethren.
Because of these conditions, because of these difficulties, the border
regions and the remote areas where the national races live lagged behind
in education, health, social and economic conditions.
Moreover, it also resulted in the weakening of national unity in the
country. Because of the lack of peace and stability in the country,
it has to face great difficulties in trying to make the country modern
and advanced. As such, it is not surprising that even after fifty years
of independence, when compared to other countries Myanmar lagged behind
in development and standard of living. Without trying to heal these
own injuries and wounds it is very difficult to change over night into
a democratic state.
Therefore, from the time that we assumed the responsibilities, we have
given priority for the development of the border areas and the national
races. It is known to all that if one looks at the first declaration
(1/88) issued after the assumption of responsibilities it is clearly
stated that we would strive for the restoration of smooth transportation
as well as for economic development to meet the food, clothing and shelter
needs of the people.
It is also our belief that consolidation of national unity in the country
and emergence of economic foundations for regional development, together
with the raising of the standards of living of the people are basic
foundations of the democratic system.
Even as the government lays down and rapidly implement the projects
for the development of border areas and national races for the sake
of reconsolidating national unity, it simultaneously engaged in efforts
to restore trust and confidence with the armed groups so that they could
return to the legal fold. As a result, 17 armed groups have now returned
to the legal fold. Even a casual look can reveal that the task of persuading
the armed groups to return to the legal fold represents a very difficult
change. It was definitely not easy to overcome from difficult conditions
created by more than four decades of national brethren fighting against
each other with loss of life on both sides while the people face all
kinds of difficulties and sufferings. Our government has to achieve
what had not been possible for the previous successive governments.
This success was due to the fact that there was mutual respect, understanding,
confidence and sincerity on both sides. It is heartening to note that
the national leaders from these groups are actively participating in
the construction of basic infrastructure not only in their regions but
for national development as well.
As the conditions for peace and stability improved in the country and
as national unity had been built to a certain extent, efforts were initiated
in 1992 for the convening of the National Convention. The National Convention
is a convention which tries to find a solution by discussion and deliberation
for basic principles required in the drafting of the constitution that
would shape the future democratic State. The Convention was not only
composed of representatives from the political parties, representatives-elect,
representatives from the national races, national races leaders that
had returned to the legal fold but also from representatives of intellectuals,
public servants and people from various strata in the country.
In the National Convention, political parties and politicians have the
right to take part in official deliberations and to make known their
views and wishes. The National Convention, which people from the political
field had longed for so long, was convened in a manner that allows all
the political forces to participate in the process. The convening of
the National Convention is also for the emergence of a modern, developed
and democratic State in accordance with the aspirations of all strata
of people.
However, in 1995, one of the above-ground political forces, namely the
NLD, decided to ignore the future of the country and placed the attitude
and wishes of an individual and the interests of its own party above
the national cause, and carried out a plan aimed at destroying the National
Convention. Consequently, efforts for political development have now
faltered at half way point.
Instead of systematically participating and cooperating in a political
program that needs to be implemented step by step, the NLD continued
to intransigently hold on to the results of an election that was held
13 years ago and launched a political attack based on the convening
of the Hluttaw and holding a dialogue for its own political ends. It
was they themselves and according to their own decisions that they decided
to pay heed to the interests of an individual and a political party
and turn their backs on the National Convention that was providing an
opportunity for political parties, national races and people from all
strata to hold political discussions at the highest level. However,
believing that the establishment of mutual understanding and mutual
confidence can contribute towards national unity, the Head of State
himself with magnanimity met with Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and tried to
find ways to smooth out the differences.
However, it did not develop as we have hoped for. Due to the pressure
and embargos placed by some big nations as well as due to continuous
political manipulations in order to bring down the present government,
the transformation process was again retarded. As long as a political
force in the country is acting in harmony with the efforts of the collaborators
of neo-colonialism from abroad who are trying to find ways to bring
down the existing government and as long as this political force continues
to maintain a negative attitude or refuses to change its methods, it
will result in a situation where the golden land that we all hope for
will remain in the distance.
On our part, we consider as a strength all national forces that hold
true to our own country and our own national interests. Without entertaining
prejudice against any person or any faction, we tried to work hand and
hand with the NLD and guide it toward political change. However, the
NLD turned away from the national political path and took the attitude
that it would do whatever it liked. Because of this, democracy, which
was almost at hand, has become distant again.
It is known to all that at the moment some big nations are siding with
the interests of the individual which they desire and believing in one-sided
false news, are unjustly pressuring our country without taking into
account the interests of the 52 millions people in Myanmar and thus
causing all kinds of difficulties to the people. Since the time of our
independence, Myanmar has never participated or sided in any world grouping,
regional grouping or military pact. However, it has consistently endeavoured
to have friendly relations with neighbouring countries, regional countries
and friendly nations. In the relations between states, Myanmar has never
deceived or hidden anything but has always acted sincerely as befitting
a good neighbour. It is also always careful not to become involved or
intervened in the internal affairs of other countries or problems between
different groupings. In keeping with its independent and active foreign
policy, it has acted with honesty and integrity.
In the sphere of the United Nations and international affairs, it has
always respected international law and agreements. Because Myanmar has
constantly acted with integrity, it can be seen that it has contributed
towards the peace and stability of regional countries including the
neighbouring nations. Whether you look from the ASEAN perspective, East
Asia Pacific region perspective or from BIMST-EC perspective, it can
be seen that Myanmar is a strategically important country. If a big
power practices hegemonism over Myanmar and installs a puppet government,
it can be a threat to the existing solidarity among the nations of the
region including the neighbouring countries. It will also definitely
affect the peace and stability of the region. As an independent and
sovereign country, Myanmar has the right to shape its own destiny. Based
on the objective conditions of the country, the government and the people
must and will act in unity to achieve the best possible and most appropriate
results for the people.
Basically, in building a genuine democratic State,
(1) Human Resource
(2) National Resource
(3) Capital
(4) Technology
(5) Stable Work Environment
are the main requirements. A stable work environment means political
stability. Presently, because we have worked night and day, the positive
developments taking place in all the sectors of the country can be clearly
seen. This progress was achieved due to the united efforts of the people
and the national races, responsible persons from various departments,
national economic forces and non-governmental organizations. Our country
has to pass through very rough times in our history. We have already
encountered experiences which are worse than the sanctions that are
now imposed from abroad. If the unity among the national forces in the
country is strong, we will be able to overcome any kind of situation.
Therefore, we are striving to consolidate our national unity and to
do what is necessary for building a genuine democratic State.
The facts that I have presented are true representations of the actual
work done by the government. We are constantly endeavouring for correct
work and positive efforts in the interests of our country and its people.
However, some big nations, acting on false and incorrect information
and misled by the fabrications of their collaborators, have adopted
a negative approach and are giving all sorts of pressures. Such actions
will not contribute towards democracy and will only cause it to become
further and further away. The more one pressures, the further it will
become. However, as we already have the correct objective, we will work
together with the people so that there will be no deviation from the
path that we have chosen.
What I have presented are the true conditions under which the government
has to work as well as true events and developments.
In the third part-
I shall now continue to present the political programme that will be
undertaken step by step by our government.
As the Union of Myanmar is composed of over 100 nationalities that have
lived together in unity and harmony for thousands of years, it is a
nation that is striving with highest priority to build national unity.
Therefore, non-disintegration of the Union, non-disintegration of national
solidarity and perpetuation of sovereignty have been laid down as national
policy of the country.
In accordance with this national policy, we are systematically advancing
towards the goal of the State by laying down four political objectives,
four economic objectives and four social objectives for the emergence
of a modern and developed nation.
At this junction, I would like to reiterate the most important four
political objectives, which are:
(1) Stability of the State, community peace and tranquility, prevalence
of law and order;
(2) National reconsolidation;
(3) Emergence of a new enduring State Constitution;
(4) Building of a new modern developed nation in accord with the new
State Constitution.
The manner in which the nation will be built can clearly be seen in
these four political objectives. Therefore, the emergence of a new enduring
State Constitution is the most important key in building a new nation.
Therefore, the government will be implementing in a step-by-step and
systematic manner the following political program for building the nation.
(1) - Reconvening of the National Convention
that has been adjourned since 1996.
(2) - After the successful holding of the National Convention, step
by step implementation of the process necessary for the emergence of
a genuine and disciplined democratic system.
(3) - Drafting of a new constitution in accordance with basic principles
and detailed basic principles laid down by the National Convention.
(4) - Adoption of the constitution through national referendum.
(5) - Holding of free and fair elections for Pyithu Hluttaws (Legislative
bodies) according to the new constitution.
(6) - Convening of Hluttaws attended by Hluttaw members in accordance
with the new constitution.
(7) - Building a modern, developed and democratic nation by the state
leaders elected by the Hluttaw; and the government and other central
organs formed by the Hluttaw.
In concluding, I would like to summarize that:
The most important factor in building a new, peaceful, modern, developed
and democratic nation is the emergence of a disciplined democratic system
that does not affect the historical traditions of the Union of the national
races living in unison and harmony for thousands of years; that does
not affect the national prestige and integrity of our people and nation;
and that does not affect the national characteristics of our people.
Therefore, I would like to urge all the national races to work together
with the Government in unity, and the local authorities and the responsible
Government departmental personnel to actively render necessary assistance,
for the realization of the seven steps in the political programme mentioned
above which the Government will continue to implement for the emergence
of a new enduring State Constitution and building of a new modern developed
nation in accordance with the national policy of Our Three Main National
Causes as well as twelve political, economic and social objectives.
In addition to this, it is very important to advance along the national
path without deviation by firmly embracing patriotism, national spirit,
spirit of national unity and Union spirit for the perpetuation of the
Union in its march towards the national goal of a new peaceful, modern,
developed and democratic state for the long term interest of the state
and all the people.
As the goal of the emergence of a peaceful, modern and developed nation
means the strengthening of national economic life and firm establishment
of economic infrastructures, we must strive forward by utilizing the
natural resources inside the country together with the resources of
intellectuals, technicians and the united strength of the people.
Therefore, in concluding, I would like to urge the government and all
the national races to unitedly work together, for responsible personnel
of the government departments, local authorities and non-governmental
organizations to endeavour diligently and for all to march on the correct
national path in order to reach the goal of a new modern, developed
and democratic nation which the Union of Myanmar is aspiring for.
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