EXTREME POVERTY AS IMPORTANT AS INFECTION OF COVID-19 PAGE-8 (OPINION)

Vol. VIII, No. 105, 10th Waning of Waso 1383 ME www.gnlm.com.mm Monday, 2 August 2021 The Speech made by State Administration Council Chairman Senior General Min Aung Hlaing on the occasion of six months on 1 August 2021 since the State Administration Council has taken the State’s responsibilities: -

Esteemed National Peoples, has prioritized the very first point It has been six months full of the Five-Point Road Map: The today since the State Administra- Union Election Commission will tion Council has performed the be reconstituted and its mandat- responsibilities of the State. First ed tasks, including the scrutiny of and foremost, I’d like to kindly voter lists, shall be implemented wish all national peoples good under the law. health and be free soonest from The Union Election Com- the Covid-19 pandemic. The gov- mission conducted a detailed ernment, entire ethnic brethren township-wise inspection on the and the people, in unison, must casting of votes and voter lists for collaboratively confront the Cov- 315 townships where the Multi- id-19 pandemic hands and hands. party General Election was held Nothing other than individual life on 8 November 2020. The on-the- is of crucial significance: That’s ground inspection on the casting my policy. Only when we are of votes and ballot papers at par- healthy can we be able to work ticular polling stations in each and get an education. None is township was made in the pres- more important than the health ence of the members of the Union of all national peoples. Therefore, Election Commission, relevant we don’t impose any constraint township ex-election sub-com- on the processes of preventing, on 1 February 2021 by adhering and balance process would it be their executive power in the pre- missions, heads of the township controlling and providing treat- to provisions of the Constitution a democracy of the people, for the vious election held in November police force, township officials of ment to the Coronavirus disease. (2008). All national peoples are people and by the people. 2020. Other parties, rather not the Department of Immigration We shall build up manpower, well aware that our country’s po- The electoral process of es- the NLD party, and their candi- and Population, township admin- material power and intellectual litical system is based on a gen- tablishing the election commis- dates for Hluttaw representa- istrators and representatives of power as much as possible to uine discipline-flourishing mul- sions at different levels, collecting tives were subjected to the NLD the parties. An interviewing in- safeguard against Covid-19. tiparty democratic system. The the lists of voters, campaigning party’s misappropriate abuses spection was also conducted with We must conquer it. Collective Tatmadaw government has pri- for the election candidates, form- of the executive power and the respective election sub-commis- solidarity amongst all national marily established a multiparty ing the electoral coordination Covid-19 preventive restrictions sions, polling station heads and peoples can overcome the Cov- democracy people have aspired committees, advance voting and as a pretext for winning the elec- voting booth staff. id-19 pandemic. And, building a since 1988. The people have cho- casting votes on the Election Day tion and thereby seizing the State The ballot-rigging was genuine discipline-flourishing sen the multiparty democratic has been interfered with by the power forcefully. After holding inspected at the number of multiparty democratic system system. A free and fair election then NLD government and NLD the responsibilities of the State, 11,305,390 votes in these under- will be successful. If this spirit is practically the “life-blood” of party inappropriately misusing the State Administration Council takings. Tatmadaw officially ex- of victory is uplifted with unity, the multiparty democracy. It is pressed concern about vote-rig- trust, endeavours, diligence and of much more vital importance ging and evidence of an unfair perseverance, there will be noth- for our country where a nascent A nation-building task is based on three and unfree election even before ing we cannot do for our country democracy is being restored. Fur- pillars: Executive, Legislature and the the election and after the elec- and the people. That is a prelude thermore, the aspiration of the tion as well. Findings were firmly to my Speech. people will be fulfilled success- Judiciary. Only when these three es- presented with documents and I’m reporting on political, so- fully only through a free and fair tables. In order to seek the solu- cial and socio-economic develop- election in accord with the Consti- tates are emphatically aligned with one tion through negotiation based on ment performances undertaken tution and electoral system of our another through the check and bal- the principle of political culture in by the State and Government to country. A nation-building task is a democracy, Tatmadaw put for- the public today. based on three pillars: Executive, ance process would it be a democracy ward its opinions and viewpoints The State Administration Legislature and the Judiciary. and released official statements Council started to carry out all re- Only when these three estates of the people, for the people and by the sponsibilities of the State handed are emphatically aligned with people. SEE PAGE-3 over by the then Acting President one another through the check

INSIDE TODAY

NATIONAL NATIONAL LOCAL BUSINESS LOCAL BUSINESS Senior citizens, service MoC allows import Myanmar rice CBM sells personnel and prison process of anti- market sees flat $93.8 mln inmates receive COVID-19 COVID-19 medicines, price amid closure of in past vaccines across country devices on 1 August warehouses six months PAGE-7 PAGE-10 PAGE-11 PAGE-11 2 AUGUST 2021 2 NATIONAL THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR

Republic of the Union of Myanmar Republic of the Union of Myanmar State Administration Council State Administration Council Order No 152/2021 Order No 153/2021 9th Waxing of Waso 1383 ME 9th Waxing of Waso 1383 ME 1 August 2021 1 August 2021 Formation of Provisional Government of Reconstitution of region or state the Republic of the Union of Myanmar governments

1. The State Administration Council constituted the Management Commit- 1. The State Administration Council formed the region or state administration tee of the State Administration Council with the following persons under councils for implementing the administrative tasks of regions or states. Notification No 9/2021 of the Council dated 19-2-2021: - 2. The State Administration Council, with the aim of easily, promptly and more (a) Chairman, State Administration Council, effectively performing the State duties in accord with the adopted Five-Point (b) Vice-Chairman, State Administration Council, Road Map and Nine Objectives, the region or state administration councils (c) Union ministers, as the “Region or State Governments” as follows: - (d) Attorney-General of the Union, (a) Chief Minister, (e) Permanent Secretary, Office of the State Administration Council. (b) Minister, Security and Border Affairs Ministry, 2. The State Administration Council, with the aim of easily, promptly and more (c) Minister, Economic Affairs Ministry, effectively performing the State duties in accord with the adopted Five-Point (d) Minister, Social Affairs Ministry, Road Map and Nine Objectives, re-constituted the Management Committee (e) Minister, Transport Ministry, of the State Administration Council as “Provisional Government (f) Minister, Ethnic Affairs Ministry, of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar” as follows: - (g) Advocate-General, (a) State Prime Minister, Chairman, State Administration Council, 3. Yangon Region and Mandalay Region shall form the Minister, Development (b) Deputy Prime Minister, Vice-Chairman, State Administration Council, Affairs Ministry, in their governments. The Chairpersons of the Develop- (c) Union ministers, ment Committees, Mayors of Yangon Region and Mandalay Region shall (d) Attorney-General of the Union, be Minister for Development Affairs. (e) Permanent Secretary, Office of the Provisional Government. 4. Heads of Region or State shall be Secretary of Region or State Governments.

By Order, By Order, Aung Lin Dwe Aung Lin Dwe Lieutenant - General Lieutenant - General Secretary Secretary State Administration Council State Administration Council

Republic of the Union of Myanmar State Administration Council Public Announcement

Order No 220/2021 1. During the public holidays from 2.8.2021 to 8.8.2021, the border trade 9th Waxing of Waso 1383 ME posts will not be closed from their duties and will be allowed to import 1 August 2021 and export as usual, and the import of COVID-19 medicines and devic- es will be given priority as per the SOPs coordinated with the relevant Extension of public holidays for further departments. 2. On these days, it is announced that the Department of Commerce (Head prevention, control and treatment over Office) Import and Export Division and the Export and Import Office infection of COVID-19 (Yangon) will allow online import and export licence applications as usual during office hours. THE State Administration Council has set the continuous public holidays for Ministry of Commerce two times to head off the infection chains of COVID-19 for the people to abide by the restricted disciplines during the public holidays. In order to soonest reach the normal situation with controlling the infection of COVID-19, the notification was announced that the period from 2 to 8 August 2021 was further set as the continuous public holidays (except for the Central Bank of Myanmar and its Personal preventive practices subordinate government banks and private banks under the specific situation) in accord with Section 25 of the Negotiable Instruments Act. against COVID-19 infection

By Order, (1) Wear the mask systematically when going out in public. Aung Lin Dwe (2) Keep a proper physical distance. Lieutenant - General (3) Avoid the crowd. Secretary (4) Wash your hands for 20 seconds frequently. State Administration Council (5) Avoid entering unventilated closed spaces as much as possible.

3,480 new cases of COVID-19 reported on 1 August, total figure rises to 302,665

MYANMAR’S COVID-19 positive cases rose to 302,665 after 3,480 new cases were reported on 1 August 2021 according to the Ministry of Health and Sports. Among these confirmed cases, 213,227 have been discharged from hospitals. Death toll reached 9,731 after 397 died. —MNA 2 AUGUST 2021 THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR NATIONAL 3 The Speech made by State Administration Council Chairman Senior General Min Aung Hlaing on the occasion of six months on 1 August 2021 since the State Administration Council has taken the State’s responsibilities: -

FROM PAGE-1 in detail. It was finalized in July conflicts. The agreement was and announcements to the then and we announced that the elec- As a result of our talks, we have signed the Na- signed based on the demands of government, Hluttaws and rele- tion results were annulled on the ethnic armed organizations. vant officials. However, it did not 26 July as they found that the tionwide Ceasefire Agreement (NCA) to resolve Tatmadaw stands firm as per the succeed. Simple errors can be Multiparty General Election held the ethnic armed conflicts. The agreement was Agreement. I’d like to say to build officially resolved. They can prove on 8 November 2020 was not in signed based on the demands of the ethnic a union based on democracy and it according to the law – without conformity with the Constitution, federalism peacefully. I invite all terrorist acts. We are paving the Union Election Commission Law, armed organizations. Tatmadaw stands firm as ethnic armed organizations to way to democracy in accord with respective Hluttaw Laws and per the Agreement. I’d like to say to build a union meet and discuss among others, the law. At last, they called for the Rules and it also was not a free based on democracy and federalism peacefully. I except for the declared unlawful convening of the Hluttaw and at- and fair election. We carried out associations and groups. Here, tempted to seize the State power such measures under the existing invite all ethnic armed organizations to meet and I want to talk about the relation forcefully, without resolving the laws. We just follow the demo- discuss among others, except for the declared with ASEAN. I joined the ASEAN electoral frauds. Consequently, cratic norm like “No Man above unlawful associations and groups. Summit on 24 April, and the sum- Tatmadaw declared the State of the Law”. mit adopted five agreements. We Emergency and took the respon- After we annulled the 2020 implemented the things that we sibilities of the State under the election results, we have to con- state of emergency by August of terrorism instead of doing or should do. Of the three original Constitution. tinue to work for a new free and 2023. The final point out of the solving it in line with the law. They nominees for the ASEAN special Keeping in line with the Con- fair election in line with the pro- Five-Point Road Map of the State incited to become anarchic and envoy, we agreed to select the stitution and electoral system of visions of the state of emergency. Administration Council is “to hold committed armed insurrection. former Deputy Foreign Minister our country, people are required In this regard, we will undertake the free and fair multiparty dem- They think of making enemies of Thailand, Mr Virasakdi Futra- to directly vote for the Hluttaw the tasks according to Chapter ocratic elections in line with the with the ones who do not support kul. But for various reasons, the representatives. That’s a Legis- 11 – provisions on the State of 2008 Constitution and hand over or have the same opinions. We new proposals were released lative pillar. Then, Hluttaw rep- Emergency of the 2008 Consti- State duties to the winning party have to try to bring them back and we could not keep moving resentatives have to choose the tution. In the 2020 election, more as per democratic standards”. to a stable condition. We must onwards. I would like to say that President, the Head of State. The than 4,869,427 people cast votes We must create conditions apply our collective strengths to Myanmar is ready to work on President shall appoint and as- without any Citizenship Scrutiny to hold a free and fair multiparty prevent destructive elements, so- ASEAN cooperation within the sign the duties of the Cabinet. It’s Card. We give priority to those general election. We have to make cial bullying and rebellious CDM ASEAN framework, including the an Executive pillar. The President who must have the right to cast preparations. I pledge to hold the movement that would lead to total dialogue with the ASEAN Special shall also appoint a Union Chief votes as they wish in the election multiparty general election with- annihilation from the State ad- Envoy in Myanmar. Preparations Justice and Judges. It’s a Judicial and we also prioritize the CSCs out fail. We must strengthen the ministrative mechanism to the are underway to present a brief- pillar. That is why the multiparty for everyone who must have ID genuine and discipline-flourish- daily life of the people and their ing on the findings of the election democratic general election is cards. According to the Ministry ing multiparty democratic system socio-economic status. to the international delegations held to elect representatives for of Labour, Immigration and Popu- people aspire. The basic require- They want instability and within the next few days. all three pillars of our nation. It lation, it can take up to 18 months ments for a free and fair election destroy the political, social and can be obviously doubted how if we carry out for 300 people per are stability and the rule of law. economic arenas. They are at- Esteemed National Peoples, can the Hluttaw representatives day. We are working as quickly as Stability means political stability, tempting for the disintegration of Our country is facing the elected out of vote-rigging, their possible. The Constitution states security stability and economic the Tatmadaw and intentionally third wave of COVID-19 current- Executive pillar and the Judiciary the limitation for the duration of stability. We have to continue to destroying the culture, traditions ly like other world nations. We represent the people and how the state of emergency. According adhere to the existing laws and and history from the very begin- are making our utmost efforts can they practise “check and bal- to Subsection (b) of Section 421, if develop good disciplinary prac- ning of all Myanmar national peo- in carrying out the prevention, ance”, a fundamental principle of one cannot accomplish the duties tices. ples. We need to pay special atten- control and treatment activities in democracy. Titled with democra- within one year of the emergency There are still political diver- tion in order to know their violent collaboration with the people. The cy, they are going to revitalize the period, it permits only two exten- gences and different opinions that acts very consciously. Most of us currently occurring COVID-19 one-party autocracy. Thus, we are sions of the prescribed duration have arisen in our country along are primarily Buddhists in our pandemic is different from the bringing about the restoration of for a term of six months for each with internal armed conflicts country. The Buddha devotees first and second waves. The num- a genuine discipline-flourishing extension. In the meantime, we since our independence in 1948. were disheartened in their faith ber of infected people is increas- democratic system. have to do the things that should We negotiated to seek solutions in Buddhism during the previous ing daily, and the percentage of We have released our find- be done. Then, we will take six and so we were able to hold the five years. Since the time we took confirmed cases and deaths is ings, on-the-ground inspections months to prepare for the elec- 2010 and 2015 elections success- responsibilities, we have empha- also higher than before. and evidence of voter lists of tion according to the law. We will fully and our country has been sized religious affairs under the These facts are being mis- each township, region and state accomplish the provisions of the on the pathway to democracy. provisions of the Constitution. For represented in the news media The way to negotiate and find a this purpose, the strengths of the and on social media, comparing solution was lost due to the voting patriotic people who love our na- the situation with today’s third Titled with democracy, they are frauds of the 2020 election. tion and the people are of crucial wave and the previous second We have worked for es- significance. We will build a nation wave. It needs to consider the going to revitalize the one-party tablishing a genuine and disci- that practises a genuine and dis- actual condition of infection as pline-flourishing multiparty dem- cipline-flourishing democracy, a closely as possible from the point autocracy. Thus, we are bringing ocratic system. I guarantee the modern developed country and of view of epidemiology. establishment of a union based a nation that will conform with The virus was not initially about the restoration of a genuine on democracy and federalism. the aspirations of the Myanmar reported seriously in Southeast The main thing is to complete all national peoples. I deeply urge Asia and Asian countries but discipline-flourishing democratic the electoral preparations with- entire ethnic nationals to work in European countries such as in a fixed timeframe. We have together. As a result of our talks, France, Spain and Italy, in the system. performed our tasks under the we have signed the Nationwide law. The NLD extremists and Ceasefire Agreement (NCA) SEE PAGE-4 their supporters chose the act to resolve the ethnic armed 2 AUGUST 2021 4 NATIONAL THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR

The Speech made by State Administration Council Chairman Senior General Min Aung Hlaing on the occasion of six months on 1 August 2021 since the State Administration Council has taken the State’s responsibilities: -

FROM PAGE-3 and the number of health workers the transport of 12 million masks of doctors. So, the government countries and organizations to see southern part and northern for the diagnosis and treatment immediately. The amount of 12 is striving for fulfilling the needs continue cooperation with us. We part of the Americas such as the process, while the infection rate million masks will be distributed in time. Oxygen production of arrange the production of the vac- US and Brazil. However, due to is on the rise, it becomes a major per month. The Ministry of Com- oxygen plants across the nation, cine at home. I expect 50 per cent the geographical distance, it can challenge for the country amidst merce eases restrictions for the the oxygen plants from military coverage of vaccines across the be supposed that Myanmar was the third wave of COVID-19. De- import of oxygen concentrators, and civilian hospitals and private nation at the end of this year. As not hit by the first wave of COV- spite these challenges, I’d like to liquid oxygen, medicines and oxygen plants are continuously COVD-19 infects various parts ID-19. recognize and express thanks to medical equipment as well as monitored, and emphasis is being of the world, every country tries In the second wave, as a dutiful health staff, volunteers tax, and such importation does placed to fulfil the actual needs hard to take preventive meas- developing country, it has to and well-wishers or donors for not need FDA recommendations of oxygen to hospitals/treatment ures and receive vaccines. So, I’d struggle to tackle the pandemic their fore-front performances in and import licences. For cutting centres. Effective management like to urge the people to receive to some extent. We can see that response to the Covid pandem- off the infection chains, the com- will be made for generating the vaccines in respective townships the variant of the second wave is ic. As I said earlier, Section 505 munity restrictions are adopted, limited volume of oxygen and effi- with health awareness. not much faster in the infection will be eased unless CDMers are and consideration is conducted cient use. Efforts are being made rate than the current COVID-19 the leaders or instigators of the to resurge the long term loss of to produce large quantities and Esteemed national peoples, strain. violent acts. Covid-19 does not the economic recovery of the quality liquid oxygen in a short The weakness in emphasis In the third wave, the infec- concern with politics. It matters State and the people triggered time. Preparations are being and cooperation of the people in tion rate is dramatically high in made to soonest fulfil the liquid control, prevention and treatment our neighbouring countries and oxygen in Yangon and Manda- of the COVID-19 depends on the the regional countries are still In the third wave, it can be said that the lay where a high infection rate of spreading of fake news and mis- facing the third wave of COVID-19 experiences in the previous waves may be the disease happens. Expansion information via social networks. seriously. The main point is the work for the installation of oxygen Aimed at raising the prices of emergence of more infectious advantages. We have known at least the in- plants at public hospitals, health health-protective equipment in mutants. The most common Del- fection way of the disease. We have experi- departments, Tatmadaw hospi- the market and raising the wor- ta Variant is now known to be 60 enced prevention, control and treatment of tals, State-owned factories and ries among the people, fake office per cent faster in transmission workplaces are now underway. letters are posted on the social than the previous strains. The the disease. Moreover, as vaccination has That is why the requirements networks, and misinformation R0 (Reproduction number) of been conducted at some percentage, the of public hospitals and health that hospitals did not admit pa- the original COVID-19 virus is departments will be fulfilled in tients; the government banned between 2.4 and 2.6. But the R0 infection of the disease can be hindered to September, without purchasing further import of oxygen; the of Alpha and Delta is between some degree. oxygen supplies from private global authorities did not recog- 4 and 5 and between 5 and 8, re- factories. nize the newly-arrived vaccines, spectively. (It means, if the R0 is People need to systemat- and such vaccination might cause 2, the transmission rate is from most for the lives of the people by COVID-19. ically receive the COVID-19 danger is spread on the social 1 person to 2, 2 to 4, 4 to 8, 8 to 16, and their social affairs. Faster testing, faster finding vaccination for the set times to network pages. Mobilization of twice in every step). During the No matter how there are and faster isolation are impor- reduce the infection rate and the people not to abide by the third wave, the Alpha, Beta and many challenges, I’ll strive for tant for cutting off the infection spreading rate. Vaccination was prevention and control guidelines Delta recognized as variants of the people to overcome the third chains as well as for the patients. given in all regions and states issued by the Ministry of Health concern by WHO are found in wave of COVID-19 amidst various Preparations are being made to from 27-1-2021 to 21-7-2021, a total and Sports and restrictions for Myanmar. We can estimate how difficulties and hindrances. admit the confirmed patients of 1,825,642 people (6.08% of the COVID-19, not to receive vac- much faster the infection rate will In the third wave, it can be in time at suitable COVID-19 target population) were vaccinat- cines and to cause various crowds be than the variants of the second said that the experiences in the treatment centres depending on ed two times. Arrangements are among the people are being utter- wave by looking at the R0 of new previous waves may be advan- their symptoms. People should being made to faster give many ly despicable committed instead variants of this third wave. tages. We have known at least not receive medical treatment COVID-19 vaccines to the people. of receiving vaccines, avoiding When the R0 is 4, the trans- the infection way of the disease. of traditional therapies at home The government is negotiating the crowds and public places as mission rate will be from 1 person We have experienced preven- if they face the suspicion of infec- to purchase the vaccines. Three much as possible, abiding by the to 4, 4 to 16, 16 to 64 and so on. If tion, control and treatment of tion, and they need to receive a million doses out of four million social distancing, wearing masks the R0 is 8, its rate will be from the disease. Moreover, as vac- medical examination at nearby units of vaccines purchased from and face shields and often wash- 1 person to 8, 8 to 64, 64 to 512. cination has been conducted at local health units. Such units, if the People’s Republic of China ing hands while the infection The widespread outbreak and some percentage, the infection necessary, will transfer them to arrived in the fourth week of July, rate is high again. Such moves rapid spread of the disease in of the disease can be hindered to suitable COVID-19 treatment and the vaccination process is directly impose threats on the life the neighbouring countries and some degree. With regard to the centres. As such, the people need being conducted rapidly. Three and property of the people, and it regional countries are unlike the natural disaster, the government to correctly inform the authorities more million vaccines will ar- means using COVID-19 as a tool first and second waves, and it is machinery does not control the about their health situation. The rive in August. Hence, the plan of bioterrorism. Applying such a big challenge for our country. processes without centralization Tatmadaw has prepared to admit is underway to systematically ways for their political gain might When the infection rate and allow the government de- 39,000 patients at 1,278 patient vaccinate the target groups on be very guilty on the religious is so high, the public hospitals partments at different levels in treatment centres while civilian priority. Moreover, two million ground. As the instability of the that can provide proper medi- respective areas to freely do their units have made preparations to doses purchased from Russia will State based on health problems is cal treatment to the people are work process. Hence, it can be admit 71,500 patients at 1,453 cen- arrive in Myanmar in batches. being agitated, control of destruc- facing the human resources seen that response to the infec- tres. Arrangements will be made Efforts are being made to take the tionist acts on the social network problem. The NLD extremists, tion of disease gains momentum. to extend community COVID pos- remaining vaccines from India. In is a great challenge. who were involved in electoral For example, it needed to take a itive centres where necessary. this regard, I thank all countries Protests staged across the frauds, and their supporters in- long time for the distribution of Oxygen is essential for the and organizations that cooperate nation after 1 February were cited the health workers to do so. 5 million masks to respective re- treatment of patients in COV- with us in the prevention, control transformed into anarchic pro- Due to a considerable imbalance gions and states in the past. Now, ID-19. It is also important to use and treatment of the pandemic. tests and then armed attacks. between the number of patients Tatmadaw aircraft are used in oxygen only in the consultation I’d like to request the friendly SEE PAGE-5 2 AUGUST 2021 THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR NATIONAL 5 The Speech made by State Administration Council Chairman Senior General Min Aung Hlaing on the occasion of six months on 1 August 2021 since the State Administration Council has taken the State’s responsibilities: -

FROM PAGE-4 infection rate declined to 34.75 per Clothing is of importance for all face loss in agricultural and live- well. Despite facing restrictions Innocent people were killed cent on 29 July, up from 40.82 per people. Hence, it is necessary stock products. We must march for COVID-19, uplift of sports is by surprise. Why did they kill cent on 23 July. It is necessary to encourage the cultivation of into the agro-based industry. being emphasized. Efforts are the people? Why did they attack to further decline the infection cotton and the production of tex- According to the census in being made to modernizing the the people living in peace? We rate. An announcement will be tile. We must extend river water 2014 and 2019 interim census, 8.1 stadiums and gymnasiums in re- cannot accept it. Violent protests declared for one more week of pumping stations, irrigated are- per cent of the children above five gions and states. As the strength were responded under the law official holidays for effective cut- as and cotton cultivation. Like- years old have never attended of the youth plays a key role in in accord with the international ting off the infection chains. We wise, efforts must be made for the school. Moreover, 18.2 mil- uplifting the sports, encourage- community. Action must be taken will stand with the people. We will sufficient production of palm oil lion people above 25 years old ment will be given to the youth against those who used attacks protect the people at full capacity. and dairy products at home. It is had learned middle education and sports sectors. of fetal weapons and mines. At I’d deeply say that Myanmar is necessary to fully extend oil palm only, accounting for a one-third The State Administration present, the whole country is sure to conquer the pandemic plantations, sesame, groundnut, population of the country. Such Council has taken the State re- stable except for some terrorist through harmonious cooperation. mustard, sunflower and nigre an amount showed we have to sponsibilities for six months. Af- attacks. Further tasks will be un- In order to curb the chains of in- plantations in lower Taninthayi strive for uplifting the education ter necessary inspections were dertaken for ensuring total peace fectious disease, one more week Region Myeik, Bokpyin and Ka- qualification of the people. So, accomplished in line with the first and stability in the areas, except of office holiday will be extended. wthoung. Dairy cow breeding we are carrying out the tasks as point of the SAC Five-Point Road for that of EAOs. In this regard, necessary meas- must be undertaken in the areas a national duty. It is necessary Map, actions are taken against Various gatherings and ures will be carried out to avoid with good climatic conditions to to turn out educated persons for those who are responsible under crowds across the nation after 1 impacting the manufacturing sec- have the surplus volume of dairy ensuring firm democracy and de- the law. That is why I’d like to in- February were designed to spark tor and economic businesses. We products at home. In accord with velopment of the State. We have form you that Union-level and Re- the infection of variant COVID-19 will stand together with the peo- the using domestic products, it is to turn out scientists, technolo- gions/States-level administration species. To do so, various ways of ple. We will safeguard the people necessary to encourage domestic gists, law experts, economists structure will be reformed to effec- agitations were committed via efficiently. I’d like to stress that products and locally made prod- and medical professionals. So, tively implement the remaining social networks. The globe has we Myanmar national peoples ucts like a quote “Use and rely I’d like to urge all to encourage objectives and roadmap activities. overcome various pandemics in must overcome the pandemic, on local makes”. Employment higher education practically. We the past. Although various pan- with our concerted and collabo- opportunities should be created have to encourage education. Esteemed national peoples, demics such as plague and small- rative efforts. within the country so as to lessen Amid difficulties, we reopened I’d like to give the concluding pox diseases can be controlled in the number of migrant workers the schools not to cut the educa- remarks. the advancement of medical tech- Esteemed national peoples, seeking jobs outside the country. tional chain. Now, these schools (1) The State Administration nologies at present, respiratory The State Administration In addition, efforts will be made are temporarily closed due to the Council has guaranteed a disease COVID-19 may cause in- Council is implementing the for reducing fuel consumption outbreak of COVID-19. I thank all genuine, discipline-flourish- fections whenever breathing. If Five-Point Road Map and Nine and the use of other energy sourc- teachers, education staff, parents ing multiparty democracy. At public cooperation lacks, it is sure Objectives in serving the State es. Although the country is en- and students who emphasized a time when the duties in the to difficultly control the disease. It duties.The globe has some 7,000 gaged in agriculture and livestock education in the schooling days. state of emergency have been can be seen that even developed million of population, facing the breeding, there are the only one All the youths should emphasize accomplished, the multiparty and developing countries are yet high requirements of basic needs. University of Agriculture and the learning only. democracy general election to perform control, prevention During the pandemic period, food only one University of Veterinary We set up the new Ministry of will be held. So, it is necessary and treatment of the disease supplies still need for all despite Science. The country needs in- Cooperatives and Rural Develop- to make many preparations. on the upper hand. Even in the reducing the other services. We tellectuals and intelligentsia for ment to contribute to agriculture So, all the esteemed national United States, hospitals cannot must apply it. Our country engag- modernizing the agriculture and and livestock breeding tasks the peoples aspiring for democra- give adequate accommodation to ing in agriculture and livestock livestock breeding tasks. So, ag- people work. The ministry will cy and peace and tranquillity patients, facing shortages of ven- breeding tasks is home to more riculture and livestock breeding not only operate the old coop- of the State are urged to co- tilators and air fresheners. So, the than 70 rural people. schools in regions and states erative system but will create a operate in the peace, stability patients are receiving treatments So, efforts are being made are upgraded to institutes and public-based system for enabling and rule of law tasks. at home. The problem of oxygen to ensure the availability of basic colleges so as to turn out skilled the people to participate in the (2) We will confront the COVID-19 is a difficulty for the countries agricultural prerequisites such persons. The Ministry of Science same businesses with the same pandemic through the united facing the outbreak of disease. as quality seeds, soil, water and and Technology is reconstituted interests, as well. The developed strength of the people, the Myanmar’s neighbouring coun- techniques, reclaim the fertile for modernizing the agricultural and developing countries are government and all organiza- tries India and Indonesia are cultivable lands, supply agricul- tasks, transforming the manual practising a good cooperative tions. We overcome challeng- facing severe problems. tural water and provide proper into mechanized farming and system. Now, we have set up the es altogether. We must con- Today’s the State Adminis- cultivation methods to the local improving other sectors without agricultural cooperative societies quer all the difficulties. Let’s tration Council government has farmers. With regard to the live- losing sight over science and for the effective operation of the overcome the challenges with inserted the prevention, control stock, encouragement will be giv- technology. agricultural tasks. the spirit of victory. and treatment of COVID-19 into en to poultry, pig, goat, cow and As the country is based on During the COVID-19 pan- (3) We are raising the basic busi- the Five-Point Road Map as much fish farming tasks. Systematic agriculture, agricultural products demic, the global countries are nesses such as the agricul- as possible. Work procedures re- breeding tasks are of importance. must have a certain market. Loss facing difficulties in the produc- ture and livestock breeding lated to pandemic management We have to undertake the estab- and damage of products yearly tion and service sectors. Our tasks. At least, we decided and restrictions have been eased lishment of the emerald livestock happened in the border and reg- country also faces such difficul- to ensure the sufficiency of and necessary amendments are villages, production of pedigree ular trade routes due to various ties. Hence, we have to strive for basic needs during the pan- being undertaken. To cut off the animals and sufficient manu- reasons. So, efforts must be made the sufficiency of basic foodstuffs, demic period. “Let’s unite as infection chains among the peo- facturing of feedstuffs using the for modern storage systems and healthcare services, transport the present moment is impor- ple, long office holidays were set raw materials. It is necessary to the production of value-added services and social security ser- tant.” “We must secure the from 17 July to 1 August. In so extend agriculture and livestock products. For example, onion vices. The health sector is related victory through unity.” doing, cooperation of the entire tasks. For example, we import powder, fried onion and squash to sports and fitness. Uplifting the May all the esteemed national people except some extremist some US$1,000 million worth onion must be made in addition sports brings honour to the State. peoples be physical and men- destructionists was the honour- of textile per year. Our country to the export of ordinary onion. It uplifts not only the physical tal well-being! Thank you. able strength of the people. The has the season to grow cotton. Farmers must make efforts not to strength but the mental one, as 2 AUGUST 2021 6 NATIONAL THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR

Republic of the Union of Myanmar Republic of the Union of Myanmar State Administration Council State Administration Council Order No 148/2021 Order No 149/2021 9th Waxing of Waso 1383 ME 9th Waxing of Waso 1383 ME 1 August 2021 1 August 2021 Resignation of Region Administration Council Chairpersons from their duties Reconstitution of Union Ministries

allowed THE State Administration Council reconstituted the Ministry of the Union THE State Administration Council allowed the resignation of the following Government Office as following Union ministries in accord with Section 419 of chairpersons of Region/State Administration Councils from their respective the Constitution. duties in accord with Section 149 of the Constitution: - (1) Ministry of Union Government Office (1) (1) U Maung Maung Lin Sagaing Region (2) Ministry of Union Government Office (2) (2) U Tin Aung Taninthayi Region (3) U Ye Myint Ayeyawady Region. By Order,

By Order, Aung Lin Dwe Aung Lin Dwe Lieutenant - General Lieutenant - General Secretary Secretary State Administration Council State Administration Council

Republic of the Union of Myanmar Republic of the Union of Myanmar State Administration Council State Administration Council Order No 150/2021 Order No 151/2021 9th Waxing of Waso 1383 ME 9th Waxing of Waso 1383 ME 1 August 2021 1 August 2021 Reconstitution of Union Ministries Reconstitution of Union Ministries

THE State Administration Council reconstituted the Ministry of Labour, Im- THE State Administration Council reconstituted the Ministry of Health and Sports migration and Population as following Union ministries in accord with Section as following Union ministries in accord with Section 149 of the Constitution: - 149 of the Constitution: - (1) Ministry of Health (1) Ministry of Labour (2) Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs (2) Ministry of Immigration and Population By Order, By Order, Aung Lin Dwe Aung Lin Dwe Lieutenant - General Lieutenant - General Secretary Secretary State Administration Council State Administration Council

Republic of the Union of Myanmar Central Committee on Prevention, Control and Treatment for COVID-19 Notification 9th Waning of Waso 1383 ME 1 August 2021 1. The State Administration Council issued a Notification No 220/2021 dated 1-8- (f) Shops selling medicines and medical supplies to open; 2021 declaring from 2 to 8 August 2021 as successive public holidays. (g) Restaurants to adopt a take-away system; 2. To effectively prevent the spread of COVID-19 during these public holidays, (h) To continue healthcare services (government hospitals/private hospitals the people must obey the following rules: - and clinics); (a) Reside at homes or dormitory, and not to travel at all except for duty and (i) To wear protective gears, including masks, if you go outside funeral services; (j) To operate the land, sea and air services under the supervision of the (b) Central Bank of Myanmar, its subsidiaries -- government banks and private Ministry of Transport and Communications, Nay Pyi Taw Council, region/ banks to open as usual; state governments; (c) Not to affect the production rate, the factories and industries must operate (k) To comply the SOP (Standard Operating Procedure) of trucks to facilitate under the supervision of the Ministry of Labour, Nay Pyi Taw Council, the flow of goods; region/state governments in line with the COVID-19 health rules of the (l) To continue to open cargo ports; Ministry of Health; (m) To follow the COVID-19 health rules of the Central Committee on Pre- (d) To adopt the work-from-home system or other proper methods for impor- vention, Control and Treatment for COVID-19 and the Ministry of Health tant office work of the relevant departments; without fail. (e) Shops selling basic essential things like fuel, drinking water, meat, fish 3. Action will be taken against those who fail to abide by the above-mentioned and foodstuffs to open; orders under the existing laws. 2 AUGUST 2021 THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR NATIONAL 7 Nay Pyi Taw Union Territory launches COVID-19 vaccination drive NAY Pyi Taw Union Territory ple to receive the vaccines was launched the COVID-19 vacci- also available at the vaccination nation drive at designated places areas. In addition, the Myanmar in the respective townships ac- Police Force provided security cording to the target groups and for the safety of the people. priority programmes to control The COVID-19 vaccination the spread of the disease. is scheduled from 1 to 4 August The vaccines were given to and will continue to be given to the targeted groups of frontline priority groups, although the vac- workers, the elderly, religious cination period is determined by persons, volunteers who are par- the population census in each ticipating in the COVID-19 pre- township and the available quo- vention, control and treatment tas. activities, and staff from private The Ministry of Health and industries and workplaces. Sports is implementing the COV- A total of 4,066 COVID-19 ID-19 vaccination drive to reduce vaccines were administered the incidence and mortality of yesterday, with a process for COVID-19 in Myanmar as well screening for contraindications as to prevent the spread of the and precautions in place, and in- disease and reduce impacts on formation issued by the Ministry the country’s economy due to An inoculation programme is launched in Nay Pyi Taw Union Territory. of Health and Sports for the peo- the outbreak. — MNA Senior citizens, service personnel and prison inmates receive COVID-19 vaccines across country

THE COVID-19 vaccination gion; 1,200 people in Yangon has been administered to civ- Region; 7,573 people in Ay- il service personnel, prison eyawady Region; 2,481 peo- inmates and people over the ple in Rakhine State; 13,867 age of 65, including monks people in Mandalay Region; and nuns, in regions and 3,500 people in Bago Region states. were vaccinated. Yesterday, a total of 3,380 The vaccination was un- senior citizens and 358 in- dertaken by the Tatmadaw mates in Kintha prison in the medical teams, in collabora- Nay Pyi Taw Union Territory; tion with doctors and medi- 3,168 southern Shan State; cal workers from the public 4,061 people in eastern Shan hospitals and volunteers, and State; 8,350 people in Mon officials encouraged and co- State and Kayin State; 3,781 ordinated with them where people in Taninthayi Re- necessary. — MNA

Regions/ States-wise inoculation programme includes senior citizens, including monks and nuns, service personnel and prison inmates. The vaccination was undertaken by the Tatmadaw medical teams, in collaboration with doctors and medical workers from the public hospitals and volunteers.

More Sinopharm vaccines distributed to cities by ground-road vehicles

OFFICIALS distributed more Region. 8,800 doses to Pa-An, 23,600 to Logistics vehicles. the specified cold route stand- Sinopharm Covid-19 vaccines to The vaccines were arrived Pyay, 12,000 vaccines to Maw- The Covid-19 vaccine will ards, officials said. different states and regions yes- from the People’s Republic of lamyine, 55,200 vaccines to Ay- be distributed to the public as The vaccines will also be terday via ground transportation China and are being distribut- eyarwady Region and 26,400 soon as possible as per the target distributed to remote areas by from the government medical ed under the Central Vaccine vaccines to Magway Region re- population groups. air with the help of Myanma Air- warehouse on Min Dhama Road, Expansion Project title. spectively. All the vaccines were The vaccines are being dis- lines and the military (Air Force), Mayangone Township, Yangon The distribution includes carried by Cold Chain Delivery tributed promptly according to officials added. — MNA 2 AUGUST 2021 2 AUGUST 2021 8 OPINION THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR ARTICLE 9 Extreme poverty The Arctic: An Ocean on Top of the World ` BY THAN HTUN (MYANMAR GEOSCIENCES SOCIETY) Myanmar Daily Weather Report as important (Issued at 4:00 pm Saturday 1 August 2021) HIS is the last and the evaporation, heavy freshwater in- and walrus. The area has a fragile Ocean. Out of the 2,224 passengers BAY INFERENCE: Monsoon is moderate to strong over the fifth article of “The World flow from rivers and streams, and ecosystem that is slow to change and crew aboard, more than 1,500 Andaman Sea and Bay of Bengal. T Ocean”. My main objective limited connection and outflow to and slow to recover from disrup- died, making it one of the deadliest as infection of is to introduce the oceans of the surrounding oceans waters with tions and damage. commercial peacetime maritime FORECAST VALID UNTIL AFTERNOON OF THE 02nd world to the young generation so higher salinities. The summer The Arctic Ocean has rela- disasters in modern history. August, 2021: Rain or thundershowers will be scattered in as to be aware of the significant shrinking of the ice has been quot- tively little plant-like except for Lower Sagaing, Magway Regions, fairly widespread in Mandalay COVID-19 ocean environment of our planet ed at 50%. The US National Snow phytoplankton, which is a crucial Geology Region and (Southern and Eastern)Shan State and widespread Earth. and Ice Data Center (NSIDC) uses part of the ocean and there are The crystalline basement in the remaining Regionsand States with likelihood of regionally HE World Bank reported that it expected some 150 million satellite data to provide a daily massive amounts of them in the rocks of mountains around the heavyfalls in Naypyitaw, Rakhine, Kayin, Mon States and isolated global people with less than 1.90 US$ per day of income “How inappropriate to call this record of Arctic sea ice cover and Arctic. During summer, the sun Arctic Ocean were recrystallized heavyfalls in Upper Sagaing, Magway, Taninthayi Regions and Tmight face extreme poverty in 2021. The report on 7 Oc- planet Earth when it is clearly rate of melting compared to an is out day and night, enabling the or formed during the Ellesmerian Kachin, Chin States. Degree of certainty is (100%). tober 2020 also mentioned that there would be some 115 million Ocean” average period and specific past phytoplankton to photosynthesize Orogeny, the regional phase of the poverty-stricken people in 2020 due to the downtrend of the world Arthur C. Clarke years, showing a continuous de- for long periods and reproduce larger Caledonian Orogeny in the STATE OF THE SEA: Squalls with moderate to rough seas economy. cline in sea ice extent. quickly, but the reserve is true in Paleozoic Era. Regional subsid- are likely at times off and along Myanmar Coasts. Surface wind The President of the World Bank remarked that the pandemic ‘Arctic’ comes from the Greek The average depth of the Arc- winter when they struggle to get ence in the Jurassic and Triassic speed in squalls may reach (30-35)m.p.h. Wave height will be and the global economic decline might push 1.4 per cent of the glob- word for bear: Arktos. The name tic Ocean is 3,321ft and the deep- enough light in order to survive. periods led to significant sediment about (7 -10)feet off and along Myanmar Coasts. al people into extreme poverty. If the pandemic did not occur, the doesn’t come from the iconic polar est point- Molloy Deep (Hole) in The polar bear, which is a car- deposition, creating many of the poverty-stricken rate might bear, but from constellations in the the Fram Strait, in the Greenland nivorous bear whose native range reservoirs for current day oil and OUTLOOK FOR SUBSEQUENT TWO DAYS: Increase of plunge into 7.9 per cent but northern sky of the Arctic, ‘Ursa Sea, East of Greenland at about lies within the Arctic Circle, lives gas deposits. During the Creta- rain in Rakhine, Kayin, Mon States. actually reached 9.4 per cent. Minor’ (Little Bear) and ‘Ursa 18,210ft. and hunts on the ice of the Arctic ceous period, the Canadian Basin Economists from the Major’ (Great Bear). Ocean. The Arctic is home to mil- opened and tectonic activity due FORECAST FOR NAYPYITAW AND NEIGHBOURING World Bank said the popu- Of all, the Arctic Ocean is History lions of seals, which become prey to the assembly of Alaska caused AREA FOR 02nd August, 2021: Some rain or thundershowers. That is lation who might encounter the smallest and shallowest of Fridtjof Nansen was the first when they surface in holes in the hydrocarbons to migrate toward Degree of certainty is (100%). the impacts of extreme pov- the world’s five major oceans. It to make a nautical crossing of the ice in order to breathe, or when what is now Prudhoe Bay. At the erty in 2020 depends on the spans an area of approximately Arctic Ocean, in 1896. they reset on the ice. Polar bears same time, sediments shed off the FORECAST FOR YANGON AND NEIGHBOURING AREA why the trend of the global economy. 5,430,000 sq. mi and is also known The first surface crossing of hunt primarily at the interface be- rising Canadian Rockies built out FOR 02nd August, 2021: One or two rain or thundershowers. As such, some 11 million to as the coldest of all the oceans. the ocean was led by Wally Herbert tween ice, water, and air. They only the large Mackenzie Delta. Degree of certainty is (100%). 115 million global people The International Hydrographic in 1969, in a dogsled expedition rarely catch seals on land or in the The drifting apart of the su- authorities might face the impacts of Organization (IHO) recognizes from Alaska to Svalbard, with air open water. percontinent Pangea, beginning FORECAST FOR MANDALAY AND NEIGHBOURING extreme poverty. If so, the it as an ocean, although some support. The first nautical tran- There are 4 whale species in in the Triassic period, opened the AREA FOR 02ndAugust, 2021: One or two rain or thunder- successes achieved in pov- oceanographers call it the Arctic sit of the north pole was made in the Arctic Ocean including the bow early Atlantic Ocean. Rifting then showers. Degree of certainty is (100%). need to adopt erty alleviation for many Mediterranean Sea. It has been 1958 by the submarine USS Nau- heed whale, grey whale, narwhale, extended northward, opening the years would lead to a down- described approximately as an tilus, and the first surface nautical Arctic Ocean REF: ENCYCLOPÆDIA BRITANNICA, INC. and the beluga whale. The bow Arctic Ocean as mafic oceanic Flood Warning trend. Moreover, 40 per cent estuary of the Atlantic Ocean. It transit occurred in 1977 by the ice- heed whale is one of the biggest crust material erupted out of a (Issued at 12:00hrs M.S.T on 1-8-2021) rapid and firm of global people residing in is also seen as the northernmost breaker NS Arktika. In World War to sustain their livelihoods. This sity of the landscape of the Arctic whales in the world, growing up to branch of Mid-Atlantic Ridge. The According to the (11:30) hrs M.S.T observation today, the the economic crises and con- part of the all-encompassing World II, the European region of the Arc- includes fishing, sealing, whaling, means a wide array of wildlife. Spe- 18 meters (59 feet) in length and it drifting apart of the superconti- water level of Shwegyin River at Shwegyin is observed as flicted areas might double Ocean. tic Ocean was heavily contested: and other activities. The Arctic’s cies like the beluga, pacific salmon, can weigh up to 100 tonnes. nent Pangea, be The Amerasia Ba- about (1) foot below its danger level. It may reach its danger policies to the poverty. The Arctic Ocean includes Allied commitment to resupply the otherworldly landscapes are also brown bear, walrus, arctic wolf, There are six seal species sin may have opened first, with the level during the next (1) day. The urban people might the North Pole region in the mid- Soviet Union via its northern ports increasingly drawing tourists to arctic fox, narwhal, and grey whale living in the Arctic Ocean includ- Chukchi Borderland moved along According to the (11:30) hrs M.S.T observation today, the face poverty-stricken im- dle of the Northern Hemisphere was opposed by German naval and the region. As once impenetrable live here. Polar bears remain the ing the bearded seal, ribbon seal, to the northeast by transform water level of Sittoung River at Madauk is observed as about faster respond pacts. So, the rural people and extends south to about 60°N. air forces. Since 1954 commercial sea ice becomes less stable, North- most iconic Arctic species and live ringed seal, spotted seal, harp seal, faults. Additional spreading helped (½) foot below its danger level. It may reach its danger level are expected to share their The Arctic Ocean is surrounded airlines have flown over the Arctic ern Hemisphere countries have only in this landscape. and hooded seal. The harp seal, to create the “triple-junction” of during the next (1) day. According to the (11:30) hrs M.S.T aid with the urban people. by Eurasia and North America, Ocean. begun to take a greater interest also known as the saddleback seal, the Alpha-Mendeleev Ridge in the observation today, the water level of Bilin River at Bilin is to the If firm policies cannot be and the borders follow topographic in the Arctic as a path for shipping Navigation through the Arctic is native to the Arctic Ocean and Late Cretaceous epoch. observed as about (1) foot below its danger level. It may reach adopted for fighting the COV- features: the Bering Strait on the Who lives there? lanes, military presence, and com- Ocean even to the Atlantic Ocean, with an Throughout the Cenozoic Era, its danger level during the next (2) days. ID-19 pandemic, the aim to Pacific side and the Greenland The U.S., Canada, Greenland, mercial opportunities, particularly There are two potentially im- average length of 1.8meters(6feet) the subduction of the Pacific plate, It is especially advised to the people who settle near the river COVID-19 for alleviate poverty might stay Scotland Ridge on the Atlantic Iceland, Norway, and Russia all oil and gas exploration. portant navigation channels- con- and an average weight of 165 kg the collision of India with Eura- banks and low lying areas at Shwegyin Township,Madauk and away from the goal in 2030. side. It is mostly covered by sea have territories that reach into nect the Pacific with the Atlantic (363 pounds). sia and the continued opening of Bilin Township to take precaution measure. The World Bank warned all ice throughout the year and almost the Arctic Ocean. About four mil- Ocean life Ocean: (a) Northwest Passage Sea the North Atlantic created new mitigating the to note the global poverty completely in winter. The Arctic lion people live in the Arctic re- Much of the Arctic Ocean’s route across the Northern Coast Sea Ice hydrocarbon traps. The seafloor rate might be seven per cent Ocean’s surface temperature and gion, many of them indigenous complex life can only be seen by of North America and through the Three types of ice cover the began spreading from the Gakkel in the coming decade. salinity vary seasonally as the ice groups that have thrived there underwater explorers who dive Canadian Arctic Archipelago. (b) Arctic Ocean: polar ice, fast ice, Ridge and the Paleocene Epoch poverty rate The number of children cover melts and freezes; its sa- for millennia. To survive in the through holes in thick sea ice. Northern Sea Route: Sea Route and pack ice. The polar ice doesn’t and Eocene Epoch, causing the facing poverty in all aspects linity is the lowest on average of harsh climate, many of the region’s Much of the ocean here is dark, across the Northern coast of the melt and can be as thin as 2 me- Lomonosov Ridge to move farther reached 1.2 billion because the five major oceans, due to low people rely on the ocean’s bounty blocked from sunlight by ice cover, Eurasian Continent. tres in the summer and 50 metres from land and subside. in the country. of the COVID-19 pandemic, but photographers have dived with thick in the winter. Over 10 million Because of sea ice and re- according to the press re- lights to expose underwater Arctic Arctic Opening square km (3.8 square miles) of ice mote conditions, the geology of leases issued by UNICEF life. Scientists note that studying A rare and record ozone hole melt yearly. If the ice disappears, the Arctic Ocean is still poorly and Save the Children on 17 life in the Arctic Ocean can be dif- has formed over the Arctic. An the polar bears living and hunting explored. The Arctic coring Ex- September 2020. ficult because the region is hard opening in the ozone layer appears on the ice of the Arctic Ocean will pedition drilling shed some light The number of children increased to 15 per cent in low-income to access. Much is still unknown each spring over the Antarctic, but completely disappear. They rely on the Lomonosov Ridge, which and medium-income countries. The number of poverty-stricken about the Arctic’s marine food the last time this phenomenon was on the ice to serve as a platform appears to be continental crust children who suffered impacts of COVID-19 in early 2020 increased web. The bay is famous for polar seen in the north was in 2011. when they hunt and they’ll starve separated from the Barents-Kara to 150 more million. The press release was based on education, bears, but their population is in de- Biology without the ice platforms. During Shelf in the Paleocene and then health care services, housing, nutrition, sanitation and water cline. The Arctic consists of more More fish species are found in summer, its ice shrinks by 50 per starved of sediment. It may con- supply triggered by poverty in all aspects in 70 countries. than just the snow-covered terrain the Arctic Ocean than anywhere cent. Ships often get trapped in tain up to 10 billion barrels of oil. That is why the authorities need to adopt rapid and firm that people expect. Its diverse and else in the world. There is a wide the ice and are crushed by the ice. The Gakkel Ridge rift is also poorly policies to faster respond to the COVID-19 for mitigating the often dramatic landscapes include variety of marine life living in the The Titanic, which was a British understood and may extend into poverty rate in the country. sea ice, coastal wetlands, upland Arctic Ocean, including jellyfish, passenger liner, sank because it the Laptev Sea. Polar bears remain the most iconic Arctic species, and live only in this tundra, glaciers, mountains, wide fish, seals and even endangered ran into an iceberg that had broken landscape. PHOTO: WWF rivers, and the sea itself. The diver- marine species such as whales away from a glacier from the Arctic SEE PAGE-10 2 AUGUST 2021 10 GLOBAL: TOP STORIES THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR MoC allows import process of anti-COVID-19 medicines, devices on 1 August FOR the quick and easy import 15,000 test kits from Yangon In- oxygen generators and four ox- of anti-COVID-19 medical prod- ternational Airport and 95 tonnes ygen filling machines have been ucts and equipment, including of liquid oxygen, seven tonnes of allowed to be imported by 785 liquid oxygen, oxygen gas, and liquid oxygen tank, 6,306 home vehicles as officials are giving oxygen concentrators, the Minis- oxygen concentrators, and 40 priority to disease control of the try of Commerce is allowing reg- tonnes of masks from Muse, Covid-19. ular import activities at border Myawady, and Chinshwehaw The Ministry of Commerce trade points from 2 to 8 August trading posts were successfully is cooperating with relevant that are designated as public imported. departments to facilitate the holidays. The aforementioned items importation of Covid-19 disease Officials from the relevant were imported by 36 vehicles prevention and control equip- departments are cooperating from 23 companies. ment by arranging direct contact to facilitate and expedite the From 12 July to 1 August, with officials from relevant trade standard operating procedures 822 tons of liquid oxygen, 575 centres if assistance is needed including online registration for tonnes of liquid oxygen tank, and contact persons can be con- the import process during the 114 tonnes of oxygen gas, 75,452 tacted directly at the Ministry’s long public holidays. home oxygen concentrators, website, Commerce.gov.mm, On 1 August (yesterday), 337,878 test kits, 1,145 tonnes of officials said. —MNA 5,822 oxygen concentrators and masks, eight oxygen plants, 11

The Arctic: An Ocean on Top of the World

FROM PAGE-9 has varied significantly during the Earth’s concentration of radioactive contaminants, millions of migratory birds and thousands Natural Resources history. During the Paleocene-Eocene and alter the direction of the ocean cur- of marine mammals, including polar bears, Petroleum and natural gas fields, Thermal Maximum 55 million years ago, rents which could cause severe weather ice seals, endangered bowhead whales, placer deposits, polymetallic nodules, sand when the global climate underwent warm- disruptions. Animal species would also be and Pacific walrus. The explorers are still and gravel aggregates, fish, seals and ing of approximately 5–8 °C (9–14 °F), the affected. Some researchers think that by learning about the intricate interactions whales can all be found in abundance in region reached an average annual tem- 2040, the Arctic could be entirely melted between wildlife and the ocean in these re- the region. perature of 10–20 °C (50–68 °F). Currently, because the ice pack of the ocean shrinks mote waters. With so much still unknown, The political dead zone near the cen- the Arctic region is warming twice as fast by eight per cent each year. it is difficult to fully assess the risks in- tre of the sea is also the focus of a mounting as the rest of the planet. The Arctic Ocean: A Future in Peril volved in drilling offshore for oil and gas. dispute between the United States, Russia, This Ocean is obviously affected by The Arctic Ocean is one of the most Sources: 1. Encyclopedia Britannica, Inc. Canada, Norway, and Denmark. It is signif- climate changes, and because of the ris- spectacular places on earth for wildlife, but 2. Ned Allen Ostenso,1996. The Arctic icant for the global energy market because ing of global temperatures, the ice layer there is much we have yet to learn about Ocean. it may hold 25% or more of the world’s gradually becomes thinner and thinner. this vast ecosystem. Although the weath- 3. Sarah Gibbens, 2019. The Arctic Ocean undiscovered oil and gas resources. The thaw could cause serious flooding, er is harsh in the winter, with gale-force explained. Climate burying some countries underwater, pol- winds, 20-foot seas, and shifting sea ice, 4. National Geographic Expeditions. The climate of the Arctic region luting some territories because of its high these waters provide unspoiled habitat for 5. Lectures of Parcham Classes 2 AUGUST 2021 THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR LOCAL BUSINESS 11 Myanmar rice market sees flat price amid closure of warehouses THE price of rice in the domes- impacts and Kyat depreciation. tic market is quite stable as the China Customs granted li- warehouses and the wholesale cences to 47 Myanmar companies centres are temporarily shut on 26 February 2021 to legally down amid the COVID-19 surge. export the rice to China through High-quality rice is demand- the Muse land border this year. ed in the domestic market and The authorized companies for the price moves in the range of rice export to China increased K36,000-42,000 per bag depend- this year as against last year. ing on different varieties. The However, the permitted volume low-quality rice is priced between of rice for exports has not been K21,500 and K33,000 per bag. The confirmed yet, Muse Rice Whole- price has remained unchanged in sale Centre stated. recent days and trade is nearly Moreover, China banned halted as the COVID-19 cases all the border posts on 8 July as are spiking in the country. Myanmar is battling against the Yangon market sees low At present, rice shipment to European countries is declining. However, Myanmar is mostly delivering rice and exploding pandemic. As a result supply from Pyapon, Mawgyun, broken rice to China, Malaysia, the Philippines and Bangladesh and shipping broken rice to China, Indonesia, of this, the agricultural exports Dedaye, Kungyangon, Wakhema, Belgium, Senegal and The Netherlands. The market cools down for now due to the transport difficulties triggered by dropped dramatically. the COVID-19 impacts and Kyat depreciation. Kawhmu, Twantay, Myaungmya, Myanmar set the rice export Kyaiklat, Laputa and Shwebo are- the different varieties and qual- The country shipped $576.28 At present, rice shipment to target at only 2 million tonnes in as. Next, Border trade disruption ity, according to Myanmar Rice million worth of 1.958 million European countries is declining. the current FY as summer paddy led to a sluggish market yet the Federation (MRF). tonnes of rice and broken rice in However, Myanmar is mostly de- growing acreage drops. Weather flat price occurs in the border The volume of rice and bro- the same corresponding period livering rice and broken rice to changes affected irrigation water export market. ken rice exported in the nearly of last FY. Myanmar exported China, Malaysia, the Philippines resource availability on agricul- The prices of white rice va- eight months (1 October-28 May) 802,000 tonnes of rice and 601,000 and Bangladesh and shipping ture, MRF stated. Myanmar gen- rieties range US$375 to 405 per of the current financial year 2020- tonnes of broken rice, totalling broken rice to China, Indonesia, erated over $800 million from rice metric ton, the price of glutinous 2021 was estimated at over 1.14 1.14 million tonnes. The export Belgium, Senegal and The Neth- exports in the previous FY2019- rice price was priced $600-610 per million metric tons, generating volume in the past eight months erlands. The market cools down 2020 ended 30 September, with MT and the broken rice fetched US$546.6 million income, the Min- showed a decrease of over 500,000 for now due to the transport diffi- an estimated volume of over 2.5 $300-335 per MT depending on istry of Commerce reports. tonnes as against last FY. culties triggered by the COVID-19 million tonnes. — Ko Htet/GNLM CBM sells $93.8 mln in past six months Black gram likely to THE Central Bank of Myanmar benefit the exporters. Yet, it will and it moved to the maximum of (CBM) sold US$93.8 million at its hike up the local food prices. The K1,595-1,620 last month. remain high when FX auction rate in the past six currency intervention is required In 2020, the exchange rate months (February-July), accord- to steer the own currency value. moved in the range of K1,465- ing to the auction results released The current political changes in 1,493 in January, K1,436-1,465 in market resumes by the CBM. Myanmar and the COVID-19 im- February, K1,320-1,445 in March, THE prices of black gram is no official set price, the In July, the CBM reportedly pacts affect the currency market. K1,395-1,440 in April, K1,406-1,426 (urad) are expected to re- traders stressed. sold $6 million on 8 July and $3 Some people want to hold the in May, K1,385-1,412 in June, main on an upward trend Some traders do price million each on 5,6,7,14,15,16,26,27, hard currency during difficult K1,367-1,410 in July, K1,335-1,390 following the rising prices in negotiation over the call 28, 29 and 30 July in the auction times, a market observer shared in August, K1,310-1,355 in Sep- India when the warehouses as the warehouses and the market, totalling $39 million his opinion. tember, K1,282-1,315 in October, and wholesale centres are wholesale centres are tem- which is the largest amount sold The local forex market’s data K1,303-1,330 in November and reopened, exporters said. porarily closed. in the past six months. Conse- showed that the dollar exchange K1,324-1,403 in December. Following the policy Sometimes, they experi- quently, the exchange rate stands rate touched the maximum of In 2019, the rates are pegged change of India’s pulses im- ence transport and transac- at around K1,645 in July-end, ac- K1,345 and the minimum of at K1,508-1,517 in July, K1,510- port, the prices of the black tion problems, said a trader. cording to the CBM. K1,327 in January 2021. The rate 1,526 in August, K1,527-1,565 in gram will remain strong in As Myanmar is facing The bullish hard currency moved in the range of K1,335- September, K1,528-1,537 in Oc- the domestic market, ac- the rapid spread of COV- gained in the local forex market, 1,465 in February. It reached the tober, K1,510-1,524 in November cording to the traders from ID-19, agricultural exports to reaching the peak of K1,730 on 12 lowest of K1,420 and the highest and K1,485-1,513 in December. Mandalay commodity depot. China through border posts May from K1,330 in January-end. of K1,550 in March. The rate fluc- On 20 September 2018, the Strong demand boosted also came to an abrupt stop, In a bid to strengthen the local tuated between K1,550 and K1,610 dollar exchange rate hit an all- the price of the black gram resulting in the price slip in currency and govern the market in April. The rate fluctuated be- time high of K1,650 in the local (urad) to K1,137,500-1,292,500 green gram, sesame and volatility, the CBM reportedly sold tween K1,585 and K1,730 in May currency market. — KK/GNLM per tonne on 16 July before peanut. about 6.8 million dollars on 3 Feb- the market was closed down, Nonetheless, the prices ruary 2021, $12 million in April, as per Bayintnaung market’s of black beans and pigeon $24 million in May, $12 million in data. Following the closure beans remain high on the June and $39 million in July in of warehouses and commod- back of strong demand by the auction market. The CBM ity depots in each township India. trades the foreign currency with triggered by the COVID-19 Myanmar has shipped the authorized private banks un- threat, the pulses trade is over 431,264 tonnes of the der the rules and regulations of on the verge of suspension black gram to foreign coun- the FX auction market. at the present. tries as of 18 June 2021 since The currency intervention is The domestic bean mar- October 2020, generating an required to steer the own curren- ket is positively related to the income of US$335.67 million, cy value. It is one of the respon- The currency intervention is required to steer the own currency value. It law of supply and demand. according to the Ministry of sibilities of the CBM to control is one of the responsibilities of the CBM to control the price. This is why The price depends on the Commerce. — Mon Mon/ the price. This is why the CBM the CBM practised the foreign exchange intervention. The dollar gain will buyers and sellers. There GNLM practised the foreign exchange benefit the exporters. Yet, it will hike up the local food prices. The currency intervention. The dollar gain will intervention is required to steer the own currency value. 2 AUGUST 2021 12 ECON: WORLD THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR U.S. equities book weekly COVID-19 outbreak continues to weigh losses amid Fed decision, on Thailand’s economic growth economic data THAILAND’S central bank said U.S. stocks declined for the rapid spread of the Delta var- Friday that the country’s econo- week as investors parsed pol- iant. my in June continued to be im- icy updates from the Federal “The path of the economy pacted by the latest COVID-19 Reserve and a slew of key eco- continues to depend on the outbreak, the most deadly wave nomic data. course of the virus. Progress since the pandemic began. For the week ending Fri- on vaccinations will likely con- In June, the country’s pri- day, the Dow and the S&P 500 tinue to reduce the effects of the vate consumption remained both fell 0.4 percent, while the public health crisis on the econ- weak, while the tourism sector tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite omy, but risks to the economic has yet to recover, but exports, slid 1.1 percent. outlook remain,” the Fed said which jumped 46.1 percent year The S&P U.S. Listed China in a statement after concluding on year, had supported the econ- 50 index, which is designed to a two-day meeting. omy along with public spending, track the performance of the At a virtual press confer- the Bank of Thailand said in a 50 largest Chinese companies ence Wednesday afternoon, Fed statement. Thai dancers wearing face shields perform at the Erawan Shrine in listed on U.S. exchanges by to- Chair Jerome Powell said that The country’s headline in- Bangkok, Thailand, May 4, 2020. PHOTO: XINHUA tal market cap, logged a weekly “we have some ground to cover flation in June declined from loss of 4.4 percent. on the labor market side.” May as the low base effect from weak domestic demand. cases and 117 additional fatal- The U.S. Federal Reserve The Fed chief also said that energy prices gradually abated The global shortages of ship- ities, raising the total number on Wednesday kept its bench- U.S. inflation will “remain ele- while core inflation was stable. ping containers and semiconduc- of infections to 578,375 and the mark interest rate unchanged vated” in the coming months The labor market remained tors also weighed on production, cumulative fatalities to 4,679. at the record-low level of near before moderating to normal vulnerable because of the third especially in the food processing, Thailand’s economy posted zero amid growing concerns levels due to supply bottle- wave of the outbreak that started electrical appliances, and auto- its worst performance in more over surging inflation and the necks. — Xinhua in early April. motive sectors, it said. than two decades last year, The central bank said man- The manufacturing pro- plunging 6.1 percent from one ufacturing production declined duction index, a gauge of man- year earlier. Its growth outlook slightly from the previous month ufacturing activity, fell to 17.6 in this year has been downgraded Morocco’s economy as production in automotive, pe- June from 25.7 in May, according by various institutions because troleum, and construction ma- to the central bank. On Friday, of the third wave of the outbreak. shrinks 6.3 pct in 2020 terials dropped in line with the the country reported 17,345 new — Xinhua MOROCCO’S economy shrank by 6.3 percent in 2020 amid the COVID-19 pandemic and a bad agricultural harvest, the central bank said Saturday. Olympic merchandise selling well as The labour market lost 432,000 jobs, state budget deficit increased to 7.6 percent of the GDP, while the public debt rose Japan’s medal haul grows to 76.4 percent of the GDP, said Abdellatif Jouahri, governor of customers bumping shoulders Morocco’s central bank, in a statement released after he pre- in order to purchase Olympic sented to the Moroccan king the annual report on the economic items. situation for the 2020 fiscal year. During the weekend, there During the year 2020, current account deficit shrank to 1.5 was even a long line outside the percent of the GDP due to the decline of the country’s foreign outlet, despite the Japanese exchanges, the foreign currency reserves increased to the equiv- capital being under a COVID-19 alent of seven months of imports, and inflation was limited to 0.7 state of emergency since July percent, the report added. 12. Morocco is gradually overcoming this crisis with significant “I didn’t expect it to be so progress in the vaccination campaign and a significant recovery crowded,” said Fuzuki Maruy- of the economy, despite the concerns surrounding the evolution ama, a 32-year-old shop assis- of the pandemic, Jouahri said. tant. The report added that Morocco should tackle some problems Before the opening of the that affect the competitiveness of its economy, such as unfair Olympics, opinion polls showed competition, tax evasion, unprofitable subsidies as well as cor- high levels of public unease ruption. — Xinhua A man picks up a t-shirt at an official shop in Tokyo, July 26, about hosting the games, even 2021. PHOTO: KYODO mostly behind closed doors, as AS Japan’s impressive medal of the gold medal count. Tokyo battled a resurgence of haul grows, sales of official Tokyo The official online store, infections. Olympics merchandise such as which sells goods ranging from But as Japan’s gold medal badges and keyrings have been apparel to Japanese traditional count increased and TV pro- surging, with fans queuing out- crafts, even became temporar- gramming became dominated side stores to buy them despite ily inaccessible due to a traffic by Olympic competitions, the mounting COVID-19 infections. surge. snapping up of merchandise While public skepticism An official shop in Tokyo’s could indicate a softening of about holding the games dur- Shinjuku district was stocked sentiment in Tokyo and else- ing a pandemic was strong with some 1,700 items in all, but where. when they officially opened a popular goods such as pin badg- “After watching an event, I week ago, many people in Ja- es and mugs quickly sold out became excited,” said a 47-year- pan appear keen to get hold of after the games got under way. old man who visited an official souvenirs of what is likely to The store, which requires merchandise store in the cen- People enjoy summer time at the municipal swimming pool in Rabat, be a once-in-a-lifetime event -- visitors to undergo tempera- tral Japan city of Nagoya to buy Morocco, on June 22, 2021. The municipal swimming pool of Rabat especially as the country has so ture checks and sanitize their a present for his child. — Kyodo reopened recently. PHOTO: XINHUA far stayed near to or at the top hands, was packed recently with News 2 AUGUST 2021 THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR BIZ: WORLD 13 Carmakers warn chip shortage putting As Italy’s inflation looks stable, consumers worry brakes on recovery about energy price growth THE automobile industry AMID the latest data compared to June 2020 -- is being hit hard by a short- showing a stable inflation by 1.1 per cent and 1.4 per age of computer chips that trend in Italy, with food and cent, respectively -- and has slowed production non-alcoholic drink pric- those of processed food, and is set to drag on for es declining, rising costs including alcohol, declined months. of energy products seem by 0.4 per cent. Carmakers and suppli- to feed concerns among Still on an annual ers have turned in strong consumers. basis, prices related to results that beat expecta- The all-item consum- recreation services and tions for the first half of the er price index increased personal care registered year, but they warned that by only 0.1 per cent in a 1 per cent increase, while a lack of semiconductors June against May, and by those of regulated energy had crimped production. 1.3 per cent on an annual products and non-regulat- Microchips are essen- basis, the National Insti- ed ones grew by 16.9 per tial for the electronics sys- tute of Statistics (ISTAT) cent and by 12.8 per cent, tems of modern cars, and said. respectively. have been in short supply More specifically, “Inflation in June is since the end of last year. ISTAT’s latest report still mainly supported The situation is to Thousands of unfinished cars are seen parked at a Volkswagen factory in Pamplona, Spain, showed prices of unpro- by the prices of energy some extent the fault of in May due to the lack of semiconductor supplies. PHOTO: AFP cessed food and of trans- goods,” ISTAT noted. — carmakers, who scaled in a tight situation as de- through the rest of the year pronounced” in the third port services decreased Xinhua back orders when the pan- mand returned, with many and the impact as more quarter as it lowered its demic hit, so chipmakers slowing or even temporar- significant. annual production forecast shifted output to consumer ily halting production at Jaguar Land Rover by roughly 450,000 vehicles. Egypt’s biggest electronics, which was see- factories. has warned the chip short- That is five per cent ing a boom in demand as While automakers age could cut its third-quar- of last year’s production handicraft exhibition people splurged on equip- and analysts were initially ter output by half. level, or a third of the out- ment to work and relax at confident the impact would The Volkswagen put increase that VW had home. be short-lived and limited, Group said the impact expected earlier this year. benefits sellers, buyers That left carmakers they now see it as lasting was likely to be “more — AFP HUNDREDS of Egyptian Ahmed, who lives artisans have found an op- in Upper Egypt’s Sohag portunity to showcase and Province, said the turn- market their handmade out is good and visitors Luxury looks homeward as Covid products in the country’s showed admiration for her biggest annual exhibition handmade products. curtails travel in the Mediterranean re- “Customers cannot sort city of New Alamein. find such items every- el or eat out and instead Dubbed Diarna which where ... Handmade prod- bought luxury goods, said means “our homes” in ucts are unique and rare, Arnaud Cadart at asset Arabic, the exhibition and that is why many peo- manager Flornoy. showcases hundreds of ple visit the exhibition,” The Chinese, “who handicrafts and heritage said the young woman. represent 35 to 40 percent” products made by 250 en- Owning a store in her of luxury customers, are trepreneurs, productive hometown, Ahmed noted still crucial, he added. families and micro-enter- that this is her second But while Chinese prises, including textiles, year to join the annual buyers previously made a furniture, home acces- event which allows her to lot of their purchases while sories, ceramics, wom- meet new customers and visiting Europe, they are en’s accessories, leather, find out their preferences. now making them at home. copper kitchenware, and Such exhibitions help ‘Violent rebound in the silver and marble art- business owners sell their United States’ works. goods amid the recession In fact, “what was sur- Starting on 25 July caused by the COVID-19 prising was not so much the and running until 25 Aug, pandemic, she said. It is the “upper middle class, the rich and ultra-rich untouched by the crisis” who could not recovery in China but the vi- the one-month event is Ahmed expressed her travel and instead bought luxury goods, said Arnaud Cadart at Flornoy. PHOTO: AFP olent rebound in the United organized by the Social hope that the exhibition THE luxury sector has climb by 11 percent above Both recorded profits States,” remarked Erwan Solidarity Ministry, aiming could be held more than flashed back from the Cov- their pre-pandemic level to of more than a billion euros, Rambourg a sector analyst to revive traditional crafts once a year since it gives a id-19 pandemic but the crisis 28.7 billion euros (34.1 bil- beating expectations. and author of “Future Luxe: and support small-sized boost to the national econ- is still putting a crimp in trav- lion) as it reported a profit The Swiss luxury What’s Ahead for the Busi- handicraft manufactur- omy in general. el, a key part of the market. of 5.3 billion euros, a whop- group Richemont -- Cartier, ness of Luxury”. ers by providing outlets For visitors, the ex- Industry giants have ping 64 percent increase Piaget, and Montblanc -- Compared with previ- to market their products. hibition is also a good reported results that show from 2019. beat its pre-pandemic level ous crisis recoveries, after “Such events help chance to find breathtak- the world’s well-heeled are Rival Kering -- which in the second quarter by 18 the September 11 terror me market my products ing pieces of artwork at splurging on luxury goods owns the Gucci and Balen- percent, while Italy’s Prada attacks or the 2008 eco- in other cities,” Nema reasonable prices. as sales surpass even ciaga brands -- bested its bested 2019 first-half sales nomic crisis for example, Ahmed, an exhibitor “I have bought some pre-pandemic levels. pre-pandemic level by 8.4 by eight percent. “the feeling of guilt, the idea and maker of women’s leather bags and wallets LVMH -- home to Lou- percent with a record 8 bil- It is the “upper mid- that it is inappropriate to garments with embroi- at very affordable prices,” is Vuitton, Moet, Fendi, and lion euros in sales. Hermes dle class, the rich and ul- buy luxury goods, disap- dery, told Xinhua at the Maha Rashidy, a social Kenzo brands among oth- reported a 29-percent jump tra-rich untouched by the peared,” Rambourg told 1,000-square-metre main development expert, told ers -- saw first-half sales to 4.0 billion in sales. crisis” who could not trav- AFP. — AFP hall. Xinhua. — Xinhua 2 AUGUST 2021 14 SOCIETY THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR NEWS Mexico holds referendum on IN BRIEF A year after the mushroom cloud, Lebanon prosecuting ex-presidents still bleeds cent turnout, said Roy Campos, director of the polling company ON 4 August 2020, a fire at the Beirut port ignited one of the largest Mitofsky. non-nuclear explosions in history. It disfigured the city, took more Rosario Gomez is among than 200 lives and shattered Lebanon’s psyche. those who plan to vote at one The blast was felt as far away as Cyprus, and the destruction is hard of 57,000 ballot boxes set up by to fathom. But if one thing can outweigh what happened to Leba- the electoral institute, compared non that day, it is what hasn’t happened since. with more than 160,000 for June’s Not one culprit has been put on trial, jailed or even identified. Fam- legislative and local elections. ilies of the victims have received no visit, apology or explanation “It’s about time these from those at the top. thieves pay!” the 52-year-old The reforms demanded by donors who flew to the wounded coun- market vendor said. try’s rescue are a dead letter, and a new government promised last Political circus September has yet to materialize. Mexico is ranked 124th out With a tailspinning economy, a health sector ravaged by Covid-19 Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador has used of 179 on Transparency Interna- and a future stunted by an intensifying brain drain, Lebanon was his daily news conferences to highlight allegations against his tional’s world corruption percep- already well on its way to collapse before last 4 August. predecessors. PHOTO: AFP tions index. Yet the cataclysmic blast that shocked the world and sowed the MEXICANS vote Sunday in a participatory democracy, but But former presidents can kind of devastation caused by wars and natural disasters did not national referendum promoted critics see it as little more than be tried like any other citizen mark the end of the free fall. by President Andres Manuel a political stunt. and critics argue that the ref- “We thought that was rock bottom. How could it get worse?” Rima Lopez Obrador on whether to To be binding, 37.4 million peo- erendum is unnecessary. Rantisi, a lecturer at the American University of Beirut, remembers investigate and prosecute his ple -- 40 per cent of the electoral roll “Waiting for the results of of the immediate aftermath. — AFP predecessors for alleged cor- -- must participate, but many voters a consultation is making justice ruption. appear unenthusiastic. a political circus,” said Jose Lopez Obrador, a self-styled While the “yes” vote could Miguel Vivanco, regional direc- Maine’s ‘Lobster Lady’ anti-graft crusader, says the pub- win up to 90 per cent, it will be tor of New York-based Human lic consultation will strengthen difficult to achieve even 30 per Rights Watch. — AFP -- 101 and going strong IN her boat off the northeastern Oliver -- known by friends YouTube suspends Sky News Australia US coast, 101-year-old Virgin- as Ginny and to some as the ia Oliver expertly handles the Lobster Lady -- has lived in channel slick body of a lobster as she Rockland her entire life and snaps rubber bands around still lives on the same street its claws, just as she has done where she was born in 1920. since age seven. “Ginny’s awesome,” said The centenarian is the David Cousens, a lobsterman oldest licenced lobsterwoman and former president of the in the state of Maine, and lo- Maine Lobstermen Associa- cal historians describe her as tion. perhaps the oldest active one “Ginny has been fishing in the world. as long as I can remember, Oliver goes out into the obviously. She’s 101 years old, waters off the city of Rockland she’s still going, about three three days a week with her days a week she’s down here, 78-year-old son Max, who helps she’s usually here early in the her crew the boat, aptly named morning.” by her late husband “Virginia”, Oliver is up at 3:30 am and after her. heading out to her boat by 5 am. “I’m going to do (this)... till Either in her pickup truck or I die,” said Oliver. “That’s time Max’s 1956 Chevy, mother and YouTube said Sunday it had barred Sky News Australia from uploading new content for one week, citing enough. People say to me ‘well, son drive down to a private cove concerns about Covid-19 misinformation. PHOTO: AFP why do you go for it?’ Because and take their small dingy out I want to. I’m old enough to be to the lobster boat, which sits YOUTUBE said Sunday it had subscribers, the channel -- which ders. my own boss.” at a mooring. — AFP barred Sky News Australia from is owned by a subsidiary of Mur- Sky News confirmed the uploading new content for one doch’s News Corp -- has a con- temporary ban and a spokes- week, citing concerns about Cov- servative following well beyond person said “we support broad id-19 misinformation. Australia. discussion and debate on a wide The move comes after a Its posts, including some range of topics and perspectives review of posts uploaded by questioning whether there is a which is vital to any democracy”. the Rupert Murdoch-owned TV pandemic and the efficacy of vac- “We take our commitment channel, which has a substantial cines, are widely shared on social to meeting editorial and com- online presence. media forums around the world munity expectations seriously.” “We have clear and estab- that spread virus and vaccine YouTube has a “three lished Covid-19 medical misin- misinformation. strikes” policy on violations, formation policies... to prevent The last YouTube upload, with the first resulting in a one- the spread of Covid-19 misin- from three days ago, features week suspension, a second strike formation that could cause a host claiming that lockdowns within 90 days producing a two- Virginia Oliver -- known as the ‘Lobster Lady’ in her native Maine, in real-world harm,” a YouTube have failed and criticizing state week ban, while a third means the northeastern United States, has been trapping lobsters for over statement said. authorities for extending Syd- permanent removal from the nine decades. PHOTO: AFP With 1.86 million YouTube ney’s current stay-at-home or- platform. — AFP 2 AUGUST 2021 THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR GLOBAL AFFAIRS 15 All flights from Kandahar Airport NEWS IN BRIEF cancelled after rocket strikes Protesters demand probe into Canada indigenous schools

HUNDREDS of protesters in Canada’s capital called on Saturday for a probe into a boarding school system for indigenous children, as outrage built after the discovery of hundreds of unmarked graves at several of the facilities. Until the 1990s, some 150,000 indigenous, Inuit and Metis youths were forcibly enrolled in the schools, where students were physically and sexually abused by headmasters and teachers who stripped them of their culture and language. “Indigenous Peoples need truth and justice,” MP Mumilaaq Qaqqaq wrote on Instagram. — AFP

Dozen homes destroyed, five hospitalised in Greece forest fire AROUND a dozen homes were destroyed and five people were hospitalized with breathing problems Saturday in a forest fire near Patras, Greece’s third largest city, authorities said. At least three rockets struck Kandahar airport in southern Afghanistan overnight, an official told AFP Some 145 firefighters, 50 trucks, eight firefighting planes and on Sunday, as the Taliban pressed on with their sweeping offensive across the country. PHOTO: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE /AFP helicopters have been mobilized to extinguish the fire in the Zeria region in the Peloponnese, about 210 kilometres (130 miles) west AT least three rockets struck ational later on Sunday. came as the Taliban inched of Athens, the firefighting service said. Kandahar airport in southern An official at the civil avi- closer to overrunning two oth- The authorities evacuated people from five villages in the region as Afghanistan overnight, an offi- ation authority in Kabul con- er provincial capitals -- Herat well as from the tourist resort of Loggos on the coast. cial told AFP on Sunday, as the firmed the rocket attack. in the west and Lashkar Gah in Around a dozen homes burned and five people experiencing Taliban pressed on with their The Taliban have for weeks the south. breathing problems were transported to hospitals in the region, the sweeping offensive across the launched withering assaults on The Taliban’s significant civil protection authority said. — AFP country. the outskirts of Kandahar, stir- territorial gains during the fi- “Last night three rockets ring fears that the insurgents nal stages of the US military were fired at the airport and two were on the verge of capturing withdrawal have largely been S. Africa pays tribute to of them hit the runway... Due to the provincial capital. in sparsely populated rural rangers in commemoration this all flights from the airport Kandahar’s air base is vital areas. have been cancelled,” airport to providing the logistics and But in recent weeks they of World Ranger Day chief Massoud Pashtun told AFP. air support needed to keep the have brought increasing pres- Pashtun said work to repair militants from overrunning Af- sure on several provincial capi- SOUTH African Minister of Kruger National Park. A total of the runway was underway and ghanistan’s second-biggest city. tals and seized key border cross- Forestry, Fisheries and the 125 people have been arrested expected the airport to be oper- The attack on the airport ings. — AFP Environment Barbara Creecy for rhino poaching and rhino thanked rangers for protecting horn trafficking across the wildlife in the country on Satur- country in the past six months. day in commemoration of the Numerous confiscations Ocean Viking ship rescues nearly 200 World Ranger Day. of rhino horn have also taken “In the battle to conserve place since January, both with- migrants off Libya our wildlife and halt poaching, in the country as well as at OR it is our rangers who remain at Tambo International Airport. at least two pregnant women the forefront, putting their lives A total of 14 cases have been and 33 minors, 22 of them unac- on the line daily to conserve our finalized since the start of the companied. environment and vulnerable year with a verdict, represent- According to the Interna- species despite the additional ing a 93 per cent conviction tional Organization for Migra- risk of contracting COVID-19,” rate. tion, at least 1,146 people have said Creecy. “It is clear that the mul- died at sea trying to reach Eu- Creecy said the collabora- ti-disciplinary, integrated ap- rope during the first half of 2021. tion between the rangers, po- proach to investigating illegal SOS Mediterranee says it lice, National Prosecuting Au- wildlife trade is bearing fruit has rescued more than 30,000 thority and other stakeholders and that effective collabora- people since February 2016, first is bearing fruits from January tion with critical role players with the ship Aquarius, then with to June 2021, with 40 alleged remains key to our success,” Ocean Viking. poachers arrested within the said Creecy. — Xinhua SOS Mediterranee accuses European Union governments of The Ocean Viking on Saturday rescued 196 migrants off Libya, the neglecting coordinated search- humanitarian ship’s operator said. PHOTO: AFP and-rescue action to discourage THE Ocean Viking on Saturday In the afternoon, the ship’s migrants from attempting the rescued 196 migrants off Libya, crew carried out two additional crossing from war-torn Libya, the humanitarian ship’s opera- rescues in the same area, pluck- where they are often victims of tor said. ing 54 people from a dinghy and organized crime and militia vi- It first picked up 57 people 64 others from a wooden vessel. olence. Libyan authorities are in an inflatable dinghy struggling In their latest operation, also accused of forcibly return- in international waters off the they saved 21 people from a ing intercepted ships to Libya, North African country, SOS Med- wooden vessel. even when they are in European A rhinoceros crosses a road inside Kruger National Park, some 60 km iterranee said. The total rescued included waters. — AFP from Nelspruit in South Africa on June 13, 2010. PHOTO: AFP 2 AUGUST 2021 16 SPORT THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR Republic of the Union of Myanmar State Administration Council Nine Objectives 1. Political affairs (b) To develop a stable market economy and promote international in- (a) To build a Union based on democracy and federalism, through a vestment in order to enhance the economic development of the entire disciplined and genuine multiparty democratic system that is fair and National people. just. (c) To promote and support local businesses to create employment oppor- (b) To emphasize the achievement of enduring peace for the entire nation tunities and increase domestic production. in line with the Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement (NCA). (c) To continue implementing the principle of peaceful co-existence among 3. Social affairs countries through an independent, active and non-aligned foreign policy. (a) To ensure a strong and dynamic Union spirit, the genuine spirit of patriotism. 2. Economic affairs (b) To respect and promote the customs and traditions of all National peo- (a) To enhance production based on agriculture and livestock through ples and preserve and safeguard their cultural heritage and national modern techniques and strengthen all-round development in other characteristics. sectors of the economy. (c) To enhance the health, fitness and education quality of the entire nation.

Olympics: Schauffele golden in men’s golf, Australia’s McKeon Matsuyama misses medal takes place among U.S. golfer Xander Schauf- were knocked out. fele won the gold medal in All five remaining all-time greats after men’s Olympic golf Sunday players -- Pan, Morikawa, with Japanese medal hope Chile’s Mito Pereira, Co- Olympic pool heroics Hideki Matsuyama being lumbia’s Sebastian Munoz knocked out on the first and McIlroy -- made par hole of a seven-way bronze on the second extra hole SWIMMING great Ian Thorpe says Emma McKeon playoff. to advance. has “flown under the radar” in Australia but now she Schauffele carded an Eventually, it became is firmly on the map after her stunning performances 18-under four-round total a two-man race between at the Tokyo Olympics. to beat Rory Sabbatini of Pan and Morikawa on the McKeon has joined the greats of Australian sport, Slovakia by one shot. Sev- fourth playoff hole, the winning her 11th Olympic medal -- and fifth gold -- en players, including Mat- third time each man had on Sunday to become the country’s most decorated suyama, Ireland’s Rory played the 18th on the day. Olympian. McIlroy, American Collin Pan hacked his ap- The 27-year-old’s haul eclipses the nine medals Morikawa and eventual proach to the edge of the won by Thorpe and fellow swimmer Leisel Jones, put- bronze medalist C.T. Pan Japan’s Hideki Matsuyama (2nd from R) and Xander green from the deep rough ting her two clear at the top of Australia’s all-time list. from Taiwan, finished at Schauffele (far L) of the United States exchange words but Morikawa plugged McKeon won seven medals in Japan, which is 15-under. before starting the final round of the Tokyo Olympic deep near the front lip of a the most for any female swimmer at one Olympics Schauffele shot a 67 on men’s golf tournament on 1 Aug 2021, at Kasumigaseki greenside bunker allowing and the most a woman has achieved in any sport at Country Club in Kawagoe, Saitama Prefecture, near Sunday at Kasumigaseki the Taiwan player to take a single Games since 1952. Tokyo. PHOTO: KYODO Country Club with five bird- bronze with a par. “It’s very surreal,” McKeon said on Sunday at the ies and a single bogey while the leaderboard. to win an Olympic medal in There were no galler- end of a nine-day meet at the Tokyo Aquatics Centre. Sabbatini made two bogeys Matsuyama, who was the sport, and Great Brit- ies because of the rising “I only hear from you guys those kinds of stats. but still shot an Olympic re- seeking to become the first ain’s Paul Casey bogeyed COVID-19 infections in “I look at the athletes that have gone before me cord 61 to soar 15 places up Japanese, male or female, the first playoff hole and Japan. — Kyodo News and have been so impressed and inspired by what they’ve done but I’ve never been into the stats and medal counts. But to be in that kind of company, it’s an US Olympic hammer thrower Berry undeterred honour and I know I’ve worked hard for it.” — AFP by anthem backlash The American ham- pundits questioning her mer thrower was thrust patriotism. into the national spotlight However the 32-year- in June after turning away old shrugged off her critics from the US flag during a on Sunday as she com- rendition of the national peted in a uniform embla- anthem at Hayward Field. zoned with “USA” and an Berry, who advanced American flag. Gwen Berry qualified for the women’s Olympic hammer to the Olympic hammer fi- “All those people that final in Tokyo. PHOTO: AFP nal on Sunday with a throw hate me aren’t here, so ATHLETE-ACTIVIST be barred from the Olym- of 73.19m, faced calls from they can’t affect me,” said Gwen Berry is determined pics over her podium pro- Republican lawmakers Berry, adding that she has Australia’s Emma McKeon won four gold medals in to have the last laugh on test at US track and field for her to be kicked off the learned to “compartmen- Tokyo to take her overall tally of Olympic medals to critics who demanded she trials. US team, with right-wing talize” the abuse. — AFP 11. PHOTO: AFP