MODERATE EARTHQUAKES ARE WAKE-UP CALL FOR BUILDING SAFETY IN CITIES PAGE-8 (OPINION)

NATIONAL NATIONAL MoNREC discusses forestation MoC continues trade promotion meeting works for upcoming monsoon with Myanmar commercial attachés abroad PAGE-3 PAGE-4

Vol. VII, No. 315, 14th Waxing of Tabodwe 1382 ME www.gnlm.com.mm Thursday, 25 February 2021 Announcement of UEC on findings of ballot papers 24 February 2021

THE Union Election Commission inspected the figure of ballot papers used for Pyithu Hluttaw elections in the multiparty democracy General Election on 8 November 2020, as per Article 53 of the Hluttaw Election Law, in 8 townships of Nay Pyi Taw, with the teams of election sub-commissions, police officers, officers of Immigration and Population Department and General Administrative Department of respective townships. Figures found in the respective areas are as follow: Ballot papers taken Used ballot Difference Sr Township Polling stations Subtraction Surplus ballot papers out papers Less More 1 Zabuthiri Township 45 98,550 67,565 30,985 25,005 5,980 2 Dekkhinathiri Town- 20 35,153 24,465 10,688 10,485 203 ship 3 Zeyarthiri Township 74 90,549 72,092 18,457 18,313 438 294 4 Pubbathiri Township 79 108,959 78,576 30,383 30,316 978 911 5 Ottarathiri Township 49 60,590 46,158 14,432 14,197 235 6 Tatkon Township 134 204,398 129,268 75,130 68,374 6,804 45 7 Lewei Township 144 245,611 164,017 81,594 81,628 274 308 8 Pyinmana Township 101 150,941 105,762 45,179 43,191 1,988 Total 646 994,751 687,903 306,848 291,509 16,900 1,558 SEE PAGE-2

Union Minister for Foreign Affairs pays a visit to Thailand at the invitation of the Thai Prime Minister

AT the invitation of the Prime Thailand, maintenance of se- Minister of Thailand, Gener- curity and stability along the al Prayut Chan-o-cha (Retd.), border, attainment of legal Union Minister for Foreign status and ensuring rights of Affairs of Myanmar U Wun- Myanmar workers in Thailand. na Maung Lwin paid a visit Furthermore, they also ex- to Thailand by special flight changed views on future work at 7 am and returned back to plans under the ASEAN co- Nay Pyi Taw at 5 pm on 24 operation frameworks on the February 2021. basis of ASEAN family spirit While in Thailand, the and ASEAN solidarity. Union Minister had separate The Union Minister also meetings with Thai Prime apprised the Prime Minister Minister General Prayut and the Deputy Prime Min- Chan-o-cha (Retd.) and Thai ister and Foreign Minister of Deputy Prime Minister and Thailand of recent develop- Foreign Minister Mr Don Pra- ments and foreign policy of mudwinai. Myanmar and political, eco- At the meetings, they nomic and social objectives cordially exchanged views laid down by the State Admin- on matters pertaining to the istration Council. consolidation of the existing Subsequently, the Union friendship and bilateral rela- Minister met with Indone- Union Minister U Wunna Maung Lwin meets Thai Prime Minister General Prayut Chan-o-cha (Retd.) on 24 February 2021. PHOTO: MNA tions, sustaining the ongoing sian Foreign Minister Mrs mutually beneficial coopera- Retno Marsudi, along with ister and Foreign Minister anmar-ASEAN cooperation ASEAN on the basis of ASEAN tion between Myanmar and the Thai Deputy Prime Min- and exchanged views on My- and future cooperation with unity and family spirit.—MNA 25 FEBRUARY 2021 2 NATIONAL THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR

FROM PAGE-1 Findings of Pyithu Hluttaw ballot papers in Zabuthiri Township Difference Sr Ballot papers Ballot papers taken out Used ballot papers Subtraction Surplus ballot papers Less More

1 Ward/village 96,200 67,175 29,025 23,064 5,961 2 Advance voting in townships 500 390 110 91 19

3 Surplus in townships 1,850 - 1,850 1,850

Findings of Pyithu Hluttaw ballot papers in Dekkhinathiri Township Difference Sr Ballot papers Ballot papers taken out Used ballot papers Subtraction Surplus ballot papers Less More

1 Ward/village 33,400 24,396 9,004 8,801 203 2 Advance voting in townships 69 69 3 Surplus in townships 1,684 - 1,684 1,684

Findings of Pyithu Hluttaw ballot papers in Zeyathiri Township Difference Sr Ballot papers Ballot papers taken out Used ballot papers Subtraction Surplus ballot papers Less More

1 Ward/village 83,505 68,822 14,683 14,245 438 2 Advance voting in townships 3,270 3,270 - - - 3 Surplus in townships 3,774 - 3,774 4,068 294

Findings of Pyithu Hluttaw ballot papers in Pubbathiri Township

Difference Sr Ballot papers Ballot papers taken out Used ballot papers Subtraction Surplus ballot papers Less More

1 99,250 77,265 21,985 21,007 978 Ward/village

2 Advance voting in townships 1311 1311 - -

3 Surplus in townships 8398 - 8,398 9,309 911

Findings of Pyithu Hluttaw ballot papers in Ottarathiri Township Difference Sr Ballot papers Ballot papers taken out Used ballot papers Subtraction Surplus ballot papers Less More

1 Ward/village 59,250 45,371 13,879 13,644 235

2 Advance voting in townships 787 787 - -

3 Surplus in townships 553 - 553 553

Findings of Pyithu Hluttaw ballot papers in Tatkon Township Difference Sr Ballot papers Ballot papers taken out Used ballot papers Subtraction Surplus ballot papers Less More

1 Ward/village 194,750 127,618 67,132 60,328 6,804

2 Advance voting in townships 1,647 1,650 3 - 3

3 Surplus in townships 8,001 - 8001 8,046 45

Findings of Pyithu Hluttaw ballot papers in Lewei Township Difference Sr Ballot papers Ballot papers taken out Used ballot papers Subtraction Surplus ballot papers Less More

1 Ward/village 228161 162609 65552 65278 274

2 Advance voting in townships 1300 1408 108 - 108

3 Surplus in townships 16150 - 16150 16350 200

Findings of Pyithu Hluttaw ballot papers in Pyinmana Township Difference Sr Ballot papers Ballot papers taken out Used ballot papers Subtraction Surplus ballot papers Less More

1 Ward/village 145750 104818 40932 38944 1988

2 Advance voting in townships 944 944 - - 3 Surplus in townships 4247 - 4247 4247 25 FEBRUARY 2021 THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR NATIONAL 3

Republic of the Union of Myanmar State Administration Council Nine Objectives

1. Political affairs sectors of the economy as well (A) Building of a Union based on democracy and federalism in practising genuine (B) Stability of market economy and inviting international investments to develop disciplined multiparty democracy in a full fairness manner the economy of entire ethnic people (B) Emphasizing of restoration of eternal peace for the entire nation in line with (C) Encouragement of local businesses to create employment opportunities to the Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement (NCA) be able to produce many products of the State (C) Continuous practising of the “principle” of peaceful co-existence among countries by holding up the independent, active and non-aligned foreign 3. Social affairs policy (A) For ensuring of dynamism of Union spirit which is genuine patriotic spirit (B) Following customs and traditions of all ethnic nationalities and preservation 2. Economic affairs and safeguarding of cultural heritage and national characters (A) Further development of production based on agriculture and livestock (C) Enhancement of health, fitness and education standards of the entire nation breeding through modern techniques and all-round development of other

Five future programmes of State Administration Council

1. The Union Election Commission will be reconstituted to carry out tasks that should be done, including inspection of voting lists in accordance with the law. 2. Effective measures will be taken for the prevention of current infectious COVID-19 with added momentum. 3. Efforts will be made to recover businesses that faced loss caused by COVID-19 in various ways as quickly as possible. 4. Emphasis will be placed on restoring eternal peace in the entire nation in line with agreements from the Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement (NCA) as much as possible. 5. When missions will be accomplished in accord with provisions of the state of emergency, a free and fair multiparty democracy election will be held in accordance with the Constitution (2008), and further tasks will be undertaken to hand over State duty to the winning party meeting the standards of democracy.

Union Minister for Foreign Affairs pays a visit to Thailand at the invitation of the Thai Prime Minister NEWS ON PAGE-1

Union Minister U Wunna Maung Lwin holds talks with the Thai Deputy Prime Minister Union Minister U Wunna Maung Lwin meets Mrs Retno Marsudi, Indonesian FM and Thai FM and Foreign Minister yesterday. Mr Don Pramudwinai yesterday. MoNREC discusses forestation works for upcoming monsoon

UNION MINISTER for Natural Resources and Environmental Conservation U Khin Maung Yi held a virtual coordination meeting with forest officers from states and regions yes- terday. The Union Minister dis- cussed forestation, prevention of deforestation plans, illegal timber trade and law enforce- ment in this sector. Union Minister U Khin Maung Yi joins the virtual coordination meeting with forest officers from states and regions on 24 February 2021. Myanmar has adopted the Forest Department, 4,050 acres per cent of 10.7 million nurs- environment campaign and pre- Timber Enterprise, the Dry Myanmar Reforestation and under the Dry Zone Greening ery plants from the department vent the reasons if deforestation Zone Greening Department, Rehabilitation Programme Department, and 150 acres and public sector have been and illegal timber smuggling and the Forestry Department from 2017 to 2027 financial under the Forest Department, planted. through the community mon- coordinated the discussions years; selection of land areas totally 25,740 acres. Eighty-four Union Minister U Khin itoring and reporting system. of officials from the respective for forestation has been com- per cent of 26.39 million nursery Maung Yi said to conduct forest- The Union Minister and departments via videoconfer- plete for 21,540 acres under the plants have been grown, and 89 ation works under the green senior officials from Myanmar encing.—MNA 25 FEBRUARY 2021 4 NATIONAL THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR

Republic of the Union of Myanmar MoPFI to provide short- State Administration Council term loans to small Order No 88/2021 groceries 13 Waxing of Tabodwe 1382 ME 24 February 2021 The Ministry of Planning, Finance and Industry Adding more members into Region/State will provide short-term loans to small groceries which Administration Council suffered economic impacts from COVID-19. Under the loan scheme, the small household THE State Administration Council has added the Chairman of Yangon City Development Committee and commodity shops in the townships of Nay Pyi Taw Yangon Mayor as a member of the Yangon Region Administration Council, and the Chairman of Mandalay Council and other regions and states can apply for City Development Committee and Mandalay Mayor as a member of the Mandalay Region Administration a one-year loan with 2 per cent annual interest rate Council respectively. up to K5 million through microfinance organizations. By order The list of townships and the names of microf- Sd/ inance organizations can be viewed on the website Aung Lin Dway Lieutenant-General of the Financial Regulatory Department www.frd. Secretary gov.mm and its Facebook Page Financial Regulatory State Administration Council Department.—MNA

MoC continues trade promotion meeting with Myanmar commercial attachés abroad THE Ministry of Commerce facilities such as processing held the second-day meeting industry and frozen warehouse via videoconferencing on the to export more value-added promotion of trade and export items. of new commodities yesterday Union Minister for Foreign with Myanmar commercial at- Investment and Foreign Eco- tachés from the Republic of nomic Relations U Aung Naing China (Beijing, Nanning, Hong Oo discussed to sign bilateral Kong, Kunming), Singapore, trade agreements with part- Japan, the Republic of Korea, ner countries, analysis on the Switzerland and the World cost-benefit analysis of these Trade Organization. countries to understand their Union Minister Dr Pwint trade volume and trade po- San instructed sharing expe- tential, making reports on the riences on difficulties in trade trade processes of member promotion and negotiation and countries in the Regional Com- analyzing trade data of coun- prehensive Economic Partner- The second-day virtual meeting on trade promotion and export of new items is seen in progress on 24 tries where the commercial ship (RCEP) and the Com- February 2021. attachés are performing their prehensive and Progressive duties. tion U Tin Htut Oo discussed tosanitary for the agricultural practices of inspections online Agreement for Trans-Pacific Union Minister for Agri- requirements of export norms produce, providing assistance except physical inspection, Partnership (CPTPP).—MNA culture, Livestock and Irriga- such as the sanitary and phy- from the relevant departments, the establishment of logistic

Union Minister Dr Thet Thet Khine attends national committee on rights of persons with disabilities’ meeting

by Union Minister for Social sification and registration of Welfare, Relief and Resettle- the persons with disabilities ment Dr Thet Thet Khine, the and make efforts to finalize Permanent Secretary, Direc- the five-year strategic plan tors-General and Deputy Di- for the rights of persons with rectors-General. disabilities. The Department of Reset- She continued the remain- tlement explained the forma- ing decisions of the national tion of the National Commit- committee will be made ac- tee on the Rights of Persons cording to priority by adding with Disabilities, duties and the reformation of the nation- responsibilities of the com- al committee and continuing mittee, procedures related to meetings, working together the committee and proposal to with the United Nations, IN- Union Minister Dr Thet Thet Khine chairs the national committee meeting on the rights of persons with disabilities yesterday. reform the committee to the GOs and NGOs working on dis- Union Minister. ability issues to ensure that the THE Ministry of Social Wel- the duties and responsibilities abilities yesterday morning in The Union Minister said process continues unabated.— fare, Relief and Resettlement of the National Committee on Nay Pyi Taw. it was necessary to continue MNA/GNLM held the meeting to explain the Rights of Persons with Dis- The meeting was attended the process of disability clas- 25 FEBRUARY 2021 THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR NATIONAL 5 Union Minister Dr Nyunt Pe inspects preparations on school reopening

UNION Minister for Education Dr Nyunt Pe, accompanied by Deputy Minister Dr Zaw Myint, U Zaw Win and other officials, inspected the preparations for reopening of schools in Nay Pyi Taw yesterday. The Union Minister checked the preparedness of No (12) B.E.H.S in Ottarathiri, No (13) B.E.H.S and Yay Pyar Branch B.E.H.S in Pobbathiri. During the inspection, Union Minister met the respective edu- cation officers, headmasters and teachers, and stressed the need to follow the COVID-19 health rules. He also highlighted the pre- The MoE Union Minister, Deputy Ministers and officials inspect the preparations to reopen the schools in Nay Pyi Taw on 24 February 2021. paredness of schools to reopen in accordance with the COVID-19 rooms, teaching aid materials teachers. education, capacity building plans The Union Minister and health rules, good image of the and toilets to improve the wills He then emphasized the du- for teachers, effective teaching party inspected the schools’ school, cleanliness of schools’ of students in their study includ- ties of teachers for being civil ser- methods and managements to compounds and instructed the surrounding, upgrade of class- ing plans to provide housings for vices, cooperation to promote the reopen the schools. necessary things.—MNA

Tatmadaw medical Lawsuit filed corps provide healthcare against former services Union Minister THE Tatmadaw medical corps comprised of its doc- FORMER Union Minister Dr Win Myat tors, specialists and nurses are providing necessary Aye is facing a lawsuit allegedly incited medical treatments to the patients at hospitals with and directed civilian disobedience move- no civilian medical workers. ment to his staff members. The Tatmadaw medical team provided health- The police report said that the for- care related to surgery, dental and oral healthcare, mer minister was charged with Article osteoporosis, obstetrics, gynaecology, hypertension 505 (a) of the Penal Code on 21 February and heart disease to the patients in Thazi Town- 2021 for his role in incitement to the staff ship Hospital, Hanzada hospital, Yinmabin hospital, members to join CDM and protests, fail- Tagaung Public Hospital in Thabeikkyin Township, ing to perform the duties of civil service Kyauktaga Public Hospital, Donzayit hospital in personnel. Shwegyin Township, Bago Region. The report also said to inform about Officials from respective commands also sup- the absconding former minister to the ported the patients and coordinated the conditions of police stations and the phone numbers preparation for healthcare services as well as gener- for making tip-off about him and those The Tatmadaw medical crops treat one of the patients at Tagaung Public ous donors provided 900,000 kyats to the Kyauktaga who hid him would also face legal ac- Hospital in Thabeikkyin Township. Public Hospital.—MNA tions.—MNA

Navy vessels carrying Myanmar citizens from Malaysia crossing international waters

Navy vessels that carry Myanmar citizens from Malaysia, are crossing the international Myanmar returnees are seen undergoing medical treatments onboard the Navy vessels. waters.

ACCORDING to the directives 1,086Myanmar nationals from Navy ships provide the neces- people for general illnesses like reunion with their family mem- of Chairman of the State Admin- Malaysia reportedly left Lumut sary things including safety, sick and cough. bers and job opportunities. The istration Council Senior General jetty at 5:40 pm of Malaysia Time foods and healthcare services The officials of the Myan- navy ships carrying Myanmar Min Aung Hlaing, the Myanmar on 23 February. on the way. The medic team pro- mar Navy will provide the need- nationals will arrive in Myan- Navy ships carrying a total of The officials of Myanmar vided healthcare services to 59 ed things for the returnees like a mar on 27 February.—MNA 25 FEBRUARY 2021 6 NATIONAL THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR Military personnel donate food aids to residents of Yangon, Mandalay, Magway

TATMADAW distributed rice, cooking Chaung Village, Kalar Gyi Gone Village oil and other foodstuffs to the people and Tat Gyi Gone Village of Hmawby to ease the difficulties during the COV- Township yesterday. ID-19 pandemic. Similarly, the military personnel The military personnel of Yangon of Central Command also donated rice Region Command donated rice and and cooking oil to a total of 600 house- cooking oil for a total of 5,500 house- holds in Hnan Kyal Village in Pathe- holds in Pan Chan Su Ward, Kyu San ingyi Township of Mandalay Region and War, No-2 B Ward of Mingaladon Town- another 600 households in Myin Saing ship of Yangon Region, Butar Zay Village tract, Koe Pin Kywae Village Ward of Insein Township, Latpadansu and Mi Chaung Ye Village of Magway Village, War Pa taw Village, War Net Township of Magway Region.—MNA

Local people in Hmawby Township are receiving the foodstuffs donated by the military personnel.

Military hospitals continue providing healthcare services

MILITARY hospitals are providing medical respective military hospitals. treatments to the people in the townships of Officials from the respective commands regions and states. also provided the patients with foods. Chair- A total of 27,997 outpatients and 3,213 inpa- man of the Shan State Administration Council tients have undertaken medical treatments at Dr Kyaw Tun and party went to the military these hospitals from 5 February to date. hospital in Aungban Township, Shan State Senior medical experts, medics and nurses and the local medical battalions yesterday. have conducted 1,210 major operations and The Chairman and party provided K3 million 633 minor operations, and the serious cases to the military hospital and K1,660,000 for the are treated by the senior doctors. These hos- medical workers, K2 million to the local medical pitals managed for the birth of 1,791 babies, battalions and foods to the patients.—MNA while 1,791 pregnant women were taken to the A local patient undergoes treatments at the Tatmadaw hospital in Myitkyina.

Tatmadaw members clean school compounds, classrooms THE Tatmadaw members of respective military commands conducted cleaning works at basic education school compounds before the schools are reopened. They conducted cleaning works at BEHS, Branch BEHS, BEMS, Post BEPS, BEPS in Sittway, An, Taungup,Gwa, Thandwe, Maungtaw, Buthidaung, Ponnagyun, Yathedaung, Kyauktaw, MraukU and Minbya townships of Rakhine State, Taungoo, Pyay, Paukkaung and Shwegyin townships of Bago Region yesterday.—MNA

Tatmadaw members are cleaning the compound of a basic education school in MraukU.

Call for Nominations: ASEAN Prize 2021 THE ASEAN Secretariat is calling for nominations for the ASEAN Prize 2021, a Submissions for ASEAN Prize 2021 are open from now until 23 April 2021. The prestigious regional award which aims to acknowledge the inspiring and outstanding nominee must be an ASEAN citizen or an ASEAN-based organization; and must achievements of an individual or organization who have made contribution and produce valid/verifiable documents, and highlight his/her achievements and impact shown exemplary work in strengthening the ASEAN Community building, pro- on ASEAN since the launch of the ASEAN Community in 31 December 2015. The moting regional integration, fostering inclusivity and raising ASEAN awareness. nominee must submit the duly filled-in form to the ASEAN Affairs Department, Nominees should have exceptional merit in contributing to the following Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Office No9, Nay Pyi Taw or [email protected] no designated focus areas taking into account the theme of ASEAN as designated later than the dead line, by the ASEAN chair in the particular year: In the nomination form, the nominee need to elaborate within three to five - Outstanding collaboration between ASEAN Member States; pages in English highlighting the achievements that the nominee has contribut- - Outstanding collaboration between ASEAN and the world; ed to the building of ASEAN Community and intra-ASEAN collaborative efforts. - Outstanding people-to-people engagement among ASEAN Member States; The nominee should also share future plans in continuing the work after winning - Outstanding economic integration and promotion of standards between the prize. The nomination form for ASEAN Prize 2021 can be downloaded at the ASEAN Member States; or ASEAN Secretariat website https://asean.org/asean-prize-/. - Other outstanding contribution to ASEAN Community building Since its establishment in 2018, ASEAN Prize has been awarded to three A Judging Committee, consisting of eminent High-level members, including recipients from the Philippines, Malaysia and Singapore. Myanmar citizens or incumbent and former ASEAN Secretaries-General will select a recipient who organizations based in Myanmar are encouraged to seize this opportunity to will be awarded the ASEAN Prize Trophy and a cash prize of US$20,000 at the showcase your outstanding efforts in ASEAN Community building. For further 54th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam. information, please visit the afore mentioned ASEAN Secretariat Website. 25 FEBRUARY 2021 THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR NATIONAL 7 Tatmadaw distributes fundamental food items to military veterans, police, fire brigade members

OFFICIALS of Thingan Nyi Naung region uted the food aids at Khay Nin military veter- of East Command to police members in an housing, Tar Pone housing in Lashio and Myawady of Kayin State. military veteran housing in Laukkai of Shan The four fundamental food items of rice, State (North) yesterday while Commander cooking oil, salt and peas, and COVID-19 pro- of Triangle Region Commander Brig-Gen tective gears were distributed to family mem- Myo Min Tun distributed the assistances to bers of military personnel who sacrificed militia unit members at Mine Khum village of their lives for the country and Tatmadaw, Kengtung in eastern Shan State, officials of military veterans, police members, militia Thingan Nyi Naung region of East Command unit members and fire brigade members. to police members in Myawady of Kayin The Tatmadaw members and Myanmar State, Head of Shwe Kyin Command Colonel Police Force members who served security Tin Lin Oo to militia unit members at Chay measures were also supplied with medicines, Yar Taw village of Shwe Kyin in Bago Region. food aids and awards by the respective mil- Moreover, the officials also received itary commands at their relevant housings the food aids donated by well-wishers for and police stations. Tatmadaw, Myanmar Police Force and Fire The Commander of North-East Com- Brigade members who serve security meas- Basic foodstuffs are provided to police members in Myawaddy town. mander Brig-Gen Hla Moe and party distrib- ures of the country.—MNA

Military medical corps conduct COVID-19 tests in Mawlamyine THE Tatmadaw medical corps conducted COVID-19 tests for the returnees to Mon and Kayin states from foreign countries. Medical doctors and nurses from the local military hospital under the Southeast Command, members of Township Administration Council and civil society organizations jointly performed the medical tests in Mawlamyine Township.—MNA

A baby is tested for COVID-19 by military medical corps in Mawlamyine.

Cargo vessel catches fire at sea near Bokpyin

A cargo vessel caught fire at about 7 ship named Aung Phone Myat caught miles from Kawt Ye Kyun in Bokpyin fire. The security force members ex- Township of Taninthayi Region at 12:45 tinguished the fire together with the pm on 23 February. local fishermen and saved eight crews. Then, the security force members They also provided healthcare ser- of Myanmar waters inspected the vices, foods and transferred to the incident and found out that a cargo officials.—MNA

Eight local fishermen are saved and provided with foods and medical services.

Request to Public 1. Democracy practices have granted the public freedom of speech, practices and living. Such freedoms should not harm others. Diverse views of others should be understood, but should not be disturbed or harassed. However, with the reason for human rights, some persons are now pressured, harassed and threatened in breaching the laws. Undisciplined acts could lead to tarnish the image of democracy. 2. For preventing destructive actions against stability of the state, safety of the public and the rule of law, it is also required to take proper actions in line with the law. 3. All the people who favour justice, freedom, equality and safety are requested to oppose breaching the laws and prevent such actions for the benefit of the country and people. Request to health workers

1. It is appreciated for the strenuous efforts of the medical doctors, nurses, medical experts and other health works at the respective departments under the Ministry of Health and Sports at the front-line in the fight against prevention, containment and treatment of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). 2. As the vaccination programme of COVID-19 is being conducted for the public and the real-time healthcare services are required for the people, all the staff mem- bers at the respective departments under the Ministry of Health and Sports are strongly urged to return to their duties with taking the well-being of patients into consideration. Ministry of Health and Sports 8 February 2021 25 FEBRUARY 2021 25 FEBRUARY 2021 8 OPINION THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR ARTICLE 9 Moderate IMF chief warns pandemic leaving some Appointment of Slovak Ambassador earthquakes are to Myanmar agreed on countries behind THE Republic of the Union of Myanmar has agreed to the proposed appointment of Mr Jaroslav Auxt as Ambassador wake-up call for Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Slovak Republic to the The global pandemic death toll is approaching 2.5 million, according to Johns Hopkins Republic of the Union of Myanmar, with residence in Bangkok, building safety in in succession to Mr Stanislav Opiela. University, and the shutdowns forced to control infections have devastated economies. Mr Jaroslav Auxt was born in July, 1960. He studied at he crisis caused by the scaling up of production. G20 finance ministers and the Technical University Košice in Slovakia and attended the cities pandemic is leaving The global pandemic death central bank chiefs led by Rome Oxford University Foreign Service Programme in the United Tmany economies lagging toll is approaching 2.5 million, will meet by videoconference to Kingdom. From 1993 to 2013, he served in various capacities N earthquake measuring 4.3 on the Richter Scale hit Maw- behind, increasing the plight of according to Johns Hopkins discuss the state of the recov- at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Slovak Republic. From laik, Sagaing Region, on 20 February. the poor, a problem made worse University, and the shutdowns ery and how best to attack the 2013 to 2017, he served as Slovak Ambassador to the Kingdom A On 28 November, 2019, a 5.4-magnitude quake, with ep- by "uneven" access to vaccines, forced to control infections have problem. icentre 23 miles northeast of Thabeikkyin, jolted Mandalay Region IMF chief Kristalina Georgieva devastated economies. The Washington-based cri- of Sweden, and from 2017, he was Head of the EU Policies De- and caused some damage to said Wednesday. And while vaccine rollouts sis lender estimated more than partment prior to his current appointment. He speaks English, homes, schools, and pagodas. In a message to the Group are raising hopes for a recovery half of the world's 110 emerg- German, French and Russian languages. It is also worth Several earthquakes of 20 meeting on Friday Geor- this year, the IMF forecasts job ing and developing countries He is married and has two children. have been reported across gieva urged governments to losses in the G20 alone to total will see their incomes fall fur- noting that the country in 2019 and 2020, increase vaccine distribution, more than 25 million this year. ther behind advanced econo- which shows that the Sagaing ensuring Covid-19 is brought By the end of 2022, emerg- mies through the end of next there are Fault is active and poses seis- under control. ing market and developing na- year. mic hazards, which could be "The economic arguments tions -- excluding China -- will And the virus-driven eco- many concrete triggered any time. for coordinated action are over- see per capital incomes 22 per nomic crisis also will widen in- buildings The Sagaing Fault is a ma- whelming," she said in a blog cent below pre-crisis levels, come gaps within developing jor tectonic structure that cuts post. compared to just 13 per cent nations, especially as millions in need of through Myanmar, dividing "Faster progress in ending lower for advanced economies, of children are still facing dis- Myanmar Daily Weather Report the country into two halves. the health crisis could raise which will throw millions more ruptions to education. (Issued at 7:00 pm Wednesday 24 February, 2021) retrofitting The western half moves north global income cumulatively by into extreme poverty, Georgieva "Allowing them to become with the Indian plate, and the $9 trillion over 2020-25. That warned. a lost generation would be an BAY INFERENCE: Weather is a few cloud to partly cloudy over to better eastern half is attached to the would benefit all countries." "That is why we need much unforgiveable mistake. It would the Andaman Sea and South Bay and generally fair elsewhere Eurasian plate. The Sagaing She said that should include stronger international collabo- also deepen the long-term eco- over the Bay of Bengal. withstand Fault produced a major earth- financing for vaccinations, re- ration to accelerate the vaccine nomic scars of the crisis," she quake in November, 2012, in allocation of excess supply to rollout in poorer countries," she warned. IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva urged G20 officials to accelerate vaccine rollout to poor FORECAST VALID UNTIL NOON OF THE 25 February, earthquakes. the Thabeikkyin area, 100 km countries with a shortage, and said. SOURCE: AFP countries. PHOTO: AFP 2021: Light rain or thundershowers are likely to be isolated in north of Mandalay. Upper Sagaing Region and Kachin State. Degree of certainty Future A 6.8-magnitude earth- is (60%). Weather will be partly cloudy in Taninthayi Region quake struck Bagan on August and Shan, Kayah, Kayin, Mon states and generally fair in the developers 24, 2016, and damaged almost remaining regions and States. should also 400 of the area's 3,252 pago- das. The Bagan earthquake First vaccines delivered under global Covax scheme STATE OF THE SEA: Seas will be moderate in Myanmar take the woke the cities with high-rise waters. Wave height will be about (4-7) feet off and along My- buildings up to the dangers of anmar Coasts. seismic safety construction. The 600,000 doses delivered to Ghana are the Oxford/AstraZeneca formula, made under Earthquakes are unpre- OUTLOOK FOR SUBSEQUENT TWO DAYS: Likelihood of of buildings dictable forces of nature and licence by the world's largest vaccine manufacturer, the Serum Institute of India. slight decrease of night temperatures in Bago, Yangon regions can strike anytime without and Shan, Kayah, Kayin states. into account. warning. People must be alerted hana on Wednesday be- cra's Kotoka International Airport adults over 60 and people with expected a first round of deliveries FORECAST FOR NAY PYI TAW AND NEIGHBOURING to the risks of earthquakes came the first country to shortly after 0740 GMT, where a underlying health conditions, In- in March with some early ship- AREA FOR 25 February, 2021: Generally fair weather. although quakes are rare, unlike other natural disasters such as Greceive vaccines from Co- government delegation led by the formation Minister Kojo Oppong ments occurring in late February. fires, floods, and storms, as experts have predicted that Myanmar is vax, a global scheme to procure Minister for Health Designate Nkrumah said. For Ghana, it aims to deliver FORECAST FOR YANGON AND NEIGHBOURING AREA more likely to suffer from earthquakes than other natural disasters. and distribute Covid inoculations Kwaku Agyeman Manu received The first who will get the 2,412,000 doses. FOR 25 February, 2021: Generally fair weather. People living along the fault line should take these warnings for free for poorer countries. them, in images broadcast on tel- vaccines also include "frontline Africa has been relatively seriously and make necessary preparations, like making their Launched last April, Covax evision. executive, legislature, judiciary spared by the pandemic. FORECAST FOR MANDALAY AND NEIGHBOURING homes disaster-ready, and ensuring family members have the said it planned to ship two billion Ghana's food and drug au- and their related staff, frontline It was the last continent ex- AREA FOR 25 February, 2021: Generally fair weather. necessary information on how to respond when earthquakes strike. doses by year's end. thority has already authorized the security personnel, some religious cept Oceania to reach the thresh- The efforts of local governments to conduct earthquake drills "The next phase in the fight use of the Indian-made vaccines leaders, essential workers, teach- old of 100,000 deaths, which Eu- and provide information about dealing with quakes are necessary against this disease can begin as well as Russia's Sputnik V, ac- ers and other personalities," he rope crossed in April 2020. and should be taken seriously. -– the ramping up of the largest cording to local media. said. To help speed immunisa- It is not enough to simply educate people and spread aware- immunization campaign in his- The West African nation has The government said it was tion of the continent's 1.3 billion ness about earthquakes. tory," UNICEF Executive Direc- recorded 80,759 Covid-19 cases making "frantic efforts" to acquire people, the African Union said it It is also worth noting that there are many concrete buildings in tor Henrietta Fore declared in a and 582 deaths since the start of enough vaccines to inoculate all had secured 270 million doses of The Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccines were flown from India, where they are need of retrofitting to better withstand earthquakes. Future devel- statement. the pandemic, although the true of Ghana's 30 million people and anti-Covid vaccines for delivery made under licence. PHOTO: AFP opers should also take the seismic safety of buildings into account. "At last!" World Health Organ- figure is believed to be higher be- urged people to take part in the this year. While material standards and building codes might be insuffi- ization (WHO), Tedros Adhanom The 600,000 doses delivered to They are part of an initial cause of lack of testing. drive. The WHO on Monday ac- cient to protect against the damage from strong earthquakes, and Ghebreyesus, whose organization Ghana are the Oxford/AstraZene- tranche of deliveries headed to Vaccinations are scheduled to New variants cused wealthy countries of hog- these should be reviewed and updated as required. also backs the Covax initiative, ca formula, made under licence by several low and middle-income start on Tuesday in Accra, Kumasi Covax, led by Gavi the Vac- ging Covid vaccines and hindering The time to act is now, before a catastrophic earthquake strikes. said in a tweet. the world's largest vaccine man- countries. and Obuasi. cine Alliance, the WHO and the the pathway for poorer nations to "A day to celebrate, but it's ufacturer, the Serum Institute of An Emirates flight carrying They will begin with health Coalition for Epidemic Prepar- get them too. just the first step." India. the vaccines touched down at Ac- workers and other frontline staff, edness Innovations (CEPI), had SOURCE: AFP 25 FEBRUARY 2021 10 LOCAL BUSINESS THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR Onion growers expect good price Hteekhee border trade drops by $210 mln as of 12 February BILATERAL trade between Earlier, the Myawady bor- Thailand and Myanmar through der sees the most extensive the Hteekhee border over the trade among the Myanmar-Thai- past four months reflected a de- land checkpoints. The rise in crease of $210 million as against exports through the Hteekhee a year-ago period. border had boosted the value of Between 1 October and 12 the Myanmar-Thailand border February in the current finan- trade since the 2018-2019FY. cial year 2020-2021, the figures The border trade between sharply fell to US$473 million Myanmar and Thailand through from $683 million registered all land borders -- Tachilek, in the previous financial year, Myawady, Myeik, Kawthoung, The high demand by foreign markets and a remarkable price rise prompted the growers to expand the onion according to the data from the Mawtaung, Hteekhee and cultivation in 2020. Commerce Ministry. Maese declined as of 27 No- ONION growers from Shwetapin to leave their onions unharvest- amid the coronavirus impacts. The surge in coronavirus vember. village of Minbu Township, Mag- ed. They cannot cover the labour Earlier, onions were high- cases in Myanmar led Thai- Myanmar primarily exports way Region, expect a fair price wages and transportation charg- ly demanded by Bangladesh land to close the border areas natural gas, fishery products, in mid-March and April as they es. The stockpiles in the market and India. Now, the trade with and limit truck drivers’ work- coal, tin concentrate (SN 71.58 cultivated onions on a large scale have exacerbated with the fresh Bangladesh and India is halted ing hours at the border posts. per cent), coconut (fresh and this winter. bulk supply of onions. The old to contain the spread of the coro- Consequently, the trade via land dry), beans, corns and bamboo “It is suitable for the con- onions fetched only K100-200 per navirus. Therefore, the price is border sharply fell in the cur- shoots to Thailand. It imports sumers to buy onions at K100-150 viss in the wholesale market, on a downward trend. The onion rent FY. capital goods such as machin- per viss (a viss equals 1.6 kg) in whereas the new onion prices growers and traders are experi- Exports of natural gas from ery, raw industrial goods such Minbu wholesale centres. Never- stand at K200-400 per viss. encing market fallouts due to the the Taninthayi Region have con- as cement and fertilizers, and theless, the growers are battered “Now, some farmers are COVID-19 impacts, said whole- tributed to the enormous trade consumer goods such as cos- by a drastic drop in price. Some leaving the onions in the farms sale onion dealer from Mandalay. increase through the Hteek- metics and food products from halted onion cultivation, whereas unharvested. This occurrence Next, Bangladesh’s demand hee border during the previous neighbouring countries. -- KK/ some have grown large acres in is sporadic. I hope we will not for Myanmar’s onions coupled years. GNLM high hopes of price gain. face this devastating situation with high demand in the local A grower with 10 acres cost in future,” said an onion grower market hiked up prices, soaring approximately K800,000 for culti- from Yesagyo Township. up to K4,000 per viss on 15 No- High price drives Phaungpyin vation, excluding the cost of on- “In early 2020, the onion vember 2019, according to the ion seeds. That’s why they can do fetched K1,200-1,300 per viss. Mandalay commodity depot. growers to cultivate more well in financial term only when The price drastically fell, and the The high demand by foreign onion fetches K600-700 per viss,” growers cannot even cover the markets and a remarkable price tomatoes said a grower U Shwe Myint. input cost,” said U Tun, a grower. rise prompted the growers to MORE tomatoes are being cultivated in Phaungpyin township, The onion growers have “The prevailing prices of on- expand the onion cultivation in Sagaing region, because of the high price of tomatoes this year, been facing extreme losses on ions are around K400 per viss 2020. The prices of domestic on- according to the local growers. a bear market trend due to the in the retail market. The lower ions exceeded K3,000 per viss in The tomato price was K600 per viss in the harvest season. lack of foreign demand amid the demand brings down the cost 2015, 2018, and 2019. Now, the tomato is priced at K450 per viss in the market. So, the COVID-19 containment meas- to the lowest level,” said U Thar The onions are primarily local people are growing more tomatoes so far because it could ures. Paw, a warehouse owner. grown in Mandalay, Magway and make more profit. The prolonged price de- The prices of onions sharply Yangon regions, Nay Pyi Taw “I have grown the tomato loyar 909 species. It could fetch a clines led some growers in Yes- dropped due to the bulk supply and Shan State. – Zeyar Htet/ high price and make more profit since it is the yield season. Even agyo Township, Magway Region, and the western border’s closure Htet Myat/GNLM if we sell the tomato for K150 per viss, we do not lose but make less profit. Now, we are selling the tomato for K450 per viss. Now, I have cultivated more tomatoes, and they will yield in April and Myanmar raw rubber prices remain unchanged hope to have a good price,” said U Nyo Lin, a tomato grower from Yarbin village. MYANMAR raw rubber prices $1700-1750, M.S.R (3L) type for annually across the country. Sev- The growers from Paungbyin township are annually cultivating remained unchanged and undis- $1650-1750, M.S.R (5) type for enty per cent of rubber made the tomatoes in September. The nursery plants are transplanted turbed in the market, according $1600-1650, M.S.R (10) type for in Myanmar goes to China. In to the ground after 15 days, and the fruits could yield after three to the fixed cost of the Myanmar $1550-1600, M.S.R (20) type for addition to China, Myanmar also months. The fruits could be harvested for up to 6 months. The toma- Rubber Planters and Producers $1500-1550 and M.S.R (50) type shipped rubber to Singapore, In- to plantations can generate an income of K1.5 million per 1,000 trees, Association (MRPPA). for $1450-1500, according to the donesia, Malaysia, Viet Nam, the and the cultivation costs K100,000. —Ko Tun (Paungbyin)/GNLM Although there is no rub- fixed price of MRPPA. Republic of Korea, India, Japan, ber export to foreign market so Rubber is primarily cultivat- and other countries. far, the prevailing price of In- ed in Mon and Kayin states and Thailand is also offering ternational Rubber -- Ribbed Taninthayi, Bago, and Yangon Myanmar raw rubber at a high Smoked Sheets (RSS) and My- regions in Myanmar. As per 2018- price through the illicit market anmar Standard Rubber (MSR) 2019 rubber seasons’ data, there in Payathonezu, Kawthoung and remains stable. are over 1.628 million acres of Myeik towns. Hence, the govern- Currently, the rubber price rubber plantations in Myanmar, ment authorities need to stop the for one tonne of RSS (1) type with Mon State accounting for illegal export of raw rubber to is ranging US$1900-1950, RSS 497,153 acres, followed by Tanin- Thailand, according to MRPPA. (2) type for $1850-1900, RSS (3) thayi Region 348,344 acres and Myanmar annually exports type for $1800-1800, RSS (4) type Kayin State with 270,760 acres, over 200,000 tonnes of raw rub- for $1750-1800, RSS (5) type for according to the MRPPA. ber to foreign countries gener- $1700-1750, M.S.R (CV) type for Further, about 300,000 ating over $200 million. —NN/ The growers from Paungbyin township are annually cultivating the $1750-1800, M.S.R (L) type for tonnes of rubber are produced GNLM tomatoes in September. PHOTO: KO TUN 25 FEBRUARY 2021 THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR GLOBAL TOP STORIES 11 IMF economists expect tourism Youngest American to go scars from pandemic will linger into space is also a cancer survivor BY the end of the year, Hayley decided to take three people Arceneaux will be the youngest with him, including Arceneaux. American in space and one of Arceneaux said she hopes the first tourists to enter orbit to be an inspiration with “this unaccompanied by professional precedent that it’s going to set astronauts. and what it’s going to show It is a feat made all the these other kids going through more remarkable by her battle cancer treatment.” to overcome a childhood can- The first person chosen for cer that robbed the 29 year old this unprecedented mission, of her dream of becoming an named Inspiration4 and set to astronaut herself. take off at the end of 2021, was Due to the bone cancer she in fact Arceneaux. overcame, Arceneaux has steel The young woman was rods in her left leg -- which until treated as a child at St Jude’s After a disastrous 2020 for tourism caused by the coronavirus pandemic, industry planners hope that clear recently were enough to shatter Children’s Research Hospital signs of green shoots will emerge in the international travel trade sometime this year. PHOTO: XINHUA her hopes of going into space. in Memphis, Tennessee, which AFTER a disastrous 2020 for that focuses mainly on the Asia rising that vaccine rollouts will Enter Jared Isaacman, a specializes in childhood diseas- tourism caused by the coronavi- Pacific region and the western encourage more people to think young American billionaire with es, including cancer. rus pandemic, industry planners hemisphere where the sector about travelling abroad again. a passion for space exploration Isaacman hopes to raise hope that clear signs of green plays a crucial economic role. In Britain, after Prime Min- who chartered a SpaceX Falcon $200 million for the hospital on shoots will emerge in the inter- The task before the indus- ister Boris Johnson outlined a 9 rocket at his own expense and his space mission. —AFP national travel trade sometime try was highlighted in January plan this week to exit the coun- this year. when the United Nations World try’s lockdown, airlines and tour But International Monetary Tourism Organization reported operators reported a surge in Why the US has the Fund (IMF) economists warn that global tourism suffered its bookings and inquiries. that a return to pre-pandemic worst year on record last year, The IMF paper acknowl- highest Covid-19 death toll levels could take multiple years. with international arrivals drop- edges that pent-up demand for “The recovery in interna- ping by 74 per cent. That trans- tourism following lockdowns tional travel and tourism will be lated to one billion fewer arrivals and smooth vaccine operation protracted and subject to a high as lockdowns and entry restric- could trigger the start of a re- degree of uncertainty,” they say tions took hold in the fight against covery if enough herd immunity in a newly published paper on COVID-19, the disease caused is achieved by the second half of tourism in a post-pandemic world by the coronavirus. Hopes are 2021. — Xinhua

AstraZeneca EU supply chain shortfall continues in second quarter PHARMACEUTICAL giant As- productivity in its EU supply The announcement follows traZeneca said Tuesday its EU chain” and would use its “glob- controversy over deliveries of the Several COVID-19 testing options are available to City supply chains would only be able al capability in order to achieve AstraZeneca-Oxford University of Miami residents. PHOTO: AFP to deliver half of an expected delivery of 180 million doses to jab to the European Union in the supply of Covid-19 vaccines to the EU in the second quarter”. first quarter, which has caused THE United States crossed Why has the United States the bloc in the second quarter “Approximately half of the tension between the bloc and the the grim milestone of 500,000 been hit so hard? -- but that it would look to make expected volume is due to come pharmaceutical company. deaths from Covid-19 on Mon- Prior to this pandemic, the up the shortfall from elsewhere. from the EU supply chain” while Ahead of the EU’s approv- day, a year since announcing United States observed coro- A spokesman for the Brit- the remainder would come from al of the vaccine at the end of its first known death from the naviruses “from a distance,” ish drugs group told AFP Astra- its international supply network, January, the British-Swedish virus on February 29, 2020 in explained Masci. Zeneca was “working to increase he added. company sparked fury among the Seattle area. “There was SARS in Cana- European leaders by announc- Why does the world’s lead- da but very little or none in this ing that it would miss its target ing power have the highest country. There was no MERS of supplying the EU with 400 death toll and what lessons are here at all,” he said. million doses, due to a shortfall American health specialists “There was a lot of prepa- at the firm’s European plants. learning from the past year? ration made for Ebola coming The disagreement also Here, infectious disease to the United States, and it nev- caused diplomatic tensions with experts Joseph Masci and er really did. Britain, which definitively left the Michele Halpern provide an- “Suddenly this (coronavi- EU after 40 years of membership swers to some of the key ques- rus) was a problem where the following a transmission period tions. United States was the epicen- at the end of 2020 -- with Brussels Masci, 70, is one of the tre.” implicitly accusing AstraZeneca leaders of Elmhurst Hospital Masci said it was difficult of giving preferential treatment in Queens, which was at the to compare the United States to Britain at the expense of the heart of New York’s epidemic. with other countries. EU. Halpern is a specialist at “I think smaller countries The UK government has the Montefiore hospital group that had structured health care AstraZeneca’s EU supply chains will only be able to provide half of the vaccinated millions of Britons in New Rochelle, a New York services had a good chance of expected doses for the second quarter, but the shortfall will be made with the AstraZeneca jab since suburb where the epidemic ar- bringing things into play quick- up from its global capacity. PHOTO: AFP/FILE late last year. —AFP rived in force in February 2020. ly. — Xinhua 25 FEBRUARY 2021 12 WORLD THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR Senior Iraq MP target of Italy seeks UN probe into international extortion bid POLICE in Australia and Cana- child were inside. A window was DRC envoy’s killing da arrested four people accused smashed in a separate incident. of trying to extort a senior Iraqi Earlier this month, the ITALY said Wednesday it has politician, after what was de- front porch was set on fire in the asked the United Nations to scribed Wednesday as a year- dead of night and a threatening launch an investigation into the long campaign of intimidation. note was left outside. killing of its ambassador to the Dual raids were launched “Throughout this time, Democratic Republic of Congo. after a string of attacks on a Syd- the family received various de- The envoy, Luca Attanasio, ney home and online extortion mands for money and threats 43, died on Monday after a World attempts linked to an address to their welfare via social media Food Programme (WFP) convoy in Canada. and letters left at their home,” was ambushed in a dangerous The target was the family police said. part of the eastern DRC near of a “very senior politician” who Australian media named the border with Rwanda. is a dual Australian and Iraqi the member of parliament as Attanasio’s Italian body- citizen and “spends almost all Ahmed Assadi -- a senior fig- guard and a Congolese driver of his time in Iraq”, Australian ure in the Hashed al-Shaabi, a were also killed. police said. powerful state-sponsored par- “We have formally asked The convoy was ambushed in a dangerous part of the eastern DRC near The attacks are believed amilitary network formed from WFP (World Food Programme) the border with Rwanda. PHOTO: AFP to have begun in December mostly-Shiite armed groups. and the UN to open an investi- 2019, when masked and armed Police did not confirm the gation to clarify what happened, “We expect, in the briefest allegation and instead blamed assailants broke into a home man’s identity. the reasons behind the securi- possible time, clear and exhaus- the Rwandan and DRC militar- in western Sydney, assaulting Two men in their twenties ty arrangements used and who tive answers,” Di Maio said. ies. a 16-year-old boy and stealing were arrested in Sydney and a was responsible for these deci- On Monday, the DRC’s in- Di Maio said the party was cash. Months later, shots were woman and a man in their thir- sions,” Italian Foreign Minister terior ministry blamed the kill- e trip from the capital Kinshasa fired at the house while two ties were arrested in Edmonton, Luigi Di Maio told parliament. ings on the Democratic Forces to Goma, some 2,500 kilometres adults, two teenagers and a Canada. —AFP Di Maio’s comments came for the Liberation of Rwanda (1,550 miles) east, but that Atta- the morning after the bodies of (FDLR), a Rwandan Hutu rebel nasio had “full power” to decide the two Italians were returned group. how and where to move within by military plane to Rome. But the FDLR rejected the DRC. —AFP Ecuador prison riot toll rises to 79 AT least 79 inmates died in si- lice officials. and explosives” at the country’s multaneous riots blamed on The SNAI said no warders prisons. gang warfare at four prisons in or police were killed, adding it Last year, he had declared Ecuador, officials said Wednes- was “working on the collection a 90-day state of emergency in day. of information on human loss- the country’s jails to try to bring Updating the toll from Tues- es and other aspects related to gang activity under control and Police in Australia and Canada have arrested four people accused of day’s violent uprising, the SNAI the clashes” authorities have reduce the violence. trying to extort a member of Iraq’s parliament. PHOTO: AFP prison authority said it had retak- blamed on rival gangs fighting Yet 103 inmates were killed en control of the prisons which for control. The office of Ecua- in prisons last year, according to jointly hold more than two-thirds dor’s public defender -- an entity the ombudsman’s office. Russian fugitive nabbed in Bali of the South American country’s akin to an ombudsman defend- In order to reduce prisoner inmate population. ing human rights -- called the vi- numbers amid the coronavirus after dramatic escape The military had been de- olence “an unprecedented mas- epidemic, the government com- A Russian fugitive whose dra- ished a prison term following a ployed to help quell the uprising. sacre” and expressed “concern muted the sentences of people matic sprint out of an Indone- 2019 arrest for selling hashish The SNAI said in a state- over the lack of security in the convicted of minor offences, re- sian immigration office was to tourists in Bali. ment 37 prisoners had died at country, which is reflected in the ducing overcrowding from 42 per captured on CCTV has been The Interpol warrant was two jails in the western port city increase in crime and violence cent to 30 per cent. caught again after two weeks linked to a drugs case back in of Guayaquil, 34 at a prison in inside these prison facilities.” This still left Ecuador’s pris- on the run, authorities said Kovalenko’s home country, said Cuenca in the south, and eight President Lenin Moreno, on system, with a capacity to Wednesday. Eko Budianto, head of the immi- in the central Andean town of meanwhile, has ordered the house 29,000 inmates in 60-odd Andrey Kovalenko fled the gration division at Bali’s justice Latacunga. Several more were defence ministry to “exercise facilities, with a prisoner popu- office on Indonesia’s resort is- and legal agency. Trubkina, 31, injured, as were a number of po- strict control of arms, munitions lation of 38,000. —AFP land of Bali to avoid deportation, also Russian, could face up to with the surveillance footage nine months in prison if con- showing him keeping pace on victed of assisting Kovalenko’s foot with a motorcycle as he es- escape, authorities said. caped. Authorities fanned out Indonesian authorities across the island in the hunt have previously caught inter- for Kovalenko, who was nabbed national fugitives wanted by early Wednesday at a villa in Interpol who sought to hide in tourist hub Kuta along with Bali. In July last year, Bali po- girlfriend Ekaterina Trubkina, lice arrested Marcus Beam, an who was wanted for allegedly American fugitive accused of assisting his escape. His dash scamming $500,000 from wom- for freedom on February 11 en he met online between 2015 came as officials readied to de- and 2019. Beam had been hiding port Kovalenko back to Russia in Bali with his girlfriend where on an Interpol warrant. he worked as a porn actor-direc- Officials say 37 prisoners died at two jails in the western port city of Guayaquil, 34 at a prison in Cuenca in the The 32-year-old had just fin- tor. —AFP south, and eight in the central Andean town of Latacunga. PHOTO: AFP 25 FEBRUARY 2021 THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR ECON/BIZ/AD 13 Hong Kong hikes stock stamp duty for first time since 1993

HONG KONG hiked stamp The news sent the The government went duty on stock trades Hang Seng Index plung- into the pandemic with Wednesday for the first ing more than three per one of the healthiest fis- time in almost three dec- cent, while bourse opera- cal reserves in the world ades as it tries to plug a tor HKEx collapsed more but fell into a record deficit pandemic-induced record than 11 per cent at one of HK$258 billion ($33 bil- budget deficit, sending the point. lion) last year as officials local equity market tum- “Whilst we are disap- splurged to prop up the bling. pointed about the Govern- economy. The business-friendly ment’s decision to raise However, the stock financial hub, which prides stamp duty for stock trans- market has been one of the itself on low taxes and no actions, we recognize that best performers this year, capital gains tax, has been such a levy is an important as global equities have battered for two years by source of Government rev- soared on optimism that long-running political un- enue,” a spokesperson for the rollout of vaccines, fall- rest and then the coronavi- HKEX said. ing infection rates and the rus, putting a huge strain The economy contact- easing of lockdowns will on government coffers. ed a record 6.1 percent in fuel a strong economic re- In a bid to shore up fi- 2020 but Hong Kong was covery around the world. Hong Kong’s government has been forced to shore up its coffers after protests and nances, finance chief Paul already suffering going pandemic hammered the city’s economy. PHOTO: AFP And Chan struck an Chan said he would lift the into the year, having been optimistic note for the levy on share transactions hit by months of some- down for extended peri- geopolitical tensions as sial security law that has economy this year, pre- to 0.13 per cent from 0.1 times violent pro-democ- ods. Beijing sought to stamp led to questions being dicting it will expand be- per cent, the first increase racy protests that caused The pandemic’s im- out dissent in the city by asked about its future as tween 3.5 and 5.5 per cent. since 1993. much of the city to be shut pact was compounded by introducing a controver- a global financial hub. —AFP

New York shuts cryptocurrency exchanges Chair of Japan which hid losses automaker Suzuki to with Bitfinex and Tether er up losses. “Bitfinex and would end all trading ac- Tether recklessly and un- step down tivity with New Yorkers lawfully covered-up mas- SUZUKI’S chairman has had enormous suc- and require penalties sive financial losses to Osamu Suzuki will retire cess, and steadily in- totalling $18.5 million. keep their scheme going after more than four dec- creased its share in Ja- James’s office began in- and protect their bottom ades at the helm of the pan’s small car market. vestigating the two com- lines,” said James. “Teth- Japanese carmaker, the He became chair- panies in 2017 for their er’s claims that its virtual company said Wednes- man in 2000 and his eld- trading in “stablecoins,” currency was fully backed day. est son, Toshihiro Suzuki, which are supposed to by US dollars at all times The 91-year-old, assumed the role of pres- maintain real-dollar value. was a lie. These compa- who married into the ident in 2015. Two crytpocurrency trading platforms which hid hundreds The investigation found nies obscured the true risk firm’s founding family, The carmaker, of millions in losses agreed to halt activities following a the two companies made investors faced and were will leave the post after which had once tied up probe by New York state officials. PHOTO: AFP false statements about the operated by unlicenced a shareholder meeting with General Motors NEW YORK state author- which hid an estimated backing of the “tether” and unregulated individ- in June and become an and Volkswagen, forged ities said they reached an $850 million in losses. stablecoin, and about the uals and entities dealing adviser, it said. a capital alliance with agreement to shut down State Attorney-Gen- movement of hundreds of in the darkest corners of After he became Toyota in 2019. activities of two cryptocur- eral Letitia James said millions of dollars between the financial system.” — company president in No one will replace rency trading platforms the agreements this week the two companies to cov- AFP 1978, Suzuki expanded him for now, while Toshi- the automaker’s busi- hiro Suzuki will remain South Africa sets out budget as economy reels ness in India, where it president.—AFP from pandemic THE South African gov- needed after a year of roll- CLAIMS DAY NOTICE ernment will unveil its ing restrictions on move- M.V SEASTAR EMPRESS fiscal 2021 spending plans ment and business to curb Consignees of cargo carried on M.V SEASTAR Wednesday as the conti- the coronavirus outbreak. EMPRESS VOY. NO. (202002) are hereby notified that nent’s most industrialised “There’s not a lot of the vessel will be arriving on 25-2-2021 and cargo will be economy grapples with money and we need to discharged into the premises of WILMAR where it will lie the fallout from the coro- have a pro-poor and pro- at the consignee’s risk and expenses and subject to the byelaws and conditions of the Port of Yangon. navirus pandemic on top growth balance,” Uni- Damaged cargo will be surveyed daily from 8 am of a recession. versity of Johannesburg to 11:20 am and 12 noon to 4 pm to Claim’s Day now Finance Minister Tito business lecturer Daniel declared as the third day after final discharge of cargo Mboweni traditionally de- Meyer told AFP. from the Vessel. livers his national budget Increasing taxes wont Finance Minister Tito Mboweni usually delivers his No claims against this vessel will be admitted after budget speech alongside a potted aloe vera plant, the Claims Day. speech alongside a potted be an option, however, giv- highly resistant to drought, to symbolise economic Phone No: 2301928 aloe vera plant, highly re- en the pandemic-induced resilience. PHOTO: AFP Shipping Agency Department sistant to drought, as a losses and with local elec- record 32.5 per cent in the Mboweni “will have to Myanma Port Authority symbol of South Africa’s tions due this year. fourth quarter of last year, take more loans to finance Agent For: economic resilience. Unemployment in the highest since records the budget,” Meyer said. M/S BEN LINE AGENCIES (S'PORE) PTE LTD Resilience will be South Africa soared to a began in 2008. —AFP 25 FEBRUARY 2021 14 GLOBAL AFFAIRS THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR Mexico begins application U.S. should fix its energy delivery of Chinese Sinovac vaccine system in caution against future MEXICAN health authorities centre to get vaccinated. on Monday began to vaccinate “The first call was very im- disasters: media older adults with a COVID-19 portant because it lets us know vaccine developed by Chinese there is interest on the part of as, as in other Southern states, pharmaceutical company Sino- the citizens and, above all, that the boilers and turbines are left vac, after a shipment of doses they are hopeful this issue can exposed to the elements,” said arrived on Saturday. now be eradicated from our the article. Mexico’s government des- population,” Ecatepec Mayor Last week’s power failures ignated the first shipment of Fernando Vilchis told reporters in Texas had left a number of the Sinovac vaccine to arrive in at the vaccination site. people dead and millions with- Ecatepec, a city in central State Mexican health authori- out power or potable water, of Mexico that lies on the out- ties announced on Sunday that sometimes for days, according skirts of the capital Mexico City. Ecatepec would receive the first to the article contributed by Early in the day, brigades batch of the Sinovac vaccine The Editorial Board, a group of healthcare workers began as the country’s second-most of opinion journalists whose to administer the vaccine to populous municipality has COV- views are informed by exper- hundreds of residents aged 60 ID-19 mortality rates that are tise, research, debate and cer- and over who went to the Las above the national average. — tain longstanding values. It is Photo taken on Feb. 19, 2021 shows empty fruit shelves at a Tom Americas cultural and sports Xinhua Thumb grocery store in Plano, northern suburban city of Dallas, Texas, separate from the newsroom. the United States. PHOTO: XINHUA “There are two lessons here to be absorbed and acted THE United State’s energy de- sons of the Texas Power Dis- on. First, the country’s ener- livery system, not just in Texas aster.” gy systems must be robust but everywhere, needs a radical “The simple truth is that enough to withstand whatev- overhaul if it is to withstand fu- the state (Texas) was not pre- er surprises climate change is ture shocks and play the role pared for the Arctic blast. A few likely to bring. ... The scientific that President Joe Biden has wind turbines froze up, but the connection between climate assigned it in the battle against main culprits were uninsulated change and extreme cold is not climate change, said The New power plants run by natural as well established, but it would York Times on Monday in an gas. In northern states, such be foolish to assume that it is Opinion article titled “The Les- plants are built indoors; in Tex- not there,” it said. — Xinhua

Sweden records lowest population growth Staff members unload a temperature-controlled cargo container with COVID-19 vaccines from Chinese company Sinovac inside from a plane since 2005 at the airport in Mexico City, Mexico, Feb. 20, 2021. PHOTO: AFP SWEDEN last year recorded the lowest population growth NEWS in 15 years, Statistics Sweden IN announced on Monday. BRIEF The population increased Victory for ‘net neutrality’ law in California by only 0.5 per cent, reaching 10,379,295 on Dec. 31. A federal judge late Tuesday cleared the way for California to be- “This is almost a halving of gin enforcing a net neutrality law opposed by US telecom titans. the population increase com- THE judge denied a request by cable and telecom service com- pared with the previous year. panies to stop implementation of the law, which is intended to We have to go back to 2005 to prevent them from favouring their own services and blocking or find a smaller increase, both in A man wearing a face mask waits for a bus during the COVID-19 pandemic in Stockholm, capital of Sweden, on Nov. 3, 2020. PHOTO: XINHUA slowing rival services like Netflix. relative and absolute numbers,” “THE federal court just rejected the effort by telecom and cable demographics statistician Linus “The number of immigrants which has caused 12,649 deaths companies to block enforcement of the net neutrality law I au- Garp told Xinhua. in 2020 was the lowest since 2005, by Friday, according to the latest thored,” state senator Mark Wiener said in a tweet. The statistics revealed that while slightly more emigrated available update from the Pub- “CALIFORNIA can now fully protect an open internet.” decreased net immigration was than the year before,” Garp said. lic Health Agency -- contributed AN alliance of telecom firms sued California, arguing the state the main reason behind the de- However, it’s also evident to the slowdown in population overstepped its authority in passing the law because such reg- celerating population growth. that the COVID-19 pandemic -- growth. — Xinhua ulatory power is the purview of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). THE judge refused to issue a preliminary injunction to stop the Syria approves Russia’s Sputnik Covid vaccine law from being enforced while the case works its way through court, where it was not expected to prevail. SYRIA has authorized the use of safe and 91.6 per cent effective. er at least three per cent of the “WHEN the FCC, over my objection, rolled back its #net neutrality Russia’s Sputnik V coronavirus More than 30 countries have population and aim for 20 per policies, states like California sought to fill the void with their vaccine, its embassy in Moscow approved the vaccine, according cent by the end of the year. Syria own laws,” FCC acting chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel said in a said Monday. to the Russian Direct Invest- has recorded 15,179 coronavirus tweet. The country is the latest to ment Fund, which financed its infections and 998 fatalities from “TONIGHT a court in California decided that the state law can go approve the Russian vaccine, development. Syria in Decem- the virus in government-held into effect. This is big news for #openinternet policy”. named after the Soviet-era sat- ber also signed on to the World areas. Territories under Kurdish ROSENWORCEL’S predecessor, Ajit Pai, departed the post when ellite. Sputnik V was registered Health Organization’s Covax control in the country’s north- President Joe Biden took office, clearing the way for a shift in in August before clinical trials initiative to procure vaccines. east have recorded nearly 8,600 oversight of the internet. were underway, which left ex- The WHO, together with the cases and 311 deaths, while the PAI’S tenure as chair of the FCC had been defined by a pro-indus- perts wary. But leading medical UN children’s agency UNICEF rebel-held northwest has re- try stance, particularly in regard to “net neutrality,” leaving tele- journal The Lancet published and Gavi, will support Syria in ported 21,121 infections and 408 communications firms free to block or throttle traffic. —AFP results showing the jab to be acquiring jabs to initially cov- fatalities. —AFP 25 FEBRUARY 2021 THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR SOCIETY/AD 15

Builder of Pagodas • Builder of Schools • Builder of Vipassana Centres • Guardian of Temples • Patron of Culture & Art • Founder of Indo Myanmar Friendship Society



 Trustee Society of of Central Vishwa Hindu Parishad, India • Trustee

Found priceless treasures of Seela,  Samaadhi and Pragya Insight This Mortal Body became Pure and seful again, rid of the Grime of Ignorance Myanmar Hindi iterary iterary Hindi Myanmar –

Dagon Myoma Found devotion for Buddhas teachings and the learned gatherings In Myanmar I found Vipassana, the nectar of Immortality that I partake ……Baba Doha Honours • President’s cellence Award, Myanmar •

• President’s Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award, India • of orld Buddhist Cultural Foundation th March – nd February Forever emembered by School elfare Association, BHS Association, elfare School – Humanitarian by Birth, Industrialist by Profession Daw Ni Ni Shwe @ Smt. Sushila Goenka Mentor by Choice, Philanthropist by Heart U Maung Sein @ Rajul & Neha, Adhvik Charitable by ature, Monk by Soul Goenka Family & Kedia Family

Vice President President Vice Thiri Tudhama Manijot Dhar Bandoola Group • Kalyana Mateta Group Vipassana Sayagyi Goenka Memorial Trust International Dhammagiri Vipassana Association • Patron Patron • Association Vipassana Dhammagiri International

U Maung Shwe @ Shri Banwarilal Goenka – Mahaparami Strengthening Matagyi Foundation

Patron Patron ȋ‘‘ˆƒ–‡ƒ›ƒ‰›‹ ‘‡ƒƬ th  Condolence Meet February , PM ƒ–‡ƒƒƒ™ Žƒ›‡›‹̷–Ǥ ŽŽƒ‹ Š‹†‡˜‹ ‘‡ƒȌ Park oyal Hotel, angon

Patron – Inter Faith Dialogue Group • Patron Sanatan Dharma Swayam Sevak Sangh • IPP of All Myanmar Hindu Central Council President – Myanmar India Business Chamber • Former ecutive Committee – Myanmar Industries Association Group of Plastic Industries

NEWS Malaysian king says IN BRIEF 23 tonnes of cocaine seized in Europe’s parliament can sit, in blow biggest haul

GERMANY and Belgium have seized 23 tonnes of cocaine in the for embattled PM biggest-ever haul of the drug in Europe, German customs said Wednesday. MALAYSIA’S king said Wednes- “The enormous amount of cocaine would have brought in several day parliament can sit during billion euros (dollars) in street sales,” the customs office said in a a state of emergency, in a blow statement. for the embattled prime minis- German officers had discovered 16 tonnes of cocaine hidden in ter whose government is on the containers from Paraguay at the port of Hamburg on February 12. verge of collapse. Joint investigations into the stash with Dutch officers led au- Parliament has been sus- thorities to swoop on another 7.2 tonnes in cocaine at the port of pended since the king declared Antwerp in Belgium, German customs said. —AFP a national emergency last month to fight the coronavirus, follow- ing a request from Prime Min- German ‘IS leader’ handed lengthy prison ister Muhyiddin Yassin as cases sentence spiralled out of control. The move sparked accu- A NOTORIOUS Iraqi preacher said to be the Islamic State jihadist Malaysia’s parliament has been suspended since the king declared a sations that Muhyiddin, whose group’s de facto leader in Germany was sentenced to 10 years and six national emergency last month. PHOTO: Department of Information year-old government is riven by Malaysia. PHOTO: AFP months in prison by a German court on Wednesday. infighting, was using the virus The 37-year-old Ahmad Abdulaziz Abdullah Abdullah, better known crisis to cling to power. “The king emphasised to the a date deemed suitable by the as Abu Walaa, was accused of directing a jihadist network which But facing mounting crit- two speakers that Malaysia is a king, taking into consideration radicalized young people in Europe and helped them travel to Iraq icism, Sultan Abdullah Sultan democratic country,” said the the advice of the prime minister, and Syria. He was found guilty of belonging to a foreign terrorist Ahmad Shah announced par- statement. the statement said. The state organization, helping to plan subversive violent acts and financing liament can convene during the “The view in certain quar- of emergency, due to run until terrorism. The verdict marked the end of an “special case” which emergency following a meeting ters that the declaration of an August 1, remains in place, with was “very long and very complex”, judge Frank Rosenow said as he with the upper and lower house emergency bans the convening supporters saying it is needed handed down the verdict after 245 days of hearings. Abu Walaa was speakers, a palace statement of parliament is incorrect.” to channel extra resources to in the dock with three other men in a costly, high-security trial that said. Parliament will resume on fighting the pandemic. —AFP began in 2017 in the northern German town of Celle. —AFP 25 FEBRUARY 2021 16 SPORT THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR YUFC sign Zwekapin player on two-year loan

YANGON United recently con- the team statement. know it is hard to be the first tion (Mandalay) from 2010 to anmar National League club firmed that defender Thein Thein Than revealed his line-up player. But I will try 2014. Then he started his youth Chin United in 2017. Than from Zwekapin United hope upon joining the epic club hard and play for the wins.” professional career with Hori- He played for one year in had joined the football club on of MNL. The 25-year-old defender zon Football Club of Myanmar Chin United and then trans- a two-year contract for a new “I am very proud to join studied his basic football ed- National League-II in 2015. He ferred to Zwekapin United football season of the Myanmar the great club and can’t ex- ucation from the Institute of played well for the club for two in 2018 and played for three National League, according to press how I feel right now. I Sports and Physical Educa- years and then moved to My- years.—GNLM

World’s biggest cricket stadium renamed Tiger’s legendary golf after India’s Modi career in jeopardy after

of building the world’s largest car crash stadium,” Home Minister Amit Shah said at the event. The $100-million, perfectly round venue, with seats in the blue and saffron of the Indian team, promises unobstructed views from every angle. It eclipses the 100,000-seat Melbourne Cricket Ground in Australia, which dates back to 1853. The former Motera stadium was inaugurated as the Sardar The 110,000-seater stadium in Ahmedabad was renamed Vallabhbhai Patel Cricket Sta- after India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a surprise move dium by Modi in February 2020 Wednesday. PHOTO: AFP when he hosted a mega-rally NEW DELHI — The world’s main city, before taking over as there with then US president biggest cricket stadium was re- head of government in 2014. Donald Trump. named after India’s Prime Minis- The new name was an- Patel, an independence ter Narendra Modi in a surprise nounced by President Ramnath leader, is immortalized by the move Wednesday hours before Kovind during a ceremony ahead world’s biggest statue, the enor- its inaugural international match of the third Test between India mous Statue of Unity completed between India and England. and England. in 2018 measuring 182 metres The 110,000-seater stadium “This stadium was the (597 feet) -- twice the size of the was the pet project of Modi who dream of the prime minister and Statue of Liberty -- which has was chief minister in Gujarat he had during his stint as chief struggled to attract visitors. — state, where Ahmedabad is the minister here floated the idea AFP

Bayern Munich plot quarter-final Tiger Woods, celebrating his 15th major title at the 2019 Masters, has been among the world’s most famous athletes for the past 25 course by routing Lazio years. PHOTO: AFP LOS ANGELES — The all-time mark. ROME — Holders Bayern at the Stadio Olimpico before coach Hansi Flick told Sky. amazing golf career of Tiger Woods has faced plenty of Munich brushed off their re- Francesco Acerbi scored an Joaquin Correa pulled a goal Woods, from two-year-old prior troubles off the course, cent poor domestic form by own goal just after the break. back early in the second half prodigy to his epic comeback including multiple back and throwing down a Champi- “We are a huge step closer to give the scoreline some re- 2019 Masters victory, was in knee surgeries, the 2009 rev- ons League marker with an to the quarter-finals,” Bayern spectability for Lazio. —AFP jeopardy Tuesday after inju- elation of multiple affairs that emphatic 4-1 win at Lazio in ries suffered in a serious solo led to an emotional public Tuesday’s last-16 first leg to car crash. apology and divorce from take a “huge step” towards the The 45-year-old Ameri- wife Elin Nordegren plus a quarter-finals. can, among the world’s most 2017 reckless driving inci- Robert Lewandowski gave famous athletes for the past dent. Bayern an early lead before quarter-century, underwent Woods was recovering 17-year-old Jamal Musiala surgery for multiple leg inju- from 2017 back surgery when scored his first Champions ries following the early morn- he was arrested for driving League goal on only his fourth ing wreck near Los Angeles. under the influence of alco- appearance in Europe. Stutt- It could mean the end of hol or drugs, his mug shot gart-born Musiala, who turns a groundbreaking career that drawing worldwide attention. 18 Friday, is now the youngest has seen Woods win 15 major He said he had not real- English goalscorer in Cham- titles, three shy of the all- ized how prescription drugs pions League history. A Leroy time record set by Jack Nick- he was taking might interact Sane strike gave Bayern a Bayern Munich’s England Under-21 midfielder Jamal Musiala (R) laus, and 82 US PGA crowns, and later pleaded guilty to three-goal half-time cushion celebrates scoring his first Champions League goal. PHOTO: AFP level with Sam Snead for the reckless driving. —AFP