CATTLE FARMING NEEDS TO ADAPT TO MODERN WAYS PAGE-8 (OPINION)

NATIONAL NATIONAL Virtual meeting held for rice procurement, Union Education Minister visits export issues refresher courses in Nay Pyi Taw

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Vol. VII, No. 341, 11th Waxing of Tabaung 1382 ME www.gnlm.com.mm Tuesday, 23 March 2021 Despite having their different opinions, service personnel need to serve dutifully no matter what government takes office: Senior General

Chairman of the State Administration Council Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Senior General Min Aung Hlaing delivers address at council meeting (7/2021) in Nay Pyi Taw on 22 March 2021.

THE State Administration Dwe, Joint Secretary Lt-Gen Ye a certain degree. Regardless been enacted, measures to ex- The majority of civil serv- Council held its meeting Win Oo and Union Minister for of their residential place, party ercise and control them should ants have been serving for (7/2021) at the meeting room of Home Affairs Lt-Gen Soe Htut. and ethnic origin, the council be taken into consideration. many years. They are therefore the Council Chairman’s Office in In his address, the Senior members must collectively join Since it assumed the coun- urged to return to work. Despite Nay Pyi Taw yesterday, with an General said missions of the hands with the desire to serve cil duties, arrangements have having their different opinions, address delivered by Chairman Council were presented and the national interest. Regarding been made to reopen schools. service personnel need to serve of State Administration Coun- discussed. The council mem- the review of the laws discussed Some of the teachers of the dutifully no matter what govern- cil Commander-in-Chief of De- bers put forward region-we by them at the previous meet- basic education schools are ment takes office. They must fence Services Senior General situation and national require- ings, some of the enacted laws staging CDM. Some teachers follow the civil service rules and Min Aung Hlaing. ments at the previous meetings. are under scrutiny to ascertain were absent from the refresher disciplines. Failure to shoulder Also present were Thanks to realizing the meeting whether they meet the legal courses for the high and mid- their duties is not a crime but Vice-Chairman of the Council decisions through coordination, norms. As appropriate laws in dle school principals, held as a a violation of the civil service Deputy Commander-in-Chief success has been achieved to connection with security have part of a school reopening pro- disciplines. For the first time, of Defence Services Command- gramme. It is found that they they will have to sign confes- er-in-Chief (Army), Vice-Sen- were under threat to join the sions. For further violation, ior General Soe Win, members CDM. Teachers of the institu- actions will be taken against General Mya Tun Oo, Admiral tions of higher learning and them in accord with the civil Tin Aung San, General Maung Regardless of their residential doctors of hospitals are also service rules and disciplines. Maung Kyaw, Lt-Gen Moe My- facing a similar threat. They Local people have demanded int Tun, Mahn Nyein Maung, place, party and ethnic origin, the should make a complaint to the the Tatmadaw’s help as some U Than Nyunt, U Khin Maung council members must collective- respective authorities about the hospitals are closed due to doc- Swe, Daw Aye Nu Sein, Jeng matter. Some teachers and doc- tors’ participation in the CDM. Phang Naw Taung, U Moung ly join hands with the desire to tors are still absent from work Willing government staff are Har, U Sai Lone Hsai, Saw De- as they are worried that they being allowed to resume their nial and Dr Banyar Aung Moe, serve the national interest. may face punishment if they duties. Secretary Lt-Gen Aung Lin return to the unit, he said. SEE PAGE-3 23 MARCH 2021 2 NATIONAL THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR

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.

Shops, markets in some Military medical corps townships reopen for public provide healthcare in township hospitals ACCORDING to a Myanmar bin Lay Market from No. 7 quar- Township, Shwe Padauk Fish- Police Force statement, mar- ter of Lanmadaw Township, ery Market from Bayint Naung kets and shops are reopening Lanmadaw Thanzay Market Street, No. 4 quarter, Hline in some townships for selling from No. 2 quarter of Latha Township, Thonegwa Market essential foodstuffs and prod- Township, Theingyi Market from No. 4 quarter, Thonegwa ucts to the public. from No. 2 quarter of Pabedan Township, and Myoma Market Gamone Pwint Super Township, temporary Tamway from No. 3 quarter, Khayan Market from No. 8 quarter, Market from Byine Kwat Thit Township are now reopening Botahtaung Township, Capital quarter, Tamway Township, according to the officials. Hyper Market from Dawbon Byan Kya Market from Thin- In the other townships, se- Township, City Mart from No. 94 gangyun Township, Sin Minn curity forces will be deployed to quarter, Dagon Myothit (Seik- Market from Sin Minn quarter, allow remaining markets and kan) Township, Lahar Pyin Ahlone Township, Ahlone Mar- businesses to resume normal Market from No. 7 quarter of ket from Thitaw Street, Sawyan operations, officials added. — Tatmadaw medical team seen providing healthcare services to locals in Botahtaung Township, Nyaung- Paingtaung quarter, Ahlon MNA Latpadan.

THE Tatmadaw medical teams Township, Sintgaing hospital comprising Tatmadaw doctors, in Kyaukse township, Yintaw specialists, and nurses, have hospital in Pyawbwe township, been providing necessary med- Welaung hospital in Taung- ical treatments to the patients tha Township, Public hospital in military hospitals and public in Kyaukpadaung Township, hospitals. Public Hospital in Kyauktaga The Tatmadaw medical Township, Donzayit hospital in team continued to provide Shwegyin Township and Public healthcare services such as sur- hospital in Latpadan township gery, dental and oral healthcare, yesterday. osteoporosis, obstetrics, otorhi- Officials from respective nolaryngology, gynaecology, hy- commands also inspected the pertension and heart disease to hospitals’ medical services. the patients in healthcare ser- They comforted the patients by vices difficulties in Thazi Town- providing food aids and neces- ship Hospital, Hanza hospital, sary things. Locals are report- Yinmabin hospital, Tagaung edly satisfied with the medical Customers are seen shopping at City Mart outlet in Dagon Myothit (Seikkan). Public Hospital in Thabeikkyin support of Tatmadaw. — MNA Military hospitals continue providing healthcare to civilians

MILITARY hospitals in the town- operations and 2,130 minor tive commands also provided ships of regions and states keep operations. The senior doctors the patients with foods, and providing medical treatments to treat serious cases. These medical workers were provided the people to solve their health- hospitals managed for the birth with cash assistance. — MNA care services difficulties. A total of 5,540 babies while bringing of 86,750 outpatients and 4,193 in- 5,540 pregnant women to the patients reached these hospitals respective military hospitals. from 5 February to date. Of those 2204 cases are done A local seen receiving dental Senior medical experts, in caesarean section and 3,336 treatment at the military hospital. medics and nurses have cases in ordinary delivery. conducted 4,007 major Officials from the respec- 23 MARCH 2021 THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR NATIONAL 3

MNMMNMMNMMNMMNMMNMMNMMNMMNMMNMMNNMNM MNM MNM Only through better education will the country develop MNM MNM PLANS are being made to reopen universities and colleges. There are education staff joining the CDM at some universities and colleges. Efforts are also being made to reopen basic education schools. As schools and universities’ closure causes many losses to students and parents, the Senior General expressed his willingness to reopen them as quickly as possible. Permission has been granted to issue matriculation mark lists to join the university. For university entrance, students should be allowed to choose the subjects they are suitable for. Then, they will be able to gain cedit in their respective subjects, NN NN So, the ministry concerned has been instructed to take such measures. It is necessary to learn respective subjects and pass examinations outstandingly at universities. Good libraries are also required, and tertiary education must be promoted. Only through better eductaion will the country develop. Therefore, N N education must be promoted. N N N N N N (Excerpt from the speech to the 6/2021 meeting of the State Administration Council made by N N the Republic of the Union of Myanmar State Administration Council Chairman N N Senior General Min Aung Hlaing on 16 March 2021) N N

MNMMNMMNMMNMMNMMNMMNMMNMMNMMNMMNN

Despite having their different opinions, service ...

FROM PAGE-1 or ethnic-national without fail. discipline. Measures must also In doing so, council members be taken to reopen the closed For those who are unwill- need to cooperate in the re- factories and SMEs, which are It is necessary to reduce the ing to serve, replacements will spective sectors. The scrutiny local production forces, to cre- be made. of the voter lists shows that ate job opportunities again. The exploitation of natural resources, Over the past month, dem- many voters went to the polls Senior General then stressed ocratically-staged protests in Kungyangon Township of the importance of respective which must be maintained as re- have turned into riots and vio- Yangon Region even though sectors to operate transport lence. First, protesters threw they have no national registra- services as regularly as ever serves of the country. stones at the security forces tion cards. Among them were for commodity flow. handling the demonstrations. non-ethnic races of Myanmar. Afterwards, council mem- Second, they came to attack How many non-Myanmar na- bers U Thein Nyunt, Mahn border gate, development of view. The peace process is be- the security forces with jinga- tionals without NRCs there are Nyein Maung, U Khin Maung Phayathonesu region tourism ing implemented by forming lis, nuts, hand-made guns and nationwide cannot be known. Swe, Jeng Phang Naw Taung, and its transport, continued leading committees and work swords and even killings of se- The scrutiny also shows that Daw Aye Nu Sein, U Sai Lone tasks for Yay-Dawei national committees. Four hydropower curity personnel and among there were extra published bal- Hsai, Dr Banyar Aung Moe grid connection, closer deal- projects are being implement- the people occurred. What’s lot papers. In contrast, hun- and Saw Daniel reported on ings with ethnic armed organ- ed in Myeik to supply the elec- more, arson attacks on facto- dreds of thousands of ballot continued efforts to remove izations and continued peace tricity in the region. Measures ries, an essential productive papers went missing, and there Myanmar from the list of least talks, holding of a free and fair will be taken to continue to im- force of the State, running were additional ballot papers. developed countries as quickly election, systematic implemen- plement the Myeik fish auction with local and foreign invest- The Central Bank has as possible, prompt measures tation of border trade activities market and Dawei industrial ments, and lootings occurred. allowed the private banks to to effectively penalize those with neighbouring countries, zone projects. It is necessary Accordingly, martial law had to reopen in line with the rules who committed murders in easing of taxation policies, con- to reduce the exploitation of be imposed. Security forces are and disciplines. Their closure Hlinethaya Township, expo- trol of entry of illegal foreign- natural resources, which must handling the protests under the without following the rules and sition of instigators who are ers to Myanmar and review of be maintained as reserves of law and step-step procedures. disciplines adopted by the Cen- behind CDM activities, giving the establishment of factories the country. Similarly, energy Measures have to be taken tral Bank means violating the of protection to civil servants, in residential communities. resources must be maintained, to grant national registration law so that action will be taken response to circulation of fake Then, Vice-Senior General and it is necessary to generate cards to every eligible citizen against them in accord with the news, regular operation of ad- Soe Win reported on clearing electricity from renewable en- ministrative mechanism and landmines in Kachin and Ra- ergy like hydropower and solar education and health sectors, khine States. power. In exporting timber, it Failure to shoulder their duties is display and sale of jade at After hearing reports, is required to export finished Myanmar Gems Emporiums, the Senior General said that products. The natural environ- not a crime but a violation of the launch of government-to-gov- measures would be taken for ment must be conserved by ernment and bank-to-bank Myanmar’s graduation from replanting forests. civil service disciplines. For the systems in border trade, re- the least developed country As members of the Coun- first time, they will have to sign view and reassessment of the status as soon as possible, and cil are well-experienced per- associations contrary to the restrictions on tourism are be- sons, it is necessary for all to confessions. For further violation, constitution, reconstitution of ing relaxed. Instructions will do the best for the country and township development com- be given to resume the activ- prove one’s abilities based on actions will be taken against them mittees in respective regions, ities of township development the experience. It is fully con- return of Rakhine IDPs to their affairs committees in respec- fident that challenges will be in accord with the civil service homes, easing of travel restric- tive states and regions, and overcome and success will be tions, reoperation of private steps will be taken for smooth achieved by working together rules and disciplines. banks as regularly as ever, offi- transportation in the Phayatho- in consultation with one anoth- cial reopening of Phayathonesu nezu region with a long term er. — MNA 23 MARCH 2021 4 NATIONAL THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR Virtual meeting held for rice procurement, export issues

A virtual coordination meeting Myanmar Rice Federation had on the current rice market sit- lent 30 billion kyats for export uation: rice procurement and financing to facilitate the export export issues was held at the of 100,000 tons of rice to Bangla- Conference Hall (1) of the Min- desh under the G to G program. istry of Commerce in Nay Pyi He said the Myanmar ex- Taw yesterday. porters should constantly mon- Union Minister for Com- itor the changes in the interna- merce Dr Pwint San said that tional rice market and make the state should focus on the preparations. He also added agriculture and livestock breed- the government and the private ing sector’s capabilities in other sector must work more close- economic sectors. ly to ensure that Myanmar’s “In setting the direction, rice exports to have a better the relevant departments and balance. stakeholders from the private Next, the Union Ministers sector must work together for and officials coordinated to the continuous development solve the difficulties encoun- of the rice supply chain,” the tered by the businessmen. Union Minister said. Deputy Minister for Com- He also stressed the need merce U Nyunt Aung, Perma- to work together to succeed in nent Secretary, Directors-Gen- the activities under the Farm- Union Minister Dr Pwint San chairs the online coordination meeting to discuss rice procurement and export eral, officials from Myanmar issues yesterday. ers’ Rights Protection and Ben- Rice Association, Myanmar efits Promotion Law. and summer paddy cultivation increase access to irrigation pest control recommendations Rice Traders Association and Next, Union Minister for in the country, harvesting and water. for smoother rice export. Myanmar Rice Entrepreneurs Agriculture, Livestock and Irri- transportation conditions and He also discussed the local Then, Union Minister for Association and stakeholders gation U Tin Htut Oo briefed on transition to mechanized farm- rice market’s current situation Investment and Foreign Trade involved in the rice sector also the situation of monsoon paddy ing to increase paddy yields and and the plans for issuing plant U Aung Naing Oo said that the attended the meeting. —MNA Hundi only option for Muse trade amid Lawsuit filed against former closure of private banks union minister Thura U Aung Ko service through the private THE Anti-Corruption Com- Ko had received K25 million banks was estimated only mission (ACC) set up a com- worth of a golden plate (about K2,000 for K10 million amount. mission of inquiry to investi- 20 ticals) without any payment Now, the hundi agents charge gate allegations that Thura U during his tenure as the Un- K20,000 for K10 million re- Aung Ko had received cash ion Minister for Religion Af- mittance. The hundi agents and kind relating to the annual fairs and Culture. He will be charge more. Furthermore, conferring ceremony of titles charged under Section 55 of the we can transfer K100 or K500 for outstanding individuals by Anti-Corruption Law. million via private banks. How- the State during his tenure as The Anti-Corruption Com- ever, the hundi agents limit- Union Minister for Religious mission has informed that the ed the transfer amount. The Affairs and Culture. first complaint was lodged at maximum transfer amount is According to the investi- the relevant police station in set only K50-K100 million. This gation team, Thura U Aung Nay Pyi Taw. —MNA being so, we are utterly facing the transaction problem,” he remarked. Press briefing 3/2021 of Information Additionally, traders are Team to be broadcast live The closure of private banks has forced the traders to use the hundi experiencing the transaction system since early February. problem triggered by the shut- down of the private banks. THE press briefing 3/2021 of the Information Team of the IN order to make transactions since 8 February. Only the However, the border trade has State Administration Council will be broadcast live on MRTV in the border trade amid the state-owned Myanma Econom- returned to normal. and MITV and aired live on Myanma Radio starting from shutdown of the private banks, ic Bank and the military-owned U Min Thein said around 1:00 pm on 23 March, at the meeting hall of the Ministry of the traders in Muse turned to Myawady Bank are opened in 1,000 trucks are daily seen Information. — MNA the operators running ‘hundi’, the town. Yet, the traders com- flowing in and out of the Muse an informal money transfer monly conduct the transaction, land border. system, said U Min Thein, vice- remittance, saving and with- Myanmar is daily shipping chair of Muse Rice Wholesale drawal at the private banks. rice, broken rice, green grams, 18 new cases of COVID-19 Centre. This shutdown bitterly batters peanuts, various pulses and The closure of private us,” U Min Thein elaborated. beans, onion, chilli, fishery reported on 22 March, total banks has forced the traders He stressed that hundi products, consumer goods, to use the hundi system since business is weak to protect watermelon and muskmelon figure rises to 142,264 early February. Consequent- transactions and less secure. to China with over 700 trucks. MYANMAR’S COVID-19 positive cases rose to 142,264 after ly, the hundi system caused Additionally, they charge too Meanwhile, building materials, 18 new cases were reported on 22 March 2021 according to damages to the traders, he much for services. The maxi- electric appliances, medical the Ministry of Health and Sports. Among these confirmed continued. mum transfer amount via hun- devices, consumer goods, and cases, 3,203 died, 131,765 have been discharged from hos- “The private banks have di agents is limited. fertilizer are imported daily pitals.—MNA closed down in Muse town “Earlier, the remittance with 200 trucks. — NN/GNLM 23 MARCH 2021 THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR NATIONAL 5

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 Announcement on resumption of Road Transport Administration Department’s services for licences

ROAD Transport Administration in June 2020 and the vehicles licences from 22 March 2021 to years can extend their licences cences expired on 31 December Department has been provid- with licences that expired in 31 August 2021. during the following periods. 2015 and 31 January 2016 are ing initial licences for vehicles September 2020 are needed to Vehicles with licences that If they fail to do during the needed to extend the licences since 1 December 2020 at its extend their licences from 22 will expire from April 2021 to designated periods, the licences from 22 March 2021 to 31 July offices. Now, with the permis- March 2021 to 31 May 2021. September 2021 extend their will be abolished in accordance 2021. sion of the Central Committee ( B ) The vehicles with licences in the designated with the Road Safety and Vehicle (D) The vehicles with on Prevention, Containment licences that expired in October period. Management Law. licences that expired on 29 and Treatment on COVID-19, 2020 and in November 2020 are Those vehicles which The vehicles with licences February 2016 and on 31 March the department will resume its to extend their licences from 22 extend the licences during that expired on 30 June 2015 and 2016 are needed to extend the services for annual registration March 2021 to 30 June 2021. the designated periods will 30 September 2015 can extend licences from 22 March 2021 to for vehicles as of 22 March 2021 (C) The vehicles with be granted free from fines. the licences from 22 March 2021 31 August 2021. (Monday). licences expired in December Besides, the department will to 31 May 2021 (Except vehicles The vehicles with licences - Vehicles/motorcycles are 2020, and January 2021 are provide vehicles, except public with licences that expired in July expired on 30 April 2016, 31 May needed to extend their licences needed to extend their licences transport vehicles, with services 2015 and August 2015) 2016, 30 June 2016, 31 July 2016, during the periods underneath from 22 March 2021 to 31 July for extending their licences ( B ) The vehicles with li- 31 August 2016 and 30, Septem- without fail regarding the month 2021. without inspecting the cars. cences expired on 31 October ber 2016 are needed to extend when their vehicle licences are (D) The vehicles which The vehicles with regis- 2015 and 30 November 2015 are the licences during the desig- expired. licences which expired in tration licences that would be needed to extend licences from nated period. (A) The vehicles with February 2021 and in March abolished due to failure to extend 22 March 2021 to 30 June 2021. Road Transport the licences which expired 2021 are needed to extend their the licences for five consecutive ( C ) The vehicles with li- Administration Department

Union Education Minister visits refresher courses in Nay Pyi Taw

UNION Minister for Education quality of education, clean the Dr Nyunt Pe accompanied by school environment for reopen- Deputy Ministers Dr Zaw Myint, ing the basic education schools, U Zaw Win, and officials visited and start preparations for the administrative refresher courses school’s good character. including management, finance “In order to present the re- and education sectors for princi- quirements for the reopening pals of the basic education high of the schools, it is necessary to schools opened at No. (12) Basic have the courage to ask for what Education High School, Otthara is really needed at the grassroots Thiri Township, and No. (13) Ba- level, and the relevant authori- sic Education High School, Pub- ties will meet the requirements bha Thiri Township. as soon as possible as per the While visiting the refresher procedures,” the Union Minister courses, the Union Minister met said. education officers and princi- “Teachers are the guides pals. He said that he would like of good sons and daughters of to express heartfelt thanks to the future. When schools reo- the principals for attending the pen, students should be taught Union Minister Dr Nyunt Pe meets principals of the basic and high schools attending refresher course in Nay Pyi Taw yesterday. refresher courses despite the to read and write and be clev- hot summer. er. Teachers involved in some lations. Teachers who have re- The Union Minister also After that, the Union Min- The Union Minister urged CDM activities are urged to re- turned from the CDM movement urged the education officers ister and responsible persons the principals to exchange expe- turn to their duties and attend for various reasons should be to have necessary utensils for inspected the school’s prepara- riences with each other, work to- the refresher courses following warmly welcomed”, the Union the classrooms and school buil- tions and gave necessary com- gether to improve the country’s the civil service rules and regu- Minister added. dings. ments. —MNA 23 MARCH 2021 6 NATIONAL THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR Announcement of Union Election Commission 22 March 2021

1. Regarding the Multiparty General Election held on 8 November 2020, the Union Election Commission has inspected the voter lists and the casting of votes of Taungoo and Kyaukkyi townships in Bago Region. 2. Findings in each township were as follows: Findings on voter lists in each township Sr Township and numbers of poll- Township List from Immigra- Those involved in vot- Those involved in voter Those involved in voter ing stations sub-commis- tion department ing list without citizen- list more than three list more than two times sion ship scrutiny cards times holding one CSC holding one CSC 1 193 polling stations in Taungoo 199,902 190,392 25,873 2,035 23,376 township of Bago Region 2 146 polling stations in Kyaukkyi 87,881 57,464 16,093 659 8,390 township of Bago Region

3. The Union Election Commission has inspected the withdrawal/receipt/use/remaining of ballot papers used for Pyithu Hluttaw Election of Taungoo and Kyaukkyi town- ships in Bago Region, together with the respective township election sub-commission, head of police force, Immigration and Population and administrator according to the Hluttaw Election Law Section 53. 4. According to the ground inspection, a total of 339 polling stations of these two townships took out 322,700 ballots and used 204,979. It left 114,131 ballots instead of 117,721. The difference was 16,107 ballots and it found 12,517 extra ballots. The extra/shortage ballots and illegal extra ballots were found at respective poll stations. The extra ballots were found and so the ballots were printed illegally. The findings in each township are as follows: Findings on ballot papers for Pyithu Hluttaw election in each township Sr Township Total polling Withdraw Used Exact remaining Remaining on Difference station the Ground Missing Extra 1 Taungoo 193 220,700 145,074 75,626 74,341 4,602 3,317 2 Kyaukkyi 146 102,000 59,905 42,095 39,790 11,505 9,200 Total 339 322,700 204,979 117,721 114,131 16,107 12,517 Findings on ballot papers for Pyithu Hluttaw Election in Taungoo Township 5. According to the inspection, a total of 193 polling stations in 27 Wards and 37 village- tract of Taungoo Township took out 220,700 ballots . Pyithu Hluttaw ballots from polling station no (3) Nay Pu Kone village-tract were not found. The extra/shortage ballots were found as follows: Remaining on Difference Sr Subject Withdrawal Used Exact remaining the ground Missing Extra 1 Ward/Village-tract ballots 211,050 140,067 70,983 67,302 4,602 921 2 Township advance ballots 5,007 5,007 - - - - 3 Township remaining ballots 4,643 - 4,643 7,039 - 2,396 Total 220,700 145,074 75,626 74,341 4,602 3,317

6. It found 4,602 ballots missing together with 921 extra ballots at 193 polling stations in 27 Wards and 37 village-tract of Taungoo Township. The township sub-commission have 7,039 ballots instead of 4,643 it found 2,396 extra ballots. 7. Findings in Taungoo Township were as follows:

Difference 18 Ngephe inn 5 3,600 2,602 998 848 150 Sr 19 Zee dine 3 4,150 2,743 1,407 1,207 200 Miss- Ex- ing tra 20 Kin Seik 6 5,150 3,733 1,417 1,415 2 Ward/vil- lage tract Total polling stations With- drawal Used Exact Re- maining Remain- ing on the Ground 1 Htee Hlaing 1 2,550 1,965 585 585 21 Lebu 1 2350 1848 502 452 50 2 Rakhine Su, 3 9,000 6,060 2,940 2,940 22 Sin Seik 7 5,500 4,264 1,236 1,436 200 Nay Pu Kone 23 Phra Hnasu 1 1,150 899 251 251 3 Yodar tan 1 2,000 1,513 487 487 24 Bo Kataw 3 2,750 1,896 854 754 100 4 Kyet tee 1 1,050 794 256 256 25 Htan Kone 1 700 551 149 149 5 Pabedan 1 900 658 242 242 26 Sue Tap 3 1,750 1,239 511 511 (south) 6 Pabe- 1 1,750 1,253 497 497 27 Chaung Phyu 1 1,350 988 362 362 dan(north) 28 Pe Chet Kone 2 1,400 947 453 453 7 Shantan 1 800 554 246 246 29 Myauk Yekyi 6 3,750 2,598 1,152 1,162 10 Kway 30 Nay Pu Kone 6 3,250 2,355 895 1,044 149 8 Kan Taw 3 5,100 3,700 1,400 1,400 31 Kyun Kone 4 5,000 3,394 1,606 1,456 150 9 Zaung Chan 1 2,100 1,611 489 489 south 32 Mahin 7 6,100 4,556 1,544 1,244 300 10 Mann 1 2,550 1,598 952 952 33 Kan Yoe 2 3,700 2,659 1,041 791 250 11 Zaytan 1 2,250 2,184 66 566 500 34 Wet Khaut 7 2,950 1,637 1,313 863 450 12 Lan Ma Kyel 1 1,150 727 423 273 150 Sein 35 Sabar Kywe 4 2,800 1,910 890 890 13 Zay 1 1,500 1,053 447 347 100 36 Ze Kone 5 3,500 1,934 1,566 1,566 14 Taung Kway 1 1,500 1,126 374 374 37 Kahnyin 6 3,200 1,873 1,327 1,327 15 Nat Shin 3 4,000 2,495 1,505 1,455 50 Myaung Naung 38 Oak Kyut Tan 1 1,600 1,057 543 543 16 Tabin Shwe 4 3,900 2,558 1,342 842 500 ( south) Htee 39 Oak Kyut Tan 1 2,700 1,983 717 717 17 Minn Gyi Swe 1 1,650 1,110 540 540 (north) 23 MARCH 2021 THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR NATIONAL 7

40 Oak Kyut Tan 1 2,200 1,587 613 613 10. Findings in Kyaukkyi Township were as follows: (east) Difference 41 Ngwe Hlan 2 6,400 4,156 2,244 2,194 50 Sr Oye Kone Miss- Ex- ing tra 42 Tat Myay 2 7,150 4,537 2,613 2,613 Ward/ Village tract Total polling stations With - drawal Used Exact re - maining Remain - ing on thw Ground 1 Nga/htwe Sout 5 3800 1,986 1,814 1,254 560 - 43 Myo Gyi 3 6,450 3,408 3,042 2,796 246 2 Wel Gyi 5 3600 2,225 1,375 1,125 250 - 44 Zaya Khin Oo 2 3,500 1,895 1,605 1,005 600 3 Mone 13 11750 6,483 5,267 4,117 1,150 - 45 Min Gyi Nyo 4 6,000 4,047 1,953 1,953 4 Taung Lel 8 4600 2,675 1,925 1,665 260 - 46 Chintay Nyo 2 4,500 2,696 1,804 1,750 54 5 Tet Kone 4 3750 2,042 1,708 1,108 600 - 47 Tawun Nge 1 1,000 638 362 412 50 6 Nyaung Pin 6 5750 3,150 2,600 1,550 1,050 - Thar 48 Doo Inn 4 3,400 2,140 1,260 1,160 100 7 Myawe Twin 5 3400 1,908 1,492 892 600 - 49 Pade 1 1,850 1,195 655 655 8 Taw Pu 4 2900 1,477 1,423 1,123 300 - 50 Ku Yin 2 3,100 1,926 1,174 1,174 9 Mee Tain Taw 6 4700 2,707 1,993 1,543 450 - Chaung 10 Myaung Yoe 2 1100 543 557 407 150 - 51 Ashay Sin 5 3,100 1,617 1,483 1,383 100 Gyi 52 Anout Sin 2 2,200 1,459 741 741 11 Kyun Pin Seik 3 2200 1,327 873 373 500 - 12 2 1450 983 467 317 150 - 53 Ta Phan Pin 5 3,550 2,494 1,056 956 100 Naung Bo 13 Bago 2 2000 1296 704 604 100 54 Moe Kaung 4 5,850 3,522 2,328 2,330 2 14 Sar Tan 1 400 256 144 44 100 55 Kan Nee 7 3,450 2,192 1,258 908 350 15 Kyat Kyee 1 700 481 219 219 - 56 Kwan Pin 5 2,950 1,675 1,275 1,275 16 Thein Tan 2 2700 1,775 925 825 100 57 Kyauk Tain 6 4,050 1,925 2,125 2,125 17 Taungoo Tan 1 1200 732 468 468 - 58 Doe Taung 5 7,450 5,443 2,007 2,017 10 18 Mitta 2 1850 1,166 684 384 300 19 Laung Pot 1 800 520 280 280 - 59 Shan Su Gyi 3 2,750 1,934 816 816 20 Maubin 6 4700 2,813 1,887 1,637 250 60 Shwe Inlay 4 3,050 2,057 993 993 21 Mee Chaung 1 450 212 238 188 50 61 Shauk Pin 3 1,400 724 676 626 50 Goung Chaung 22 Kyauk Pon Lel 1 300 133 167 82 85 62 In Dine 2 2,750 1,925 825 825 23 Tone Gyi 6 3350 1,905 1,445 895 550 63 Ngar Mauk 5 3,150 1,976 1,174 1,174 24 Kyauk Pon 1 400 240 160 160 - (south) 64 Seik Phue 5 7,650 4,274 3,376 2,876 500 (south) 25 Inn Net 7 3550 2,065 1,485 685 800 Ward Total 193 211,050 140,067 70,983 67,302 4,602 921 26 Gamone Ine 1 400 172 228 78 150 27 4 1700 1,127 573 423 150 Township ad- 5,007 5,007 Pattalar vance ballots 28 Wet Lat Taw 2 1200 835 365 315 50 Township 4643 - 4,643 7,039 2,396 29 Ma Mayan 2 1050 714 336 236 100 Exact ballots 30 Kywel Ta Lin 2 800 409 391 141 250 Township 220700 145074 75,626 74,341 4,602 3,317 31 Lel Wine Gyi 1 300 159 141 41 100 Total 32 Hto War Sike 4 2100 1,086 1,014 664 350 Findings on ballot papers for Pyithu Hluttaw election of Kyaukkyi Township 33 Kyauk Sa Yet 5 2900 1,599 1,301 751 550 8. According to the inspection, a total of 146 polling stations in 7 Wards and 34 vil- 34 Daung Moeh 3 1700 920 780 530 250 lage-tract of Kyaukkyi Township. took out 102,000 ballots and used 59,905. It left 35 Ye Lel 6 2750 1,668 1,082 482 600 only 39,790 ballots instead of 42,095. The extra/shortage ballots ballots were found 36 Nat tan Kwin 11 8200 4,834 3,366 3,066 300 as follows: 37 Ywar Gyi Kwin 3 1600 1,035 565 465 100 38 Naung Kone 4 2550 1,921 629 679 50 Difference 39 Ma Pote 1 950 682 268 168 100 Sr Subject Miss- Extra 40 Ket Pal Lan 1 600 452 148 98 50 ing With - drawal Used Exact re - maining Remain - ing on the ground Khwe 1 Ward/Village tract 101,000 59,119 41,881 30,426 11,505 50 41 Khe Doe 1 800 406 394 344 50 ballots Ward Total 146 101000 59,119 41,881 30,426 11,505 50 2 Township advance 786 786 ---- ballots Township ad- 786 786 vance ballots 3 Township remain- 214 - 214 9,364 - 9,150 ing ballots Township 214 214 9,364 9150 Remaining Total 102,000 59,905 42,095 39,790 11,505 9,200 ballots Township Total 102,000 59,905 42,095 39,790 11,505 9,200 9. A total of 11,505 ballots were missing and 50 extra ballots at 146 polling stations in 7 Wards and 34 village-tracts of Kyaukkyi Township. The township sub-commission Union Election Commission have 9,364 ballots instead of 214 and so it found 9,150 extra ballots.

Advertise with us 09 251 022 355 Call 09 974 424 848 23 MARCH 2021 23 MARCH 2021 8 OPINION THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR NATIONAL/ ARTICLE 9 Cattle farming Objectives of 76th COVID-19 crew change crisis still a challenge – IMO Anniversary Armed needs to adapt Secretary-General Forces Day FOR the Tatmadaw to join hands with the entire nation to safeguard democracy, which is the aspiration of all the nation- he crew change crisis the need for collaboration and co- identify and prepare for the chal- to modern alities of the country, from deviating from its path, in accord caused by COVID-19 re- operation. I am glad to say that lenges of the vaccination of seafar- Tstrictions continues to over these past 12 months, we ers who spend long periods of time with the basic principles of the Constitution, while observing cause challenges, despite some have worked intensely with many away from their home countries. Our Three Main National Causes, which is the national policy; ways improvement in the numbers, the different stakeholders to address We need to continue to work to- To protect the people from all dangers including natural Secretary-General of the Interna- challenging conditions. gether to develop relevant proto- disasters at any time and in any situation and to provide all- tional Maritime Organization has The maritime sector has con- cols and guidance around vaccine round assistance for ensuring social security of the people; o promote the livelihood of farmers who make up over 70 per warned. tinued to deliver the vital supplies certification. This is particular- To restore eternal peace based on NCA, without deviat- cent of the total population of Myanmar, we need to fulfil the In a statement, Secre- that people need. Seafarers have ly important as any barriers to Tneeds of the farmers and make legislation that can protect tary-General Kitack Lim said that worked tirelessly, at the heart of travel created by national vaccine ing from Our Three Main National Causes, as the cessation them when crops, cattle, or machinery fails. based on industry analysis, the this trade, to keep goods flowing. protocols may further complicate of armed conflicts is the principal requirement in realizing Between 1,500 to 2,000 live cattle are daily exported to China numbers of seafarers requiring Despite difficulties with port ac- an already difficult crew-change democracy; through the Muse border under a legal route. Around 10,000 herds repatriation after finishing their cess, repatriation, crew changes situation. To build a strong and compact Standard Army, which has of cattle planned to export to China were stuck in the Muse trade contracts had declined – from a and more, there can be no denying On our voyage through this the combat prowess and combat power, to effectively safeguard zone at the end of last year. In such kind of incident, the unnec- high of around 400,000 in Septem- that seafarers have gone beyond pandemic, which has been chal- the State peace and stability and sovereignty. essary burden of labour wages and feedstuff for the cattle fall on ber 2020 – to around 200,000 as of the call of duty. lenging for the whole world, I rec- the traders. March 2021, with a similar number Hundreds of thousands of sea- ognize that many seafarers have Our live cattle export is waiting to join ships. However, this farers have been forced to work The crew change crisis caused by COVID-19 restrictions continues to cause challenges, despite some endured intense hardship as they highly relying on the China number could rise again. But the long beyond their contracted time. improvement in the numbers, the Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization has have worked to keep trade flowing. By expanding warned. PHOTO:AFP market for a reasonable price crew change crisis is far from over. We have estimated that through- I wholeheartedly thank seafarers MYANMAR GAZETTE though there are cattle trading Importantly, issues around vacci- out the last months of 2020 and ber needing to join ships. One of others to join ships, and to ensure and from their place of work is for this. the export other external markets such nation need to be resolved. up to the beginning of this year, the major achievements of last access to medical care. properly facilitated. There is still a We will continue to work with as Laos, Thailand, Malaysia Now, more than ever, seafar- 400,000 seafarers still needed to be year contributing to this was the But we cannot be compla- long way to go before we are back our sister UN agencies, with indus- Transfer and appointment of Head and Bangladesh. ers need to be designated as key repatriated, with a similar number adoption of the United Nations cent. Fewer than 60 countries to a normal crew change regime. try bodies and with Governments of Service Organization market and By expanding the export workers to ensure priority vacci- needing to join ships. Assembly resolution calling on UN so far have heeded our call for As vaccination is rolled out in to address the ongoing needs of market and encouraging the nation and access to safe transit Thanks to concerted efforts Member States to designate sea- seafarers to be designated as key many countries, I urge Govern- seafarers. We will also be looking farmers to adapt to modern and travel, Mr Lim said. by Governments, shipowners and farers and other marine personnel workers. More countries need to ments to prioritize seafarers in towards taking the lessons learned Dr Wah Wah Maung, Director-General of the Pension encouraging the ways of cattle farming to make “One year ago, as the world others, this figure is now estimat- as key workers and to implement do so if we are to resolve this crisis their national COVID-19 vaccina- going forward, so we can be better Department under the Ministry of Planning, Finance and good profits, we must promote plunged into the COVID-19 crisis, ed at 200,000 seafarers needing relevant measures to allow strand- and ensure seafarers are treated tion programmes. prepared in the future.” Industry is transferred and appointed by the State Adminis- farmers to adapt the livestock farming sector, I spoke of our voyage together and repatriation and a similar num- ed seafarers to be repatriated and fairly and so that their travel to Governments should also Source: IMO tration Council as the Director-General of Union Minister’s especially for cattle. office of the Ministry of Investment and Foreign Economic It means livestock farm- Relations. to modern ways ers need to farm breeds that have a high tolerance of heat and ideally suited to tropical Vaccine Jabs Top 400 Million of cattle farming conditions because most of our country’s cattle farms ceived at least one dose. Around vaccine alliance and the CEPI were observed in a number of are in Mandalay, Sagaing and a half of Israeli have received a coalition. vaccinated people. But the EU to make good Magway areas located in an second dose. Only 0.1 per cent of the dos- regular said Thursday that it arid region. The United Kingdom (UK) es injected around the world was not linked to an increased To tackle the current (38 per cent), the United Arab were given in these poor coun- risk of blood clots. profits, we must challenges of the shortage of Emirates (between 35 and 70 tries, home to nine per cent of Where Jabs Are Being Used pastures for cattle, we need to per cent), Chile (28 per cent), the global population. The vaccines produced by promote the grow Napier grass, also known the United States (US) (22 per In contrast, the richest US-German Pfizer/BioNTech - as elephant grass, that ena- cent), Bahrain (22 per cent) and countries - which have 16 per which is being used in more than bles cattle to gain weight fast- Serbia (16 per cent by 12 March) cent of humanity - have had 58 70 countries - and the American livestock farming er than unimproved pasture. are also doing well. per cent of the doses. Moderna, used in more than 40, Besides, Napier grass has low In terms of pure numbers, More than a quarter of all are more expensive and harder water and nutrient require- the US is way ahead with 113 doses given so far (28 per cent) to store. They are mainly used sector, especially ments and also improves soil million jabs given before China were in the US. in the rich countries. fertility. The modern pasture with 65 million (as of 14 March), AstraZeneca In Lead Russia’s Sputnik V vaccine, with the Napier grass can help India (39 million) and the UK The vaccine developed by in use in more than 20 countries, for cattle. farmers overcome the chal- with 27.6 million. AstraZeneca and Oxford Uni- and China’s Sinopharm and Si- lenges of pasture shortage for European Union countries versity has already been admin- novac jabs - which are used in 20 the cattle. Only then can they A woman receives the AstraZeneca vaccine against the COVID-19 coronavirus at a hospital in Phnom Penh on 10 have given 54.4 million doses to istered in some 100 countries or and a dozen countries respec- abandon their traditional way of feeding cattle straw mixed with March, 2021. PHOTO: AFP 8.5 percent of the bloc’s popu- territories, outshining its com- tively - have been administered water or allow them to graze on pasture with a few grass. lation. petitors. mostly in their home markets as When it comes to establishing agro-livestock based economic ore than 400 million the count based on official sourc- 158 countries around the world. Poorer Countries Now Ben- Although low cost, it is being well as emerging and developing zones, the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Irrigation should doses of vaccines have es found. While rich countries have efit widely used in richer countries countries. take the aforementioned needs into consideration. Mbeen given around the In a sign of how the pace is fared best, vaccination in the Out of 13 of the poorest such as the UK and the EU as The American Johnson & Besides, we should seize an opportunity for producing more world as of 21 March, according picking up, the last 100 million poorer countries is at last start- countries which have started well as in poorer countries, Johnson vaccine, the first to value-added beef products in the zones as the supply in the world’s to a media tally. people vaccinated got their jabs ing under the free COVAX pro- their vaccination campaigns, thanks to the COVAX scheme. require just one dose, has been food security would significantly increase. Despite the suspension of in 11 days - six times faster than gramme. nine started in early March It is also being administered approved in the US, Canada and We are confident that the coming agro-livestock based eco- the AstraZeneca shot in more it took to give the first 100 million. Israel Goes Further Ahead using vaccines delivered for in India, where it is also made. the EU but has so far only been nomic zones would benefit cattle farmers immensely as it aims than a dozen countries, vacci- By Thursday at 1630 GMT, Israel is still leading the race free under the COVAX scheme The Swedish-British vac- rolled out in the US and South to mitigate the risk of livestock loss due to climate change and nation campaigns against COV- at least 402.3 million doses had by far, with nearly three out of launched by the World Health cine has however been dogged Africa. disasters. ID-19 continue to pick up speed, been administered in more than five of its population having re- Organization (WHO), the Gavi by problems, after blood clots SOURCE: AFP 23 MARCH 2021 10 LOCAL BUSINESS THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR Legume price plunges for Myanmar exports plummet to $6.9 bln in lack of foreign demand current FY2020-2021

MYANMAR’S exports over the livestock, forest products, min- past five and half months of the erals, fishery products and fin- current financial year 2020-2021 ished industrial goods declined. financial year touched a low Between 1 October and 12 to US$6.9 billion, reflecting a March of the current FY, export tremendous drop of over $1.5 values were registered at $2.6 billion compared with a year- billion for agro products, $15.9 ago period of the previous FY, million for livestock, $396.58 according to data from the Min- million for fishery products, istry of Commerce. $495.9 million for minerals, During the correspond- $59 million for forest products, ing period in the previous FY, $3.137 billion for manufactured exports stood at $8.4 billion, goods, and $198 million for oth- according to data released by er goods. the ministry. The country’s export The pandemic deals a se- sector relies more on the ag- vere blow to the manufacturing, riculture and manufacturing mineral and other service sec- sectors. At present, CMP Now, the pulses price has fallen to as low as K2,000 or 3,000 per basket in the market. PHOTO: TIN ZAR HLAING tors as it shut down the events. garment exports drastically Additionally, people demand dropping since the western THE legume price plunged start- of the bean species plunged to year. The price could not go up only staple food. countries cancelled order fol- ing from the first week of Feb- K28,000 per basket from K31,000 in this situation because of lower The drop in exports in nat- lowing the COVID-19 impacts. ruary for lack of demand from per basket. The pigeon pea price pulse production. If the farmers ural gas, gems and jewellery, The country’s export sector is foreign countries and that of the also fell to K24,200 from K26,500 harvested about 500 baskets of and CMP garments contrib- likely to extend its drop due to traders from Yangon, according per basket. The price of all beans last year, they could ex- utes to the slump in exports, the current political climate, to an official from Monywa Com- kinds of pulses has significant- pect the yield this year to be only the ministry stated. an exporter shared his opinion. modity Depot. ly dropped by K2,000 or K3,000 over 200 baskets. The pulses’ Both sea trade and border The Ministry of Commerce “There is no demand from per basket because there is no farmlands are affected by the trade dropped amid the coro- is focusing on export promo- other countries and also from buyer,” he added. erratic weather,” he added. navirus impacts and the trans- tion and market diversifica- Yangon traders. There is also a Since the first week of Feb- Now, the pulses price has action problem due to private tion. Since 2011, the Ministry cash transaction problem. That ruary, there has been no trading fallen to as low as K2,000 or 3,000 banks’ closure. of Commerce has adhered to is the reason why the price of in the Monywa commodity depot. per basket in the market. This Of the seven export groups, its reform policy. A series of pluses is stable. The red bean And, the traders from commod- steep fall in prices has upset the agricultural exports increased moves to liberalize and open is sold for K27,000 per basket ity depots are trading only by growers. Besides, the production $774 million against a year-ago the economy have been intro- in the harvest season. Now, the phone. of the various beans has plum- period, while exports of other duced through policy devel- red bean price has dropped to “The production of the puls- meted significantly. — Lulay/ goods were also seen a slight opment to improve the trade K20,000 per basket. The price es has been reduced by half this GNLM rise. Meanwhile, exports of environment. — KH/ GNLM

Request to Myanmar-Bangladesh border trade sees drop health workers The bilateral border trade be- 1. It is appreciated for the stren- tween Myanmar and Bangla- uous efforts of the medical desh hit US$ 20.13 million as of doctors, nurses, medical ex- 12 March in the current finan- perts and other health works at the respective depart- cial year 2020-2021, according ments under the Ministry to an official report from the of Health and Sports at the Ministry of Commerce. front-line in the fight against According to statistics, the prevention, containment and border trade during this peri- treatment of Coronavirus od had seen a dramatic drop, Disease 2019 (COVID-19). decreasing by $5.85 million, 2. As the vaccination pro- compared with that of the same gramme of COVID-19 is be- period last year when the total ing conducted for the public bilateral border trade was $25.98 and the real-time health- million. care services are required Myanmar-Bangladesh total for the people, all the staff border trade during the period members at the respective included Myanmar’s export of departments under the Min- $6.95 million and its imports of Myanmar exports goods to Bangladesh through both maritime and land routes. Bilateral border trade is istry of Health and Sports are conducted mainly through the Sittway and Maungtaw points of entry. strongly urged to return to $13.17 million. their duties with taking the Myanmar exports goods The products traded be- wear, frozen foods, chemicals, bouring countries, China, In- well-being of patients into to Bangladesh through both tween the two countries include leather, jute products, tobac- dia, Thailand and Bangladesh, consideration. maritime and land routes. Bi- bamboo, ginger, peanuts, salt- co, plastic, wood, knitwear and totalled $4.99 billion, shared lateral border trade is conduct- water prawns and fish, dried beverages. Ministry of Health and Sports by $3.24 billion in exports and 8 February 2021 ed mainly through the Sittway plums, garlic, rice, mung beans, Meanwhile, Myanmar’s $1.76 billion in imports. — ACM/ and Maungtaw points of entry. blankets, candy, plum jams, foot- border trade with four neigh- GNLM 23 MARCH 2021 THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR BIZ: WORLD 11 NATO chief says ‘all options open’ on Afghan withdrawal NATO Secretary - General Jens servants, academics, rights activ- Stoltenberg on Monday said “all ists and journalists. options remain open” on Afghani- The US is scrambling to in- stan, as allies wait for Washington ject fresh impetus into a peace to decide on a looming withdraw- process that has dragged on al deadline. in Doha since September, with US Secretary of State Antony feuding parties unable even to Blinken is heading to Brussels agree on an agenda. Defence for two-days of meetings with Secretary Lloyd Austin made an NATO foreign ministers, looking unannounced visit to Afghanistan to shore up ties on his first official Sunday for talks with President trip to Europe. Ashraf Ghani. High on the agenda is the fu- Last week Moscow hosted a ture of the alliance’s 9,600-strong gathering of stakeholders in a bid mission in Afghanistan after for- to break the deadlock, but even mer US leader Donald Trump that ended without any concrete NATO Secretary- General Jens Stoltenberg holds a press conference ahead of a foreign ministers meeting in struck a deal with the Taliban to proposals. Brussels, on 22 March 2021. PHOTO: AFP withdraw troops by May 1. An even broader conference “There are no easy choices Biden is reviewing the accord longer, if Washington decides to the Taliban vowed to engage in is now scheduled to be hosted and for now, all options remain and said last week it would be remain as well. There are some peace talks with the Afghan gov- by Turkey next month. The US open,” Stoltenberg said at a press “tough” for Washington to meet 2,500 US troops in the country and ernment, but the talks have made and its allies are desperate to conference. that date. That prompted outrage American support is vital to keep almost no progress and fighting avoid seeing Afghanistan slip “The security situation is from the Taliban, who warned the NATO mission going. has worsened — particularly in back into being a haven for ter- difficult and we will take all the that the US would be “responsible Stoltenberg said the allies rural areas. Major urban centres ror groups, two decades after necessary measures to keep our for the consequences”. would “consult closely” with are also in the grip of a bloody they intervened in the wake of troops safe.” NATO allies have said they Blinken at the upcoming meeting. terror campaign in the form of the September 11, 2001 attacks Current US President Joe are willing to stay in Afghanistan Under the deal with the US, attacks targeting politicians, civil in the United States. —AFP US House again hears arguments for Italy coastguard blocks capital statehood German migrant rescue ship manding “statehood for the A German rescue ship that for permission to enter a people of DC”. took nearly 400 migrants to port. Statehood ‘on the horizon’? Sicily earlier this month has It is not the first time Last June in a historic been impounded by the Italian that the Italian coastguard vote, the House of Represent- authorities because of safety is- has blocked charity vessels, atives passed the symbolical- sues, the charity that operates and groups targeted by the ly-titled bill HR 51, which would it said Monday. measures have routinely create the state of Washing- The Sea-Watch 3 vessel, called them unjustified and ton, Douglass Commonwealth, run by the Sea-Watch organ- politically motivated. named for 19th century abo- isation, is being held by the The aid groups have also litionist Frederick Douglass. Italian coastguard in the Si- faced accusations of collud- The measure died in the Re- cilian port of Augusta, where ing with Libyan migrant publican-controlled Senate. it docked on 3 March with 363 traffickers to bring people Activists hold signs as they take part in a rally in support of DC statehood But with the Senate now migrants on 3 March picked to safety on European shores near the US Capitol in Washington, DC on 22 March 2021. PHOTO: AFP in the hands of Democrats up in the Mediterranean. — charges they strongly deny. DEMOCRATS emboldened by Committee beginning at 11:00 and President Joe Biden in The action was ordered Prosecutors in Sicily their control of the US House, am (1500 GMT), said on Twitter the White House, the party is after the ship was found in have investigated Doctors Senate and White House ahead of the hearing. seizing the momentum. Biden breach of regulations on nav- without Borders (MSF) and launched a fresh push Monday It will be a long, uphill road himself backs the initiative. igation safety, on board fire Save the Children over the for statehood for the nation’s for statehood, and the bill is not “He believes they deserve prevention, environmental allegations, and are expected capital Washington, beginning expected to win approval in the representation, that’s why protection and crew training, to demand a trial. with a high-profile congres- evenly-divided Senate, where he supports DC statehood,” a coastguard statement said. Italy is a prime entry sional hearing addressing the Republicans are likely to block White House press secretary “Since last night #Sea- point for Europe-bound mi- issue. the measure through use of a Jen Psaki told reporters on Watch3 is under administra- grants, but the sea stretch More than 700,000 Ameri- filibuster. But Democrats are Thursday last week. tive detention in Augusta. between Sicily and North cans live in the District of Co- using their control of Congress Eleanor Holmes Norton, They are again accusing us Africa is one of the world’s lumbia, a Democratic strong- to highlight the issue. And poll- who represents the district in of having rescued too many deadliest migration routes. hold with a population greater ing from February by Data For the House as a non-voting del- people,” the Sea-Watch char- Almost 530,000 migrants than two states, Wyoming and Progress shows 54 per cent egate, reintroduced the meas- ity tweeted. have landed on Italian shores Vermont, and comparable to of likely voters nationwide be- ure earlier this year. “Should we have let 363 since the start of 2015, includ- two others. But while capital lieve Washington DC should “As support and majori- human beings die because ing some 6,000 in the year residents can cast ballots in be a state, a record level of ties for HR 51 grow with the of the indifference of the au- to date, according to the In- US presidential elections, they support. exposure today’s hearing will thorities, which continue to ternational Organization for have no voting representation Washingtonians gathered again give our bill, we dare be- provide no alternative to our Migration (IOM). in Congress. on several street corners ear- lieve that statehood is on the presence at sea?” Since January, there “The sun is rising, DC! On ly Monday to proclaim their horizon,” Norton said Monday. Meanwhile, the Ocean were also 232 migrants who behalf of 712,000 residents, we support for statehood. In the The DC statehood meas- Viking, another charity ves- died or went missing on the will demand full citizenship to- shadow of the US Capitol they ure would give the capital sel that picked up 116 mi- sea journey to Italy or Mal- day,” Washington Mayor Mu- chanted “No more wait for a two US senators and a voting grants in the Mediterranean ta, compared to 983 over the riel Bowser, the top witness DC state!” and “51 in 21!” as representative in the House. last week, was stuck in high course of 2020, the UN agen- before the House Oversight some held up placards de- —AFP seas south of Malta, waiting cy estimates. —AFP 23 MARCH 2021 12 WORLD THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR Tunisia engineers reach for stars AstraZeneca hails US trials with satellite launch but poll shows European worries TUNISIA celebrated the launch PHARMACEUTICAL giant As- however deemed it safe and said Monday of its first domestically traZeneca said Monday that US there is no evidence of a link be- made satellite, hoping it would trials showed its Covid-19 vac- tween the drug and the blood inspire young engineers to reach cine was 100 per cent effective in clots, leading countries including for the stars at home rather preventing severe disease, even France and Germany to resume than join those emigrating over- as a poll showed trust in the jab vaccinations. seas. had plunged in many European And AstraZeneca said Challenge-1, built by a team countries. Monday that US tests on more from telecommunications giant The AstraZeneca shot is than 30,000 people showed no TelNet, blasted off along with 37 cheaper and easier to store increased risk of thrombosis. other satellites aboard a Russian than many of its rivals, but its It said the jab was 79 per Soyuz rocket from the Baikonur use was thrown into chaos when cent effective at preventing cosmodrome in Kazakhstan on several nations in Europe and symptomatic Covid-19 in the Monday. other parts of the world last week overall population, 100 per cent That made Tunisia the sixth Employees of Tunisia’s Telnet telecommunications group watch suspended their rollouts because effective at preventing severe African country to manufacture the launch of Russia’s Soyuz-2.1a carrier rocket from the Baikonur of isolated cases of blood clots. disease and hospitalization and its own satellite and see it reach cosmodrome in Kazakhstan carrying 38 foreign satellites among them Vaccination drives are seen 80 per cent effective at prevent- Tunisia’s first satellite Challenge-1, in Tunis on 22 March 2021. space. as crucial to overcoming the ing the disease in the elderly. PHOTO : AFP “It’s a source of pride to have pandemic that has killed more “This analysis validates the taken part in this project,” said Officials hope the success engineers and journalists to than 2.7 million people since first AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine Khalil Chiha, 27, who trained at will show young people there is watch the launch live on screen emerging in China in late 2019. as a much-needed additional Tunisia’s National Engineering a future for them in the North at TelNet headquarters in Tunis. They are also the most like- vaccination option,” said Ann School in the central city of Sfax. African nation. “Our real wealth is the youth ly route out of lockdowns and Falsey, a professor responsible “Working in the aeronau- The Challenge-1 is set to col- who can face obstacles,” Saied restrictions that continue to for the trial. tical or aerospace sector is a lect data including temperature, said, stressing that Tunisia lacks paralyze economies, with frus- The company is preparing dream.” pollution and humidity readings not resources but “national will” trated crowds in several cities to submit its findings to the US Tunisia had been struck by over areas without internet cov- amid its dire social and political in Europe protesting against the Food and Drug Administration an economic crisis and skyrock- erage, as part of efforts to gather crises. curbs over the weekend. to authorize the shot for emer- eting unemployment even before such information from areas be- “We are proud of our youth,” Britain has doled out more gency use. the coronavirus pandemic, and yond terrestrial phone networks. he said. than 11 million of the jabs devel- We vaccinated, baby recent months have seen grow- “We are very emotional, af- The Challenge-1 team was oped by Anglo-Swedish company More than 430 million jabs ing anti-government protests. ter three years of intense work,” supported by expatriate Tunisian AstraZeneca and Oxford Univer- have now been rolled out around Several thousand engineers said engineer Haifa Triki, 28, who engineers, one of whom took part sity, but public confidence has the world, with the US account- leave each year to seek work followed the flight live from Tu- in NASA’s Mars Perseverance been damaged in EU countries. ing for more than a quarter. abroad. nis. mission. A survey by British pollsters The US remains the worst Many of the Challenge-1 en- “We made a lot of sacrifices, “It really is a dream come YouGov showed Monday that a affected country overall, but the gineers were educated in Tunisia but it was worth it”. true,” TelNet project manager majority of people in the biggest acceleration of its inoculation and are aged between 25 and 30 Dream come true Anis Youssef told AFP, ahead of EU states—including Germany, campaign has led to a celebra- years old. President Kais Saied, joined the launch. —AFP France, Spain and Italy — view tory mood, particularly in Miami the vaccine as unsafe. where students were gathering The EU’s regulator and the in force to celebrate spring Germany set to carry virus curbs into World Health Organization have break. —AFP April as cases surge

GERMANY is poised to pro- Chancellor Angela Merkel and der shops and some schools to long and tighten a partial the leaders of Germany’s 16 close again. lockdown into April as new states was originally sched- “Without significant re- virus cases soar, according to uled to discuss a further relax- strictions, the number of new a draft document seen by AFP ation, but a third wave of the infections will increase to the ahead of a strategy meeting on virus driven by new variants point that the health system Monday. has changed the agenda dra- risks being overwhelmed by Europe’s biggest economy matically. April,” the draft reads. had begun easing restrictions, Lifting restrictions on Requirements that em- first reopening schools in late dining, cultural and leisure ployees work from home when- February, before allowing hair- facilities will now have to be ever possible will be extended dressers and some shops to delayed and instead, worst-hit to April 18, according to the resume business in March. areas may from Monday have document, instead of ending A vial of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine is seen during the opening of a vaccination centre at the Cypriot port of Larnaca, on 22 March 2021. The meeting between to reimpose measures and or- on 28 March. —AFP PHOTO : AFP

CIRCULATION & DISTRIBUTION Printed and published at the Global New Light of Write for us San Lwin, (+95) (01) 8604532, Myanmar Printing Factory at No.150, Nga Htat Kyee www.gnlm.com.mm Hotline - 09 974424114 Pagoda Road, Bahan Township, Yangon, by the Global We appreciate your feedback and contributions. If you have any New Light of Myanmar Daily under Printing Permit www.globalnewlightofmyanmar.com comments or would like to submit editorials, analyses or reports ADVERTISING & MARKETING No. 00510 and Publishing Permit No. 00629. please email [email protected] with your name and ( +95) (01) 8604530, [email protected] title. Hotline - 09 974424848 www.gnlm.com.mm Due to limitation of space we are only able to publish “Letter [email protected] www.globalnewlightofmyanmar.com to the Editor” that do not exceed 500 words. Should you submit [email protected] www.facebook.com/thegnlm a text longer than 500 words please be aware that your letter will be edited. 23 MARCH 2021 THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR WORLD 13 Don Quijote chain operator opens 1st “Donki” outlet in Malaysia THE operator of Japanese ations between PPIH and fered by the shop, which discount store chain Don YTL Land Sdn. Bhd., the carries the original brand Quijote has opened its first owner of the facility and a name — a combination of outlet in Malaysia, offer- wholly owned subsidiary the word Jonetz, coined ing a wide variety of prod- of YTL Corp. Bhd. from the Japanese word ucts and goods imported Tokyo-based PPIH “Jonetsu” meaning pas- from Japan to shoppers in is focused on locals and sion, and the existing Don downtown Kuala Lumpur. Japanese residents as the Don Donki brand for Asian The Jonetz by Don main targets as a number markets outside Japan. Don Donki Lot10 store was of shops in the Bukit Bin- PPIH hopes the shop an instant hit as a long line tang area, which relies on will serve as a gateway of people formed in front inbound demand, are reel- to the Malaysian market of its entrance before it ing amid pandemic-trig- as the company plans to opened on Friday morning gered restrictions. open 10 more shops in the in the busy Bukit Bintang “We want to attract Southeast Asian country district in the Malaysian as many Malaysian cus- by June 2024. capital, where its operator, tomers as possible,” Sa- Next up on the list is Pan Pacific International toshi Machida, president an outlet at the Tropicana Holdings Corp., has ambi- of Pan Pacific Retail Man- Gardens complex in Kota tious business expansion agement (Malaysia) Sdn. Damansara in suburban plans. Bhd., a local unit of PPIH, People form a long queue in the morning of March 19, 2021, to wait for the opening of Pan Kuala Lumpur that is set The new shop occu- told NNA as he explained Pacific International Holdings Corp.’s first “Donki” outlet in Malaysia. PHOTO: KYODO to open later this year. NEWS pies three floors of the the sales plan for the new Machida said detailed Lot10 commercial complex shop. food items that sell well and fruits from Japan, shop and confectionary. plans to launch a third and Friday’s opening came Machida said priority among Malaysian people, sashimi raw seafood, Certified halal foods store are expected short- after two years of negoti- will be given to providing such as fresh vegetables meals cooked inside the for Muslims are also of- ly. —Kyodo News Germany appoints Deliveroo eyes £8.8 bn valuation at London float British meal delivery app recently lost its European restaurants and grocers, billion. new head of Deliveroo is aiming for a share trading crown to Am- providing riders with more ‘Strong start to 2021’ higher-than-expected val- sterdam following Britain’s work and extending choice The listing update troubled finance uation of up to £8.8 billion exit from the European for consumers,” he added. was published alongside when it launches shortly on Union. The offer price range news that Deliveroo’s app watchdog the London stock market, Eight-year-old Deliv- has been set at between transactions ballooned the company said Mon- eroo’s market capitalisa- £3.90 and £4.60 per share, by 121 percent in the first GERMANY has tapped giving it “more teeth”, day following a pandem- tion on listing is set to be be- Deliveroo said. two months of 2021. “We Mark Branson from Finance Minister Olaf ic-fuelled boom in demand. tween £7.6 billion and £8.8 It will sell around £1.0 have seen a strong start to Swiss financial regula- Scholz was quoted as The Amazon-backed billion ($10.5 billion-$12.2 billion worth of new shares, 2021 and we are only at the tor Finma to head its saying. company, in line with other billion, 8.9 billion euros-10.3 while current investors in start of an exciting journey beleaguered financial Branson, 52, has home-delivery firms, says billion euros), it said in a the company plan to sell in a large, fast-growing on- watchdog Bafin, the been head of the Swiss it has seen demand soar statement Monday. part of their holdings. line food delivery market, finance ministry said financial market regu- in the past year as locked- “We are proud to be The share price range with a huge opportunity Monday. lator Finma since 2014, down households called in listing in London, the city “is higher than previously ahead,” Shu said. Branson, a mathe- having joined in 2010. food. where Deliveroo started,” expected and makes it the Deliveroo earlier this matician with Swiss and He was previously The big listing, ex- company founder and CEO biggest IPO in London for month announced that it British citizenship, will a senior executive at pected in April, is seen as Will Shu said. some time,” said Neil Wil- made an underlying loss of take up the new post “in two Swiss banks, in- a major boost to London’s “Becoming a public son, chief market analyst £223.7 million in 2020. That the middle of the year”, cluding UBS, where he financial sector which has company will enable us at Markets.com. was despite the value of the ministry said in a managed Tom Hayes, been hit by Brexit turmoil. to continue to invest in A recent fundrais- transactions rocketing 64 statement. a trader jailed in 2015 London’s financial innovation, developing ing round had valued the per cent to £4.1 billion. — He will succeed for conspiring to rig the sector, known as the City, new tech tools to support company at more than $7.0 AFP Felix Hufeld, who was benchmark Libor inter- sacked in January over est rate. Bafin’s failure to pre- Bafin has been ac- vent the Wirecard fraud cused of lax oversight CLAIMS DAY NOTICE CLAIMS DAY NOTICE — Germany’s biggest and of missing early M.V OLIVIA VOY. NO. (110S/111N) M.V BLPL TRUST VOY. NO. (2103S) accounting scandal in warning signs at Wire- Consignees of cargo carried on M.V OLIVIA VOY. Consignees of cargo carried on M.V BLPL TRUST living memory. card, which collapsed NO. (110S/111N) are hereby notified that the vessel will VOY. NO. (2103S) are hereby notified that the vessel will Branson will be last June after admit- be arriving on 23-3-2021 and cargo will be discharged into be arriving on 23-3-2021 and cargo will be discharged into charged with imple- ting that 1.9 billion eu- the premises of MITT where it will lie at the consignee’s the premises of AWPT where it will lie at the consignee’s menting reforms an- ros ($2.1 billion) was risk and expenses and subject to the byelaws and risk and expenses and subject to the byelaws and conditions of the Port of Yangon. conditions of the Port of Yangon. nounced in February missing from its ac- Damaged cargo will be surveyed daily from 8 am Damaged cargo will be surveyed daily from 8 am designed to enable the counts. to 11:20 am and 12 noon to 4 pm to Claim’s Day now to 11:20 am and 12 noon to 4 pm to Claim’s Day now regulator to identify The regulator has declared as the third day after final discharge of cargo declared as the third day after final discharge of cargo fraud more quickly and also faced criticism that from the Vessel. from the Vessel. effectively, with a bigger it acted too late in the No claims against this vessel will be admitted after No claims against this vessel will be admitted after the Claims Day. the Claims Day. focus on whistleblow- case of Greensill Bank, Phone No: 2301185 Phone No: 2301185 ers. declared insolvent last Shipping Agency Department Shipping Agency Department With Branson “at week after the collapse Myanma Port Authority Myanma Port Authority the helm”, the regula- of its British owner, fi- Agent For: Agent For: tor will continue with nancial services firm M/S SEALAND MAERSK ASIA PTE LTD M/S BLPL SHIPPING LINE the reforms aimed at Greensill. —AFP 23 MARCH 2021 14 WORLD THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR Japan, Germany sign intel-sharing pact to boost defence cooperation

JAPAN and Germany on Monday appropriately protecting their signed an agreement to facilitate sensitive information. the exchange of classified infor- Motegi told Lepel that Japan mation to strengthen defense welcomes Germany’s Indo-Pa- cooperation. cific policy guidelines compiled The signing of the pact at last year and a planned dispatch the Foreign Ministry in Tokyo be- of its frigate to the region, ac- tween Foreign Minister Toshim- cording to the ministry. itsu Motegi and Ina Lepel, Ger- In the guidelines, Germany man ambassador to Japan, came underscored its intention to in- as the major European country crease engagement with Asia, seeks to boost its presence in the noting its economic potential Indo-Pacific region amid China’s and China’s rising power in the rapid rise. region. Since February 2019, when Japan already has similar German Chancellor Angela intel-sharing pacts with the Merkel was in Tokyo for talks United States, the North Atlantic with then Prime Minister Shin- Treaty Organization, Australia, Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi (R) and Ina Lepel, German ambassador to Japan, pose for a zo Abe, the two countries had Britain, France, India, Italy and photo after signing an agreement to facilitate the exchange of classified information to strengthen defence negotiated toward the signing South Korea, according to the cooperation in Tokyo on 22 March 2021. PHOTO:KYODO NEWS of such a treaty, also aimed at ministry.— Kyodo News

Italy’s Amazon workers on Netanyahu ahead but win uncertain in new 24-hour national strike Israel vote AMAZON workers in Italy held “Amazon made huge prof- ISRAELI voters readied for a An unprecedented period of the electorate’s right-ward drift, their first nationwide strike its thanks to the pandemic-era fourth election in under two political deadlock has seen Net- especially concerning the Pales- on Monday as unions claimed boom in online commerce and it years Tuesday, with Prime anyahu, Israel’s longest-serving tinian conflict. employees were being pushed is right that it should share part Minister Benjamin Netanya- prime minister, repeatedly try- “Whoever becomes prime harder than ever during the of these profits,” the unions said hu ahead in the polls but un- ing and failing to secure a stable minister, the country is likely to coronavirus pandemic. in a statement. certain of clinching a governing coalition. espouse a right-wing direction,” The US e-commerce giant Workers should have lower majority. The election Tuesday may she said. employs around 9,500 people in work burdens, better pay, more The veteran leader hopes not bring immediate certainty, With polling projecting Italy, but unions say the protest union rights and an indemnity Israelis will thank him for a said Dahlia Scheindlin, a politi- right-wing parties winning also involves suppliers and de- in case they fall ill with Covid-19, world-leading Covid-19 vacci- cal analyst and pollster. nearly 80 seats, Netanyahu has livery drivers. unions said, accusing Amazon nation campaign, and for the dip- “The question is whether multiple ideological partners to In a joint statement, un- of refusing to talk to them. lomatic coup of normalising ties there can be some sort of de- form a government with. ions said employees are called Drivers, they said, have with the United Arab Emirates termining result that gives ei- But the divisive 71-year-old “indispensable” but “are not come under huge pressure as and three other Arab nations. ther side -- the pro-Netanyahu leader, who is standing trial over treated as such,” calling them online orders boom during the But although his right-wing parties or the parties that are corruption, has alienated former “an army of some 40,000 work- pandemic, delivering as many Likud party is leading in the trying to form a coalition with- allies. ers who never stop.” as 180-200 packages per day. polls, it will need coalition part- out Netanyahu -- a clear enough Former senior Likud mem- The Filt Cigl, Fit Cisl and As its profits have continued to ners to secure a 61-seat majority advantage,” she said. ber Gideon Saar – whose New Uiltrasport unions claimed that rise, Amazon has come under in the 120-seat Knesset. “At present, it doesn’t look Hope party could win up to 10 an average 75 percent of work- increasing pressure over the That means Israel is look- like either side has sufficient seats — has ruled out joining ers stayed out, rising to 90 per past year to improve pay and ing at three possible outcomes: votes to reach a decisive an- a Netanyahu-led government. cent in some areas. working conditions.—AFP another coalition under Netan- swer.” Former defence minister yahu, an ideologically divided Right-wing shift and religious nationalist Naf- government united only by its Scheindlin noted a reality tali Bennett has campaigned Russia court rejects Navalny opposition to him, or a looming that has shaped Israeli politics against the prime minister and fifth election. since the turn of the century: not ruled out joining a coalition complaint over poisoning to oust him. Bennett’s Yamina party is A Russian military court on sentence in a penal colony east therefore seen as a likely king- Monday rejected a complaint of Moscow, was not present in maker. from jailed Kremlin critic Alex- court and refused to take part ‘Extortion?’ ei Navalny over the lack of a via video link. For Netanyahu, who por- criminal investigation into his Navalny has accused Rus- trays himself as the only leader poisoning. sian investigators of not launch- capable of keeping Israel safe, The 235th military court ing criminal proceedings to find forming a government may re- in Moscow dismissed the com- those responsible for his attack quire dealing with extremists. plaint from Navalny, who accus- in the Siberian city of Tomsk On that list is the new Re- es Russia’s Federal Security in August last year. Navalny ligious Zionism alliance that Service (FSB) of carrying out fell violently ill on a flight over includes Itamar Ben-Gvir, who the poisoning, a spokesperson Siberia in August and within has voiced admiration for the Supporters of Israel’s Likud party walk with posters depicting Prime told AFP. days was airlifted to Germany Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during an election campaign tour at mass-murderer of 29 Palestinian The opposition figure, who for treatment, where he spent Mahane Yehuda market in Jerusalem, on 21 March 2021 ahead of March worshippers in Hebron in 1994, is serving a two-and-a-half year months in recovery.—AFP 23’s Israeli election. PHOTO: AFP Baruch Goldstein. —AFP 23 MARCH 2021 THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR WORLD 15 Thousands evacuate as Sydney sees worst floods in decades

TORRENTIAL downpours “The water is still rising,” lashed Australia’s east Monday, said Jo Dunstan, who owns a forcing thousands to flee the florist shop in the outer Syd- worst flooding in decades and ney suburb of Windsor, as she pushing communities already watched debris-littered storm- battling drought, bushfires, and water race past neighbouring the coronavirus pandemic to homes. “breaking point”. “It’s scary, very eerie to say Around 18,000 residents the least.” were told to evacuate their Just over 12 months ago the homes, as days of relentless region was parched: suffering rainfall caused rivers in Austral- prolonged drought, water re- ia’s most populous state, New strictions and unprecedented South Wales, to their highest bushfires. levels in 30 years. “When you have been “The devastation is quite un- through three or four incidents believable,” said Port Macquarie that are life-changing on top of cafe owner Marten Clark, who each other, it can make you feel waded through waist-deep wa- like you are at breaking point,” ter to find his furniture washed said New South Wales Premier away, and freezers, fridges and Gladys Berejiklian. An inundated barn is seen in the floodwaters in the residential area of Richmond suburb on 22 March 2021, as cooking equipment destroyed. “I don’t know any time in a Sydney braced for its worst flooding in decades after record rainfall caused its largest dam to overflow and as Aerial images from hard-hit state history where we have had deluges prompted mandatory mass evacuation orders along Australia’s east coast. PHOTO: AFP areas showed the flood consum- these extreme weather condi- ing rows of houses, with only tions in such quick succession larly badly affected, with Bere- moved toward their regions. many of those communities that their roofs above the water. in the middle of a pandemic.” jiklian declaring the region had Education authorities said have already been impacted”. As some coastal commu- Australia ‘tested once again’ been struck by a “one in 100 more than 200 schools were “It is quite a dangerous sit- nities received three months Scientists have warned year” disaster. closed, including some that were uation that New South Wales is worth of rain in a few hours, Australia can expect more fre- In Sydney’s vast Hawkes- damaged in the floods. currently facing,” he said. emergency services said they quent and more extreme weath- bury-Nepean Valley, swollen Andrew Hall, CEO of the Rainfall records were ex- rescued hundreds from flood- er events as a result of climate rivers were at levels not seen Insurance Council of Australia, pected to keep tumbling in waters and fielded more than change. since 1990, after the Warragam- said it was too early to under- the coming days as the deluge 8,800 calls for help. Prime Minister Scott Mor- ba Dam, the city’s main drinking stand the extent of destruction spreads into the state’s north- In some areas, emergen- rison, whose conservative gov- water source, spilled over Satur- and to “estimate the insurance west, and further north into cy workers travelled inland on ernment has been accused of day. Around 500 gigalitres of wa- damage bill”. Queensland state where weath- “Surf Lifesaving” ocean rescue dragging its feet on climate ac- ter were drained from the dam ‘A dangerous situation’ er warnings were also issued. boats to reach stranded people. tion, said Australia was “being -- roughly equivalent to 200,000 The Bureau of Meteorology Flash flooding occurred at So far, no fatalities or seri- tested once again” by a “terrible Olympic size swimming pools has forecast “treacherous” con- the Gold Coast -- almost 10 hours’ ous injuries have been reported. event”. or the total volume of water in ditions Monday before the wild drive from Sydney -- as the tour- But with more rain expect- He told parliament that Sydney Harbour. weather eases later in the week. ist hotspot was drenched. ed, eight million residents in Australia’s defence force was Residents in some affected Flood operations manager Health officials have said Sydney and across the state expected to be called in to assist areas were allowed to return to Justin Robinson warned the rain the rain and floods will delay the were on Monday told to work with the clean-up and recovery. their homes Monday after wa- was expected to cause flooding already halting rollout of coro- from home if possible and avoid New South Wales’s Mid ters receded, but others were in previously unaffected areas as navirus vaccines in Sydney and unnecessary travel. North Coast has been particu- placed on high alert as floods well as “renewed flooding in surrounding areas. —AFP

Taiwan pilot killed, another missing after Indian firm to make 200 mn fighter jets collide doses of Russia’s Sputnik V A Taiwanese air force pilot was Rescuers were still search- lots trained on a round-the-clock THE backer of Russia’s Sput- full-scale local production” of killed and another was missing ing for the remaining pilot. war footing that takes its toll on nik V coronavirus vaccine the two-dose Sputnik V vaccine on Monday after their fighter Police confirmed they found ageing aircraft and those flying said Monday it had signed an in India and to supply partners jets disappeared in a suspected a seat with parachute attached them. agreement with an India-based around the world. mid-air collision off the island’s on a local highway. In October, an F-5E pilot was pharmaceuticals giant for the In a separate statement, southern coast, officials said. Taiwan’s ageing fighter fleet killed when his plane crashed off production of up to 200 million RDIF said that over the past The two F-5E jets disap- has suffered a string of fatal ac- the island’s eastern coast. doses of the jab a year. week it had secured produc- peared from radar around 3 pm cidents in recent years as the A month later, Taiwan tem- The Russian Direct Invest- tion agreements with two other (0700 GMT) some 2.6 kilometres island’s air force is kept under porarily grounded all F-16 fight- ment Fund (RDIF), the coun- Indian manufacturers: Stelis (1.6 miles) off the coast of rural constant pressure by China. ers for safety checks after one try’s sovereign wealth fund, said Biopharma and Gland Pharma. Pingtung county, the National Beijing views democratic went missing during a training in a statement it has partnered The companies will pro- Rescue Command Centre said. and self-ruled Taiwan as its own exercise. with the Virchow Group to pro- duce enough doses for 300 mil- They were among four territory and has vowed to one Last year, Chinese military duce up to 200 million doses of lion people a year, RDIF said. F-5Es that took off some 30 min- day seize it, by force if necessary. jets made a record 380 incur- the two-dose vaccine in India It added that Sputnik V has utes earlier for a routine training Under President Xi Jinping, sions into Taiwan’s defence zone, every year. Virchow Biotech, “production capacity for more mission, the centre said, adding China has become markedly with some analysts warning that a subsidiary of the Virchow than 700 million people secured helicopters and coastguard ships more hostile towards Taiwan and tensions between the two sides Group, is expected to start full- in 10 countries”, without provid- had joined the search. last year, incursions by Beijing’s were at their highest since the scale commercial production ing further details. According to One of the pilots was found fighter jets reached record highs. mid-1990s. in the first half of 2021, it said. RDIF, Russia’s vaccine, which unconscious in the sea but could The incursions force out- The F-5E is an older gener- RDIF CEO Kirill Dmitriev is named after the Soviet-era not be resuscitated and was pro- gunned Taiwan to regularly ation fighter with a design that said the agreement was “an satellite, has been registered in nounced dead at hospital. scramble its jets and keep pi- dates back to the 1960s. —AFP important step to facilitate the 54 countries. —AFP 23 MARCH 2021 16 SPORT THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR Portugal lose injured Pepe for World Cup qualifiers

PEPE has withdrawn from the Selecao for the first time The European champions Portugal’s first three upcom- since October. The 38-year-old then travel to Serbia on Sat- ing World Cup qualifiers after former Real Madid defender urday and Luxembourg three suffering an injury in a league picked up a “muscle injury in days later. match for Porto, the Portu- his right leg” in a 2-1 league Goalkeeper Rui Patricio guese Football Federation win at Portimonense on Sat- has also been forced to with- (FPF) said. urday, Porto said. draw from the squad after Sporting defender Luis Portugal will begin their failing to recover from a head Neto will take Pepe’s place in 2022 World Cup qualifying cam- injury sustained playing for his coach Fernando Santos’ squad, paign for Qatar against Azer- club Wolverhampton. the FPF said in a statement on baijan in Turin on Wednesday He was replaced by Olym- Sunday evening. in a match relocated to Italy piakos goalkeeper Jose Sa. — Porto’s Portuguese defender Pepe celebrates after scoring a goal during Pepe was due to return to for health reasons. AFP the Portuguese League football match between Porto and Pacos Ferreira at the Dragao stadium in Porto on 14 March 2021. PHOTO : AFP

A new star is born’: Malaysia celebrates Olympics: Tokyo Games will Lee’s All England win not accept foreign volunteers in principle LEE ZII JIA was hailed as a are a national hero,” Malaysian Malaysia, praised Lee Zii Jia’s THE Tokyo Olympic and es, will be selected from a pool “hero” Monday after winning the Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yas- victory as a “real achievement”. Paralympic organizing com- of roughly 2,000 volunteers liv- All England Open and igniting sin posted on Facebook. “Use “It augurs well with our plan mittee said Monday it will not ing overseas. According to the Malaysia’s hopes of success at this victory as a catalyst to work to bring in new young players af- accept volunteers from over- organizers, foreign nationals the Tokyo Olympics, even with- harder and to become greater ter the retirement of Lee Chong seas in principle as a precaution made up roughly 10 per cent out retired legend Lee Chong in future.” The Star newspaper Wei... and to maintain Malaysia’s to stop the spread of the novel of a total 80,000 volunteers be- Wei. praised 10th-ranked Lee’s victo- presence on the international coronavirus. fore the pandemic forced the The young Malaysian star ry as a “smashing breakthrough stage as a powerhouse,” he told Foreign volunteers with one-year postponement of the defeated Denmark’s Viktor Ax- on the international stage”, and AFP. special skills necessary for the games. The organizing bodies of elsen 30-29, 20-22, 21-9 Sunday to declared: “A new star is born”. It came just months before smooth running of the Olympics the Olympics and Paralympics win the All England, one of the The win added to hopes that the virus-delayed Tokyo Olym- and Paralympics this summer formally decided Saturday that sport’s most prestigious tourna- Malaysia has found a player to pics but some Asian countries, may be allowed into Japan un- the games will be staged with- ments, for the first time. continue the country’s success notably powerhouse China, did der special entry rules, organ- out overseas spectators due to On his way to victory, the in badminton following the 2019 not send players to the All Eng- izing committee CEO Toshiro the pandemic. 22-year-old also beat two-time retirement of Lee Chong Wei. land tournament. And Norza re- Muto said. Sources close to The government will con- world champion Kento Momota, The elder Lee was a three- fused to be drawn on the younger the matter said the exception sider ways to permit the entry who was returning to interna- time Olympic silver medallist Lee’s chances at the Games. could be made for around 500 of the specialist volunteers from tional action after being injured and one of the greatest players “I don’t want to pressure volunteers. People whose roles overseas. Japanese citizens liv- in a car crash in Malaysia last of his generation. him. My advice to him is to stay cannot easily be performed by ing outside Japan are expected year. Norza Zakaria, president of grounded -- it’s a marathon, not somebody living in Japan, such to be allowed to volunteer. — “Well done Lee Zii Jia! You the Badminton Association of a sprint.” —AFP as experts in certain languag- Kyodo News

Juve’s title hopes rocked as Milan keep pressure on Inter

JUVENTUS’ hopes of winning a 10th consecutive Porto earlier this month. “We performed poorly, in Serie A title took another blow on Sunday with a 1-0 every aspect,” said Pirlo. “We have to continue to home loss to lowly Benevento as AC Milan closed believe in the title. The objective does not change, the gap on leaders Inter Milan with a hard-fought it’s the mindset which must.” Serie A top scorer 3-2 win at Fiorentina. Cristiano Ronaldo, who has netted 23 times in the Adolfo Gaich scored the only goal in the 69th league this season, drew a blank in Turin a week minute at Juve’s Allianz Stadium following a bad after reaching 770 goals to beat Pele’s all-time mark pass across his own penalty area by midfielder of 767, with Benevento goalkeeper Lorenzo Montipo Arthur. Andrea Pirlo’s side stay third, 10 points pulling off a string of fine saves. behind Inter whose match against Sassuolo was postponed because of a Covid-19 outbreak at the Zlatan hails ‘important’ win league leaders. Benevento broke the deadlock following Ar- Second-placed Milan are four points ahead of thur’s horrendous pass across the face of goal the reigning champions after they recovered from towards Danilo, which allowed Gaich to pounce and their Europa League exit to Manchester United by score his second goal in five games since arriving on cutting the deficit to Inter to six points with a 3-2 loan from CSKA Moscow. Montipo denied Ronaldo win over Fiorentina. twice late on as Juve pushed for a leveller, first from Juventus’ Portuguese forward Cristiano Ronaldo reacts during the For Juve, who have 11 games left to play this close range with 10 minutes to go and again in the Italian Serie A football match Juventus Turin vs Benevento on 21 March 2021 at the Juventus stadium in Turin. PHOTO : AFP season, it was another blow after being dumped out final minute, with Danilo sending the subsequent of the Champions League at the last 16 stage by rebound over the bar. —AFP