The Peace Forum 2025, themed “Towards a new nation of peace and prosperity through the integration of peace, elections and development”, was held at the Mingalar Thiri Hotel in Nay Pyi Taw yesterday.
It was attended by National Solidarity and Peacemaking Negotiation Committee Chairman Lt-Gen Yar Pyae and committee members, retired Tatmadaw officers, representatives of JMC, political parties, NCA-signatories and non-signatories, participants in peace processes, technicians, intellectuals, directors-general of ministries concerned and organizations, rectors of universities, representatives of international and local NGOs and other observers, totalling 259 participants.
Speaking at the event, State Administration Council Member Union Minister for Border Affairs Lt-Gen Yar Pyae, who is also Chairman of the National Solidarity and Peacemaking Negotiation Committee, said that recognizing the real situation of the nation, every citizen must participate in the nation-building process with unity and cooperation. Challenges encountered must be addressed through mutual discussion and coordination among the citizens, combining efforts on matters that are agreeable and negotiating solutions for those that differ. The national interest must be regarded as a common goal.
The participation of international friends who can offer valuable advice and assistance in the peace process is also a significant support for the process. To hold a free and fair election by the end of this year and to implement the national solidarity and peacemaking processes before and after the election, the forum will bring trust-building processes, practical strategies and positive suggestions.
He continued that the people-centred pathways should be created by reviewing the proper ways to strengthen the foundations for a united and developing Myanmar through free, fair and transparent elections as per the theme of the forum. He also mentioned the four objectives of the Peace Form- to enhance peace dialogues, to build trust and cooperation, to address humanitarian assistance and socio-economic challenges and to strengthen international collaboration for State stability and development.
Committee Secretary Lt-Gen Min Naing briefed on the intention and agenda of the forum.
Mr Deng Xijun, Special Envoy for Asian Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China, Mr Jaideep Mazumdar, Indian Ambassador (Retd), Mr Sihasak Phuangketkeo, Vice-Foreign Minister of Thailand (Retd) and Russian Professor Aleksandr Gelyevich Dugin made remarks.
The eight foreign guests discussed different topics: “Opportunities for Peacemaking during and after Elections” and “Processes for Addressing Post-Conflict Reconstruction and Natural Disaster Recovery”. — MNA/KTZH

Source: GNLM

Ethnic rights and political demands requiring constitutional amendments will be addressed through the framework of the existing Constitution.

The opening ceremony of the Peace Forum 2025: Towards the new nation of peace and prosperity through the integration of peace, elections and development took place at the Mingala Thiri Hotel in Nay Pyi Taw yesterday, with an opening address by Chairman of the State Administration Council Prime Minister Chairman of National Solidarity and Peacemaking Central Committee Senior General Min Aung Hlaing.
The Senior General and attendees watched a presentation of songs and performances by artistes from the Fine Arts Department under the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Culture with the title of peace in aspiration.

Read more: https://www.gnlm.com.mm/government-aims-to-ensure-all-eligible-voters-can-cast-ballots/#article-title

Resorting to arms to demand one’s desires, or using armed struggle based on ethnicity or regionalism to prioritize one’s own interests, is contrary to democracy.

State Administration Council Chairman, Prime Minister and Chairman of the National Solidarity and Peacemaking Central Committee Senior General Min Aung Hlaing delivered an opening address at the opening ceremony of the Peace Forum 2025 on 25 June 2025. The full text of the translated speech is as follows: —

Read more: https://www.gnlm.com.mm/eaos-urged-to-pursue-demands-through-political-dialogue-and-negotiation/#article-title

Individuals seeking to establish political parties have been applying to the Union Election Commission (UEC) by submitting the proposed names of their parties.

As of to date, 27 groups have applied to establish new political parties. Among these applicants, the Zomi National Party and the Pa-O National Unity Party have been found to be in compliance with the relevant Political Parties Registration Law and By-laws. As a result, the Commission has officially approved their applications to establish political parties as of June 24.

According to Section 7 of the Political Parties Registration By-law, both the Zomi National Party and the Pa-O National Unity Party must submit an application to the UEC for official registration as political parties within 30 days from the date of approval.

So far, a total of 19 political parties have been granted permission to establish. Among these, the Rakhine Nationalities Party, led by U Ba Shein, has, on June 24, submitted its application to register as a political party within the 30-day period, in accordance with Section 7 of the Political Parties Registration By-law. Of the 17 parties that have applied for registration so far, 14 have been granted registration, while the UEC continues to review the remaining applications.

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At the invitation of President of the Republic of Belarus Mr Alexander Grigoryevich Lukashenko who is Rotating Chair of Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), Chairman of the State Administration Council Prime Minister Senior General Min Aung Hlaing will pay an official visit to the Republic of Belarus soon to attend the 4th Eurasian Economic Forum (EEF 2025) to be held in Minsk of Belarus.
During the visit, the Prime Minister will attend the 4th Eurasian Economic Forum (EEF 2025), hold a separate meeting with the Rotating Chair of the EAEU President of the Republic of Belarus, have a discussion with the Chair of the Board, the Eurasian Economic Commission, and visit factories and industries. Moreover, the Prime Minister will seek strategic cooperation in friendship, economic and security measures and all sectors between the governments and people of both countries, and further strengthen economic development with Eurasian Economic Union – EAEU member countries.
The Prime Minister has scheduled another visit to Buryatia in the Russian Federation, at the invitation of Mr Alexey Sambuevich Tsydenov, Head of the Republic of Buryatia, to tour key landmarks, factories, and industrial sites.
During the visit, the Prime Minister will be accompanied by members of the State Administration Council, Union ministers, and military and civilian senior officers. — MNA/TTA

Source: GNLM

The opening ceremony of the Diploma in Diplomacy 1/2025 course, jointly organized by Myanmar Diplomatic Academy under the Strategic Studies and Training Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Naypyitaw State Academy, was held yesterday at the Wunzin Min Yaza Hall of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Yangon.
Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs U Ko Ko Kyaw attended the ceremony and delivered the opening speech.
The Diploma in Diplomacy 1/2025 course will span eight months, consisting of two academic semesters of four months each. The curriculum will cover topics such as diplomacy, international relations, foreign policy, international organizations, international laws, and contemporary global affairs.
The opening ceremony was also attended by retired deputy ministers and ambassadors, directors-general and officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Rector and faculty members from Naypyitaw State Academy and other universities, veteran diplomats, subject matter experts, and trainees.
A total of 51 trainees, including officials and staff members from various government ministries and organizations, as well as interested individuals from the private sector, will take part in the course. During the training period, the programme will offer theoretical lessons, discussions, practical exercises, and group research paper presentations, ensuring a comprehensive blend of theory and practice. — MNA/MKKS

Source: The Global New Light of Myanmar

20 June 2025

The State Administration Council enacted the Third Amendment to the Union Election Commission Law on Thursday, designating it as Law No. 40/2025 under Section 419 of the Constitution.

The amendment replaces Section 14 of the original law. According to the new provision, “Under Section 10(c), the Commission may form sub-committees at various levels, comprising at least three individuals who are either respected members of the community or service personnel.

One suitable member will be appointed as Chairman, and the relevant election official will serve as Secretary.” The law was signed by Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, Chairman of the State Administration Council.

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THE second-day session of the Union government meeting continued at the Office of the State Administration Council Chairman in Nay Pyi Taw yesterday morning, attended by SAC Chairman Prime Minister Senior General Min Aung Hlaing.
Speaking on the occasion, the Senior General revealed that, as the current government will hand over the State responsibilities to the winning party of the election, it is necessary to systematically compile records on undertakings of this government, he added.
In the electric power sector, the Senior General said that, due to various reasons, existing planned electricity generation projects could not be implemented, resulting in an insufficient electricity supply. As a clear example, if the Myitsone hydropower project had not been halted, it could have produced 6,000 megawatts. If the existing power plants were combined with the Myitsone project, not only would the country’s electricity needs be met, but there could even be a surplus.

Regarding the damage caused by the major Mandalay earthquake, the Senior General urged responsible authorities to strictly and thoroughly verify whether the aid reaches the actual earthquake victims, and they have to promptly issue the relief supplies received from foreign countries to those in urgent need.
He stressed that it is also necessary to carry out solar power production activities, as the demand for solar energy may significantly increase in the future. It is recommended to establish small-scale solar factories in the regions and states.
Regarding the fuel sector, the Senior General noted that some US$5 billion worth of fuel is imported yearly. To reduce fuel consumption, the import of electric vehicles is allowed, but foreign exchange requirements limit the import process. Greater encouragement and implementation of public transportation can help reduce imported fuel. Efforts must also continue to shift toward an electric-powered transport system.
Shortly, battery-powered locomotives will arrive and be ready for use. The Senior General underscored that training must be given to members of the Myanmar Police Force to enhance their capacity, while welfare, proper accommodation and uniforms must be provided for them.
In the security sector, he emphasized that the State faces the loss of revenue from vehicles and motorbikes without registration and driving these vehicles and motorbikes may cause hardship in security measures. So, regional and state authorities need to restrict the driving of unregistered vehicles and motorbikes.
He instructed the Ministry of Border Affairs to carry out the development of agriculture and livestock farms in border regions. Graduates from the University for the Development of National Races and degree colleges have to serve duties at different levels to benefit the State.
For development undertakings, the Senior General pointed out that all regions and states must have a stadium with a 400-metre track and grandstand, gymnasium and swimming pool each. Youths must be trained systematically from basic education to become outstanding athletes.
In the youth affairs, he spotted that since young people are the ones who will shape the future of the nation, nurturing disciplined and well-rounded youth equipped with knowledge, literature, and technical skills is essentially building the future of the country. He underlined that efforts must be made to develop agro-based industries.
For example, by successfully implementing paddy cultivation, it is possible to establish industries based on paddy. He gave guidance that it is necessary to strive for shaping the major cities in the regions and states, including Nay Pyi Taw, into Green Cities, Clean Cities, and Smart Cities.
Chief Ministers of the Regions and States, and Union Ministers were urged to strive for development per their respective ministries and according to each Region and State under their responsibility.
Afterwards, a video clip on the construction of highways, meeting set standards and cultivation of shade trees was presented. At the meeting, Union ministers reported on the implementation of projects by relevant ministries and efforts to achieve success in projects.
SAC Vice-Chairman Deputy Prime Minister Vice-Senior General Soe Win stressed the need for the chief ministers of regions and states to make preparations for holding the multiparty democratic election at the end of this year. Preparations must be made to sys-
tematically hand over the State power to the winning party after the election. It is necessary to systematically supervise service personnel so as not to cause misunderstandings among people from the tenure of this government to the time of handover of the State power to the elected party.
He continued that regarding security, in the eastern border areas of the country, illegal gambling activities, online financial frauds, human trafficking, and acts of terrorism have occurred.
The government has cooperated with neighbouring countries to address and resolve these issues. Additionally, those arrested in connection with these illegal activities and terrorism from neighbouring and other countries have also been transferred back accordingly.
The Vice-Senior General highlighted that it is necessary to carry out various methods to ensure the receipt of accurate tips and reports related to illegal trade. Due to such tips and reports on illegal trade, over 4,000 cases have been seized to date, and responsible
citizens who provided the information have also been appropriately rewarded.
He recounted that SME member cards have been issued to over 4,300 out of more than 80,000 businesses across the nation. MSME businesses from Mandalay and Sagaing regions, Nay Pyi Taw Council Area and Shan State are trying to resume operations with the assistance of the government after suffering the impacts of the Mandalay earthquake.
The Vice-Senior General noted that as the school enrolment week will commence on 22 May, officials of regions and states have to systematically supervise the attendance of all students at schools and minimize the decline of student grades.
Joint Secretary General Ye Win Oo reported on needs to emphasize security measures for safety of students retaking the matriculation examination and students and parents for school enrolment as terrorists commit destructive acts, taking action against offenders for tarnishing religions and undermining patriotism, and seizures of narcotic drugs, arms and ammunition and systematic functioning of checkpoints.
Also, present at the meeting were Council Secretary General Aung Lin Dwe, council members, Union-level dignitaries, the Nay Pyi Taw Council chairman and deputy ministers. — MNA/TTA

Source: The Global New Light of Myanmar

SENIOR General Min Aung Hlaing underscored that as the government has taken responsibility of the State under the 2008 Constitution, it is essential to proceed towards a multiparty democratic system that the people aspire to.
The State Administration Council held its coordination meeting at the Office of the SAC Chairman in Nay Pyi taw yesterday morning, with an address by Chairman of the State Administration Council, Prime Minister Senior General Min Aung Hlaing.
Speaking at the meeting, the Senior General highlighted that it would be best if elections could be held on a nationwide scale, adding the Constitution outlines significant provisions regarding the convening of the Hluttaw (Parliament) under Sections 85, 128, and 155.
He underlined that a review of the laws shows that elections can be held successfully with substantial participation. Administering national affairs through an elected government is ultimately the best course for the country.

The Constitution also stipulates that elections can be held based on the final decision of the National Defence and Security Council.
The Senior General noted that those from administrative bodies at the state and regional levels, as well as at the district, township, ward, and village levels, have to possess sufficient qualifications.
Those who hold administrative responsibilities and civil servants must remain free from party politics, he added. With regard to the enhancement of the education sector, the Senior General retold that the establishment of Polytechnic Universities that combine computer studies and technology has been successful, and tangible outcomes have been observed.
He emphasized that it is crucial to manage and implement educational reforms with a long-term perspective in mind to produce skilled professionals in the fields of agriculture, livestock, and industry.
The Senior General gave guidance to the region and state chief ministers and officials to manage the opening of all schools in their relevant regions.
He noted that terrorists have to understand that their destructive acts in the education sector are the same as destroying their future.
He urged officials from relevant sectors and from regions and states to cooperate with each other in enhancing the education and health sectors as a must.
As natural disasters brought loss and damage to the State, the Senior General recounted that Rakhine State faced K534.146 billion worth of loss and damage in cyclonic storm Mocha in 2023, but the government provided K73.797 billion from its budget to the state. In 2024, Typhoon Yagi caused K466.231 billion of loss, so the government spent more than K54.807 billion for rehabilitation operations. The loss caused by the powerful Mandalay earthquake, which struck on 28 March, totalled K3,629.288 billion, and rehabilitation measures are being taken.
He stressed that it is necessary to take effective preventive measures in advance to minimize damage caused by natural disasters. Furthermore, since the losses and destruction resulting from armed conflicts are also immense, efforts must be made to achieve peace.
He noted that, according to the calculation, State incomes declined more than US$8 billion due to weakness in meeting the target cultivation of crops. If productivity from the agriculture sector met the target, the country would secure some US$14 billion more income.
Moreover, the Senior General gave a guideline that it is necessary to seek solutions for hiking prices of commodities and to address unbalanced situations between the supply and demand.
Hence, efforts must be made to increase production. The Senior General recognized the utmost efforts of personnel from the Ministry of Electric Power for the supply of electricity to the people, although terrorists destroy, disturb and threaten power plants and towers, not to generate and supply electricity.
He also acknowledged that service personnel from the Ministry of Transport and Communications could repair damaged roads and bridges in a few hours, although terrorists had exploded these facilities. Likewise, those from the Ministry of Construction also repair damaged roads and bridges as quickly as possible.
The Senior General stressed that the government must strive to become a reliable, trustworthy government for the people to set a good history.
The Nay Pyi Taw Council chairman and the chief ministers of regions and states discussed development undertakings in relevant areas, and work processes in the administration, economic and social sectors.
Also, present at the meeting were SAC Vice-Chairman Deputy Prime Minister Vice-Senior General Soe Win, Council Secretary General Aung Lin Dwe, Joint Secretary General Ye Win Oo, council members, Union-level dignitaries, Union ministers and deputy ministers. — MNA/TTA

Source: The Global New Light of Myanmar

THE Peace Talk 2025 in accord with the motto “From Peace Talks to the New Peaceful Nation” took place at the National Solidarity and Peacemaking Centre in Nay Pyi Taw yesterday morning.
The peace talk aims to increase the participation and focus of prominent figures, scholars, and experts from various sectors in the peace process.
It also seeks to raise public awareness that achieving peace through non-violent means is the only way to ensure long-term stability. Moreover, the peace talk will identify short-term and long-term initiatives that can help reduce internal conflicts as quickly as possible, thereby improving political and economic conditions.
The talk was attended by members of the National Solidarity and Peacemaking Negotiation Committee, retired Tatmadaw officers, representatives from the Joint Monitoring Committee (JMC), representatives from political parties, NCA signatory ethnic armed organizations, stakeholders in the peace process, intellectuals and intelligentsia, media, directors-general from ministries and organizations, officials, rectors of universities, representatives of organizations and observers totalling 118.
In his opening address, member of the State Administration Council Union Minister for Border Affairs Chairman of NSPNC Lt-Gen Yar Pyae said that it is necessary to collectively seek solutions to the challenges faced in the key areas of politics, security, peace, and the economy. Efforts should be made to reduce conflicts, implement both short-term and long-term plans for economic and social development, and build a federal democratic union. The peace talk aims to generate constructive recommendations from the political, security, economic, and national development sectors to use them to further achieve the success of the peace process.
UPWC Vice-Chairman and Union Minister (Retd) U Thein Zaw extended greetings while Secretary of NSPNC Lt-Gen Min Naing explained the aims of the talks and agenda, raising public awareness that the peace process requires greater involvement and focus from prominent figures, experts, and professionals across various sectors and that achieving peace through non-violent means is the only way to ensure long-term stability as well as the important role of media to disseminate true information in the peace process. Speakers then extended greetings.
At the talk, Secretary of NSPNC Lt-Gen Min Naing presided over the political and security sector and Lt-Gen Khin Zaw Oo (Retd) discussed the emergence of a process to reduce conflict and ensure ceasefire. Member of the NSPNC Lt-Gen Win Bo Shein headed the economic and State development sector whereas Deputy Minister (Retd) Daw Lei Lei Thein talked about the important role of economic development in efforts to ensure peace and development. Attendees exchanged views about the talks. Relevant representatives gave suggestions, held discussions and raised questions during the talks and speakers presented clarifications.
Trust and collaboration among peace participants will be strengthened by understanding and acknowledging the perspectives and recommendations of various stakeholders in the peace dialogue. This will help develop peace and national development processes that align with the political landscape emerging beyond 2025. The peace talks will last for three days from 24 to 26 March. — MNA/TTA

Source: The Global New Light of Myanmar