Politics and national causes intertwined

Senior General Min Aung Hlaing unveiled that a plan is underway to allocate necessary support from the National Natural Disaster Management Fund to internally displaced people due to terrorist attacks.
Chairman of the State Administration Council Prime Minister Senior General Min Aung Hlaing said so at the meeting of the Union government at the SAC Chairman Office in Nay Pyi Taw yesterday morning.
In his speech, the Senior General highlighted that politics is not economics, but economics is indeed intertwined with politics and state affairs, adding that only when the economy is strong will political, economic, social, and defence sectors become robust. Therefore, everyone must collaborate to strengthen the State economy.
He gave guidance the government will accelerate economic growth by providing capital loans from the National Economic Promotion Fund to potential MSME businesses.
He stated that efforts are being made to produce quality processed products from industrial raw materials such as cotton, bamboo, rubber, and coffee in the MSME sector.
He noted that the rice and beans, especially Pawsan rice, have already gained market access, so it is necessary to work towards exporting rice and beans of even better quality than what is currently available.
Regarding rubber, he highlighted that if efforts are made to produce a large number of tyres and tubes used in bicycles and motorcycles – which do not require advanced technology or significant investment – it can greatly contribute to the country’s economic development.

The Senior General underscored that as efforts are being made to ensure stability, peace, and the rule of law as part of the preparation for the upcoming election, emphasis must be placed on the creation of a situation to hold the election.
He continued that Pyithu Hluttaw, Amyotha Hluttaw and region and state Hluttaws must be capable of convening relevant Hluttaw meeting sessions, and it is necessary to ensure that these Hluttaws must be dignified.
Significantly, the Senior General approved that it has been planned to provide necessary support from the National Disaster Management Fund for people temporarily displaced due to terrorist attacks.
In the education sector, the Senior General stressed that in connection with the current distance education system, officials need to systematically oversee that students genuinely acquire knowledge and skills.
He added that the students who are learning the essential knowledge and skills required for the country must also be supported with stipends. Furthermore, he unveiled that plans are underway to establish more agricultural and veterinary universities.
Regarding healthcare, he spotted that although a policy has been adopted for every hospital to have doctors, it has been found that some hospitals lack doctors. Therefore, it is necessary to review and address this issue according to the respective regions and
report the findings.
In the electric power sector, the Senior General confirmed that the government will provide support for the financial requirements needed for electricity generation businesses utilizing solar energy.
The Nay Pyi Taw Council chairman, region and state chief ministers reported on plans to grow monsoon paddy and oil crops, expansion of sown acreage, production and export measures, basic and higher education sectors, more coverage of healthcare, operation of industrial zones, foreign trade and earning of foreign currency, taxation, enhancement of tourism sector, electrification process, and disbursement of loans from the State economic promotion fund.
Also present at the meeting were SAC Vice-Chairman Deputy Prime Minister Vice-Senior General Soe Win, union ministers, union-level dignitaries and officials together with region and state chief ministers through videoconferencing. —MNA/TTA

Source: The Global New Light of Myanmar

IMPEACHED South Korean leader Yoon Suk Yeol was arrested on Wednesday over his failed martial law bid, ending a weeks-long standoff with authorities and becoming the first sitting president to be detained in the nation’s history.
Yoon, who faces charges of insurrection over his short-lived effort to impose martial law last month, said he would comply with investigators to avoid “bloodshed”.
A former prosecutor who led the conservative People Power Party (PPP) to election victory in 2022, Yoon could face the death penalty or life in jail if found guilty of insurrection. He had sought to evade arrest for weeks by remaining in his residential compound, protected by members of the Presidential Security Service (PSS) who had remained loyal to him.
His guards had installed barbed wire and barricades at the residence, turning it into what the opposition called a “fortress”. Yoon, who had vowed to “fight to the end”, managed to thwart a first arrest attempt on 3 January following a tense hours-long impasse between the guards and anti-graft investigators working with police. — AFP

Source: The Global New Light of Myanmar

Esteemed ethnic national brethren in Kayah State,

Today, 15 January 2025, is Kayah State Day, filled with auspiciousness for the national brethren and the Kayah ethnic people in Kayah State.

On this significant occasion, which coincides with the New Year festivities, I extend my heartfelt wishes for good health, peace of mind, and prosperity to all Kayah ethnic people and all citizens of the Union.

Kayinni State, which was included as a state under the Constitution 1947, was officially rechristened Kayah State through public consensus under the Constitutional Amendment Act in 1951. This change became effective on 15 January 1952.

The date of this renaming was designated as "Kayah State Day."

Kayah State is a region of stunning natural beauty, featuring mountains, forests, water bodies, and an abundance of natural resources both above- and underground. It is also enriched with a vibrant cultural heritage. The temperate climate, coupled with the warmth, friendliness, and honesty of the local ethnic communities, are among the state’s most charming attributes. Furthermore, the collaborative efforts of the local ethnic populations for the benefit of the state have enabled it to develop and establish a strong foundation. Building on this foundation, it is crucial for the ethnic communities within Kayah State to work together with the national government to achieve lasting peace, stability, and sustainable development. This collective effort is essential to ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy the fruits of durable peace.

Our country has been a sovereign nation with its own unique culture, literature, and language for many centuries, where all ethnic brethren lived together harmoniously and unitedly in various regions of the country through thick and thin.

However, this unified and strong nation was unjustly invaded by the British colonialists through three aggressive wars starting in 1824, subjecting the country to servitude under their rule.

Subsequently, the territorial expansions were governed by laws that were distinct for each mountainous area, and for over a hundred years, colonialists administered with a clear intention of division. In ruling the country, they also carried out actions that further emphasized the differences and distinctions.

On 4 January 1948, after regaining independence, it was observed that the influence of political parties and their power struggles intensified. On 28 March 1948, the Communist Party of Burma, instead of resolving political differences through peaceful means, chose the armed struggle line as a strategy.

 This marked the beginning of armed conflicts across the country, preventing the nation from experiencing the full benefits of independence. Similarly, due to the territorial disputes and the division of power, some ethnic groups also pursued armed struggle lines through various ideologies, which led to the country remaining in a state of instability and unrest, a situation that persists to present day.

Myanmar has experienced armed conflicts alongside its independence, and it has been over 76 years since these conflicts began. It is important to examine the reasons behind these ongoing armed struggles. Understanding the historical context allows us to recognize the shortcomings of past periods and will contribute to a better future. Political differences were not addressed through political means but rather through the armed struggle line, leading to internal armed conflicts. We must be aware that the lack of stability and peace continues to persist.

The current instability and terror acts occurring within the country are the result of individuals claiming to be promoting democracy, but instead, they have resorted to electoral fraud to unlawfully seize state power. Rather than resolving issues through lawful democratic methods, they have chosen armed terrorism approaches.

Some foreign countries, which claim to be defending democracy, are also supporting and encouraging armed terror attacks that are directly or indirectly against the democratic system.

It should be noted carefully that these actions aim to manipulate their countries to establish control and delay the people's desire for a multi-party democratic system, ultimately supporting dictatorship disguised as democracy.

The government must continue to implement a genuine and disciplined multi-party democratic system, which reflects the will of the people. In order to implement this, necessary preparations are being made to hold free and fair general elections that allow for true representation of the people's will.

 It is emphasized that these elections will be conducted impartially and equitably.

The government is committed to working solely for the benefit of the nation and the ethnic people, striving to ensure the stability, peace, and prosperity of the country, and to provide sufficient resources for the people.

The government will continue to collaborate with the ethnic people to achieve these goals.

In accordance with the will of the ethnic people, it is necessary for the government, Tatmadaw, all civil servants, all civil society organizations, and the entire population to unite and work together to build a Union based on democracy and a federal system.

The key factor in reaching our goal is the unity and solidarity of all our ethnic groups, as well as the stability and peace of the nation.

In the current situation, we will witness the harmful effects of foreign countries' interference, the actions of certain organizations that prioritize their own interests over the nation's and people's welfare, and false information that undermines the country's stability. Due to the persuasion and terror acts committed by terrorist organizations such as the NUG, CRPH, and PDF, there will be misunderstandings and a disintegration of unity among the public in some regions, leading to ongoing unrest.

Recently, towns and villages, including Loikaw in Kayah State were damaged due to terror attacks by KNDF groups and PDF terrorists.

Armed terrorists living within the state have destroyed their own region.

For the development and peaceful stability of any region, it is essential that the people living there contribute.

The responsibility to protect the development and stability of the region lies with the local population, and they must prevent actions that would undermine the region’s peace and stability.

 The participation of ethnic communities in terror attacks reflects a lack of national unity, immature political thinking, and betrayal of their own region and people.

Therefore, it is requested that all citizens work together to curb the terror actions of local armed groups that are undermining regional stability, peace, and the security of the local people.

These groups have taken refuge in homes in towns and villages, using civilians as shields and carrying out attacks with impunity.

If the public remains vigilant and cautious, efforts to dismantle these armed groups can be carried out more swiftly and effectively.

The key requirement for the development and progress of the nation and the establishment of a democratic State is the complete education and correct thinking of all the people.

The people must manage and protect the interests of the nation and public with knowledge.

The government must work to ensure that the people are well-educated, and that young people with abundant human resources emerge.

The education sector is being enhanced to support this goal, and I encourage ethnic people to actively participate. Efforts should be made to reopen closed schools, assist students who are unable to attend school due to various reasons to return to school, and ensure that every child of school age is able to attend school. Only then can young people be fully empowered and contribute to the well-being of the region, the nation, and the people.

Esteemed ethnic national brethren in Kayah State,

For a state to emerge as more peaceful, prosperous, and developed, the spirit and strength of all the national brethren living within the state are crucial.

Just as the strength of a nation comes from within the nation itself, the strength of a state also derives from the combined power of all its national brethren.

For the long-term stability and sustainability of the Union, with the duty of three key responsibilities at the forefront, may we protect and safeguard the nation and its people with the spirit of ethnic solidarity, unity, and the Union spirit among the ethnic people.

Let us nurture and cultivate the younger generation, the future of the country, to become valuable human resources.

The ethnic people of Kayah State should also participate in the reconstruction process with correct ideas and concepts, working together in unity. I send this message to show my hope that the entire Kayah State will remain peaceful and prosperous, with all ethnic groups experiencing progress and improvements in their social and economic lives.

Senior General Thadoe Maha Thray Sithu

Thadoe Thiri Thudhamma Min Aung Hlaing

Prime Minister

Chairman, State Administration Council

Source: Myawady Web Portal

LEBANON’S parliament elected Army Chief Joseph Aoun as the country’s new president on Thursday, bringing an end to a prolonged political deadlock and presidential vacancy, CNN reported.
Aoun was elected after two rounds of voting, following extensive efforts by the United States and Saudi Arabia to garner support for him. Both countries have close ties with Aoun, who is aligned with Washington and Riyadh.
After his election, Aoun stepped down from his military role and arrived at the parliament in civilian attire to be sworn in. In his acceptance speech, Aoun declared the start of a “new era” for Lebanon, vowing to address the country’s ongoing economic and political crises. He also made a rare pledge to “monopolize weapons” under the state’s authority, signalling his intention to disarm Hezbollah, the Iran-backed militant group, which has significant military influence in Lebanon, as reported by CNN.
Notably, Hezbollah, the most heavily armed militant group in the Middle East, had significant influence in several countries until it suffered heavy losses in a recent war with Israel. This conflict, along with the weakening of its ally, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, has reignited domestic debate on disarming the group. — ANI

Source: The Global New Light of Myanmar

EGYPTIAN Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty voiced on Wednesday Egypt’s “full support” for Lebanon to elect a new president and end its two-year presidential vacuum.
Abdelatty made the remarks during his phone talks with Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, one day after the latter called for a general session to be held on Thursday to elect a president for Lebanon. The Egyptian foreign minister emphasized the necessity of reaching a purely Lebanese consensus, free from foreign dictates, to elect a president “capable of leading Lebanon to face internal and regional challenges and risks”.
“Egypt will continue to provide all forms of support to Lebanon,” he reiterated. For his part, Berri expressed his appreciation for Egypt’s continuous political and humanitarian support for Lebanon, especially at such a critical stage and under difficult circumstances. — Xinhua

Source: The Global New Light of Myanmar

EFFORTS are being made to allocate available electricity efficiently and smoothly to users by categorizing it into groups based on time usage in the supply of electricity, said Admiral Tin Aung San.
Chairman of the Electric Power and Energy Development Commission State Administration Council Member Deputy Prime Minister and Union Minister at the Prime Minister Office Admiral Tin Aung San delivered a speech at the Electric Power and Energy Development Commission’s meeting 1/2025 at the SAC Office in Nay Pyi Taw yesterday afternoon.
Speaking on the occasion, the Admiral said that electricity and energy are crucial infrastructures for improving the daily lives of the people and attracting increased domestic and foreign direct investment (FDI).
In the electricity sector, he continued, Myanmar primarily relies on hydropower and natural gas to generate electricity. It is also necessary to expand the use of renewable energy sources beyond current levels.
He noted that as the country immediately needs electricity, efforts are being made to generate electricity from power plants using liquefied natural gas (LNG).
The Deputy Prime Minister highlighted that the destruction of national grids and substations by acts of sabotage prevent power plants from generating and supplying electricity, causing a decline in natural gas production, maintenance of natural gas pipelines, and the impacts of natural disasters like flooding have led to significant challenges in fully operating power plants and generating electricity. He disclosed that efforts are being made to allocate available electricity efficiently and smoothly to users by categorizing it into groups based on time usage in the supply of electricity.
In the implementation of development projects, he added that human resources, technology, and investment are crucial factors. Therefore, it is necessary to invite both domestic and foreign investments and technologies, while creating frameworks that can attract and protect investors.
As such, it is important to review and evaluate relevant laws, policies, and procedures. He urged relevant Union ministers and experts to recommend the generation of electricity from the most appropriate location for building low embankments among four prioritized venues out of 16 in the Ayeyawady Region.
He stressed that all meeting participants have to discuss the potential for the construction of new buildings to generate electricity from solar energy to be fed to the national grid with more steps to release laws and notifications.
All attendees were urged to discuss the energy sector to implement upgrades for onshore and offshore oil fields, enhance existing fields, and improve processes for oil refining operations. Vice-Chairman 1 Union Minister for Electric Power U Nyan Tun and Vice-Chairman 2 Union Minister for Energy U Ko Ko Lwin reported on measures being taken to generate electric power and energy, risks in the work process and plans.
Members of the commission Union ministers also discussed the participation of relevant ministries in the development of electric power and energy sectors.
Chief ministers from regions and states explained the generation and supply of electricity and energy in their plans and future tasks. The meeting was also attended by the president of UMFCCI and an official from the Myanmar Engineering Council. — MNA/TTA

Source: The Global New Light of Myanmar

IRAN’S Foreign Ministry Spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei on Monday condemned recent remarks by a White House official about the possibility of the United States hitting Iranian nuclear facilities, calling them “a threat against international peace and security”.
He made the remarks at a weekly press conference in Tehran while reacting to a report published by Axios on Thursday, which revealed that US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan had presented US President Joe Biden with options for a potential US attack on Iran’s nuclear facilities, should the Iranians move towards a nuclear weapon before 20 January 2025.
Baghaei said Sullivan’s remarks were threats against another country’s “peaceful” nuclear facilities. He said that Iran and its people would act decisively and use all available tools to defend their national sovereignty, territorial integrity, and dignity. — Xinhua

Source: The Global New Light of Myanmar

A US federal judge in NewJersey on Friday dismissed a last-minute attempt to block New York City’s congestion pricing plan, allowing it to take effect Sunday.
The decision means that starting from Sunday, drivers entering Manhattan below the 60th Street during peak hours will face a congestion fee of nine US dollars.
While the Metropolitan Transport Authority welcomed the decision, opponents in New Jersey vowed to appeal the decision before Sunday. According to local media, one lawyer for New Jersey suggested seeking emergency relief from the Third Circuit Court of Appeals.
As the first of its kind in the United States, the Manhattan congestion pricing plan was first introduced and approved in 2019 under the administration of then New York Governor Andrew Cuomo. — Xinhua

Source: The Global New Light of Myanmar

CHINESE President Xi Jinping on Tuesday called for the nation to remain confident in the coming year, saying the world’s second largest economy can overcome its challenges and pressure through hard work. 

Xi made the remarks in his New Year message for 2025 delivered through China Media Group and the internet. 

Set to fully complete its 14th Five-Year Plan in 2025, China will implement more proactive and effective policies, prioritize high-quality development, promote greater self-reliance and strength in science and technology, and maintain sound momentum in economic and social development, Xi said. 

He said the Chinese economy “now faces some new conditions, including challenges of uncertainties in the external environment and pressure of transformation from old growth drivers into new ones”. 

“But we can prevail with our hard work. As always, we grow in the wind and rain, and we get stronger through hard times. We must be confident,” Xi said.

 Reviewing China’s footprint in 2024, Xi said the economy has rebounded and is on an upward trajectory, with the national GDP expected to pass the mark of 130 trillion yuan (about US$18.08 trillion) and the country’s grain output surpassing 700 million tonnes. — Xinhua

Source: Global New Light of Myanmar

On this occasion of the New Year 2025, I would like to extend my warmest greetings to all national brethren residing within Myanmar. May you all be blessed with good health, peace of mind, and the fulfilment of your aspirations.

Since the assumption of the State’s responsibilities, the State Administration Council has envisioned the path forward for the nation by setting visions, road maps and objectives. Through our steadfast efforts, we are now witnessing significant achievements in working towards our goals. This has been possible thanks to our people’s active and cooperative support. While the journey ahead may bring challenges, difficulties, and obstacles, I firmly believe that we can overcome them through the united strength and collective efforts of all of us.

Those who wish ill upon our citizens have targeted various as pects of urban and rural security and economic sectors throughout 2024, aiming to disrupt and destroy them. These actions stem from ignorant individuals whose deeds harm their communities and regions. They exploit noble values such as ethnicity, equality, and democracy, using them as a pretext for terror acts that ultimately degrade their people and areas. We must work together to prevent and put a stop to such actions.

We successfully enumerated the population and housing census in 2024. Moreover, we successfully hosted the Fifth National Sports Festival, laying a strong foundation for elevating the country’s sports standards. We have also made significant progress in the nation’s development to a certain extent. These achievements were made possible due to the dedicated efforts of those who have been working selflessly and courageously for peace and stability of the State, defence, non-disintegration of the Union, the rule of law, and strengthening of democracy. I would like to express my deep respect and honour to the heroic Tatmadaw members, Myanmar Police Force members, people’s militia, war veterans, civil servants and all citizens who sacrificed their lives and limbs. These acts will remain as part of our historical records and serve as a testament to the enduring patriotism and unity of our people. In our country, armed conflict remains a challenge. My aim is solely to resolve these conflicts for the benefit of the nation and the people, fostering a stable and peaceful environment. This must be achieved through political means that the people desire, including dialogue and negotiation. These approaches can establish peace and stability, while also improving economic and social conditions. However, while the leaders of armed groups often claim to pursue democracy under various pretexts, in reality, they are driven by self-interest and continue to perpetrate armed conflicts. Similarly, some ethnic leaders, though speaking of federal rights and ethnic rights, turn a blind eye to the essence of democracy and work towards the disintegration of the Union. It is important to carefully balance what is desirable and feasible and to act per democratic principles for the benefit of the Union. The inability to resolve armed conflicts in our country is partly due to the differing paths taken with various common objectives. To address these issues, we all need to move forward resolutely along the path to democracy through firm spirit. I would also like to urge our people to encourage armed groups to join the democratic path.

In this world, for a nation or a people to survive and thrive, it is essential to possess the ability to defend themselves and to contin uously enhance their capabilities. If we cannot sustain our lives and our stability through our efforts, it could lead to a weakened sovereignty of the nation and potentially result in subjugation by others. To remain steadfast as an independent nation and to avoid becoming subordinate to others, all citizens of the country must unite in solidarity. In times when the nation faces threats, Tatmadaw, which bears the pri mary responsibility for national defence, and the people must work together firmly. With pat riotism, unity, and unwavering courage, we must protect the nation with determination and strive for its long-term stability and development.

As for me, I am striving to successfully organize a free and fair election, which is the ultimate goal of the State Administration Council. Efforts are also being made to bring the nation back onto the correct democratic path. Therefore, I urge our citizens to unite and actively participate in ensuring the success of the election based on the patriotism and national spirit demonstrated in 2024. Let us all work together so that 2025 becomes a year of victory for the people, reaching the democratic goal all citizens aspire to, and make this a testament to our collective efforts.

I wish all my fellow national brethren of Myanmar to nurture mutual kindness and work together for the benefit of the nation and our people. Wishing you all a Happy New Year!

Source: Global New Light Of Myanmar