Myanmar Matters Volume 20 : December 2017

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WIN IN MYANMAR

Table of Contents

FOREWORD

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THE ROHINGYA RAMPAGE

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ISRAEL SUPPORTS MYANMAR IN AGRICULTURE

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INVESTORS TO REAP FROM MYANMAR’S FIRST SOCIOECONOMIC REPORT

12

ASIA IoT BUSINESS PLATFORM LAUNCHES IN MYANMAR

14

2017 HORASIS ASIA MEETING TO PROMOTE BUSINESS IN MANDALAY

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CHINA-MYANMAR CORRIDOR TO EXPEDIATE CONNECTIVITY

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CONFERENCE ON INDO-MYANMAR RELATIONS HELD IN YANGON

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POPE FRANCIS VISITS MYANMAR

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REFLECTIONS

THE CURIOUS CASE OF AUNG SAN SUU KYI

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TOURISM

EXPLORING THE HIDDEN GEMS OF MYANMAR

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Wild Life

ELIMINATING BLOOD HONEY AND SUPPORT TIGER CONSERVATION IN THE SUNDERBANS

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MEDIA FOSTERS CLOSER TIES BETWEEN MYANMAR AND INDIA

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BIOTECHNOLOGY TO TURN ASSAM INTO AN ORGANIC HUB

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BRAHMAPUTRA BIODIVERSITY BIOLOGY BOAT (B4) BUILT TO STUDY BRAHMAPUTRA’S ECOSYSTEM

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NAGALAND HOSTS NORTH EAST CONNECTIVITY SUMMIT 2017

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MARITIME SECTOR OF BANGLADESH TO ELEVATE ECONOMIC GROWTH

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COVER STORY

Investment

Business

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Nation News

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For contributions, feedback & inquiries on advertising opportunities in Myanmar Matters, please contact : editor@myanmarmatters.com www.myanmarmatters.com Profiled & published by Globally Managed Services - www.gms.net.in

Founding Chairman : Ranjit Barthakur Editor in Chief : Tanya Taneja

Myanmar - India Connect - North East - Business

Advisory Board Members: l Nicholas Claxton l Kamal Nain Pandya l Kalpesh Popat l Kaustuv Bhadra

Bangladesh

l Akash Chandra l Prabudha Barua l Varsha Wadhwani

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FOREWORD WIN IN MYANMAR

MYANMAR MATTERS

Vol 12: June - July 2015

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FOREWORD

Ranjit Barthakur Founding Chairman, Myanmar Matters

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North East India, home to 45 million people and surrounded by 5300 km of international borders could easily be India’s portal to the east. Given its geographic position, the richness of ecological assets and the increasing focus on engaging with the east, the region could very well become the new growth engine for India.

Last year, we were privileged to hold the 3rd North East Connectivity Summit in Tripura. We received overwhelming support from the State Government led by Chief Minister Mr. Manik Sarkar and the participants from across India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar and Nepal showed keen interest in taking forward the agenda of connectivity.

We thank and compliment the Government of Nagaland for having readily agreed to host the 4th North East Connectivity Summit.

In particular, I would like to thank Hon’ble Chief Minister Mr. T R Zeliang and former Chief Minister Dr. Shurhozelie Liezietsu for their support and guidance.

Over the last few years, the North East Advisory Council of FICCI has deliberated at length the idea of connecting the region through culture, infrastructure, trade and biodiversity. We have consulted a cross-section of stakeholders in the region and in our neighbouring countries. While our belief in the potential of the region has grown stronger, it has also become apparent that the most critical part is to restore the linkages.

We have witnessed some positive MYANMAR MATTERS Vol 12: June - July 2015

developments in the recent times.

Apart from major Pan-Asian projects like Asian Highway I and II, the Trans-Asian Railway and the BBIN Corridor, a number of regional initiatives like the Trans Arunachal Highway, rail connectivity to state capitals and expansion of airports have also been taken up. However, the implementation process has often been slow and some important projects like riverways development, wayside Amenities etcetera are yet to see much progress. It is therefore of pertinent importance that a plan to strengthen the implementation capacity be put in place.

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This can best be achieved by setting up a North-East Regional Project Implementing Agency to handle funding and to put in place a strong monitoring mechanism. The primary objective of this agency would be to coordinate with the state government and other agencies to streamline and ensure timely completion of projects like roads, highways, inland water transport, power, airports etcetera. It will also work toward opening up and streamlining connectivity with our neighbouring countries including Myanmar, Bangladesh, Bhutan and Nepal. The agency would be structured on the lines of a development authority, with a Chairman appointed by the Government of India and supported by an Advisory Board with representation from the region and BBIN Countries. Well-developed infrastructure and a supporting agency to expedite development will be elemental in positioning NorthEast as a service hub catering to (5)

the fast-growing economies in its vicinity.

With a very resilient GDP of 2.4 trillion dollars in ASEAN and 2.3 trillion dollars in India the demand for world class services will continue to outstrip services.

Adding to that demand for services would be countries like Bangladesh, Bhutan and Nepal.

Tourism, healthcare and education are key sectors which needs to be developed for leveraging benefits of the ideal geographic location of the North East in terms of proximity to crucial countries like Myanmar, Bhutan, Bangladesh and ASEAN region. As a matter of fact, healthcare, wellness, education and tourism can also become major growth drivers for the tourism industry and a huge contributor to the region’s GSDP. Currently, India only has a mere $2.2 billion annual trade turnover with Myanmar whereas with China it is about $71 Billion. With Bangladesh it is $6.6 Bn. There is enormous opportunity to evolve the quantum of bilateral trade with Myanmar and this is possible with a concerted effort on many fronts including diplomatic, economic, infrastructural etcetera.

Thus, with its shared heritage, traditional trade linkages and geographic proximity to ASEAN, the key to the Act East doctrine of the Government lies —within the North East India.

- Ranjit Barthakur Founding Chairman Myanmar Matters Vol 20: Dec 2017

Cover story

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THE ROHINGYA RAMPAGE

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For the past few years migration has been the most significant topic of debate, dissent and discussion around the world. From Trump’s wall along the US-Mexico border to the sands of the Middle East, and from the shores of the Mediterranean to the jungles of Central Africa, conflicts and economic crises have forced many out of their homes and on a seemingly never-ending search for safety. It is indeed true that many of those seeking refuge do actually need it. At the same time, it is also true – as has been stated in countless reports – that unchecked immigration brings with it a gamut of threats for a host culture, a nation and, ultimately, a civilization.

By now everyone who follows the MYANMAR MATTERS Vol 12: June - July 2015

news, even occasionally, is aware of the plight of the Rohingyas. Driven out of their homes in Myanmar, the Rohingyas are fleeing their ravaged lands for shelter in neighbouring Bangladesh by crossing riverine areas. The history of Rohingyas and the debate over whether Myanmar is right or wrong is beyond the scope of this article. But whatever history is available in the public domain points that the Bengali-speaking Rohingyas were settled in the Arakan region by the British, who brought the people from neighbouring lands in what is now Bangladesh. It is also noteworthy that the Rohingya issue is not new. The northwest region of Myanmar has been burning for the past many years now. But (6)

international criticism mounted following the government’s crackdown on the armed terrorist group called Arakan-Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA) which, as a collateral damage, has led to the mass exodus of the Rohingyas. The United Nations calls Rohingyas “the world’s most persecuted community”.

The condition of Rohingyas is indeed appalling. In fact, all ethnic minority communities in any of the Asian or African countries live on at the edge of a precipice. Political or religious persecution can either force them to seek refuge in other nations or, in worst cases, push them off the cliff to their doom. Being the world’s most diverse (yet united) country, Vol 20: Dec 2017

Cover story

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the Rohingyas reached all the way up to Jammu and “settled” there.

Separatist leaders extending their vocal support to Rohingyas residing in the state have been criticised for not standing up in a similar manner for the Kashmiri Pandits – the largest internally displaced group in India. Articles have been written highlighting how in the name of the action against the Rohingyas in Myanmar, terrorists attacked the Mahabodhi temple at Bodh Gaya and some fundamentalists in Mumbai went on rampage during the Azad Maidan riots. It has also been pointed out that Rohingyas, too, have skeletons in their own closet.

WIN IN MYANMAR Map depicting India-Myanmar-Thailand Highway

India has served as an example for the world. It has been home to refugees from neighbouring nations in the past as well; most notably the Tibetans. India is, therefore, being criticised for the government’s decision to deport the Rohingyas, who, according to government estimates, number at around 40,000.

The supporters of the Rohingyas are unable to believe that a nation which has been home to many other ethnic minority groups in the past is now taking such a “nonhumanitarian” stand. But the Indian government has given its own reasons for this approach. In their affidavit filed in MYANMAR MATTERS Vol 12: June - July 2015

the Supreme Court, the government defended its decision to deport the Rohingyas on the grounds of national security. In their 16page affidavit, the government pointed at, among other things, the demographic change, illegal activity being committed by Rohingyas, and their terror links with groups including Islamic State. The details of the affidavit have already been extensively discussed, defended or criticized by journalists, columnists and experts in the media.

At the same time, questions have been raised in public domain on how (7)

The ARSA has been accused by Myanmar for attacks on government forces. In fact, Myanmar claims that its actions are targeted against this terrorist group, which it considers a threat to its national security.

The group has also been accused of killing other ethnic population in Rakhine – the Hindus and Buddhists.

It is believed that the group receives support from terrorist organisations in other countries, particularly Pakistan and Middle East. While taking a sympathetic approach towards Rohingyas, a New York Times article in September this year had been unable to ignore the rapid rise in Islamic radicalisation in Myanmar.

In fact radicalism of the refugees has been a prime concern of many political commentators for genuine reasons.

In September this year, Al Qaeda’s Yemen chief urged Muslims to show solidarity with the Rohingyas by attacking the “enemies of God”.

These and other economic reasons have even made Bangladesh – where the highest number of Rohingyas have taken refuge – admit that they pose a security risk. Asaduzzaman Khan, Bangladeshi Home Minister, had expressed his fears to the ABC in the following words: "It (the Rohingya refugee problem) will be our threat in the future. These people Vol 20: Dec 2017

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Cover story

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left everything. For their survival, they will do anything. Anyone can easily purchase them. They can join the international terrorist groups also." This is why Bangladesh, too, wants the international community to mount pressure on Myanmar to take the refugees back. And while the international community, particularly the rights agencies, are repeatedly highlighting the “plight pain and suffering” of the Rohingyas, they are doing precious little to address the concerns of the host nations. And then there are voices that claim that the Indian Government is seeing Rohingyas as Muslims and not as refugees.

That the population of Muslims – a minority – has steadily risen in India and that they enjoy all the guarantees MYANMAR MATTERS Vol 12: June - July 2015

under our Constitution and hold the highest of offices in the country are perhaps the best answers to such divisive voices. Muslims in India have been coexisting peacefully with members of other religions because of the secular nature of both the society and the law. The Constitution may have included the word ‘secular’ much later but the ethos was ingrained in the people of the country since way, way before independence. On the contrary, the condition of minorities in Pakistan and Bangladesh is indescribably pathetic. The major reason is the complete absence of a secular ethos and the idea in their legal system.

Reports in the media have revealed that Hindu Rohingyas have become (8)

targets of fundamentalists in the refugee camp in Bangladesh. Women have had to move around without the vermillion on their foreheads, which is an identifier of any married Hindu woman. (Daily Mail – Sep 25 and 26, 2017) Fundamentalists are allegedly busy converting Hindu Rohingyas than helping people in distress in Bangladesh’s refugee camp – a revelation not even those who are supporting the Rohingyas have been able to deny.

It has been alleged that many of those voices which stand up for Rohingyas become silent when it comes to persecution of other minority groups in Islamic countries.

It has also been pointed out that many of the rich Islamic countries Vol 20: Dec 2017

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are only doing lip-service to the Rohingyas. “Isn't it ironical that the Islamic nations aiding Rohingya jihad and slamming Myanmar are reluctant to give refuge to the fleeing Rohingyas?” asked Brahma Chellany on Twitter. It is a point that the international rights groups are deliberately ignoring. How can some nations have the right to refuse refugees while others don’t? And then there are many questions being asked around by concerned citizens: How can a nation, which is already besieged on all sides by terrorism take the risk of giving shelter to an ethnic group which provides fundamentalists within the country and outside a fertile recruitment

ground? How can a nation which already has a hundred thousand mouths to feed afford another 40,000 who will no doubt multiply in large numbers because of a host of social and economic reasons already discussed in public domain?

How will India provide them jobs when there are so few for Indians themselves? Who will guarantee that the Rohingyas will not be used as vote banks by the political class? How will the Rohingya who come from a world where a secular ethos we see in India has never been practiced understand India’s multicultural image? Those in support of Rohingyas cite our Constitution which extends rights

to everyone in India. It is indeed praiseworthy for our Republic because not all constitutions around the world give such a right.

In the end, all that a sensible human being would hope is that those in distress get a life of dignity without such compromises which might put others in distress.

Courtesy: Manas Sen Gupta is a journalist who writes avidly on International Relations and Foreign Policy Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not reflect the views of the editorial team of Myanmar's Matters

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INVESTMENT INVESTMENT WIN IN MYANMAR

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INVESTMENT

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ISRAEL SUPPORTS MYANMAR IN AGRICULTURE

WIN IN MYANMAR Israel’s Ambassador Mr. Daniel Zohar Zonshine in a very confident and undeterred pose expressed his interest in continuing to support the agricultural sector of Myanmar even amid the outbreak of an indurate political occurrence, sweeping Myanmar to the den of criticism.

He established investor’s protection and security as the pivotal premise in being able to pave way for a robust and engaging economic relationship between Israel and Myanmar. In other words, an economic environment that has the potential of attracting the interest and confidence of an investor should be the primary goal.

He acknowledged that an investor’s security generates and accelerates the investment canvas of a country and thus, Myanmar’s investment interactions should be recognised in this light.

Israel’s involvement in reforming and realigning the agricultural sector of Myanmar's is over 20 years old.

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Its support in providing advanced technological know-how and proficient expertise has helped Myanmar in redefining its agricultural scale.

In the past, Israel has successfully conducted agriculture - training programmes for Myanmar students, allowing them to study and work in private rural settlement areas. Getting paid for their research projects which range from greenhouse activities to husbandry farming, has been encouraged too.

Being an agriculturally driven economy,the Israeli efforts in welcoming the Burmese students to their pool of technology, and exposing them to their level of efficiency and farming practise, Myanmar’s future in agriculture seems positive and supported. The training camp running for 11 months ensures an evolved youth who is well versed in all stages of agriculture; from planning, preparation, cultivation to harvest and post-harvest etcetera.

While remarking on the collaborative (11)

relation with Myanmar in the agricultural sector, Mr. Zohar Zonshine also noted, “Agriculture is a chain: by strengthening one link, you may not necessarily get better results unless the whole chain is improved. It has to do with agriculture research, access to technology and finance, and farmers being able to access information, data, and infrastructure. Other areas to have added value are developing the processing industry – it gives more jobs for people who cannot continue with agriculture, and leaves more added value in the country.”

It is in the best interest of both the countries to aid in training and capacity building aspects of human resource engaged in agricultural work. The ambassador also mentioned about an Israeli company’s presence in Myanmar – Netafim, helping Myanmar with its drip and micro-irrigation products. Thus, an active exchange of expertise, skills and technical know-how has helped Myanmar’ agriculture sector improve and develop.

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INVESTMENT

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INVESTORS TO REAP FROM MYANMAR’S FIRST SOCIO-ECONOMIC REPORT

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A compendious report outlining Myanmar’s historical, social and geographical data has been compiled and jointly published in detail by The Directorate of Investment and Company Administration (DICA) and the German International Cooperation (GIZ).

Mr. U Thitsar, a private sector specialist at the World Bank commented on the beneficial nature of the report, “This report is extremely comprehensive. It contains information from demographic to topographical conditions in Myanmar.

It includes data on the various regions where it is densely populated, for example.”

The report titled ‘The Socio- Economic Atlas of Myanmar’, is a complete manual giving an in-depth analysis of all regions of Myanmar – population MYANMAR MATTERS Vol 12: June - July 2015

density, area occupation, distribution of wards, villages, townships across all the regions and the spread of religion in all the states.

The Socio-Economic Atlas of Myanmar is an engaging encyclopaedia for all the investors, inviting them to take learned and wise investment decisions.

Its conduct examining the investment potential of the country in great length is inclined toward helping foreigners in their investment plans in Myanmar, and to beef-up foreign direct investments in the country.

This thorough compilation of varied data pertaining to Myanmar has put to rest all the complications and inconveniences that used to accompany a foreign investor in trying to procure appropriate information on Myanmar.

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Now, instead of physically travelling to relevant departments or sectors to hunt for details, all the data is a readily available resource, complied into an accessible publication for all the interested investors in Myanmar.

It also serves as an exhaustive knowledge bank for all the policy makers, engaged in public projects.

Composed of all the information relating to infrastructural necessities, Mr. U Thitsar remarked, “Take urban planning projects for example. Which locations should they develop? Which locations have the densest population?

As the report also includes information on infrastructure requirements such as roads and bridges, it would greatly benefit policy makers.”

Vol 20: Dec 2017

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BUSINESS WIN IN MYANMAR

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BUSINESS

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ASIA IoT BUSINESS PLATFORM LAUNCHES IN MYANMAR

WIN IN MYANMAR Transitory waves in Myanmar’s business and economic sphere are evident through its development graph and an incessant interest evinced by the global communities.

With passably paced infrastructural growth and expansion, the subsequent moves are driving toward digitisation to advance the economic paradigm of the nation.

To enhance business productivity and efficiency through the use of services such as Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and Internet of Things (IOT), Asia IoT Business Platform has entered Myanmar to explore the potential of these services in Myanmar and engage companies with its benefits.

This platform is an educational and a collaborative medium to seek, learn and benefit from the IoT Industry reigning in the South East Asian region. With central focus on Machine-to-Machine (M2M) and Internet of Things(IoT) Technology, Asia IoT Business Platform aims MYANMAR MATTERS Vol 12: June - July 2015

to enable efficient, effectual and competent business solutions across multiple industries and sectors in Myanmar and other South East Asian countries.

Singapore firm: Industry Platform Private Limited, vital to telecommunication sector made the announcement of Asia IoT Business Platform’s launch in Myanmar. This was affirmed by the support extended by the ministries of Commerce, Education, Industry, and Transport and Communication.

Myanmar’s current stand is aspirational and is in a constant move to rapidly grow and progress.

Thus, for Myanmar to vault into new technologies and greater economic opportunities, four priority areas have been outlined - integration with the global sphere, digitisation of infrastructural services, transition to manufacturing domain and growth in urbanization.

Director of Industry Platform Private Limited, Mr. Irza Fauzan Suprapto (14)

stated, “Myanmar is at an interesting crossroad for telecommunications and digital transformation.

While basic ICT infrastructure is being developed and completed, awareness on a digital strategy is crucial for local firms to grow and maximize the potential of ICT and IoT in their operations.”

Mobile Money operations are adequately active in Myanmar with Telenor’s Wave Money and Ooredo’s M-Pitesan – major telecom operators – geared to launch their operations soon. The platform had speakers from Asia Green Development Bank, Ooredoo Myanmar, KBZ Bank, First Private Bank, Telenor Myanmar, MPTKSGM, Yoma Bank and Aya Bank, engage with mobile money sector.

The Asia IoT Business Platform with its industry programme showcased case studies highlighting the benefits of IoT and IoC through educational technology, road safety measures and more.

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2017 HORASIS ASIA MEETING TO PROMOTE BUSINESS IN MANDALAY

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An international conference organised to beckon business leaders and government representatives to boost Mandalay’s business landscape was held in Kolkata, India recently.

drivers. He solicited and advised delegates to chart a business course to amplify and reap from the development opportunities of Mandalay.

Mandalay - the second largest city in Myanmar - is considered the economic powerhouse and cultural hub of Myanmar.

Themes permeating the session comprised ‘Start-ups and Entrepreneurship’, ‘Partnerships in Competition’ and ‘Knowledge as a Public Good’.

Speaking at the 2017 Horasis Asia Meeting, Chief Minister of Mandalay Region Government Dr. Zw Myint Maung urged foreign participants to invest in this central region of Myanmar for it is the nerve centre of the country with its commercial activities, educational and health domain being its primary growth

The Horasis Asia Meeting annually invites representatives and delegates from developing and developed markets to Asia’s seminal business congregation to bolster investment prospects, regional cooperation while ensuring sustainable growth opportunities.

In 2017, the Indian Chamber

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of Commerce (ICC) and the Government of West Bengal jointly hosted the Horasis Asia Meeting later in November.

Myanmar’s cordiality with India and vice versa, got re-affirmed with the Prime Minister of India Mr. Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Myanmar wherein he offered Government of India’s support in restoring and revamping the Ananada Temple that got severely damaged due to the forces of earthquake. Thus, Mr. Maung expressed, optimism between the two nations and greeted India’s policies – Neighbourhood First and Act East Policy – as the integrative podium of better and stronger relations between both the countries.

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NATION NEWS WIN IN MYANMAR

NATION NEWS

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CHINA-MYANMAR CORRIDOR TO EXPEDIATE CONNECTIVITY

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Myanmar and China are on the threshold of forging closer ties as they progress further on the mutually beneficial path of development and advanced bilateral cooperation with one another.

Myanmar’s State Counsellor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi’s agreement to China-Myanmar economic corridor ‘s construction as proposed by the Chinese counterparts reflect the strengthening and reaffirming of relations between the two countries whose friendship has stood the test of time.

Daw Aung San Suu Kyi reckons China’s proposal of China-Myanmar Economic Corridor as a vital step in fast-tracking the strategic and economic cooperation between Myanmar and China.

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The corridor connecting Kumming (south-west China), Mandalay (Myanmar), Kolkata (India), and Dhaka and Chittagong (Bangladesh) is designed and planned to enhance and boost the connectivity between these four countries.

Myanmar holds a strategic geographical position with its close proximity to South-East Asia and China. Thus, Myanmar’s centrality in China’s Belt and Road Initiative is colossal. With the implementation of China-Myanmar corridor, China’s accessibility to the Indian Ocean through Myanmar would get expedited, and the route more convenient contributing to increased connectivity between both the countries. This in effect, would bolster development plans (17)

and needs of Myanmar, specifically its transport arrangements, electrical requirements and other infrastructural set-up. The corridor would also help Myanmar in becoming an important destination for China’s industries, leading to more jobs and better living standards eventually.

Chinese President Mr. Xi Jinping asserted Chinese efforts in supporting and solving regional conflicts in Myanmar and its constructive role in ensuring stability and peace in the country plagued by political fumes. The three-pillar giant cooperation pattern of the corridor was well received and appreciated by the State Counsellor as ‘well-matched with Myanmar’s national development plan’.

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nation news

CONFERENCE ON INDO-MYANMAR RELATIONS HELD IN YANGON

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Indian ambassador to Myanmar -Mr. Vikram Misri Rooted in similar cultural, civilizational and historical ethos – Myanmar and India’s ever evolving friendship, in a way, has past common threads nourishing both the countries in an amicable relationship.

To commemorate and strengthen the proximity between both the countries, Institute of Social and Cultural Studies (ISCS) and Myanmar Institute of Strategic and International Studies (MISIS), jointly organised the two-day conference on “India-Myanmar Relations: The Way Forward” at Pan Pacific Yangon Hotel in early November.

The way forward toward a more peaceful, secured and conciliatory association between India and Myanmar underscored the schedule of the conference.

Indian Ambassador to Myanmar Mr. Vikram Misri while addressing the inaugural session of the conference avowed the significance of forging stronger and closer security ties between the countries of Myanmar and India; to be able to strategically MYANMAR MATTERS Vol 12: June - July 2015

WIN IN MYANMARfor switching border region space

and skilfully avert threats and collectively help mitigate situation of menace and imminent danger.

He also asserted, “Our security forces must work closely to deny any space to extremist groups who threaten our nations.” He vouched for India’s undeterred support in aiding Myanmar in matters of peacemaking, national reconciliation and economic development. He highlighted India’s potency in tackling with insurgency related problems, and thus, learnings from India in this regard could benefit Myanmar in achieving its peace processes.

Further, the talks at the conference affirmed the need to make India-Myanmar border region a conflict free zone by revamping the infrastructure by giving it a modernised layout, with testing labs, banking infrastructure and visa- onarrival facilities being promoted and encouraged for boosting bilateral trade. Thus, peace negotiator Mr. U Aung Min while emphasising Indo-Myanmar interest in restoring peace in border region, advocated (18)

of conflict to zone of development, along with the need to contain transborder insurgencies.

With the scope of developing and maturing people to people contacts between the two countries, it is imperative to address border region challenges essentially.

Moreover, the need for cross border investments and easy bilateral trade procedures holds the key in forging closer relations with Myanmar.

The conference encouraged exchange programmes between the academicians and the researchers, and it also acknowledged an increase in scholarships presented to students from Myanmar by India. Myanmar foreign ministry’s permanent secretary Mr. U Kyaw Zeya expressed,“Myanmar’s relation with India is constantly improving and the bilateral trade has gone up several times from 323 million US dollars in 1998 to 2.65 billion US dollars last year.”

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POPE FRANCIS VISITS MYANMAR

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Amid the atmosphere fuelled with distrust and intolerance, Pope Francis made his maiden visit to Myanmar in the first week of December. His visit was carefully observed and followed by the experts for it was imperative for him to maintain his moral authority of being the guardian of the poor and the powerless, and at the same time refrain from engaging in any act which could transpire unpleasant situation for Catholics in Myanmar or mar diplomatic relations between the Vatican and Naypyidaw which got established recently. Thus, his conscious non-admission of the term ‘Rohingya’ during his speech was an outcome of this arrangement.

The leader of the world’s Roman MYANMAR MATTERS Vol 12: June - July 2015

Catholics – Pope Francis, professed all to respect each other’s identity and ethnic diversity. He stated that his main purpose of visiting the country was, “to pray with the nation’s small but fervent catholic community, to confirm them in their faith, and to encourage them in their efforts to contribute to the good of the nation.” Stressing on the Christ’s message of reconciliation, forgiveness, peace and harmony, Pope Francis set the resolve behind his two-nation apostolic visit.

During his visit, he urged all to ‘commit to justice and respect for human rights’ with state authorities, religious leaders and civil society members playing the most crucial role of peacebuilding. His meeting (19)

with the state counsellor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi got preceded by top military general Aung Hlaing’s interaction with him who mentioned that there is 'no religious discrimination' in Myanmar.

Catholics from across the country flocked in huge numbers to Yangon to be blessed by Pope’s healing presence who led an open -air Mass.

He shared “Religious differences need not be a source of division and distrust, but rather a force for unity, forgiveness, tolerance and wise nation-building. Religion can play a significant role in repairing the emotional, spiritual and psychological wounds of those who have suffered in years of conflict.”

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REFLECTIONS

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THE CURIOUS CASE OF AUNG SAN SUU KYI

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The sweeping victory of the National League for Democracy (NLD) led

by Daw Aung San Suu Kyi in 2015 heralded an era of democratic reforms and an end to military dictatorship. The Nobel Peace Prize got bestowed upon her in 1991 while she was still under house arrest and probably not even aware of the news. Overnight, she became an international icon —fought the Myanmar military governance MYANMAR MATTERS Vol 12: June - July 2015

(i.e.theTatmadaw) — forging the path ahead for liberalization and democratization. However, in the light of the recent Rohingya crisis, Myanmar has come under immense criticism from different quarters of the international community.

The public shaming of Aung San Suu Kyi has been doing the rounds in social media, news dailies and leading websites whereby she has been highly condemned for keeping (20)

quiet on the atrocities meted out to millions of Rohingya refugees in the Rakhine state who are now seeking shelter in neighbouring countries of Bangladesh and India. Her long kept silence was finally broken when she claimed that Myanmar has never been soft on human rights offenders, thereby ‘without offering a hint of solace or consolation’.

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A Planned Attack?

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The brimming cynicism levelled against Aung San Suu Kyi has been growing far and wide to the extent of stripping her off the Nobel Peace Prize which may not be possible, in reality. However, her alma mater, the University of Oxford, has decided to withdraw an honorary title awarded to her in 1997, in the aftermath of the Rohingya crisis.

Criticisms have also come in the form of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human rights expressing their disapproval over the crisis as ‘textbook example of ethnic cleansing’. Another Nobel Laureate Mr. Desmond Tutu reportedly wrote to Daw San Suu Kyi saying that “If the political price of your ascension to the highest office in Myanmar is your silence, the price is surely too steep.”

However, given this background of backlashes and censures, the global community cannot simply keep on harping at it. In fact, it also cannot negate the counternarrative offered by Daw Aung San Suu Kyi of an “iceberg of misinformation” where she has invited the international media to talk to the surviving Rohingya inhabitants and crosscheck the ground realities in the Rakhine region. Interestingly, as quoted in one of the reports by RSIS, there has been one prominent story which came out in the Myanmar social media. It was said that on August 25 2017 the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA) had already planned an attack on the military posts in order to provoke the Tatmadaw military to give way to a disturbing scenario. This was ironically a day before the release of the Report by Advisory Commission of Rakhine State. If one goes by this narrative, it

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can be deduced that such an attack was particularly targeted to damage the public image of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and in turn, ruin her efforts towards building a peaceful and fair future for the Rakhine State.

According to Ms. Kang Siew Kheng, a leading researcher at RSIS, who has aptly remarked that “for sure, no deemed past wrongs in history can justify present-day violence, but no present-day policy can bring about reconciliation until the old animosities have been addressed.”

Rakhine State of Affairs The state of Rakhine has all along witnessed a colonial divide and rule strategy which has been reinforced by generations of politics complicated by extreme poverty and economic deprivation of its ethnic inhabitants. It is important to understand here that the victory achieved by Daw Aung San Suu Kyi in 2015 occurred amida wave of nationalism accompanied by growing sense of doubt and suspicion, especially in the case of the Rohingya minorities. The victory of democracy, paradoxically, gave a free rein to some entrenched sentiments that were previously put under harsh control of the military.

Significantly, the NLD did not fair that well as it largely did in the other parts of the country. Experts believe that the electoral base of Suu Kyi regarded the Rohingyas “as a late political construct” who were mainly temporary migrant labourers residing in permeable borders. They are now being used to legitimise old claims of autonomy and independence.

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The Road Ahead The future of Rohingya Muslims is undoubtedly at stake and it is essential to understand here that

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this crisis is not merely an internal conflict concerning Myanmar. It certainly has a larger picture which is attached to the global scenario.

At present, even though Daw Aung San Suu Kyi has failed to address the needs of the ethnic minorities, she needs all the help she can, from inside and outside Myanmar. It is time for the neighbouring countries, such as India and China and also the regional bloc ASEAN to intervene positively and engage in a coordinate course of action to bring out a longlasting solution. Isolating Myanmar or imposing economic sanctions on it is certainly not going to reap any results. As it is, the country, over the years, has been slowly struggling to achieve a definitive level of economic and political reforms. The insipid stance taken by the ASEAN on the Rakhine situation following an ASEAN Foreign Ministers meeting on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York was not only predictable but disappointing. The Rohingya crisis has the potential to transform itself into a global catastrophe leading to greater instability if not addressed urgently.

At the end, it would be interesting to observe Daw Aung San Suu Kyi put her skills of statecraft to test while she enforces some sort of national reconciliation amid the multitude of challenges that surround her now.

Courtesy- Swati Prabhu is a research scholar & an ardent contributor to National Dailies.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not reflect the views of the editorial team of Myanmar Matters

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TOURISM WIN IN MYANMAR

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EXPLORING THE HIDDEN GEMS OF MYANMAR

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One visit to Myanmar is enough to dazzle travellers. The eclectic fusion of the traditional and the modern, the old and the new entices visitors to partake of and enjoy the way Myanmar thrives, despite the many challenges it faces. The discerning traveller would not miss observing the energy, hope and potential lurking in the air of

Myanmar.

Formerly known as Burma, Myanmar has opened its doors to the world in the last couple of years and has become one of the go-to holiday destinations for people across the globe. Myanmar provides something to please everyone and ensures that

nobody leaves its shores disappointed.

The most popular tourist destinations include Yangon, Mandalay, Kalaw, Bagan to name a few. However, there are a number of places in Myanmar that have remained off the beaten track. This article uncovers such gems.

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LOIKAW Loikaw, the smallest state of Myanmar, has largely remained untouched by tourists and is one of the least visited places in Myanmar, which adds to the charm and lure of the place. Loikaw is the capital of the Kayah State. It is located in the Karen Hills area, near the State’s northern tip. Loikaw, along with Demoso, in the Kayah State, have been opened to independent tourists only since 2013.

For a place so remote and unaffected by tourism, the large ethnic diversity one finds in Loikaw is fascinating to observe- Palaung, Shan, Kayah, Kayan are some of the groups found here, each adding their bit in making the state of Loikaw an eclectic melting pot. A stroll through the villages of Loikaw will open up interesting vistas for the tourists in the form of stunning pagodas, temples, stupas, lakes and caves. Tourists are likely to come across ‘long neck women’

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wearing golden rings coiled around their necks. A curious traveller will certainly be intrigued by this unusual sight. While it is difficult to trace a reason for this, it is believed that these rings protect the Palaung women from being killed by tigers and the long neck makes them look beautiful.

Loikaw offers a quiet and serene environment to tourists, ideal for indulging their spiritual side and to introspect. One of the most popular sights in Loikaw is the famous pagoda called, ‘Taung Kwe’, towering above the town, on the top of a lime stone hill on the Mingalar Thiri Mountain.

The spectacular view of the town especially during sunset makes the journey to Loikaw worthwhile.

A cluster of other pagodas such as Myaka Lup pagoda, Shwe Let War pagoda and Nagayon pagoda stand behind Taung Kwe pagoda. Other places that offer a visual treat to tourists include: (23)

i. Seven Stages Lake- a series of seven interconnected lakes, known for the scenic beauty and tranquillity they offer to the tourists. ii. Christ the King Cathedral- built in 1939, it is Kayah’s oldest surviving church and is a fusion of traditional European architecture and local Buddhist styles. iii. Kayah State Cultural Museumbuilt in 1996, it is a treasure trove for all the art and cultural aficionados, interested in discovering the life of the Kayah inhabitants. The museum holds a rich collection of books, traditional dresses, household utensils, weapons, paintings and musical instruments.

The sleepy city of Loikaw provides a pleasant introduction to the Kayah way of life and is a base for venturing out into the neighbouring villages.

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HPA-AN

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Sitting on the eastern bank of the Thanlwin river, the capital of Kayin (also known as Karen) State, Hpa-an is a place where time seems to stand still. The laidback atmosphere and breath-taking caves and mountains make Hpa-an a backpacker’s paradise.

Thanks to the new highway linking Hpa-an to the Thai border at Mae Sot and Yangon, and improved border crossing facilities at Myawaddy, this remote place is witnessing a steady flow of visitors, especially from the neighbouring Thailand.

The population of Hpa-an, about 421,575 (2014 census), predominantly comprises people of the Karen ethnic group, which make up approximately seven percent of the total Burmese population. The place offers a unique opportunity to the curious traveller to know more about the local Karen culture, as majority of people have held on to their traditional ways and language.While Hpa-an is safe and peaceful for visitors, November is a good time to head there, for the visitor can experience the Karen Don festival and get a true insight into its culture.

Besides lazing around at the delightful riverside, soaking in the picturesque landscape, lush green fields, tourists have plenty to enthral them on their visit. i. Mt. Zwegabin- Dominating the landscape of Hpa-an is Mt. Zwegabin, about 7 miles south of the town, and 2372 ft. in height. The hike to the summit is demanding, but duly compensated by the stunning 3600 views of the town on offer.

it certainly is worth a visit and offers spectacular vistas for the tourists.

DAWEI Being closed for tourism until early 2013, Dawei is largely undeveloped and unexplored. But, therein lies an opportunity for an adventurous traveller, looking for an authentic and novel experience. Dawei offers jaded travellers everything that a metropolitan city does not- peace, fresh air, pristine beaches, solitude, few people et al.

i. Maungmagan Beach- The most popular beach with the locals, around 12 km west of Dawei, Maungmagan has seen a semblance of development; some tea shops, beer stations and restaurants. ii. Nabule Beach- Tourists can head to Nabule Beach around 15 km north if they want to experience stunning white sands of the Nabule Beach, away from humanity. iii. Shwe Taung Zar Pagoda- The main religious site in Dawei, the Shwe Taung Zar Pagoda is a sprawling complex of shrines and statues.

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Dawei is the capital of the Tanintharyi Region and got its independence from the British rule in 1948. It has enormous potential for tourism, as it has something for everyoneuntouched coastline, jungle interior, sprinkling of islands, beautiful pagodas and white sand beaches. With imminent development threatening to disturb the idyllic and untouched environment of Dawei, a trip to Dawei makes for a great treat. Some of the places that could be explored besides lazing around in the town are:

Dawei is one of those places where one could just relax and do nothing.

Rudyard Kipling described Burma (now Myanmar) as, “This is Burma.

It will be quite unlike any land you know about.” It is calling out loud to travellers, time to answer the call.

Courtesy- Arun Arora is a writer, trekker and a traveler who shares his experiences on various digital portals.

ii. Saddan Cave- Gigantic cavern filled with dozens of Buddha statues, pagodas, wall cravings and a lake, transports the traveller to a different world away from the hustle bustle. iii. Kyauk Ka Lat Pagoda- Perched atop a limestone pinnacle, this unique and surreal pagoda almost seems to defy gravity. iv. Kaw Gun Cave- Located near Kawgun village, this is a natural limestone cave and is covered with several Buddha statues, many dating back to the seventh century.

While Hpa-an may not be the preferred place to visit on the trip to Myanmar, MYANMAR MATTERS Vol 12: June - July 2015

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WILDLIFE MATTERS

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ELIMINATING BLOOD HONEY AND SUPPORT TIGER CONSERVATION IN THE SUNDERBANS The boat glides slowly into a channel between two islands. The silhouettes of the mangrove trees rear up like sentinels into the clear night sky, just hours before dawn. Sanatan Sardar, 35, barely notices the mysterious beauty of the Sundarbans forests, he is more concerned about guiding his boat with his group into the Sundarbans to collect wild honey.

Moulis like Sanatan are the traditional honey gatherers in the Sundarbans who venture into the forest during honeycollection season, which lasts for about three months in a year.

between 7-15 days. The Forest Department issues a license every season to leaders like Sanatan for collection of wild honey from the Sundarbans. Over 3000 honey collectors are issued permits each year to enter designated forest areas for honey collection. Honey collectors make nearly 6000 rupees every month during the season. However, such forays into the forest are fraught with danger. In the past 15 years, nearly 100 honey collectors have lost their lives to tiger attacks. Therefore, the moniker ‘blood honey’.

Sanatan is from the Sardarpara village on Satjelia island of Sundarbans and is the leader of his group, the most experienced and skilled. His group, mostly family members, venture out together with each trip lasting

Sanatan and his group are well aware of this danger and exercise precautions.

While in the forest, certain members of the group specially act as look outs for tigers and post collection, each group anchor their boat only in the

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middle of the creek between islands to prevent tiger attacks. However, in spite of such precautions, honey collectors are still at risk. These men are the sole earning members of their families, and an attack could put the future of an entire family at risk.

WWF-India has been working in the Sundarbans since 1973 with a focus on conserving its biodiversity, particularly tigers, as well as promoting alternate livelihood and clean energy solutions for local communities to reduce conflict with wildlife and pressures on natural habitat with the objective of achieving a harmonious co-existence in the region. This issue of wild honey collection and its impact on the lives of honey collectors is a priority concern for WWF-India as well as the policy and decision makers in Sundarbans.

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WILDLIFE MATTERS Sustainable production

and

safe

honey

Apiculture in forest fringes of Indian Sundarbans within the state of West Bengal with Apis mellifera is in large scale. Approximately 5,545,281 kg of honey valuing 419,676,874 was produced over a period of seven years (2005–2012) from the apiculture. WWF-India believes that

the fatal casualties associated with the livelihood of honey collection can be avoided if traditional honey collectors are permitted to keep apiary boxes in designated forest areas to produce honey instead of going into the forest to extract wild honey. Human-wildlife interaction will thereby be reduced to zero and at the same time the community will

be assured of a harvest. This option will also help in receiving community support for tiger conservation in the Indian Sundarbans. WWF-India in collaboration with Sundarban Biosphere Reserve Directorate have designed pilot studies since 2014 to establish a safe and sustainable honey production in Sundarbans.

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Excerpts from the pilot studies The results of the pilot studies exceeded expectations!The daily yield of honey from each apiary box has been nearly double the quantity collected by groups such as those of Sanatan's. The honey prepared in these boxes were tested for quality at the Kolkata lab of Société Générale de Surveillance (SGS)and Bose Institute, Kolkata and it matched the standards set by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).The results of the study bode well for groups such as Sanatan's who by setting up such apiary boxes can avoid going into the forests of Sundarbans. Collection of such blood-free honey, if adopted on a large scale, has the capacity to eliminate casualties due to tiger attacks.

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Optimism and concerns Sanatan Sardar is upbeat about the collaborative initiatives of WWF-India and Sundarban Biosphere Reserve Directorate initiatives in Sundarbans, as this option has emerged as a safe and secure livelihood option.

In various stakeholder discussions, the honey collectors have shown interest to shift towards this secure and sustainable livelihood option.

There are requests from other honey collectors in the region to be trained on apiculture and willingness to shift from the present practice.

institutional mechanism of honey collection, processing and marketing.

Apart from this engagement, a practical manual is being prepared in association with scientific institutions for the honey collectors to maintain industry standards.

It is also important to eliminate middle men from the chain and ensure that the local communities directly sell their products in the market.

WWF-India is engaging with the Forest Department to set up bottling units in around 46 forest fringe villages of Sundarbans which enable honey collectors to convert their product into saleable table honey to increase sales.

Discussions are underway to develop

WWF-India believes that there is more ground to cover regarding long term sustainability and scalability of this initiative which would stand scientific scrutiny. WWF-India in collaboration with premiere scientific institutes are carrying out ecological

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More ground to cover

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studies to assess carrying capacity and pollination ecology to estimate honey yield. The carrying capacity of Sundarbans forests will help determine how many apiary boxes can be placed to ensure economic feasibility of this initiative at a large scale. Further, WWF-India aims to create market linkages for the honey collectors to ensure a premium price for this high quality honey and is already in discussion with marketing entities and certification agencies thereby helping to improve profit margins while reducing the risks associated with this livelihood.

Courtesy: Ratul Saha, Landscape Coordinator-Sundarbans Landscape, WWF-India Team

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MYANMAR INDIA CONNECT WIN IN MYANMAR

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Myanmar - India –North East Connect - Business

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MEDIA FOSTERS CLOSER TIES BETWEEN MYANMAR AND INDIA Viewing the integrative and comprehensive role that media plays in bringing the two countries closer, a two- day media interactive programme was conducted at Sangai Hall of Hotel Imphal in the capital of Manipur. The conclave was attended by high profiled dignitaries and media representatives of India and Myanmar in the quest to interact, engage and innovate ways to further the bilateral relations between India and Myanmar in a manner more amicable and cooperative.

The inaugural session was addressed by the Chief Minister of Manipur Mr. Biren Singh wherein he lauded his government’s initiative in introducing a bus service between Manipur in India to Mandalay in Myanmar in order to facilitate ease MYANMAR MATTERS Vol 12: June - July 2015

in people to people connectivity and smooth exchange of ideas and information. Further, Mr.Biren expressed “The External Affairs ministry has also been urged to take up necessary steps for visa issues by the respective embassies of the two countries.”

The notion behind the organisation of a media interaction programme between India and Myanmar was rooted in Mr. Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Myanmar wherein the idea was proposed by him.

The conclave has been reckoned seminal in advancing the bilateral relations of both the neighbouring countries wherein the role of Media as an effective and a powerful tool in delivering good governance to the people has been given central (29)

importance to.

The cooperation and participation of Press Council of India and Myanmar Press Council at the event highlighted and corroborated the significance of media in democracy in building and sustaining relationships between people of both the nations, at the same time comprehending the political and economic climate of each other in an easier and more accessible manner.

The thrust of the conclave resided on exploring Media’s role in promoting ‘India’s Act East Policy’, ‘Capacity building of media personnel in Myanmar and India’ and ‘Media’s role in promoting connectivity and trade between Myanmar and India.’

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NORTH EAST TECHNOLOGY

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BIOTECHNOLOGY TO TURN ASSAM INTO AN ORGANIC HUB Galvanized by the boon of biotechnological application elevating the economic potential and scenario, the state of Assam has welcomed the Guwahati Biotech Park by laying the foundation stone of its Technology Incubation Center.

Assam is the northeastern paradise of natural resources—microbial, medicinal, plant and animal species correctly acknowledged and recognized as one of the biodiversity hotspot regions. Naturally endowed with resources and crops of rich commercial value and economic viability, the bio-resource potential of the region is vast.

Tapping onto its plethora of natural gems and organic farming skills, Assam’s Chief Minister Mr. Sarbananda Sonowal perceive MYANMAR MATTERS Vol 12: June - July 2015

biotechnology as an instrumental tool in enhancing value creation and production, and most importantly in leading Assam as an organic hub.

He believes that application oriented science is the new, rewarding and smarter way of life, triggering the state’s competency in capturing the organic market of the Southeast Asian region.

Skilled and proficient in traditional methods of farming, biotechnological intervention in the same would ensure more productivity and better wealth prospects, particularly in Assam’s agro based industry.

The technology incubation center is being established with a view to integrate and instill a scientific culture of biotechnology. This (30)

knowledge-based sector of biotech is being lauded as an emblem of progress, employment and an economic booster, leading and impacting the state’s social and economic development goals.

Pronouncing Assam as an important gateway to Southeast Asia, Mr. Sonowal encourages the youth and the people in general to embrace and develop science based skills and evolve their entrepreneurial development. In effect, generating and promoting business in biotechnology, enhancing research and development activities, as well as augmenting the prospects and scale of biotech industry, is the driving force behind the setting up of Technology Incubation Center of Guwahati Biotech Park.

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MYANMAR - INDIA CONNECT - NORTH EAST-TECHNOLOGY

BRAHMAPUTRA BIODIVERSITY BIOLOGY BOAT (B4) BUILT TO STUDY WIN IN MYANMAR BRAHMAPUTRA’S ECOSYSTEM Aligned to India’s Act East Policy, the North-eastern region of India, is reckoned as an expressway to South-East Asia. Weighed with this significance and potentiality, advancement in the region through scientific technology and innovation is the need of the hour.

Scientific research of Brahmaputra’s ecosystem through India’s first floating laboratory on boat –B4, is one of the three biotechnological missions undertaken by the Ministry of Science and Technology, in the North-eastern region of India.

Brahmaputra Biodiversity Biology Boat (B4) is equipped to study and analyse the change in climate, the anthropogenic components, other topographical features such as soil, water, and the flora and fauna of the

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region.

“No major river for this size had been studied in this particular region. In future, such projects would be connected with other similar projects in the country,” said Dr.Harsh Vardhan, Union Minister of Science and Technology and Environment.

With the initial investment of Rs.50 crores dedicated to the project, B4’s operation would commence in later December. The early phase of research on this boat would be covering the region from Pasighat, Dibrugarh, Neemati, Tejpur and Guwahati in Assam.

Brahmaputra Biodiversity Biology Boat (B4) is a two-storied barge, enabling scientists to govern

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thorough research of the factors impacting the river, and discovering valid means of mitigation as well.

The second floor of the floating laboratory boat would be for educational purpose, making the local community cognizant of the current condition and characteristics of the ecosystem from a scientific perspective.

The officials and the scientists from the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) have planned to connect the B4 barge with other small and mobile lab boats along the tributaries of the Brahmaputra. Apart from this, links with local research institutions and national laboratories have also been arranged to facilitate the research procedure of B4 by feeding it with adequate data.

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Myanmar - India Connect - North EastINFRASTRUCTURE

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NAGALAND HOSTS NORTH EAST CONNECTIVITY SUMMIT 2017

The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) in collaboration with the government of Nagaland organized a two-day North-East Connectivity summit, “Connect North East- 2017”, at the NBCC Convention Centre in later September. With focal emphasis on tourism and connectivity with neighboring countries like Myanmar and Bangladesh, the theme chosen for “Connect NorthEast-2017” was ‘Act East from Nagaland’.

The Chief Minister of Nagaland, Mr. TR Zeliang, addressed the summit with issues like connectivity and tourism engagements, investment and infrastructural prospects.

FICCI North East Advisory Council chairman Mr. Ranjit Barthakur avowed the importance of exploring connectivity based infrastructure and investment canvas with Myanmar, Japan, Laos, Russia, Bhutan, Bangladesh and Thailand also, apart from the immediate seven North-Eastern Indian states.

The 4th edition of the North-East Connectivity Summit was attended by people across the spectrum from policy makers, corporates, researchers from think-tanks and central government ministries.

Stakeholders belonging to civil aviation, ASEAN region, inland MYANMAR MATTERS Vol 12: June - July 2015

waterways, telecommunication, and financial institution also took part in the event.

With the objective of enhancing Northeast India’s connectivity scope with other countries, the discussions steered through development opportunities, trade and business engagements, and communication and cultural exchange prospects.

between India and Southeast Asia as well as within the Bimstec community. Therefore, Japan has placed a particular importance on the cooperation in the northeastern region.”

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Important highlights from the summit involved identifying people to people connectivity opportunities and tourism, establishment of an Economic Corridor with Southeast Asia and other infrastructural requirements.

Myanmar’s Minister of Cultural Affairs Mr. Sai Kyaw Zaw expressed his support and keen interest in harnessing Northeast India’s development potential, and invited stakeholders and people from Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Mizoram – as Myanmar shares long borders with all these four states – to develop closer and integrative ties with Myanmar.

With diplomatic participation at the forum, Mr. Kenko Sone, Minister, Economic Affairs, Embassy of Japan expressed, “The northeastern region is located at a strategically and economically important juncture (32)

Due to the enormous untapped potential residing in and about the northeastern region, it is essential to establish a shift from the negative lens through which Northeast is commonly perceived – neglect, lack of adequate infrastructure, lesser capabilities - to positive aspects of hospitality, grace in its inborn culture and its production pattern of growth as remarked by former Indian Ambassador to Myanmar Mr. Gautam Mukhopadhaya.

The summit charted paths and resolutions indicating the need to develop and strengthen the “Northeast Brand”. This triggered consultations on developing the North-East Ring Road, North East Implementation Agency and High Powered Economic Forum to ensure efficient planning and execution of projects which would aid the region in attracting investments for rapid upgradation.

The 2018 North East Connectivity Summit would be held in Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh.

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Our Beautiful Neighbours - BANGLADESH

MARITIME SECTOR OF BANGLADESH TO ELEVATE ECONOMIC GROWTH Bangladesh President- Mr. Abdul Hamid

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Honoured as the Chief Guest at the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium Multilateral Maritime Search and Rescue Exercise Forum (IMMSAREX)-2017, Bangladesh President Mr. Abdul Hamid, upheld the need to build robust bridges along the Indian Ocean shoreline for security and safety measures.

Addressing the inauguration at Cox Bazar’s hotel Royal Tulip, he highlighted Bangladesh’s undeterred commitment in maintaining peaceful bilateral relations with the neighbouring countries. Bangladesh’s capabilities in overcoming maritime disputes in an affable manner were brought to light too.

Realising the sheer importance of maritime sector for the economy of Bangladesh, Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) was formed in 2008 with 23 countries of the Indian Ocean, to facilitate maritime trade and commercial activities, and also to promote better and viable livelihood opportunities, ensuring job sustainability and economic growth.

Thus, maritime sector’s security from criminal propensities and untoward element was emphasized at the forum.

potentials to facilitate maritime trade and commerce.”

the Netherlands, Russia and Spain.

For the first time, multiple military drills of the forum were showcased in the Bay of Bengal. These exercises ranged from rescue and firefighting operations to discovery of missing fishing trawlers and bringing the accidental ships back to the harbour. Efforts to protect the lives of the people at sea was specifically communicated with the responsibility being shared regionally. Twentythree countries comprising France, Indonesia, Oman, Pakistan, Australia, Bangladesh,Iran, Kenya, the Maldives, Mauritius, Mozambique, Myanmar, Saudi Arabia, Sicilia, Singapore, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Thailand, Timur Leseth, the United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom participated at the forum. Apart from this, nine countries were felicitated as observer countries - China, Germany, Italy, Japan, Madagascar, Malaysia,

Chairman Admiral Mr. Nizamuddin

The forum was attended by IONS Ahmed,Bangladesh

Army

Chief

General Mr. Abu Belal Muhammad Shafiul Huq, Bangladesh Air Force Chief

Marshal

Mr.

Abu

Esrar,

Malaysian Naval Chief Admiral Mr.

WIN IN MYANMARKamarulzaman, Myanmar Naval Chief

Admiral Mr.Tin Aung San ,and naval and maritime experts. It also had participation of the naval fleets from India, China, Bangladesh, Indonesia and Iran While congratulating Bangladesh as a peace-loving country, Mr.Hamid remarked,“Being one of the highest troops contributing nations in the UN peacekeeping operations for the last two decades is a true manifestation of our commitment towards world peace.”

While stressing on the significance of generating sustainable value and economic benefits from ocean resources, he alluded to the concept of Blue Economy and expressed “We all are aware of the fact that Indian Ocean in contemporary times has the greatest strategic and economic value. It carries huge prospects and MYANMAR MATTERS Vol 12: June - July 2015

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Vol 19: Sept 2017

The Plus Factor

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