Yangon, December 3, 2024

Discussions on preliminary preparations for the construction of the Kunming-Kyaukpyu railway, a major infrastructure initiative aimed at enhancing connectivity between China and Myanmar, have begun, the Chinese Embassy in Yangon has confirmed.

Dr. Zheng Zhihong, Minister Counselor of the Chinese Embassy, addressed a question from Myanmar media about the development of the China-Myanmar railway project during the China-Myanmar Media Tea Party held on December 2 at the Wyndham Grand Yangon Hotel.

"The relevant departments are in discussions regarding the early preparations. Establishing a favorable environment is crucial for the project's success," said the Chinese diplomat. "This railway is a vital initiative for both countries, serving as a strategic project that aligns with the Belt and Road Initiative and the China-Myanmar Economic Corridor. It has the potential to significantly enhance Myanmar's economic development and cultural integration."

Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, Chairman of the State Administration Council and Prime Minister of Myanmar, discussed the Kunming-Kyaukpyu railway project with Chinese Premier Li Qiang during their meeting in Kunming, Yunnan Province, on November 6. The Senior General expressed his desire to initiate construction of the railway wherever feasible.

#ymg/knl

Yangon, Myanmar, 29 November

The CLMV countries—Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam—have introduced an initiative for a joint tourism campaign under the banner "Four Countries, One Destination."

The proposal was made during the 7th Meeting of Tourism Ministers of the CLMV countries, held at the Sedona Hotel in Yangon, Myanmar. This initiative aims to strengthen regional tourism collaboration and promote a unified travel experience across the four countries.

During the meeting, the ministers approved the Tourism Cooperation Action Plan (2025-2026), outlining steps to enhance tourism development. Senior officials from the respective tourism ministries and lead country coordinators were tasked with implementing the plan effectively.

The gathering also recognized Myanmar's successful hosting of the event. The meeting was presided over by Myanmar's Union Minister of Hotels and Tourism, Dr. Thant Thant Khine, and attended by tourism ministers from Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam.

This collaborative effort underscores the commitment of the CLMV countries to boost regional tourism and foster economic growth through shared initiatives.

@knl/ymg

Naypyidaw, Myanmar, 27 November – Myanmar's ruling body, the State Administration Council (SAC), has officially dismissed reports claiming that the Chief Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) has sought an arrest warrant for Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, the Chairman of the SAC.

"Myanmar is not a member of the ICC and, therefore, does not recognize any statements or actions made by the court," stated the SAC's Information Team.

The statement further emphasized that Myanmar adheres to an independent, active, and non-aligned foreign policy in its relations with regional and international communities. It also promotes peaceful coexistence among nations.

International news outlets reported on 27 November that ICC Chief Prosecutor Karim A. A. Khan had submitted a request to the court seeking an arrest warrant for Senior General Min Aung Hlaing in connection with alleged crimes committed against the Bengali community in 2017.

@ymg/knl

Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar — Chairman of Myanmar's State Administration Council (SAC), Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, urged ASEAN police member countries to collaborate in tackling cross-border crimes. He made this statement during a meeting with representatives of ASEAN police forces at the 42nd ASEAN Police Conference, held in the capital, Nay Pyi Taw.

“Joint efforts between the police forces of each country will be crucial in combating drug trafficking, arms and ammunition smuggling, and online fraud,” said the Senior General. He also expressed his gratitude for the active participation of ASEAN members in the conference, which took place from October 23 to 24.

Leaders of the ASEAN Police Delegation and the Executive Director of the ASEAN Police Secretariat conveyed their appreciation for Myanmar’s hospitality. They then discussed cooperation in the area of training and joint efforts to combat transnational crimes.

The conference emphasized the ASEAN police forces' dedication to bolstering regional security and enhancing collaboration in law enforcement, including addressing the growing challenges posed by transnational crime.

#ymg/knl

MANDALAY, Myanmar – October 19th, 2024: An explosion occurred at the Chinese Consulate in Mandalay on the evening of October 18th, causing some damage to the building. The explosion took place around 4:30 PM at the consulate located in Chanmyathazi Township, Mandalay, the cultural capital of Myanmar.

Security personnel who responded to the incident found that the blast had occurred on the roof of the two-story consulate building, causing approximately 2 feet of damage to the roof tiles. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries or other significant damages.

The Information Team of the ruling State Administration Council released a statement on October 19th, confirming that security forces are working closely with consulate officials to investigate the cause of the explosion and apprehend those responsible. Additional security measures have been implemented in the area to ensure safety and prevent further incidents.
#ymg/knl

Nay Pyi Taw, October 15 – At the 9th anniversary of the Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement (NCA), Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, Chairman of the State Administration Council and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, made a strong declaration against armed terrorist groups, stating that their demands will not be accepted under any circumstances.

Speaking at the ceremony in Nay Pyi Taw, the Senior General emphasized that Myanmar’s conflicts stem from political differences and should be resolved solely through peaceful dialogue at the negotiating table. "There will be no concessions to the demands of armed terrorists," he asserted. "Only through peaceful discussions can we achieve solutions."

He further urged all groups to respect the NCA and work toward national unity, underlining the importance of maintaining the agreement as the path to peace. Senior General Min Aung Hlaing called upon all ethnic armed groups and all parties to join in addressing political issues through peaceful means, rather than violence.

The Senior General criticized rebel terrorist groups, including the MNDAA, TNLA, and AA, for worsening the socio-economic conditions in the country, accusing them of pursuing separatist agendas under the guise of political motivations. "Their actions are nothing more than terrorism masked as political movements," he said, adding that the Tatmadaw will continue necessary measures to counter their activities.

Public collaboration with the military has increased, the Senior General noted, as people grow weary of terrorism and are actively cooperating in anti-terrorism efforts. He urged the public to remain vigilant against terrorist manipulation, assuring that the Tatmadaw will carry out the necessary actions to protect the nation from insurgent threats.

The Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement, which was signed by eight Ethnic Armed Organizations on October 15, 2015, under the government of then-President Thein Sein, remains a cornerstone for peace efforts in Myanmar.

Translated knl/ymg