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AA AADP AALC ABDALLAH FETHI ABDULHADI ABDULRAHMEN ABER ABLD ABLDG ABLG ABMC ABT ABUD AC ACABQ ACAO ACBAQ ACCELERATED ACCOUNT ACDA ACEC ACKM ACOA ACOTA ACS ACTION ADANA ADB ADCO ADCP ADEL ADEP ADIP ADM ADMIRAL ADPM ADRC AE AEC AECL AEGR AEIR AEM AEMED AEMR AER AESC AF AFAF AL HOURANI AFARI AFDB AFDIN AFFAIRS AFGHAN AFGHANISTAN AFIN AFL AFLU AFOR AFR AFSA AFSI AFSN AFU AFZAL AG AGAO AGENCIES AGENDA AGENGA AGIT AGMT AGOA AGR AGRI AGRIC AGRICULTURE AGS AGUILAR AGUIRRE AHMED AI AIAG AID AIDAC AIDS AIEA AIHRC AIN AINF AINFCY AINR AINT AISG AIT AJ AK AL ALAB ALAMI ALANAZI ALBE ALEXANDER ALI ALIREZA ALJAZEERA ALL ALNEA ALOUNI ALOW ALOWAR ALVAREZ AM AMAT AMB AMBASSADOR AMCHAM AMCHAMS AMCT AME AMED AMEDI AMEMR AMER AMERICAS AMEX AMG AMGE AMGMT AMGT AMIA AMLB AMPR AMT AMTC AMTG AN ANARCHISTS ANC AND ANDREW LEE WATKINS ANET ANTITERRORISM ANTOINE GHONDA ANTONIO ANTXON AO AOCR AODE AOIC AOMS AOPR AORC AORD AOREC AORG AORL AOWC AP APCS APDC APEC APECO APER APR APRC APRM AQ AR ARAB ARABBL ARABL ARABLEAGUE ARAS ARC ARCH ARENA AREP ARF ARG ARM ARMITAGE ARMS ARNOLD FREDERICK MORRIS AROC ARR ARRMZY ARSO AS ASA ASAC ASC ASCC ASCE ASCEC ASCH ASE ASEAN ASEC ASECARP ASECE ASECM ASECSI ASECVE ASED ASEDC ASEG ASEK ASES ASEX ASFC ASIC ASIG ASIR ASJA ASO ASOC ASPA ASR ASSEMBLY ASSK ASSSEMBLY ASUP AT ATFN ATPDEA ATRA ATRD ATRN AU AU-1 AUC AUNR AUSGR AUSTRALIAGROUP AV AVERY AVIAN AVIANFLU AVIATION AW AX AY AZ AZE B. BA BAGHDAD BAIO BAKOYANNIS BALKANS BAPOL BARACK BASHAR BATA BAYS BB BBG BBSR BC BCW BCXP BD BE BEAN BELLVIEW BEN BERARDUCCI BESP BEXB BEXP BEXPC BEXPPLM BEXT BF BFIF BFIN BFIO BG BGD BGMT BH BHUM BI BIC BIDOON BIH BILAT BIMSTEC BINR BIO BIOS BIOTECH BIOTECHNOLOGY BIT BITO BK BL BLR BLUE BLUNT BM BMENA BMGT BMOT BN BNUC BO BOIKO BOL BOND BOQ BORDER BOSNIA BOU BOUCHAIB KAKA BOUTERSE BP BPIS BPTS BR BRIAN BRITNEY BRITNY BRPA BRUSSELS BS BSSR BT BTA BTC BTIO BTIU BTRA BTT BU BUD BULGARIA BURMA BURNS BUSH BUY AMERICA BV BW BWC BX BXEP BY BZ CA CAC CACM CACS CAFTA CAIO CAJC CAMBODIA CAN CAPC CARC CARE CARIB CARICOM CARSON CAS CASA CASC CASCC CASCR CASE CASTILLO CAVO CB CBC CBD CBE CBG CBIS CBM CBSA CBTH CBW CCSR CCY CD CDB CDC CDCC CDCE CDG CDI CE CEA CEC CEDAW CEN CENSUS CENTCOM CENTRIC CEUDA CF CFE CFED CFG CFIS CFSP CG CGEN CGOPRC CH CHAD CHALLENGE CHAO CHAVEZ CHELIDZE CHENEY CHERTOFF CHG CHIEF CHN CHR CHR-1 CHRISTIAN CHRISTOF CHRISTOPHER CI CIA CIAT CIC CICTE CIDA CIO CIP CIS CITEL CITES CITIBANK CITT CIVAIR CIVS CJ CJAN CJUS CK CKGR CKOR CL CLEARANCE CLINTON CLMT CLO CLOK CM CMAE CMFT CMGT CMP CMT CN CNAR CNARC CNC CNO CO CODEL COE COL COLIN COLLECTIVE COLOMBO COM COMESA COMMERCE CON CONAWAY CONDOLEEZZA CONDOLEEZZA RICE CONEAZ CONG CONGO CONGRINT CONS CONSULAR CONTROL CONTROLS CORRUPTION COSI COUNTER COUNTER TERRORISM COUNTERTERRORISM COUNTRY COUNTRYCLEARANCE CP CPA CPAS CPC CPCTC CPPT CPUOS CQ CR CRIM CRIME CRIMES CRISTINA CRM CROATIA CROS CRS CRUZ CS CSCE CSEP CSIS CSW CT CTBT CTER CTERR CTM CTR CTRYCLR CU CUCO CUIS CUL CUSTODIO CV CVIA CVIC CVIS CVISU CVPR CVR CW CWC CWCM CWG CX CY CYNTHIA CYP CYPRUSARMS CZ DA DAC DAFR DAN DANFUNG DANIEL DAO DARFR DARFUR DAVID DAVID LEE HOWES DAVID WELCH DAVID WILLIAM RAY DB DC DCDG DCG DCHA DCI DCM DCOM DCRM DE DEA DEAX DEFENSE DEFENSEREFORM DELTAVIOLENCE DEM DEMARCHE DEMARCHES DEMETRIOS DEMOCRATIC DENNIS DEOC DEPORTATION DEPT DEPT FOR DS COMMAND CENTER DESI DHA DHLAKAMA DHLS DHRF DHS DHSX DIEZ DIPLOMACY DISENGAGEMENT DJ DK DKEM DMIN DMINE DO DOC DOD DOE DOJ DOMC DOMESTIC DOMESTICPOLITICS DONALD RUMSFELD DOT DPAO DPKO DPM DPOL DPRK DR DRC DRIP DRL DS DSR DSS DTFN DTRA DTRO DU DUNCAN CAMERON DVC DY EAC EAD EADI EADM EAG EAGER EAGR EAI EAIC EAID EAIDB EAIDCIN EAIDEGZ EAIDMG EAIDNI EAIF EAIG EAIO EAIR EAIS EAIT EAOD EAP EAPC EAR EARI EASS EATO EAUD EAVI EB EBEXP EBRD EBUD EC ECA ECCP ECCT ECE ECHEVARRIA ECIN ECIP ECLAC ECN ECOIN ECOM ECON ECONCS ECONEGE ECONOMIC ECONOMICS ECONOMY ECONOMY AND FINANCE ECOR ECOS ECOSOC ECOWAS ECPC ECPN ECPO ECPS ECPSN ECRM ECTRD ECUN ED EDA EDEV EDRC EDU EDUARDO EDUC EE EEB EEC EENG EENV EEOC EET EETC EFI EFIC EFIM EFIN EFIS EFLU EFN EFND EFNI EFQ EFTA EG EGAD EGAR EGEN EGHG EGOV EGOVSY EH EI EIAD EIAID EIAR EIB EICN EID EIDE EIDN EIFN EIN EIND EINDIR EINF EING EINN EINO EINR EINT EINV EINZ EIPR EIQ EISL EISNLN EITC EITI EIVN EK EL ELA ELAB ELAD ELAINE ELAM ELAN ELAP ELB ELBA ELBR ELEC ELECTIONS ELF ELIN ELN ELND ELNT ELTD ELTM ELTN ELTRN EMAIL EMED EMI EMIN EMN EMS EMW EN END ENDURING ENEG ENER ENERG ENERGY ENFR ENG ENGR ENGRD ENGRG ENGY ENIV ENLT ENNP ENR ENRC ENRG ENRL ENTG ENV ENVI ENVIRONMENT ENVR ENVT EON EOXC EP EPA EPAT EPCS EPE EPEC EPECO EPET EPIN EPIT EPPD EPRT EPSC EPTE EPTED EPWR EQ EQRD ER ERA ERD EREL ERGR ERICKSON ERIN ERTD ES ESA ESCAP ESCI ESDP ESENV ESF ESLCO ESOC ESOCI ESPS ESS ESSO ESTH ESTN ESTRADA ET ETA ETAD ETC ETCC ETD ETDR ETEL ETER ETEX ETFN ETIC ETIO ETLN ETMIN ETR ETRA ETRAD ETRB ETRC ETRD ETRDECD ETRG ETRK ETRN ETRO ETRP ETT ETTC ETTD ETTF ETTN ETTR ETTRD ETTW ETZ EU EUC EUCOM EUE EUEAID EUFOR EUM EUMEM EUN EUR EUREM EURM EURN EV EVENTS EVN EWRG EWT EWTR EWWT EX EXBS EXEC EXIM EXO EXPORT EXTERNAL EZ FA FAA FAC FAGR FAO FARC FARM FAS FATAH FBI FCC FCS FCSC FCSCEG FCUL FDA FDIC FEDULOV FEMA FERNANDO FGM FI FIGUEROA FIN FINANCE FINE FINR FINREF FINV FIR FISO FJ FK FKFLO FKLU FLU FM FMC FMGT FMLN FMS FO FOI FOOKS FOR FORCE FORCES FOREIGN FORWHA FP FPC FR FRA FRANCIS FRANCISCO RODENAS RUIZ FRANCISCO VILLA URBALEJO FRAZER FRB FREDOM FREEDOM FRELIMO FRIED FRN FRU FSC FSI FT FTA FTAA FWS GA GAERC GAMES GANGS GAO GARCIA GASPAR GATES GATT GAZA GAZPROM GB GBSLE GC GCC GCCC GE GEF GEORGE GERARD GESKE GF GG GH GI GIPNC GIWI GJ GKGIC GL GLOBAL GM GN GO GOG GOI GOMEZ GON GOVPOI GPGOV GPI GPOI GPOV GR GREGG RENE WALTER GRQ GS GT GTIP GTMO GTREFTEL GU GUAM GUANTANAMO GUIDANCE GUILLERMO GUTIERREZ GV GWI GY GZ GZIS HA HAMID KARZAI HARRIET HARRY HAWZ HCOPIL HDP HE HEAVEN HEBRON HECTOR HELGERSON HERCEGOVINA HG HHS HI HIGHLIGHTS HIJAZI HILARY HILLARY HILLEN HIPC HIV HIZ HK HKSX HL HLSX HN HNCHR HO HOA HOSTAGES HPKO HR HRC HRCS HRICTY HRIGHTS HRKSTC HSI HSTC HSWG HT HTCG HTSC HU HUD HUM HUMAN HUMANITARIAN HUMANR HUMANRIGHTS HUMOR HUMRIT HUNRC HURI HURRICANE HYDE HYLAND HYMPSK HZ IA IACHR IACI IACO IACW IADB IAEA IAES IAHRC IAIE IAII IASA IATTC IAZ IBB IBD IBET IBPCA IBRB IBRD IC ICAC ICAO ICC ICCAT ICCROM ICES ICJ ICRC ICRS ICSCA ICTR ICTY ID IDA IDB IDLI IDLO IDP IDR IE IEA IEAB IEF IF IFAD IFC IFIN IFM IFO IFR IFRC IG IGAD IGF IHO IICA IINS IIP IK IL ILAB ILC ILEA ILO IMC IMET IMF IMMIGRATION IMO IMSO IMTS IN INAUGURATION INCB IND INDO INF INFLUENZA INL INMARSAT INNP INPFC INR INRA INRB INRD INRO INRPAZ INS INSC INT INTEL INTELLECTUAL INTELSAT INTERNAL INTERPOL INV INVI IO IOC IOM IP IPET IPGRI IPK IPPC IPR IPROP IQ IQNV IR IRAN IRAQ IRAQI IRAQI FREEDOM IRC IRCE IRDB IRE IRL IRLE IRM IRMO IRNB IRPE IRQEGION IRS IS ISA ISAAC ISAF ISCA ISCON ISLAMISTS ISLE ISN ISNV ISO ISPA ISPL ISRAEL ISRAEL RELATIONS ISRAELI ISRAELI PALESTINIAN AFFAIRS ISSUES ISTC IT ITA ITALIAN ITALY ITECIP ITEIND ITELTN ITER ITF ITIA ITRA ITRD ITU IUCN IV IVIANNA IWC IWI IX IZ IZAORC JA JABER JAM JAMES JAPAN JAT JAWAD JCIC JE JEAN-PIERRE BEMBA JEFFERY JEFFREY JENDAYI JHR JI JIMENEZ JIMENEZ CHILDREN JK JKUS JM JN JO JOHANNS JOHN JOHN BOEHNER JOHNNIE JONATHAN CHAMAN JOSE ANGEL ALZUGUREN PERURENA JOSE NEY MILA ESPINOSA JOSE RAMOS HORTA JOSEPH BIDEN JP JS JSRP JUAN JULIAN RENE KIRCHOFF JUS JY KA KACP KACT KACW KADM KAID KALM KALR KANSOU KAPO KARIM WADE KATRINA KAUST KAWC KAWK KAWL KAWS KAWX KAYLA KBCT KBDS KBEM KBIO KBNC KBTC KBTR KBTS KBWG KCCP KCEM KCERS KCFC KCFE KCGC KCHG KCIP KCIS KCM KCMA KCMR KCOG KCOM KCOR KCPS KCRCM KCRI KCRIM KCRM KCRN KCRO KCROM KCROR KCRP KCRS KCRT KCSA KCSI KCSY KCUL KCUM KCVM KCWI KDCM KDDEM KDDG KDE KDEM KDEN KDET KDEV KDGOV KDGR KDHS KDM KDMR KDP KDRG KDRL KDTB KDUM KE KEAI KEANE KEBG KECF KEDEM KEDM KEDU KEIM KEM KEMPI KEMR KEMS KEN KENV KERF KERG KESO KESP KESS KEVIN KFAM KFCE KFE KFEM KFGM KFIN KFIU KFLD KFLO KFLU KFOR KFPC KFRD KFRP KFSC KFTFN KFTN KG KGCC KGCN KGHA KGHG KGIC KGICKS KGIT KGIV KGKG KGLB KGOR KGOV KH KHDP KHGH KHIB KHIV KHJUS KHLS KHMN KHOURY KHPD KHSA KHSL KHUM KI KIBL KICA KICC KICCPUR KICR KICT KID KIDE KIF KIFR KIIC KIIP KIL KILS KIMMITT KIMT KIND KINF KINL KINP KINR KINT KIPR KIPT KIRC KIRD KIRF KIRL KIRP KIS KISC KISK KISL KISM KISR KITA KIVP KIVR KJAN KJRE KJU KJUS KJUST KJWC KK KKIV KKNP KKOR KKPO KLAB KLAP KLBO KLEG KLFLO KLFU KLHS KLIG KLIP KLPM KLSO KLTN KM KMAC KMAR KMCA KMCC KMCR KMDR KMEPI KMFO KMGT KMIG KMNP KMOC KMPF KMPI KMPIO KMPL KMPP KMPT KMRD KMRS KMSG KMVP KMWN KN KNAO KNAP KNAR KNDP KNEI KNEP KNET KNMP KNN KNNA KNNB KNNC KNNF KNNO KNNP KNNR KNOP KNP KNPP KNPPIS KNPR KNPT KNRG KNRV KNSD KNUC KNUP KO KOC KOCI KOCM KOEM KOGL KOLY KOM KOMC KOMCCO KOMCSG KOMH KOMO KOMS KOR KOSOVO KOUYATE KPA KPAD KPAI KPAK KPAL KPALAOIS KPAM KPAO KPAS KPBT KPDD KPEM KPEO KPER KPET KPIN KPIR KPKO KPKP KPLS KPMI KPMO KPO KPOA KPOKO KPOL KPOP KPOV KPOW KPPAO KPPD KPRD KPRM KPRO KPROG KPRP KPRV KPSC KPTD KPTS KPWG KPWR KQ KQM KQRDQ KR KRAD KRAL KRCIM KRCM KRCS KRD KRDP KREC KREF KREISLER KREL KRF KRFD KRFR KRG KRGY KRIC KRIF KRIM KRKO KRM KRMS KRV KRVC KS KSA KSAC KSAF KSCA KSCI KSCS KSCT KSEAO KSEC KSEI KSEO KSEP KSI KSIA KSKN KSLG KSMT KSOC KSOCI KSPA KSPR KSRE KSTC KSTCC KSTCPL KSTH KSTS KSTT KSUM KSUP KT KTAO KTBD KTBT KTCRE KTDB KTDD KTDM KTER KTEX KTFIN KTFM KTFN KTFR KTFS KTIA KTIP KTLA KTNBT KTNF KTPN KTRD KTRF KTSC KTSD KTTB KTTC KTTP KU KUAE KUIR KUM KUNA KUNC KUNH KUNP KUNR KUS KUWAIT KV KVBL KVIP KVIR KVIS KVPR KVRC KVRP KW KWAC KWAK KWAWC KWBC KWBG KWBW KWCI KWCR KWGB KWHG KWIC KWIM KWIR KWKN KWM KWMJN KWMM KWMN KWN KWNM KWNN KWOMN KWPA KWPB KWPG KWPR KWRC KWRF KWRG KWUN KWWT KWWW KX KY KZ LA LAB LABOR LANSANA LANTERN LARREA LARS LAS LAURA LAVIN LAW LB LBAR LBY LE LEAGUE LEB LEBIK LEGAT LEGATT LEIS LEON LEVINE LEW LG LGAT LH LI LIB LICC LIMA LINE LK LMS LN LO LOG LOPEZ LORAN LOTT LOVE LR LS LT LTG LTTE LU LV LVPR LY LZ MA MAAR MACEDONIA MACP MANUEL MANUEL SERGIO GONZALEZ MAP MAPP MAPS MAR MARAD MARANTIS MARIA MARIE MARINO MARITIME MARK MARQUEZ MARR MARS MARTIN MARV MAS MASC MASS MATT MAYA MB MBM MC MCA MCAP MCAPARR MCAPN MCAPP MCAPS MCAT MCC MCCAIN MCCONNELL MCCP MCGRAW MCRM MCTRE MD MDA MDC MDO ME MEA MED MEDIA MEETINGS MENDIETA MEP MEPI MEPN MEPP MERCOSUR MESUR MEX MF MFA MFO MG MGL MGMT MGOV MGT MGTA MH MHUC MI MIAH MIC MICHAEL MICHEL MIGUEL FELIPE CANAHUATI YACAMAN MIGUEL VARGAS MALDONADO MIK MIKE MIL MILI MILITANTS MILITARY MILLENNIUM MINURSO MINUSTAH MITCHELL MJ MK ML MLS MMAR MMED MN MNLF MNNC MNNUC MNU MNUC MNUCH MNUCWA MNUM MNUN MNUR MNUS MNVC MO MOHAMAD MOHAMED HESHAM ELDIN YOUSSEF MOHAMMAD MOLINA MONTENEGRO MONUC MONY MOOPS MOP MOPP MOPPS MOPS MORALES MORG MOROCCO MORS MOS MOTO MOTT MP MPOL MPOS MPP MPS MQADHAFI MR MRCRE MRRR MRS MRSEC MS MSG MSIG MT MTAA MTAG MTCAE MTCR MTCRA MTCRE MTRCE MTRE MTRRE MTS MU MUC MUCN MUKASEY MULLEN MUNC MURAD MURRAY MV MW MX MY MZ NA NAC NACB NADIA NAFTA NAM NAMSA NANCY NAR NARC NARCOTICS NARR NAS NASA NAT NATEU NATGAS NATIONAL NATO NATOAFGHAN NATOBALKANS NATOIRAQ NATOOPS NATOPOLICY NATSIOS NAVO NB NBTS NBU NC NCCC NCD NCT NCTC NDI NDP NE NEA NEC NEGROPONTE NEI NELSON NEPAD NERG NET NEW NFATC NFMS NFSO NG NGO NGUYEN NH NI NICHOLAS NICOLE NIH NIPP NK NKWG NL NLD NLIAEA NLO NMFS NMNUC NMUC NNPT NO NOAA NOI NOK NON NONE NORAD NOTAG NOVO NP NPA NPG NPT NR NRC NRG NRR NRRC NS NSC NSF NSFO NSG NSSP NT NTDB NTSB NTTC NU NUC NUIN NV NW NZ NZUS OA OAO OARC OAS OASC OASCC OASS OAU OBAMA OBS OBSP OCBD OCEA OCED OCHA OCII OCRA OCS OCSE ODAG ODC ODIP ODPC OECD OECS OECV OES OESC OEXC OEXP OF OFDA OFDC OFDP OFDPQIS OFFICIALS OFPD OFSO OGAC OGIV OHCHR OHI OHIP OI OIC OICCO OIE OIF OIG OIIP OIL OIM OLY OLYAIR OLYMPICS OM OMAR OMB OMIG OMS ON ONA OPAD OPBAT OPC OPCD OPCR OPCW OPDAT OPDC OPDP OPEC OPET OPIC OPID OPOC OPPC OPRC OPREC OPREP OPS OPSC OPVIP ORA ORC ORCA ORECD ORED OREG OREP ORGANIZED ORP ORTA ORUE OSAC OSCE OSCI OSD OSEC OSHA OSIC OSTA OSTRA OTA OTAR OTHER OTHERSASNEEDED OTP OTR OTRA OTRABL OTRAO OTRAZ OTRC OTRD OUALI OVIP OVP OXEC OXEM OZ PA PAARM PAC PACE PAGE PAGR PAHO PAIGH PAK PAL PALESTINIAN PAMQ PAN PANAM PAO PAR PARALYMPIC PARCA PAREL PARK PARLIAMENT PARM PARMS PARN PARP PARR PARTIES PARTM PARTY PAS PASS PATRICK WARREN MAHURIN PATTY PAUL PAUM PB PBGT PBIO PBK PBOV PBPTS PBS PBST PBT PBTS PCI PCON PCOR PCRM PCUL PD PDA PDD PDEM PDIP PDOV PDRG PE PEACE PEACEKEEPINGFORCES PEDRO PEL PELOSI PEMEX PENA PENV PEPFAR PEPR PER PEREZ PERL PERM PERSONS PET PETER PETERS PETR PETRAEUS PETROL PF PFIN PFLP PFOR PFOV PG PGGOC PGIC PGIV PGKV PGO PGOC PGOF PGOG PGON PGOR PGOT PGOV PGOVE PGOVQL PGPV PGREL PGREV PGV PH PHALANAGE PHARM PHAS PHEM PHIM PHM PHSA PHU PHUH PHUM PHUMHUPPS PHUN PHUS PHYTRP PI PIA PICES PIF PIN PINB PIND PINER PINF PING PINL PINO PINOCHET PINR PINS PINT PINV PIR PIRF PIRN PJUS PK PKAO PKBL PKFK PKISL PKK PKMN PKNP PKO PKPA PKPAL PKPO PKPRP PKST PL PLAB PLAN PLEC PLN PLO PLUM PM PMAR PMAT PMDL PMIG PMIL PMIN PMR PMUC PN PNAT PNET PNG PNIR PNNL PNR PNRG PNS PNUC PNUK PNUM PO PODC POG POGV POINS POL POLG POLI POLICY POLINT POLITICAL POLITICS POLM POLMIL POLS POLUN POREL PORG POSTS POTUS POUS POV POWELL PP PPA PPAO PPD PPEF PPEL PPKO PPOL PQL PQM PRC PRE PREC PRED PREF PREG PREJ PREK PREL PRELEVU PRELM PRELPLS PRELTBIOBA PREM PREO PREP PRER PRES PRESIDENT PRESL PREV PREZ PRF PRFE PRFL PRGO PRGOV PRIL PRIVATIZATION PRL PRLE PRM PRO PROB PROCESS PROG PROL PROLIFERATION PROP PROPERTY PROTECTION PROTESTS PROV PROVE PRT PRTER PRWL PS PSA PSCE PSEC PSEPC PSHA PSI PSNR PSO PSOC PSOCI PSOE PT PTBS PTE PTEL PTEP PTER PTGOV PTIA PTR PTRD PU PUAS PUBLIC PUNE PUNR PUOS PV PVIP PVOV PVPR PVTS PWBG PWMN PY QA QADRI QEL QI QIZ QM QT QU QUAN QUOC RA RAED RAFAEL RAID RAMON RAMONTEIJELO RAS RATIFICATION RAY GUEVARA MILTON RBI RCA RCMP RE REA REACTION REALTIONS RECIN REF REFORM REFPAN REFUGEE REFUGEES REGION REGIONAL REID REIN REINEMEYER REL RELAM RELATIONS RELFREE RELIGIOUS REMON RENAMO RENE PREVAL REO REPORT REUBEN RF RFE RFIN RFREEDOM RGOV RGY RHUM RI RICE RICHARD RIGHTS RIGHTSPOLMIL RIMC RIVERA RL RLA RM RMA RO ROBERT ROBERT JOSEPH RODHAM RODRIGUEZ ROK ROME ROOD ROSS ROW ROY RP RPEL RPTS RQ RR RRB RREL RS RSO RSOX RSP RSZ RTT RU RUEHZO RV RW RWANDA SA SAAD SAARC SABAH SACU SADC SAFE SAIR SAIS SALOPEK SAMA SAN SANC SANR SAO SARB SARGSIAN SARS SASC SASEC SASIAIN SB SBA SC SCA SCCC SCE SCENESETTER SCHUL SCI SCIENCE SCNV SCOI SCOL SCOM SCPR SCRM SCRS SCRSERD SCUL SCVL SD SE SEC SECDEF SECI SECRET SECRETARY SECSTATE SECTOR SECURITY SEMAAN GABY EID SEN SENC SENG SENS SENU SENV SENVQGR SENVSPL SENVSXE SEP SERBIA SERZH SETTLEMENTS SEVN SEXP SF SFNV SG SGNV SGWI SH SHANNON SHI SHUM SI SILVASANDE SIMS SIPDI SIPDIS SIPR SIPRNET SIPRS SIUK SK SKCA SKEP SKI SKSAF SL SLM SLOVAK SM SMAR SMI SMIG SMIL SMIT SMITH SMRT SN SNA SNAP SNAR SNUC SO SOC SOCI SOCIA SOCIETY SOCIO SOCIS SOCISZX SOCR SOCY SOE SOFA SOI SOIC SOLI SOLIC SOM SOMALIA SOPN SORT SOSI SOVIET SOWGC SP SPAS SPC SPCE SPCVIS SPECI SPECIALIST SPILL SPP SPSTATE SR SREF SRIT SRS SRYI SSA SSH ST STAG START STATE STC STEINBERG STEPHEN HADLEY STET STP STR STUDENT SU SUCCESSION SUFFRAGE SULLIVAN SUMMIT SUR SUSAN SV SW SWHO SWMN SX SXG SY SYAI SYMBOL SYR SYRIA SYSI SYTH SZ TA TAGS TALAL TAUSCHER TAX TB TBI TBID TBIO TBIOZK TBKIO TBO TC TCOR TCSENV TD TDA TE TECH TECHNOLOGY TER TERAA TERFIN TERR TERROR TERRORISM TF TFIN TG TGRY TH THANH THE THERESE THIRDTERM THKSJA THOMAS THOMAS THOMMA THPY TI TIA TIBO TIFA TINT TIO TIP TITI TIUZ TJ TK TL TM TN TNDG TNGD TO TOPEC TORRIJOS TOURISM TP TPHY TPKO TPP TPSA TPSL TR TRAD TRADE TRAFFICKING TRBIO TRBY TRD TREAS TREASURY TREATY TREL TRG TRGV TRGY TRIO TRSY TRT TRV TRY TRYG TRYS TS TSA TSLP TSPA TSPL TSRL TSRY TSY TT TTFN TU TURKEY TV TVBIO TW TWRO TX TY TZ TZBY UA UAE UAID UAM UB UDEM UE UEU UG UGA UK UKR UKRAINE UM UMIK UN UNA UNAF UNAIDS UNAMA UNAMSIL UNAORC UNAUS UNBRO UNC UNCC UNCDF UNCDN UNCHC UNCHR UNCHS UNCITRAL UNCND UNCOPUOS UNCRED UNCRIME UNCSD UNCSW UNCTAD UNDC UNDEF UNDOF UNDP UNECE UNEF UNEP UNESCO UNFA UNFC UNFCYP UNFF UNFICYP UNFIYCP UNFPA UNGA UNGAPL UNGO UNHCR UNHRC UNICEF UNIDCP UNIDO UNIDROIT UNIFEM UNIFIL UNION UNKIK UNM UNMEE UNMIC UNMIK UNMIKI UNMIKV UNMIL UNMIN UNMOVIC UNO UNODC UNOMIG UNOPS UNP UNPAR UNPUOS UNRCCA UNRCR UNREST UNRWA UNSC UNSCAPU UNSCD UNSCE UNSCER UNSCR UNSCS UNSD UNSE UNTAC UNTERR UNTZ UNUS UNVIE UNYI UP UPU UPUO UR US USAID USAU USCC USCG USDA USDELFESTTWO USEU USG USGS USMS USNC USOAS USOP USPS USPTO USSC USTA USTDA USTR USTRD USTRIT USTRPS USTRUWR USUN UUNR UV UX UY UZ VA VANESSA VANG VAT VC VE VELS VEN VENZ VETTING VI VINICIO VIP VIS VISAS VISIT VM VN VO VOA VT VTEG VTFR VTIS VTPREL VTTBIO VTWCAR VXY VY VZ WA WAEMU WAKI WAR WARD WB WBEG WBG WCAR WCI WCL WCO WE WEBG WEBZ WEET WEF WEOG WET WEU WFA WFP WFPAORC WFPO WGC WGG WHA WHITMER WHO WHTI WI WILCOX WILLIAM WIPO WIR WITH WJRO WM WMD WMDT WMN WMO WOMEN WPO WRTO WS WSIS WTO WTRD WTRO WTRQ WW WWARD WWBG WWT WZ XA XAAF XB XC XD XE XF XFNEA XG XH XI XJ XK XL XLUM XM XO XP XQ XR XS XT XTAG XU XV XW XX XXX XY XZ YE YEH YI YL YM YMCS YS YU YURIY ZA ZANU ZB ZC ZCTU ZEALAND ZF ZFR ZH ZI ZIM ZJ ZK ZKGM ZL ZM ZN ZO ZOELLICK ZP ZR ZS ZT ZU ZW ZXA
AA AADP AALC ABDALLAH FETHI ABDULHADI ABDULRAHMEN ABER ABLD ABLDG ABLG ABMC ABT ABUD AC ACABQ ACAO ACBAQ ACCELERATED ACCOUNT ACDA ACEC ACKM ACOA ACOTA ACS ACTION ADANA ADB ADCO ADCP ADEL ADEP ADIP ADM ADMIRAL ADPM ADRC AE AEC AECL AEGR AEIR AEM AEMED AEMR AER AESC AF AFAF AL HOURANI AFARI AFDB AFDIN AFFAIRS AFGHAN AFGHANISTAN AFIN AFL AFLU AFOR AFR AFSA AFSI AFSN AFU AFZAL AG AGAO AGENCIES AGENDA AGENGA AGIT AGMT AGOA AGR AGRI AGRIC AGRICULTURE AGS AGUILAR AGUIRRE AHMED AI AIAG AID AIDAC AIDS AIEA AIHRC AIN AINF AINFCY AINR AINT AISG AIT AJ AK AL ALAB ALAMI ALANAZI ALBE ALEXANDER ALI ALIREZA ALJAZEERA ALL ALNEA ALOUNI ALOW ALOWAR ALVAREZ AM AMAT AMB AMBASSADOR AMCHAM AMCHAMS AMCT AME AMED AMEDI AMEMR AMER AMERICAS AMEX AMG AMGE AMGMT AMGT AMIA AMLB AMPR AMT AMTC AMTG AN ANARCHISTS ANC AND ANDREW LEE WATKINS ANET ANTITERRORISM ANTOINE GHONDA ANTONIO ANTXON AO AOCR AODE AOIC AOMS AOPR AORC AORD AOREC AORG AORL AOWC AP APCS APDC APEC APECO APER APR APRC APRM AQ AR ARAB ARABBL ARABL ARABLEAGUE ARAS ARC ARCH ARENA AREP ARF ARG ARM ARMITAGE ARMS ARNOLD FREDERICK MORRIS AROC ARR ARRMZY ARSO AS ASA ASAC ASC ASCC ASCE ASCEC ASCH ASE ASEAN ASEC ASECARP ASECE ASECM ASECSI ASECVE ASED ASEDC ASEG ASEK ASES ASEX ASFC ASIC ASIG ASIR ASJA ASO ASOC ASPA ASR ASSEMBLY ASSK ASSSEMBLY ASUP AT ATFN ATPDEA ATRA ATRD ATRN AU AU-1 AUC AUNR AUSGR AUSTRALIAGROUP AV AVERY AVIAN AVIANFLU AVIATION AW AX AY AZ AZE B. BA BAGHDAD BAIO BAKOYANNIS BALKANS BAPOL BARACK BASHAR BATA BAYS BB BBG BBSR BC BCW BCXP BD BE BEAN BELLVIEW BEN BERARDUCCI BESP BEXB BEXP BEXPC BEXPPLM BEXT BF BFIF BFIN BFIO BG BGD BGMT BH BHUM BI BIC BIDOON BIH BILAT BIMSTEC BINR BIO BIOS BIOTECH BIOTECHNOLOGY BIT BITO BK BL BLR BLUE BLUNT BM BMENA BMGT BMOT BN BNUC BO BOIKO BOL BOND BOQ BORDER BOSNIA BOU BOUCHAIB KAKA BOUTERSE BP BPIS BPTS BR BRIAN BRITNEY BRITNY BRPA BRUSSELS BS BSSR BT BTA BTC BTIO BTIU BTRA BTT BU BUD BULGARIA BURMA BURNS BUSH BUY AMERICA BV BW BWC BX BXEP BY BZ CA CAC CACM CACS CAFTA CAIO CAJC CAMBODIA CAN CAPC CARC CARE CARIB CARICOM CARSON CAS CASA CASC CASCC CASCR CASE CASTILLO CAVO CB CBC CBD CBE CBG CBIS CBM CBSA CBTH CBW CCSR CCY CD CDB CDC CDCC CDCE CDG CDI CE CEA CEC CEDAW CEN CENSUS CENTCOM CENTRIC CEUDA CF CFE CFED CFG CFIS CFSP CG CGEN CGOPRC CH CHAD CHALLENGE CHAO CHAVEZ CHELIDZE CHENEY CHERTOFF CHG CHIEF CHN CHR CHR-1 CHRISTIAN CHRISTOF CHRISTOPHER CI CIA CIAT CIC CICTE CIDA CIO CIP CIS CITEL CITES CITIBANK CITT CIVAIR CIVS CJ CJAN CJUS CK CKGR CKOR CL CLEARANCE CLINTON CLMT CLO CLOK CM CMAE CMFT CMGT CMP CMT CN CNAR CNARC CNC CNO CO CODEL COE COL COLIN COLLECTIVE COLOMBO COM COMESA COMMERCE CON CONAWAY CONDOLEEZZA CONDOLEEZZA RICE CONEAZ CONG CONGO CONGRINT CONS CONSULAR CONTROL CONTROLS CORRUPTION COSI COUNTER COUNTER TERRORISM COUNTERTERRORISM COUNTRY COUNTRYCLEARANCE CP CPA CPAS CPC CPCTC CPPT CPUOS CQ CR CRIM CRIME CRIMES CRISTINA CRM CROATIA CROS CRS CRUZ CS CSCE CSEP CSIS CSW CT CTBT CTER CTERR CTM CTR CTRYCLR CU CUCO CUIS CUL CUSTODIO CV CVIA CVIC CVIS CVISU CVPR CVR CW CWC CWCM CWG CX CY CYNTHIA CYP CYPRUSARMS CZ DA DAC DAFR DAN DANFUNG DANIEL DAO DARFR DARFUR DAVID DAVID LEE HOWES DAVID WELCH DAVID WILLIAM RAY DB DC DCDG DCG DCHA DCI DCM DCOM DCRM DE DEA DEAX DEFENSE DEFENSEREFORM DELTAVIOLENCE DEM DEMARCHE DEMARCHES DEMETRIOS DEMOCRATIC DENNIS DEOC DEPORTATION DEPT DEPT FOR DS COMMAND CENTER DESI DHA DHLAKAMA DHLS DHRF DHS DHSX DIEZ DIPLOMACY DISENGAGEMENT DJ DK DKEM DMIN DMINE DO DOC DOD DOE DOJ DOMC DOMESTIC DOMESTICPOLITICS DONALD RUMSFELD DOT DPAO DPKO DPM DPOL DPRK DR DRC DRIP DRL DS DSR DSS DTFN DTRA DTRO DU DUNCAN CAMERON DVC DY EAC EAD EADI EADM EAG EAGER EAGR EAI EAIC EAID EAIDB EAIDCIN EAIDEGZ EAIDMG EAIDNI EAIF EAIG EAIO EAIR EAIS EAIT EAOD EAP EAPC EAR EARI EASS EATO EAUD EAVI EB EBEXP EBRD EBUD EC ECA ECCP ECCT ECE ECHEVARRIA ECIN ECIP ECLAC ECN ECOIN ECOM ECON ECONCS ECONEGE ECONOMIC ECONOMICS ECONOMY ECONOMY AND FINANCE ECOR ECOS ECOSOC ECOWAS ECPC ECPN ECPO ECPS ECPSN ECRM ECTRD ECUN ED EDA EDEV EDRC EDU EDUARDO EDUC EE EEB EEC EENG EENV EEOC EET EETC EFI EFIC EFIM EFIN EFIS EFLU EFN EFND EFNI EFQ EFTA EG EGAD EGAR EGEN EGHG EGOV EGOVSY EH EI EIAD EIAID EIAR EIB EICN EID EIDE EIDN EIFN EIN EIND EINDIR EINF EING EINN EINO EINR EINT EINV EINZ EIPR EIQ EISL EISNLN EITC EITI EIVN EK EL ELA ELAB ELAD ELAINE ELAM ELAN ELAP ELB ELBA ELBR ELEC ELECTIONS ELF ELIN ELN ELND ELNT ELTD ELTM ELTN ELTRN EMAIL EMED EMI EMIN EMN EMS EMW EN END ENDURING ENEG ENER ENERG ENERGY ENFR ENG ENGR ENGRD ENGRG ENGY ENIV ENLT ENNP ENR ENRC ENRG ENRL ENTG ENV ENVI ENVIRONMENT ENVR ENVT EON EOXC EP EPA EPAT EPCS EPE EPEC EPECO EPET EPIN EPIT EPPD EPRT EPSC EPTE EPTED EPWR EQ EQRD ER ERA ERD EREL ERGR ERICKSON ERIN ERTD ES ESA ESCAP ESCI ESDP ESENV ESF ESLCO ESOC ESOCI ESPS ESS ESSO ESTH ESTN ESTRADA ET ETA ETAD ETC ETCC ETD ETDR ETEL ETER ETEX ETFN ETIC ETIO ETLN ETMIN ETR ETRA ETRAD ETRB ETRC ETRD ETRDECD ETRG ETRK ETRN ETRO ETRP ETT ETTC ETTD ETTF ETTN ETTR ETTRD ETTW ETZ EU EUC EUCOM EUE EUEAID EUFOR EUM EUMEM EUN EUR EUREM EURM EURN EV EVENTS EVN EWRG EWT EWTR EWWT EX EXBS EXEC EXIM EXO EXPORT EXTERNAL EZ FA FAA FAC FAGR FAO FARC FARM FAS FATAH FBI FCC FCS FCSC FCSCEG FCUL FDA FDIC FEDULOV FEMA FERNANDO FGM FI FIGUEROA FIN FINANCE FINE FINR FINREF FINV FIR FISO FJ FK FKFLO FKLU FLU FM FMC FMGT FMLN FMS FO FOI FOOKS FOR FORCE FORCES FOREIGN FORWHA FP FPC FR FRA FRANCIS FRANCISCO RODENAS RUIZ FRANCISCO VILLA URBALEJO FRAZER FRB FREDOM FREEDOM FRELIMO FRIED FRN FRU FSC FSI FT FTA FTAA FWS GA GAERC GAMES GANGS GAO GARCIA GASPAR GATES GATT GAZA GAZPROM GB GBSLE GC GCC GCCC GE GEF GEORGE GERARD GESKE GF GG GH GI GIPNC GIWI GJ GKGIC GL GLOBAL GM GN GO GOG GOI GOMEZ GON GOVPOI GPGOV GPI GPOI GPOV GR GREGG RENE WALTER GRQ GS GT GTIP GTMO GTREFTEL GU GUAM GUANTANAMO GUIDANCE GUILLERMO GUTIERREZ GV GWI GY GZ GZIS HA HAMID KARZAI HARRIET HARRY HAWZ HCOPIL HDP HE HEAVEN HEBRON HECTOR HELGERSON HERCEGOVINA HG HHS HI HIGHLIGHTS HIJAZI HILARY HILLARY HILLEN HIPC HIV HIZ HK HKSX HL HLSX HN HNCHR HO HOA HOSTAGES HPKO HR HRC HRCS HRICTY HRIGHTS HRKSTC HSI HSTC HSWG HT HTCG HTSC HU HUD HUM HUMAN HUMANITARIAN HUMANR HUMANRIGHTS HUMOR HUMRIT HUNRC HURI HURRICANE HYDE HYLAND HYMPSK HZ IA IACHR IACI IACO IACW IADB IAEA IAES IAHRC IAIE IAII IASA IATTC IAZ IBB IBD IBET IBPCA IBRB IBRD IC ICAC ICAO ICC ICCAT ICCROM ICES ICJ ICRC ICRS ICSCA ICTR ICTY ID IDA IDB IDLI IDLO IDP IDR IE IEA IEAB IEF IF IFAD IFC IFIN IFM IFO IFR IFRC IG IGAD IGF IHO IICA IINS IIP IK IL ILAB ILC ILEA ILO IMC IMET IMF IMMIGRATION IMO IMSO IMTS IN INAUGURATION INCB IND INDO INF INFLUENZA INL INMARSAT INNP INPFC INR INRA INRB INRD INRO INRPAZ INS INSC INT INTEL INTELLECTUAL INTELSAT INTERNAL INTERPOL INV INVI IO IOC IOM IP IPET IPGRI IPK IPPC IPR IPROP IQ IQNV IR IRAN IRAQ IRAQI IRAQI FREEDOM IRC IRCE IRDB IRE IRL IRLE IRM IRMO IRNB IRPE IRQEGION IRS IS ISA ISAAC ISAF ISCA ISCON ISLAMISTS ISLE ISN ISNV ISO ISPA ISPL ISRAEL ISRAEL RELATIONS ISRAELI ISRAELI PALESTINIAN AFFAIRS ISSUES ISTC IT ITA ITALIAN ITALY ITECIP ITEIND ITELTN ITER ITF ITIA ITRA ITRD ITU IUCN IV IVIANNA IWC IWI IX IZ IZAORC JA JABER JAM JAMES JAPAN JAT JAWAD JCIC JE JEAN-PIERRE BEMBA JEFFERY JEFFREY JENDAYI JHR JI JIMENEZ JIMENEZ CHILDREN JK JKUS JM JN JO JOHANNS JOHN JOHN BOEHNER JOHNNIE JONATHAN CHAMAN JOSE ANGEL ALZUGUREN PERURENA JOSE NEY MILA ESPINOSA JOSE RAMOS HORTA JOSEPH BIDEN JP JS JSRP JUAN JULIAN RENE KIRCHOFF JUS JY KA KACP KACT KACW KADM KAID KALM KALR KANSOU KAPO KARIM WADE KATRINA KAUST KAWC KAWK KAWL KAWS KAWX KAYLA KBCT KBDS KBEM KBIO KBNC KBTC KBTR KBTS KBWG KCCP KCEM KCERS KCFC KCFE KCGC KCHG KCIP KCIS KCM KCMA KCMR KCOG KCOM KCOR KCPS KCRCM KCRI KCRIM KCRM KCRN KCRO KCROM KCROR KCRP KCRS KCRT KCSA KCSI KCSY KCUL KCUM KCVM KCWI KDCM KDDEM KDDG KDE KDEM KDEN KDET KDEV KDGOV KDGR KDHS KDM KDMR KDP KDRG KDRL KDTB KDUM KE KEAI KEANE KEBG KECF KEDEM KEDM KEDU KEIM KEM KEMPI KEMR KEMS KEN KENV KERF KERG KESO KESP KESS KEVIN KFAM KFCE KFE KFEM KFGM KFIN KFIU KFLD KFLO KFLU KFOR KFPC KFRD KFRP KFSC KFTFN KFTN KG KGCC KGCN KGHA KGHG KGIC KGICKS KGIT KGIV KGKG KGLB KGOR KGOV KH KHDP KHGH KHIB KHIV KHJUS KHLS KHMN KHOURY KHPD KHSA KHSL KHUM KI KIBL KICA KICC KICCPUR KICR KICT KID KIDE KIF KIFR KIIC KIIP KIL KILS KIMMITT KIMT KIND KINF KINL KINP KINR KINT KIPR KIPT KIRC KIRD KIRF KIRL KIRP KIS KISC KISK KISL KISM KISR KITA KIVP KIVR KJAN KJRE KJU KJUS KJUST KJWC KK KKIV KKNP KKOR KKPO KLAB KLAP KLBO KLEG KLFLO KLFU KLHS KLIG KLIP KLPM KLSO KLTN KM KMAC KMAR KMCA KMCC KMCR KMDR KMEPI KMFO KMGT KMIG KMNP KMOC KMPF KMPI KMPIO KMPL KMPP KMPT KMRD KMRS KMSG KMVP KMWN KN KNAO KNAP KNAR KNDP KNEI KNEP KNET KNMP KNN KNNA KNNB KNNC KNNF KNNO KNNP KNNR KNOP KNP KNPP KNPPIS KNPR KNPT KNRG KNRV KNSD KNUC KNUP KO KOC KOCI KOCM KOEM KOGL KOLY KOM KOMC KOMCCO KOMCSG KOMH KOMO KOMS KOR KOSOVO KOUYATE KPA KPAD KPAI KPAK KPAL KPALAOIS KPAM KPAO KPAS KPBT KPDD KPEM KPEO KPER KPET KPIN KPIR KPKO KPKP KPLS KPMI KPMO KPO KPOA KPOKO KPOL KPOP KPOV KPOW KPPAO KPPD KPRD KPRM KPRO KPROG KPRP KPRV KPSC KPTD KPTS KPWG KPWR KQ KQM KQRDQ KR KRAD KRAL KRCIM KRCM KRCS KRD KRDP KREC KREF KREISLER KREL KRF KRFD KRFR KRG KRGY KRIC KRIF KRIM KRKO KRM KRMS KRV KRVC KS KSA KSAC KSAF KSCA KSCI KSCS KSCT KSEAO KSEC KSEI KSEO KSEP KSI KSIA KSKN KSLG KSMT KSOC KSOCI KSPA KSPR KSRE KSTC KSTCC KSTCPL KSTH KSTS KSTT KSUM KSUP KT KTAO KTBD KTBT KTCRE KTDB KTDD KTDM KTER KTEX KTFIN KTFM KTFN KTFR KTFS KTIA KTIP KTLA KTNBT KTNF KTPN KTRD KTRF KTSC KTSD KTTB KTTC KTTP KU KUAE KUIR KUM KUNA KUNC KUNH KUNP KUNR KUS KUWAIT KV KVBL KVIP KVIR KVIS KVPR KVRC KVRP KW KWAC KWAK KWAWC KWBC KWBG KWBW KWCI KWCR KWGB KWHG KWIC KWIM KWIR KWKN KWM KWMJN KWMM KWMN KWN KWNM KWNN KWOMN KWPA KWPB KWPG KWPR KWRC KWRF KWRG KWUN KWWT KWWW KX KY KZ LA LAB LABOR LANSANA LANTERN LARREA LARS LAS LAURA LAVIN LAW LB LBAR LBY LE LEAGUE LEB LEBIK LEGAT LEGATT LEIS LEON LEVINE LEW LG LGAT LH LI LIB LICC LIMA LINE LK LMS LN LO LOG LOPEZ LORAN LOTT LOVE LR LS LT LTG LTTE LU LV LVPR LY LZ MA MAAR MACEDONIA MACP MANUEL MANUEL SERGIO GONZALEZ MAP MAPP MAPS MAR MARAD MARANTIS MARIA MARIE MARINO MARITIME MARK MARQUEZ MARR MARS MARTIN MARV MAS MASC MASS MATT MAYA MB MBM MC MCA MCAP MCAPARR MCAPN MCAPP MCAPS MCAT MCC MCCAIN MCCONNELL MCCP MCGRAW MCRM MCTRE MD MDA MDC MDO ME MEA MED MEDIA MEETINGS MENDIETA MEP MEPI MEPN MEPP MERCOSUR MESUR MEX MF MFA MFO MG MGL MGMT MGOV MGT MGTA MH MHUC MI MIAH MIC MICHAEL MICHEL MIGUEL FELIPE CANAHUATI YACAMAN MIGUEL VARGAS MALDONADO MIK MIKE MIL MILI MILITANTS MILITARY MILLENNIUM MINURSO MINUSTAH MITCHELL MJ MK ML MLS MMAR MMED MN MNLF MNNC MNNUC MNU MNUC MNUCH MNUCWA MNUM MNUN MNUR MNUS MNVC MO MOHAMAD MOHAMED HESHAM ELDIN YOUSSEF MOHAMMAD MOLINA MONTENEGRO MONUC MONY MOOPS MOP MOPP MOPPS MOPS MORALES MORG MOROCCO MORS MOS MOTO MOTT MP MPOL MPOS MPP MPS MQADHAFI MR MRCRE MRRR MRS MRSEC MS MSG MSIG MT MTAA MTAG MTCAE MTCR MTCRA MTCRE MTRCE MTRE MTRRE MTS MU MUC MUCN MUKASEY MULLEN MUNC MURAD MURRAY MV MW MX MY MZ NA NAC NACB NADIA NAFTA NAM NAMSA NANCY NAR NARC NARCOTICS NARR NAS NASA NAT NATEU NATGAS NATIONAL NATO NATOAFGHAN NATOBALKANS NATOIRAQ NATOOPS NATOPOLICY NATSIOS NAVO NB NBTS NBU NC NCCC NCD NCT NCTC NDI NDP NE NEA NEC NEGROPONTE NEI NELSON NEPAD NERG NET NEW NFATC NFMS NFSO NG NGO NGUYEN NH NI NICHOLAS NICOLE NIH NIPP NK NKWG NL NLD NLIAEA NLO NMFS NMNUC NMUC NNPT NO NOAA NOI NOK NON NONE NORAD NOTAG NOVO NP NPA NPG NPT NR NRC NRG NRR NRRC NS NSC NSF NSFO NSG NSSP NT NTDB NTSB NTTC NU NUC NUIN NV NW NZ NZUS OA OAO OARC OAS OASC OASCC OASS OAU OBAMA OBS OBSP OCBD OCEA OCED OCHA OCII OCRA OCS OCSE ODAG ODC ODIP ODPC OECD OECS OECV OES OESC OEXC OEXP OF OFDA OFDC OFDP OFDPQIS OFFICIALS OFPD OFSO OGAC OGIV OHCHR OHI OHIP OI OIC OICCO OIE OIF OIG OIIP OIL OIM OLY OLYAIR OLYMPICS OM OMAR OMB OMIG OMS ON ONA OPAD OPBAT OPC OPCD OPCR OPCW OPDAT OPDC OPDP OPEC OPET OPIC OPID OPOC OPPC OPRC OPREC OPREP OPS OPSC OPVIP ORA ORC ORCA ORECD ORED OREG OREP ORGANIZED ORP ORTA ORUE OSAC OSCE OSCI OSD OSEC OSHA OSIC OSTA OSTRA OTA OTAR OTHER OTHERSASNEEDED OTP OTR OTRA OTRABL OTRAO OTRAZ OTRC OTRD OUALI OVIP OVP OXEC OXEM OZ PA PAARM PAC PACE PAGE PAGR PAHO PAIGH PAK PAL PALESTINIAN PAMQ PAN PANAM PAO PAR PARALYMPIC PARCA PAREL PARK PARLIAMENT PARM PARMS PARN PARP PARR PARTIES PARTM PARTY PAS PASS PATRICK WARREN MAHURIN PATTY PAUL PAUM PB PBGT PBIO PBK PBOV PBPTS PBS PBST PBT PBTS PCI PCON PCOR PCRM PCUL PD PDA PDD PDEM PDIP PDOV PDRG PE PEACE PEACEKEEPINGFORCES PEDRO PEL PELOSI PEMEX PENA PENV PEPFAR PEPR PER PEREZ PERL PERM PERSONS PET PETER PETERS PETR PETRAEUS PETROL PF PFIN PFLP PFOR PFOV PG PGGOC PGIC PGIV PGKV PGO PGOC PGOF PGOG PGON PGOR PGOT PGOV PGOVE PGOVQL PGPV PGREL PGREV PGV PH PHALANAGE PHARM PHAS PHEM PHIM PHM PHSA PHU PHUH PHUM PHUMHUPPS PHUN PHUS PHYTRP PI PIA PICES PIF PIN PINB PIND PINER PINF PING PINL PINO PINOCHET PINR PINS PINT PINV PIR PIRF PIRN PJUS PK PKAO PKBL PKFK PKISL PKK PKMN PKNP PKO PKPA PKPAL PKPO PKPRP PKST PL PLAB PLAN PLEC PLN PLO PLUM PM PMAR PMAT PMDL PMIG PMIL PMIN PMR PMUC PN PNAT PNET PNG PNIR PNNL PNR PNRG PNS PNUC PNUK PNUM PO PODC POG POGV POINS POL POLG POLI POLICY POLINT POLITICAL POLITICS POLM POLMIL POLS POLUN POREL PORG POSTS POTUS POUS POV POWELL PP PPA PPAO PPD PPEF PPEL PPKO PPOL PQL PQM PRC PRE PREC PRED PREF PREG PREJ PREK PREL PRELEVU PRELM PRELPLS PRELTBIOBA PREM PREO PREP PRER PRES PRESIDENT PRESL PREV PREZ PRF PRFE PRFL PRGO PRGOV PRIL PRIVATIZATION PRL PRLE PRM PRO PROB PROCESS PROG PROL PROLIFERATION PROP PROPERTY PROTECTION PROTESTS PROV PROVE PRT PRTER PRWL PS PSA PSCE PSEC PSEPC PSHA PSI PSNR PSO PSOC PSOCI PSOE PT PTBS PTE PTEL PTEP PTER PTGOV PTIA PTR PTRD PU PUAS PUBLIC PUNE PUNR PUOS PV PVIP PVOV PVPR PVTS PWBG PWMN PY QA QADRI QEL QI QIZ QM QT QU QUAN QUOC RA RAED RAFAEL RAID RAMON RAMONTEIJELO RAS RATIFICATION RAY GUEVARA MILTON RBI RCA RCMP RE REA REACTION REALTIONS RECIN REF REFORM REFPAN REFUGEE REFUGEES REGION REGIONAL REID REIN REINEMEYER REL RELAM RELATIONS RELFREE RELIGIOUS REMON RENAMO RENE PREVAL REO REPORT REUBEN RF RFE RFIN RFREEDOM RGOV RGY RHUM RI RICE RICHARD RIGHTS RIGHTSPOLMIL RIMC RIVERA RL RLA RM RMA RO ROBERT ROBERT JOSEPH RODHAM RODRIGUEZ ROK ROME ROOD ROSS ROW ROY RP RPEL RPTS RQ RR RRB RREL RS RSO RSOX RSP RSZ RTT RU RUEHZO RV RW RWANDA SA SAAD SAARC SABAH SACU SADC SAFE SAIR SAIS SALOPEK SAMA SAN SANC SANR SAO SARB SARGSIAN SARS SASC SASEC SASIAIN SB SBA SC SCA SCCC SCE SCENESETTER SCHUL SCI SCIENCE SCNV SCOI SCOL SCOM SCPR SCRM SCRS SCRSERD SCUL SCVL SD SE SEC SECDEF SECI SECRET SECRETARY SECSTATE SECTOR SECURITY SEMAAN GABY EID SEN SENC SENG SENS SENU SENV SENVQGR SENVSPL SENVSXE SEP SERBIA SERZH SETTLEMENTS SEVN SEXP SF SFNV SG SGNV SGWI SH SHANNON SHI SHUM SI SILVASANDE SIMS SIPDI SIPDIS SIPR SIPRNET SIPRS SIUK SK SKCA SKEP SKI SKSAF SL SLM SLOVAK SM SMAR SMI SMIG SMIL SMIT SMITH SMRT SN SNA SNAP SNAR SNUC SO SOC SOCI SOCIA SOCIETY SOCIO SOCIS SOCISZX SOCR SOCY SOE SOFA SOI SOIC SOLI SOLIC SOM SOMALIA SOPN SORT SOSI SOVIET SOWGC SP SPAS SPC SPCE SPCVIS SPECI SPECIALIST SPILL SPP SPSTATE SR SREF SRIT SRS SRYI SSA SSH ST STAG START STATE STC STEINBERG STEPHEN HADLEY STET STP STR STUDENT SU SUCCESSION SUFFRAGE SULLIVAN SUMMIT SUR SUSAN SV SW SWHO SWMN SX SXG SY SYAI SYMBOL SYR SYRIA SYSI SYTH SZ TA TAGS TALAL TAUSCHER TAX TB TBI TBID TBIO TBIOZK TBKIO TBO TC TCOR TCSENV TD TDA TE TECH TECHNOLOGY TER TERAA TERFIN TERR TERROR TERRORISM TF TFIN TG TGRY TH THANH THE THERESE THIRDTERM THKSJA THOMAS THOMAS THOMMA THPY TI TIA TIBO TIFA TINT TIO TIP TITI TIUZ TJ TK TL TM TN TNDG TNGD TO TOPEC TORRIJOS TOURISM TP TPHY TPKO TPP TPSA TPSL TR TRAD TRADE TRAFFICKING TRBIO TRBY TRD TREAS TREASURY TREATY TREL TRG TRGV TRGY TRIO TRSY TRT TRV TRY TRYG TRYS TS TSA TSLP TSPA TSPL TSRL TSRY TSY TT TTFN TU TURKEY TV TVBIO TW TWRO TX TY TZ TZBY UA UAE UAID UAM UB UDEM UE UEU UG UGA UK UKR UKRAINE UM UMIK UN UNA UNAF UNAIDS UNAMA UNAMSIL UNAORC UNAUS UNBRO UNC UNCC UNCDF UNCDN UNCHC UNCHR UNCHS UNCITRAL UNCND UNCOPUOS UNCRED UNCRIME UNCSD UNCSW UNCTAD UNDC UNDEF UNDOF UNDP UNECE UNEF UNEP UNESCO UNFA UNFC UNFCYP UNFF UNFICYP UNFIYCP UNFPA UNGA UNGAPL UNGO UNHCR UNHRC UNICEF UNIDCP UNIDO UNIDROIT UNIFEM UNIFIL UNION UNKIK UNM UNMEE UNMIC UNMIK UNMIKI UNMIKV UNMIL UNMIN UNMOVIC UNO UNODC UNOMIG UNOPS UNP UNPAR UNPUOS UNRCCA UNRCR UNREST UNRWA UNSC UNSCAPU UNSCD UNSCE UNSCER UNSCR UNSCS UNSD UNSE UNTAC UNTERR UNTZ UNUS UNVIE UNYI UP UPU UPUO UR US USAID USAU USCC USCG USDA USDELFESTTWO USEU USG USGS USMS USNC USOAS USOP USPS USPTO USSC USTA USTDA USTR USTRD USTRIT USTRPS USTRUWR USUN UUNR UV UX UY UZ VA VANESSA VANG VAT VC VE VELS VEN VENZ VETTING VI VINICIO VIP VIS VISAS VISIT VM VN VO VOA VT VTEG VTFR VTIS VTPREL VTTBIO VTWCAR VXY VY VZ WA WAEMU WAKI WAR WARD WB WBEG WBG WCAR WCI WCL WCO WE WEBG WEBZ WEET WEF WEOG WET WEU WFA WFP WFPAORC WFPO WGC WGG WHA WHITMER WHO WHTI WI WILCOX WILLIAM WIPO WIR WITH WJRO WM WMD WMDT WMN WMO WOMEN WPO WRTO WS WSIS WTO WTRD WTRO WTRQ WW WWARD WWBG WWT WZ XA XAAF XB XC XD XE XF XFNEA XG XH XI XJ XK XL XLUM XM XO XP XQ XR XS XT XTAG XU XV XW XX XXX XY XZ YE YEH YI YL YM YMCS YS YU YURIY ZA ZANU ZB ZC ZCTU ZEALAND ZF ZFR ZH ZI ZIM ZJ ZK ZKGM ZL ZM ZN ZO ZOELLICK ZP ZR ZS ZT ZU ZW ZXA
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Identifier | Subject | Date | Office | Classification | Tags |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
01RANGOON1171 | CHINESE QUIETLY SUPPORT REFORM? [...] (C) SUMMARY. THE CHINESE DCM TOLD US THE PRC CONTINUES TO SUPPORT THE ONGOING POLITICAL DIALOGUE, AND BELIEVES THE MILITARY REGIME IS SINCERE IN ITS DEALINGS WITH AUNG SAN SUU KYI (ASSK). WHILE HE STATED HIS BELIEF THAT OUTSIDE PRESSURE IS COUNTER- PRODUCTIVE, HE GAVE SOME REASON TO BELIEV [...] | 2001-07-27 11:03:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PHUM PGOV CH BM |
02RANGOON1159 | NLD "UNCLES" APPRECIATE CONTINUED U.S. SUPPORT [...] (C) National League for Democracy Central Executive Committee members ("the uncles") told Chief of Mission on September 9 that they appreciate continued U.S. support for their party and encourage increased pressure on the regime for democratic change. COM Martinez agreed with the uncles that [...] | 2002-09-10 07:32:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM BM NLD |
02RANGOON1167 | PATRIOT DAY IN RANGOON [...] (U) Some 325 invited guests, including high-ranking GOB military and civilian officials, Aung San Suu Kyi and the senior NLD leadership, Muslim representatives, ethnic leaders, and about 100 resident American citizens gathered September 11 in downtown Rangoon to observe Patriot Day. COM Marti [...] | 2002-09-12 05:43:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | PREL PGOV KPAO BM ASSK NLD |
02RANGOON1185 | EU TROIKA IN BURMA [...] (C) Summary: The EU Troika will not recommend any change in the EU's common position on Burma. That is the conclusion of British diplomats who accompanied the team on all of their visits in Yangon. Foreigners were uniformly concerned about deteriorating economic conditions, while Aung San Suu [...] | 2002-09-13 10:04:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL BM |
02RANGOON1211 | ROHINGYA REFUGEE UPDATE [...] (SBU) Summary: The Government of Burma has unofficially told UNHCR that it would accept 5,000 of the remaining 22,000 Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh. That would leave a residual 17,000 people in Bangladesh to be locally settled or otherwise accommodated. UNHCR Rohingya repatriation assist [...] | 2002-09-20 00:08:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | PREF PREL BM BG IN UNHCR |
02RANGOON1218 | RUMORED PROMOTIONS IN THE SPDC [...] (C) Summary: News services are reporting that the State Peace and Development Council has promoted some of its top generals. Although the SPDC has not officially announced the promotions, rumors in Rangoon appear to indicate that at least four of the top Generals may have been promoted. If [...] | 2002-09-20 10:21:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PINR BM |
02RANGOON1219 | UNDP BURMA SETTLES IN FOR NEW PHASE [...] (C) Summary: The UNDP is in a holding pattern in Burma as it awaits both UNDP board and Burmese government approval for its ongoing efforts in the countryside. UNDP has no new major projects on the drawing board, but wants more flexibility in its mandate. UNDP's relations remain somewhat roc [...] | 2002-09-20 10:22:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | EAID ECON BM UNDP |
02RANGOON1233 | PREMIER DIVESTS, PETRONAS DIGS IN [...] (C) Summary: Premier Oil's decision to pull up stakes here seems based more on financial necessity than the pressure of boycotts. Petronas, Premier's partial owner and business partner in Burma, agreed to sell back its shares in Premier in exchange for the British firm's position in the Yetagu [...] | 2002-09-25 05:35:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | EPET EINV BM |
02RANGOON1248 | BURMESE INVESTMENT CLIMATE STILL HOSTILE [...] (U) As a companion to the recently submitted Burma investment climate statement, we want to summarize the key problems that plague the country. The full text of the investment climate statement will be posted on the National Trade Data Bank and is available via email from wohlauerbv@state.gov [...] | 2002-09-27 05:53:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EINV ETRD BM |
02RANGOON1250 | REGIME FEEDS ON ITS OWN [...] (SBU) Summary: On September 26, the regime sentenced ex-dictator General Ne Win's son-in-law and three grandsons to death by hanging for attempted treason. The son-in-law, one of the grandsons, and some business associates were also sentenced to varying lengths of hard labor for economic cri [...] | 2002-09-27 08:29:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | PGOV PINS BM |
02RANGOON1253 | IMF: TAKE YOUR ADVICE AND... [...] (C) Summary: IMF proposals for marginal economic reforms in Burma have been brushed aside by the government. Japanese efforts to stimulate interest in reform in return for limited adjustment aid will likely get a similarly cold reception. Nonetheless, international financial bodies and donor [...] | 2002-09-27 09:14:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | EFIN ECON BM |
02RANGOON1254 | STRONG ETHNIC SHOWING AT NLD'S 14TH ANNIVERSARY [...] (SBU) Summary: Amidst strong support from Western diplomats and ethnic representatives the NLD celebrated its 14th anniversary on September 27 in downtown Rangoon. NLD leaders called for the SPDC to enter into dialogue without delay for the benefit of the country. An array of leaders from e [...] | 2002-09-27 10:27:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM BM NLD |
02RANGOON1274 | JAPANESE AMBASSADOR RAISES POLITICAL TRANSITION [...] (C) Summary: Japanese Ambassador Yuji Miyamoto delivered a message from Japanese Prime Minister Koizumi when he presented his credentials to Than Shwe on September 16. According to sources at the Japanese Embassy, Miyamoto also went into some detail about political transition, Japanese aid, an [...] | 2002-10-01 10:35:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL BM JP |
02RANGOON1277 | UPDATE ON RECENT ARRESTS IN RANGOON [...] (SBU) SUMMARY: THIRTY PEOPLE, INCLUDING SEVERAL RELATIVELY WELL-KNOWN POLITICAL ACTIVISTS AND AT LEAST ONE FORMER NLD MEMBER, WERE ARRESTED IN RANGOON ON SEPTEMBER 25. IT IS NOT CLEAR YET WHAT CHARGES HAVE BEEN BROUGHT AGAINST THE THIRTY. THERE ARE HINTS, HOWEVER, THAT THESE ARRESTS MAY BE P [...] | 2002-10-02 04:55:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | PGOV PHUM PINS BM |
02RANGOON1291 | BURMESE GOVERNMENT REPORTS TO THE USG ON [...] (SBU) Summary: The GOB is prepared to act on human trafficking, but has not put together programs that will fully treat the problem. In a report presented to the Embassy in August, the GOB acknowledges the problem facing Burma and lays out the legislative, enforcement, training, and preventi [...] | 2002-10-04 08:32:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | ELAB PHUM PREL SMIG BM |
02RANGOON1292 | BURMA: BREADBASKET AND BASKET CASE [...] (C) Summary: Persistent reports of unrest at food warehouses and distribution points in Burma suggest the government ration system may be breaking down. If true, then food problems will only become worse for Burma's poorest in coming months as inflation accelerates, the kyat continues its fre [...] | 2002-10-04 09:29:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ECON EAGR PHUM BM |
02RANGOON1293 | DOWNER PUSHES REFORM DURING VISIT TO RANGOON [...] (C) Summary: Australian Foreign Minister Downer told Than Shwe and Khin Nyunt that the GOB should move convincingly to open a political dialogue with the NLD "within the next one to two weeks." He also urged the government to free all political prisoners. Khin Nyunt replied that he "fully su [...] | 2002-10-04 10:14:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PHUM AU BM |
02RANGOON1304 | BURMESE CONTINUE TO INVESTIGATE SHAN RAPE CASES [...] (C) Summary: The GOB is continuing its investigation of the Shan rape cases. According to Brigadier General Kyaw Thein, a national intelligence team has investigated the first 71 of the 173 cases cited in the License to Rape report and so far found evidence of rape in five cases. The other [...] | 2002-10-08 08:39:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PHUM BM |
02RANGOON1310 | ARAKAN ROHINGYA NATIONAL ORGANIZATION CONTACTS [...] (C) Summary: Under pressure from Bangladesh, the Arakan Rohingya National Organization (ARNO) contacted the Karenni National Progressive Party in late August 2002 regarding the possibility of relocating its bases to KNPP-controlled territory on the border between Thailand and Burma. According [...] | 2002-10-10 05:01:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PTER PINS PGOV PREL BG TH BM |
02RANGOON1321 | THAI/BURMESE AGREEMENT TO REOPEN THE BORDER [...] (C) Summary: Thai Permanent Secretary Tej Bunnag told the Burmese October 7 in Rangoon that the Thai cabinet decided to prohibit any Thai-based groups from attacking neighboring countries, according to Thai embassy sources. He also reportedly said that Prime Minister Thaksin so instructed the [...] | 2002-10-11 10:07:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL TH BM |
02RANGOON1340 | BURMA: DARKNESS AT NOON [...] (C) Summary: Power is flowing nearly 24 hours a day in the capital. The government is making this happen through a hodgepodge of policy proclamations, full dams at the hydropower plants, and expensive, and potentially dangerous, stopgap measures. Because of increasing agitation over food pri [...] | 2002-10-16 06:37:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ENRG EPET ECON BM |
02RANGOON1343 | LATEST GOB REPORT ON SHAN RAPES FINDS FIVE OUT OF [...] (U) Summary: On October 16, the GOB presented results of its latest investigation of the allegations contained in the Shan Human Rights Foundation's "Licence to Rape." The GOB claims that it has now re-investigated all 173 cases and found that only five cases bear even any "similarity" to th [...] | 2002-10-16 10:28:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | PREL PHUM BM TH |
02RANGOON1354 | SR PINHEIRO WILL INSIST GOB AGREE TO INVESTIGATION [...] (SBU) SUMMARY: UNSR PINHEIRO BRIEFED EU, AUSTRALIA, JAPAN AND U.S. REPRESENTATIVES ON HIS PLANS OR HIS VISIT TO BURMA AND OUTLINED THREE OPTIONS: -- PLAN A - A JOINT INVESTIGATION BY SPDC, NLD AND ETHNIC REPRESENTATIVES (ALL AGREED THIS IS A NON-STARTER) -- PLAN B - AN INVESTIGATION BY I [...] | 2002-10-18 10:08:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | PHUM PREF PREL BM |
02RANGOON1355 | BURMA'S COUNTERNARCOTICS REPORT CARD [...] (U) Summary: Burma has responded well to the criteria outlined in our certification demarche. It has continued to enforce its counternarcotics laws, increased pressure on cease-fire groups such as the United Wa State Army, and sharply reduced the production of opium and heroin within its terr [...] | 2002-10-18 10:10:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | SNAR KCRM BM |
02RANGOON1366 | BURMA: JAPANESE UNLIKELY TO PUSH REFORM FINANCING [...] (C) Summary: Japanese experts say that Japan plans to discuss economic reform during Prime Minister Koizumi's meeting with Senior General Than Shwe at the November ASEAN 3 meeting in Phnom Penh. They have also promised to share with us a copy of their proposed program for Burmese structural [...] | 2002-10-23 09:40:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ECIN ECON BM |
02RANGOON1378 | SPECIAL RAPPORTEUR PINHEIRO BRIEFS DIPLOMATS ON [...] (C) Summary: At an October 28 briefing, UN Special Rapporteur Pinheiro told diplomats in Rangoon that during his 12-day visit to Burma he strongly encouraged the SPDC to address continuing human rights abuses. He also encouraged the international community to implement programs that will pro [...] | 2002-10-28 09:22:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PHUM BM |
02RANGOON1387 | NLD EXPANDS RESIDUAL PARLIAMENTARY BODY [...] (SBU) On October 23 the Committee Representing the Peoples, Parliament (CRPP) announced that it was appointing four new ethnic members and inviting other political parties to join. The CRPP was created by the NLD and ethnic parties in September 1998 to represent the Parliament that was elect [...] | 2002-10-29 08:24:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM BM NLD |
02RANGOON1415 | BURMA COUNTERNARCOTICS PROGRAM: RESULTS, RESULTS [...] (U) Summary: The GOB has provided a response to our request for additional information on Burma's performance in regard to the criteria set by the U.S. government for certification of its counternarcotics efforts in 2002. Included in the package are: -- statistics on all seizures of narcotic [...] | 2002-11-04 07:57:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | SNAR KCRM BM |
02RANGOON1418 | NLD STATUS REPORT: SIX MONTHS AFTER ASSK'S RELEASE [...] (SBU) Summary: Almost six months after her release from house detention, ASSK continues with a disciplined, non-confrontational strategy to rebuild her political forces while attempting to draw the regime into dialogue on national reconciliation. She has succeeded in reviving NLD leadership [...] | 2002-11-04 09:03:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | PGOV PHUM BM ASSK NLD |
02RANGOON1468 | BURMESE ECONOMY: YES WE HAVE NO BANANAS...OR [...] (SBU) Summary: The regime's continued mismanagement of the Burmese economy has given another push to its downward slide in recent months. The government's increasing reliance on trade restrictions, rather than fiscal and monetary policy measures, has slashed imports and halted temporarily the [...] | 2002-11-14 08:36:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | ECON ETRD EINV EFIN BM |
02RANGOON1469 | U.S. SANCTIONS: DIRECTED AT BURMA OR THE REGION? [...] This is an action message. See paragraph 9. 2. Summary: The United States is now poised to oppose an ADB regional grant for alternative development in the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) on the grounds that Burma-specific legislation applies to all such regional grants. That position will [...] | 2002-11-14 09:34:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | SNAR EAID BM ADB |
02RANGOON1473 | BURMA'S COUNTERNARCOTICS PROGRAM: MORE DATA, MORE [...] In response to our request (ref D),the Government of Burma has provided a third package of information on its counternarcotics program. The latest package includes an outline of measures that the GOB has taken to implement its new money laundering law, a list of members of the United Wa Stat [...] | 2002-11-15 03:18:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | SNAR KCRM BM |
02RANGOON1479 | RAZALI: CAUGHT BETWEEN A ROCK AND A HARD CASE [...] (C) Summary: Razali told diplomats at an early evening briefing today that the dialog between the NLD and the SPDC appeared to be stalled as much by a personality conflict between Aung San Suu Kyi and Than Shwe as anything else. Each one is imperious in his own way and neither is ready to comp [...] | 2002-11-15 12:47:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL BM |
02RANGOON1486 | THE ILO: SLOWLY ESTABLISHING A WORKING PRESENCE IN [...] (C) Summary: The new ILO liaison officer in Rangoon met with Secretary One General Khin Nyunt this week and received assurances that the SPDC would work with the ILO to address problems with forced labor. She was also told that she can travel freely anywhere she wants in Burma. These assura [...] | 2002-11-18 09:55:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ELAB PHUM PREL BM |
02RANGOON1510 | GOB RELEASES 115 POLITICAL PRISONERS [...] (C) Summary: The GOB released another 115 political prisoners on November 21. The NLD has received the names of 50 NLD members who were released as well as one other who military intelligence mistakenly identified as an NLD member. ICRC received all 115 names. This brings the total number [...] | 2002-11-22 08:48:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PHUM PGOV BM NLD |
02RANGOON1517 | BURMA AND IRAQ [...] (S) Summary: An official Burmese delegation headed by the Minister of Forestry traveled to Baghdad in March and concluded agreements to cooperate with the Government of Iraq on trade, banking and finance, oil and gas, scientific research and technical issues, and in other areas. The agreed [...] | 2002-11-25 09:10:00 | Embassy Rangoon | SECRET | PREL ETRD BM IZ |
02RANGOON1544 | MORE INFORMATION ON BURMA'S COUNTERNARCOTICS [...] The GOB has recently released a bevy of information on its counternarcotics efforts, most of which we have reported in our previous cables (reftels). However, in this cable we are providing some new information as follows: UN Protocol 2. The GOB has decided to accede to the 1972 Protoc [...] | 2002-12-04 09:16:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | SNAR BM |
02RANGOON1547 | OPIUM ERADICATION AND THE DECIMATION OF VILLAGES [...] Summary: The fate of Song Keh, a village that was forcibly relocated in 1999 as part of the Wa opium eradication program, illustrates what may happen more broadly in the Wa territories as the Wa push forward with their program. Left to fend for itself with only minimal supplies, almost one-q [...] | 2002-12-05 01:57:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | SNAR EAID BM |
02RANGOON1553 | INITIAL MONEY LAUNDERING INVESTIGATIONS IN BURMA [...] (C) Summary: Burma has begun at least two investigations under its new money laundering law. It has frozen assets worth hundreds of thousands of dollars and applied to the courts for forfeiture of a variety of property connected with two high-profile narcotics cases. End Summary. 2. (C) B [...] | 2002-12-05 08:44:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | SNAR EFIN BM |
02RANGOON1555 | EX-STRONGMAN NE WIN DIES WHILE UNDER DETENTION [...] (C) Summary: Ne Win is dead. The news has not yet hit the streets in Rangoon, but Ne Win's son told the DCM that reports of his father's death were true. Ne Win's death is likely to have little political impact. However, many in Burma will have trouble believing that "the old man" is fina [...] | 2002-12-05 09:48:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV BM |
02RANGOON1557 | BURMA: BANKS AND CONSTRUCTION BOOMS, A BAD MIX [...] (C) Summary: The puzzling construction boom, continuing in Rangoon despite the dismal economy and an unclear demand, is being fueled by speculation by builders and investors. Unfortunately for the economy, private banks have not learned the lessons of Japan and are throwing caution to the wind [...] | 2002-12-06 03:20:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | EFIN EIND ECON BM |
02RANGOON1558 | DING DONG NE WIN IS DEAD.....FINALLY! [...] (U) The regime confirmed ex-dictator Ne Win's death with a brief obituary from the family buried on the second to the last page of today's State-controlled newspapers. Tucked between the weather forecast and television schedule, the obituary was a brief statement that Ne Win died at 7:30 in [...] | 2002-12-06 07:27:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | PGOV BM |
02RANGOON1567 | RAZALI HEARS THE SAME TUNE ON ECONOMY, UNDP [...] (C) Summary: UN Special Envoy for Burma Razali Ismail, during his November visit to Rangoon, paid a call on the SPDC's Minister for National Planning and Economic Development, and focal point for SPDC-UN relations, U Soe Tha. As he did during Razali's previous visit in August, the Minister pl [...] | 2002-12-09 09:15:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | EAID ECON BM UNDP |
02RANGOON1570 | ONLY 75 OF 115 POLITICAL PRISONERS RELEASED [...] (C) On November 19, the State Peace and Development Council (SPDC) announced the release of 115 political prisoners, and the UN Secretary General immediately welcomed the announcement. As of December 10, however, it appears that only 75 of these 115 political prisoners have been released. N [...] | 2002-12-10 08:39:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PHUM BM NLD |
02RANGOON1571 | KACHIN ETHNIC BUSINESSES: JADE, GOLD, AND LIQUOR [...] (C) Summary: Ethnic Kachin cease-fire groups have benefited significantly from semi-autonomous economic control of their areas of influence. The commercial arms of these armies turned political groups are involved in everything from jade and gold mining to sugar milling and liquor production [...] | 2002-12-11 00:17:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ECON EMIN PINS BM |
02RANGOON1580 | ASSK TALKS BIG PICTURE WITH NATIONAL ENDOWMENT FOR [...] (C) Summary: Following meetings with several SPDC officials, former Ambassador Morton Ambramowitz met at the EMR with NLD Secretary Aung San Suu Kyi on December 5th. The COM and the PAO were also present. In a discussion that lasted nearly two hours, Ambramowitz checked his impressions and [...] | 2002-12-11 09:14:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL EAID BM TH ASSK |
02RANGOON1585 | KACHIN JADE MINING: THE ROAD TO RICHES AND RUIN [...] (SBU) Summary: Jade mining and smuggling are big business in Kachin State. Concession sales provide revenue for both the government and the Kachin ethnic cease-fire groups. However, little trickles down to the average citizen. End summary. Jade Mining Ain't What it Used to Be 2. (SBU) [...] | 2002-12-12 06:44:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EMIN ECON PHUM BM |
02RANGOON1587 | USDA TO IMPLEMENT SENIOR GENERAL,S PLAN [...] Summary: The Union Solidarity Development Association (USDA) finally held its annual general meeting on November 15, about two months after it was initially expected. Apparently Senior General Than Shwe had to overcome resistence by some members before the event could be staged. The strong rh [...] | 2002-12-12 09:08:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | PGOV PHUM PINS BM |
02RANGOON1589 | BURMA'S ECONOMIC PROSPECTS: HOW LOW CAN THEY GO? [...] (U) The full text of the Burma Country Commercial Guide is available on the internet or via email from wohlauerbv@state.gov. The following is a summary. 2. (U) The U.S. Government has an official policy to neither encourage nor discourage trade with Burma. Since May 1997, the U.S. Governm [...] | 2002-12-12 10:15:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | ETRD ECON BM |
02RANGOON1592 | DRUGS, THUGS AND FACTS [...] (C) Summary: Embassy Rangoon wants to provide clarification and counterpoint to reftels reporting on Burma counterterrorism and counternarcotics issues. When discussing drugs and thugs, accurate information is absolutely crucial to framing USG counternarcotics stategy in the context of Burma-T [...] | 2002-12-13 09:13:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | SNAR PTER PINS BM |
02RANGOON1609 | 2002 INTERNATIONAL NARCOTICS CONTROL STRATEGY [...] No summary [...] | 2002-12-16 09:22:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | SNAR KCRM BM |
02RANGOON1616 | WAR AND PEACE IN KAREN STATE [...] (U) Summary: In a recent visit to the small border town of Myawaddy in eastern Karen State, Poloff found some residual conflict between regime forces and Karen National Union (KNU) forces. Although the KNU appears to have been reduced to hit and run, guerilla-type attacks, the rugged mounta [...] | 2002-12-17 07:46:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PHUM BM |
02RANGOON1628 | ICRC ACTIVE IN KAREN STATE BUT STILL SEEKING ACCESS [...] (C) Summary: On a recent visit to Karen State, Poloff was told by an International Committee for the Red Cross (ICRC) representative that the agency is making progress on establishing a meaningful presence in the area. While progress has been slow, the ICRC has had some success in providing [...] | 2002-12-19 08:48:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PHUM BM |
02RANGOON1631 | UNHCR CONTINUES TO PRESS BURMA ON FORCED LABOR IN [...] (C) Summary: UNHCR says that forced labor continues in northern Rakhine State, but maintains that there has been no significant new outflow of refugees from Burma. According to UNHCR's Resident Representative, he has pressed the government hard regarding forced labor, but may need additional [...] | 2002-12-20 05:10:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREF ELAB BG BM UNDP UNHCR |
02RANGOON1632 | NOTES ON THAI, BURMESE, AND INDIAN COOPERATION [...] (C) Summary: India, Thailand, and Burma will do a survey of the proposed road link from India to Thailand through Burma. Work of the Kaladan road/river network from Mizoram to Sittwe in Burma's Rakhine State is also moving forward. A Thai/Burmese border committee meeting from December 26 to [...] | 2002-12-20 06:54:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL ELTN TH IN BM |
02RANGOON1633 | AUTHORITIES ATTEMPT TO BLOCK ASSK IN RAKHINE STATE [...] (C) Summary: Authorities have attempted to block citizens from greeting Aung San Suu Kyi over the last four days as she toured Rakhine State in western Burma. ASSK has commended those who have turned out for their bravery and scolded authorities for threatening instead of serving the people [...] | 2002-12-20 09:10:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM BM ASSK |
02RANGOON1644 | A WA SELF-PORTRAIT [...] Summary: A paper prepared by the Wa for international visitors to their territories portrays their region as a relatively poor, but developing part of Myanmar that is struggling to rid itself of opium. The Wa describe their Special Region as an indivisible part of Burma, though they also und [...] | 2002-12-24 03:40:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | SNAR KCRM BM |
02RANGOON1648 | NGOS HARD AT WORK IN KACHIN STATE [...] (SBU) Summary: International NGOs (INGOs) are working well in Kachin State. Though few in number, they are providing urgently needed programs for HIV/AIDS, malaria, tuberculosis, and rural health care. There are some types of aid programs, and geographic regions, that remain out of reach fo [...] | 2002-12-26 08:50:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | EAID SOCI ECON BM NGO |
02RANGOON1663 | ASSK HOLDS PRESS CONFERENCE; CONDEMNS HARASSMENT [...] (C) Summary: At a press conference December 31, Aung San Suu Kyi continued to express "cautious optimism" about the possibility of political change in Burma in 2003, but complained about harassment during her recent trip to Rakhine State. Post recommends that the Department support her comme [...] | 2002-12-31 08:36:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV BM ASSK |
02RANGOON1664 | BURMESE FOREIGN MINISTER ON GOB COUNTERNARCOTICSS [...] (SBU) Summary: Taking the opportunity of remarks before the assembled Rangoon diplomatic corps on New Year's Eve, the Burmese Foreign Minister digressed for ten minutes from his set speech to make very reasoned comments on the GOB's desire to prove the credibility of its efforts against narc [...] | 2002-12-31 09:45:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | PGOV SNAR BM |
02RANGOON576 | THAI/BURMESE RELATIONS - MAUNG AYE'S VISIT AND [...] (C) SUMMARY: THE THAI GOVERNMENT WAS PLEASED WITH BURMESE ARMY COMMANDER MAUNG AYE'S VISIT. ACCORDING TO THE THAI EMBASSY'S POLITICAL COUNSELOR, THE THAI GOVERNMENT NOW SEES HIM AS A "PRAGMATIC" MAN OF RISING INFLUENCE IN BURMA WITH WHOM THEY MAY BE ABLE TO WORK SUCCESSFULLY. WHILE IN THAILAND [...] | 2002-05-07 01:28:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL TH BM |
02RANGOON916 | REGIME RELEASES 32 POLITICAL PRISONERS [...] (SBU) Summary: The regime announced yesterday that it had released 32 political prisoners; 14 NLD members and 18 others, mostly students. The NLD was told of only 24 releases, its 14 members and 10 students the regime said were arrested for supporting NLD activities. Despite the discrepanc [...] | 2002-07-29 11:02:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PHUM BM NLD |
03RANGOON1000 | FIRST CYBER CAFES IN BURMA: "VIRTUAL" ACCESS [...] (SBU) Summary: With the government's support and prodding, several select private sector computer firms are testing the uncharted waters of public Internet access. GOB support for information technology and the country's nascent IT sector is encouraging, if a bit precocious considering the cou [...] | 2003-08-20 02:42:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | ECPS SCUL ECON PGOV BM |
03RANGOON1001 | BURMA: THAI AMBASSADOR SKEPTICAL ABOUT CURRENT [...] (C) Summary: According to the Thai Ambassador to Burma, the Burmese regime has yet to offer any official or substantive reaction to the Thai "roadmap." Although the Thai Embassy here has not been included in RTG efforts to garner support for the roadmap, the Thai ambassador believes that the [...] | 2003-08-20 03:50:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL BM TH |
03RANGOON1019 | JAPANESE OFFICIAL VISITS RANGOON, PURSUES SPDC-NLD [...] (C) Summary: The Japanese Embassy in Rangoon is quietly pursuing a proposal, apparently endorsed by a senior GOJ MOFA official who visited Burma on August 20, that would require Aung San Suu Kyi's commitment to turn a blind eye to the violent May 30 attack on her convoy in exchange for her re [...] | 2003-08-22 10:34:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | BM PGOV PREL NLD |
03RANGOON1025 | BURMA: PEOPLE'S MILITIA TO THE RESCUE? [...] (C) According to local military and civilian contacts, the ruling State Peace and Development Council (SPDC) has ordered the formation of a "People's Militia" ("Pyi-thu-sit" in Burmese) in the administrative division of Rangoon. Military commanders allegedly issued written instructions orderin [...] | 2003-08-25 10:35:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | MARR PGOV PREL PHUM BM |
03RANGOON1029 | BURMESE GENERAL KHIN NYUNT AS PRIME MINISTER: [...] (C) SUMMARY: SPDC Chairman Senior General Than Shwe's unexpected August 25 realignment of Burma's military and government hierarchy may undercut SPDC Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt, the regime's number three leader. Khin Nyunt's new assignment as Prime Minister is expected to be largely cer [...] | 2003-08-26 11:50:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV BM |
03RANGOON1031 | BURMA: CABINET'S SECOND STRING SHUFFLE [...] (C) SUMMARY: On August 26, for the second day in a row, the SPDC announced additional cabinet changes, retiring eight Deputy Ministers, assigning nine new ones, and appointing two new cabinet level positions. This latest cabinet adjustment includes a new Deputy Defense Minister and the addi [...] | 2003-08-27 12:32:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV BM |
03RANGOON1055 | CHINA'S AMBASSADOR TO BURMA: "NON-INTERVENTION [...] (C) Summary: The Chinese Ambassador to Burma provided us on August 27 with an overview of the purpose and results of SPDC Vice Chairman General Maung Aye's recent "routine" China visit, China's negative view of U.S. sanctions and their implications for regime change, the rationale behind recen [...] | 2003-09-02 09:35:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV MOPS CH BM |
03RANGOON1057 | PM KHIN NYUNT'S SPEECH: THE BURMESE ROAD TO [...] (C) Summary: On August 30 General Khin Nyunt delivered his first speech as Prime Minister (and perhaps the first such policy address from Burma's military regime in over ten years),promising a seven-step transition to a "disciplined democracy." However, his "Road Map of Myanmar" offers noth [...] | 2003-09-02 12:08:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV BM NLD |
03RANGOON1058 | JAPANESE EMBASSY ADVOCATES ENGAGEMENT WITH BURMESE [...] (C) Reftel A conclusion that there is a discrepancy between MOFA Tokyo and the Japanese Embassy in Rangoon matches our assessment that Japanese Ambassador Miyamoto and his senior staff strongly oppose their headquarters on Burma policy. As we noted in refs B and C, Miyamoto, and his political [...] | 2003-09-02 12:35:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL BM JA |
03RANGOON1075 | UNDP BURMA'S ANNUAL ASSESSMENT READOUT [...] (U) SUMMARY: COM and PolOff attended the UNDP,s Annual Assessment Mission debriefing for the diplomatic corps on August 28 to hear observations of, and recommendations for, UNDP,s Burma operations. The assessment team reported that UNDP,s Burma programs have all been properly designed to ha [...] | 2003-09-04 09:32:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | EAID ECON BM UNDP NGO |
03RANGOON1093 | FORCED MARCH ON THE BURMESE ROAD TO "DEMOCRACY" [...] (C) SUMMARY: On Sunday, September 7, SPDC Chairman Than Shwe made new appointments to the five top jobs in the National Convention Convening Commission, the first step in implementing the Burma's "roadmap" to democracy. Significantly, for the first time a member of the ruling military junta, [...] | 2003-09-08 09:49:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL BM |
03RANGOON1114 | BURMA: UNODC MAKES A PITCH FOR KOKANG/WA [...] (SBU) Summary: The UNODC has been making a quiet pitch for support among donors for a new counternarcotics intervention in the Wa and Kokang areas of Burma's Shan State (dubbed the "KOWI" project). UNODC Burma resident representative Jean-Luc Lemahieu recently conducted a round of bilateral [...] | 2003-09-12 07:18:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | SNAR BM |
03RANGOON1117 | INDIA'S AMBASSADOR TO BURMA: FINDING A BALANCE [...] (C) SUMMARY: During a September 10 meeting with COM, Indian Ambassador to Burma Rajiv Kumar Bhatia described India's Burma policy as having two pillars: engagement with the regime and support for democracy. India will continue to move forward on both fronts simultaneously, he said, striking [...] | 2003-09-12 10:00:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV BM IN |
03RANGOON1118 | SANCTIONS FORCE GOB TO LOOK FOR DOLLAR SUBSTITUTES [...] (C) Summary: Following the recent application of new U.S. trade and financial sanctions on Burma, the GOB has faced considerable difficulty in utilizing U.S. dollars for official foreign trade transactions. Third country entrepreneurs are unable, or unwilling, to issue letters of credit in U. [...] | 2003-09-12 10:12:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ETRD ECON EINV KFPC PGOV BM |
03RANGOON1134 | BURMA: NEW ARRESTS ON CAMPUS [...] (C) SUMMARY: Post has received information that Rangoon police arrested seven university students on July 14 for attempting to reopen the Rangoon University Student Union and are holding them in Insein prison The Junta's repressive actions at the smallest signs of student political activity [...] | 2003-09-16 07:46:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PHUM PINS BM |
03RANGOON1159 | GOB GIVES GREEN LIGHT TO INDONESIAN ENVOY [...] (C) According to U Thaung Tun, MFA Director General for Political Affairs, the GOB has agreed to a visit within the next week by Indonesian Presidential Advisor Ali Alatas. The DG told us on September 18 that the specific dates for the visit are "under negotiation," due primarily to the immine [...] | 2003-09-18 09:06:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV BM ID |
03RANGOON116 | BURMA SEEKS CLOSER CHINA TIES [...] (C) SUMMARY: BILATERAL TIES BETWEEN THE CHINESE AND BURMESE GOVERNMENTS SEEM TO BE STRENGTHENING AT ALL LEVELS AND ON MANY FRONTS. FROM THE BURMESE SIDE, THE RECENT EXCHANGE WITH THE PRC OF HIGH-LEVEL VISITS EMPHASIZES THE FACT THAT BURMA IS BANKING ON DEVELOPING AN ENDURING SPECIAL RELATIONS [...] | 2003-01-29 08:47:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL ECON BM |
03RANGOON1160 | ASSK HOSPITALIZED [...] No summary [...] | 2003-09-18 10:17:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL BM ASSK |
03RANGOON1164 | BURMA'S PRIVATE BANKS FACE FINAL ORDEAL TO RESUME [...] (C) Summary: The Burmese government seems poised to allow private banks to resume operations if they meet seven financial conditions. The government has severely limited private banking operations since a run and subsequent crash in February. Even without the authorities' blessing, many smal [...] | 2003-09-19 03:52:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | EFIN ECON BM |
03RANGOON1167 | ASSK UNDERGOES "MAJOR" SURGERY [...] (SBU) On September 19, Aung San Suu Kyi's surgeon told several diplomats and assembled reporters that ASSK had undergone a "major" three hour surgery from noon to 3:00 p.m. The surgeon, Dr. Tin Myo Win, who is also ASSK's personal physician, declined to discuss the reason for the operation, [...] | 2003-09-19 10:08:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV BM ASSK |
03RANGOON1171 | ASSK WILL REMAIN HOSPITALIZED FOR AT LEAST A WEEK [...] (C) Summary: According to Aung San Suu Kyi's personal physician, the detained leader is "doing extremely well" after three days of post-operative recovery, although he expects her to remain in the hospital for at least another seven days. He has cleared her medically to receive visitors, and [...] | 2003-09-22 08:43:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV BM ASSK |
03RANGOON1183 | BURMA: REGIME STEPS UP MILITIA TRAINING [...] (C) SUMMARY: The SPDC is moving forward with its country-wide militia training program, particularly in the capital city of Rangoon (reftel). In early September, ward-level Peace and Development Council bosses in Rangoon began the process of ordering individual families to provide one perso [...] | 2003-09-23 07:58:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | MARR PGOV PREL PHUM BM |
03RANGOON1184 | BURMA SANCTIONS: BUSINESSES ADAPTING IN A FROZEN [...] (C) Summary: Many businesses have adapted fairly well to the July economic sanctions on Burma, though overall economic activity has dropped notably. Many have embraced trade in euros, while some have sought to move their traditional dollar-based business to the Thai and Chinese borders. Still [...] | 2003-09-23 09:18:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | EFIN ETRD ECON PGOV BM |
03RANGOON1187 | ASSK'S HOSPITAL STAY: DAY SIX [...] (C) Summary: On September 23, ASSK's doctor again briefed diplomats on her post-surgery recovery and reported that biopsy reports indicated tissue removed during the operation was non-malignant, but that surgery had been the only option to address a "pre-cancerous" condition. Over 150 NLD sup [...] | 2003-09-23 11:55:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV BM ASSK |
03RANGOON1197 | NO JOY FOR BURMA'S TRADERS [...] (SBU) Summary: After claiming with much fanfare to have had a USD 700 million trade surplus last year (a claim doubted by most not dressed in a uniform),the Burmese government will not likely repeat the farce this year. Admittedly making an accurate assessment of Burma's trade balance is a f [...] | 2003-09-24 08:28:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ETRD ECON EPET PGOV BM |
03RANGOON1207 | BURMA: ROAD(MAP) RALLIES [...] (C) SUMMARY: The Union Solidarity and Development Association (USDA),a mass membership organization sponsored by the ruling SPDC, staged massive rallies on September 20 in Rangoon and Mandalay as a show of support for Prime Minister General Khin Nyunt's "Road Map to Democracy." The junta will [...] | 2003-09-25 06:40:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL BM |
03RANGOON1213 | BURMA: THAI FM VISIT? [...] (C) Thai Embassy officials in Rangoon deny press reports that Thai Foreign Minister Surakiart Sathirathai came to Rangoon for a one day visit on September 25, but said he will be coming for a visit next week. However, other local diplomatic sources and international press stringers insist tha [...] | 2003-09-25 10:43:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL ECON BM TH |
03RANGOON1214 | ASSK HOSPITAL UPDATE: DAY EIGHT [...] (C) On September 24 and 25, ASSK's personal physician again briefed diplomats on her post-surgery recovery. Dr. Tin Myo Win said that ASSK was doing well and "nearly normal." He removed her stitches on September 25 and said that she could be discharged "within one or two days." He re-emphas [...] | 2003-09-25 11:11:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV BM ASSK |
03RANGOON1215 | ALATAS VISIT TO BURMA: "I DON'T WANT TO IMPOSE" [...] (C) Summary: He came, he saw, he left. Indonesian special envoy Ali Alitas made a four-day visit September 21-24 to deliver personal messages to the SPDC from President Megawati. In his own words, he did not want to "impose" on the regime with regard to ASSK and accepted at face value the S [...] | 2003-09-25 11:26:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV BM ASSK |
03RANGOON1238 | BURMA'S MAGIC FEC: WHAT GOES DOWN MUST COME UP [...] (SBU) Summary: After following closely the gyrations of the U.S. dollar/kyat market exchange rate, the Burmese Foreign Exchange Certificate's (FEC) value has diverged significantly in recent months. Sharp dips and climbs unrelated to the greenback are very unusual, and no solid explanation is [...] | 2003-09-30 09:23:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | EFIN ECON AFIN PGOV BM |
03RANGOON1252 | BURMA: SUMMIT FEVER [...] (C) SUMMARY: A MOFA official told us that the GOB will host a "major" (by Burmese standards) summit the first week of November. Thai, Lao, and Cambodian heads of government will meet with their SPDC counterpart to pursue the Thai-led "Economic Cooperation Strategy (ECS)." According to MOFA s [...] | 2003-10-01 08:05:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL BM CB TH LA IN |
03RANGOON1253 | BURMA: NO PROGRESS ON MONEY LAUNDERING RULES [...] (C) Summary: After a promising start, Burma's efforts in 2003 to implement its year-old money laundering law have fallen well shy of international expectations. The likely culprits? The collapse of the private banking sector, persistent corrupt cronyism, and a lack of technical capacity. Si [...] | 2003-10-01 08:46:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | EFIN SNAR KCRM PTER BM |
03RANGOON1259 | RAZALI'S RANGOON MEETINGS DISAPPOINT [...] (C) Summary: UN Special Envoy Razali departed Rangoon on October 2nd, calling his trip a "total failure." Though he did not achieve any tangible results, his visit was important in assessing the degree of open mindedness on all sides for the SPDC's recently announced "road map to democracy." [...] | 2003-10-02 13:03:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV KDEM PHUM BM |
03RANGOON1264 | SECOND NATIONAL CONVENTION COMMITTEE [...] (SBU) Summary: By reviving a second defunct National Convention planning committee, and staffing it with government officials, the Burmese regime is moving nearer to realizing step one of its seven part democracy plan. Participation of ethnic minority, and other opposition groups, is still now [...] | 2003-10-03 09:15:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | PGOV KDEM BM |
03RANGOON1313 | BURMA HOSTS "ACCORD" REGIONAL DRUG TASKFORCE; [...] (C) Summary: On Oct. 16 Burma hosted the law enforcement taskforce of the ASEAN region's cooperative counterdrug entity, ACCORD. Members agreed that amphetamines pose the biggest drug threat to the region, lauded UNODC computer-based training for law enforcement, and demonstrated varying degr [...] | 2003-10-20 09:10:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | SNAR KCRM PGOV EFIN BM |
03RANGOON1314 | LATEST ARRESTS INDICATE ZERO TOLERANCE FOR DISSENT [...] (C) Summary: The SPDC recently arrested a former U.S. Embassy FSN and seven university students for distributing pamphlets deemed critical of the regime's "roadmap for democracy." Additional arrests of NLD supporters indicate a continued low tolerance for dissent, and the regime was likely e [...] | 2003-10-20 09:13:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM BM |
03RANGOON1316 | BURMA: PAYING TAXES TO THE DMV [...] (SBU) Summary: In a nightmare bureaucratic scenario that unites tax authorities, the department of motor vehicles, and military intelligence, as of October 6th the Burmese government is using a mandatory annual car registration exercise to try and collect desperately needed tax revenue. Tax co [...] | 2003-10-20 09:20:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EFIN ECON PGOV BM |
03RANGOON1317 | NEW MONEY LAUNDERING SANCTIONS COULD BE USEFUL [...] (U) This is an action request. Please see paragraphs 5 and 6. 2. (C) For reasons laid out in Ref B, we think it unlikely that the Burmese government will produce adequate money laundering regulations and a draft mutual legal assistance law by the November 3 deadline set by the Financial Ac [...] | 2003-10-21 02:23:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | EFIN SNAR KCRM PGOV BM |
03RANGOON1326 | BURMA: NEW SECRET POLICE SPECIAL UNITS [...] (C) SUMMARY: In the last few months, the SPDC created two new Office of the Chief, Military Intelligence (OCMI) special units in Rangoon to focus on monitoring and responding to political challenges to the new 7-point roadmap. The offices, Special Unit Number 1 and Special Unit Number 2, ha [...] | 2003-10-22 00:25:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL BM |
03RANGOON1337 | BURMA SANCTIONS: IF YOU CAN'T BEAT 'EM, CHEAT [...] (C) We've been hearing tales of cheating to circumvent new U.S. economic sanctions, particularly the ban on importing Burmese products into the United States. Though we don't have a sense yet of the volume of this malfeasance, it's becoming clearer that some exporters of garments and seafood, [...] | 2003-10-23 08:13:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ETRD ECON BM |
03RANGOON1339 | POPPIES, AK-47S, AND WOLFRAMITE: A TRIP TO WA AND [...] (SBU) Summary: A brief visit to a major opium production region in eastern Burma, some of it well outside the writ of the Rangoon generals, presented some clear themes. The non-Burman militias and governments that hold sway in the eastern border zones govern a region that is far more reliant [...] | 2003-10-24 01:53:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | SNAR PREL PINS PGOV ECON BM |
03RANGOON1358 | BURMA: KOREAN FACTORY OWNERS COMPLAIN [...] (C) SUMMARY: Since the U.S. import ban became law on July 28, 10 of the original 35 Korean-owned garment factories in Burma have closed. The remaining 25 factories are hanging on by filling European orders, but are continuing layoffs. Laid off workers have returned to their home towns and vi [...] | 2003-10-29 04:04:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL BM |
03RANGOON1359 | VIEW FROM A RANGOON STREET KIDS SHELTER [...] SUMMARY: On October 21 the director of an NGO-funded Rangoon street kids drop-in shelter reported an absence of GOB impressment for portering and forced enlistment of street children compared to previous years. The shelter director believes the U.S. sanctions have increased local unemployment [...] | 2003-10-29 04:05:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | PGOV PREL BM |
03RANGOON1361 | RELIGIOUS/ETHNIC TENSIONS SPREAD TO RANGOON [...] (C) Summary: For the past four nights, October 25-28, and coinciding with the advent of the holy month of Ramadan, Rangoon has experienced low-scale religious violence between Muslims and Buddhists that originally flared up in mid-October in upper Burma. The motives for these attacks, their i [...] | 2003-10-29 10:43:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PHUM PINS SCUL PGOV KISL BM |
03RANGOON1362 | EAP/BCLTV DIRECTOR'S MEETING WITH CHINA'S [...] (C) Summary: Chinese Ambassador to Burma Li Jinjun posited in a late October meeting that current efforts by the international community on Burma should be aimed at establishing a platform for stable cooperation between Aung San Suu Kyi (ASSK) and the SPDC. The U.S. should consider lifting ec [...] | 2003-10-29 10:51:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV CM BM |
03RANGOON1364 | A RANGOON HIV/AIDS CLINIC [...] (U) SUMMARY: This NGO clinic, in a government-developed slum, provides organized health care despite primitive conditions, thanks to the education and dedication of the doctor and the support of MSF-Holland. It provides a glimpse of the terrible health conditions faced by the vast majority o [...] | 2003-10-29 14:45:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | PGOV PREL EAID PHUM ECON BM NGO |
03RANGOON1375 | JAPAN ENCOURAGES RAZALI TO UNDERTAKE SECRET [...] (C) Summary: The Japanese Ambassador to Burma, Yuji Miyamoto, is urging U.N. Special Envoy Razali to conduct his dialogue efforts "in secret" and to replace his pro-ASSK liaison officer in Rangoon, two points the Japanese believe might lead the SPDC to be more cooperative. The Japanese also w [...] | 2003-10-31 00:47:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV BM JA |
03RANGOON1390 | RUSSIA-BURMA NUCLEAR ISSUE [...] (S) Russian Ambassador Oleg Kabanov told EAP/BCLTV Director Judith Strotz and DCM October 22 that Russia's proposal to sell a nuclear research reactor to Burma was "basically frozen," adding that Burmese students are in Russia studying (at Burmese expense) nuclear engineering and technology. [...] | 2003-11-03 02:29:00 | Embassy Rangoon | SECRET | PARM KNNP PREL BM RS |
03RANGOON1410 | BURMA: PINHEIRO FRUSTRATED, BUT DETERMINED TO [...] (C) Summary: U.N. human rights envoy Pinheiro has kicked off an ambitious week in Burma during which he hopes to secure: the release of ASSK and all NLD members detained since the May 30 attack; an agreement to conduct an assessment of the attack; the reopening of political party offices; amne [...] | 2003-11-04 08:05:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PHUM PREL PGOV BM |
03RANGOON1421 | JAPANESE ON RAZALI ADVISOR DE RIEDMATTEN [...] (C) Japanese DCM Hiroshi Kawamura called on DCM November 5 to clarify his ambassador's position regarding Swiss citizen Leon de Riedmatten, Razali advisor and head of Humanitarian Dialogue in Rangoon. 2. (C) Kawamura stated that his Ambassador, Yuji Miyamoto, had not demarched or suggeste [...] | 2003-11-06 05:01:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV BM |
03RANGOON1423 | EVEN THE DEAD ARE OPPRESSED [...] SUMMARY: The Burmese junta on November 1 ordered the demolition of a large Christian cemetery in a Karen neighborhood of Rangoon. Graves not exhumed by family members of the deceased by December 2 will be bulldozed, as the regime plans to build a condominium on the site. Emboff witnessed [...] | 2003-11-06 08:33:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | PGOV PHUM SCUL BM |
03RANGOON1425 | BURMA SANCTIONS: GARMENT MAKERS CLING TO LEAKY RAFT [...] (C) Summary: Burma's private garment manufacturers claim 100 closed factories and 50,000 jobless as of the end of October -- with another 25,000 likely out of work by year's end. However, last-minute, limited garment orders from Europe will postpone the death of the Burmese garment industry i [...] | 2003-11-07 06:34:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ETRD KTEX ELAB PHUM PGOV BM |
03RANGOON1429 | ANATOMY OF A BURMESE POLITICAL BLOOD BATH [...] (C) SUMMARY: Additional information on the May 30 Depeyin attack continues to emerge from victims and eyewitnesses, providing new context and clarity to the regime's true role in the premeditated assault on ASSK and the NLD. On November 4, NLD members smuggled to us video footage of Aung San [...] | 2003-11-07 09:59:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PHUM BM ASSK NLD |
03RANGOON1431 | AN EVENING WITH PINHEIRO: NO PROGRESS IN BURMA [...] (C) SUMMARY: Pinheiro summarized to COM on November 6 that his present visit was a bust and he sees regression in the human rights situation since his last trip to Burma. The SPDC did not concede to him any of the outcomes he'd hoped for during this visit, including releasing the May 30 pris [...] | 2003-11-07 12:02:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PHUM BM ASSK NLD |
03RANGOON1432 | PINHEIRO'S DOWNBEAT DEPARTURE [...] (C) SUMMARY: Pinheiro gave a downbeat assessment to the diplomatic corps of his visit this week to Burma. He repeated most of his themes from his November 6 meeting at the COM's residence (reftel),and he was obviously restraining himself from showing his true level of frustration with the re [...] | 2003-11-08 10:11:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL BM NLD |
03RANGOON1433 | "COME BACK TO REALITY" [...] (C) SUMMARY: Former ICRC Head and assistant to UN Special Envoy Razali, Leon de Reidmatten, briefed COM on his November 7 Bangkok meeting with Thai Foreign Minister Surakiat. De Reidmatten said that from the discussion that took place between SE Razali and FM Surakiat, it is clear the SPDC a [...] | 2003-11-10 07:14:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PHUM PGOV PREL BM |
03RANGOON1444 | GOB RELEASES EIGHT MAY 30 POLITICAL PRISONERS [...] (C) Summary: The GOB announced on November 10 the release of eight political detainees, including six known members of the NLD arrested following the May 30 premeditated attack on ASSK and her convoy. The releases are clearly calculated to soften the blow of a damning U.N. report on the human [...] | 2003-11-12 10:55:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PHUM PGOV BM NLD |
03RANGOON1452 | INDIAN VP VISIT TO BURMA: DEMOCRACY AND HUMAN RIGHTS TAKE A BACK SEAT [...] (C) Summary: Indian Vice President Shekhawat's November 2-5 visit to Burma was the most senior mission by an Indian leader in 16 years and the latest in a string of high-profile visits from India and other neighboring countries. The Burmese regime pulled out all the stops for the visit, though co [...] | 2003-11-14 05:18:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV BM IN |
03RANGOON1462 | RAZALI AND THE NLD VIDEOTAPE [...] (C) Reftel indicated that UN Special Envoy Razali had requested a copy of the NLD videotape of the May 2003 ASSK convoy in northern Burma. His intention to provide the tape to certain international journalists as a way to bring external pressure on the SPDC would fulfill a request by ASSK, as [...] | 2003-11-14 09:45:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PHUM BM MY ASSK NLD |
03RANGOON1463 | KACHIN STATE: AN UNEASY "PEACE" [...] (C) Summary: An Embassy trip to Burma's Kachin State secured additional support for our WWII remains recovery operations, but also revealed that the Government's ten-year old cease-fire agreement with the region's former insurgents masks deep suspicion of the SPDC and an active desire for self [...] | 2003-11-17 00:34:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV MOPS PHUM BM |
03RANGOON147 | RUSSIAN MIGS AND REACTORS [...] (C) Summary: Russia now has the only bilateral military and technical cooperation agreement with Burma, according to a Rangoon-based Russian diplomat. A draft agreement for the sale of a 10 megawatt research reactor was approved by the Russian government last year and is now under study by the [...] | 2003-02-04 08:53:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | KNNP PARM MARR BM IAEA BNUC RU |
03RANGOON1477 | NATIONAL CONVENTION: READY OR NOT, HERE IT COMES [...] (C) SUMMARY: The Burmese regime is quietly selecting delegates for a National Convention, the first step in implementing a new constitution, and may convene a body stacked with pro-SPDC delegates as early as January. The NLD says it won't participate absent broader negotiations and Burma's [...] | 2003-11-17 10:11:00 | Embassy Rangoon | SECRET | PGOV PHUM PREL BM NLD |
03RANGOON1478 | NLD MP-ELECT DETAILS IMPRISONMENT [...] (C) NLD MP-elect U Hla Min, 65, credits UNSR Pinheiro with winning his release from prison November 9 after the regime held him for five months without charge. Hla Min is the last of the Professional Development Program (PDP) students swept up in the post-May 30 anti-NLD crackdown to be rele [...] | 2003-11-19 01:38:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PHUM PGOV BM NLD |
03RANGOON1479 | ONWARD BUDDHIST SOLDIERS! [...] (C) Summary: In Burma, the Buddhist monkhood is a force second in size and power only to the ruling military. The Burmese government has coerced and cajoled the country's most senior abbots into political line, thus indirectly controlling the rank and file. However, the monkhood is a large a [...] | 2003-11-19 02:01:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | SCUL PINS PGOV PHUM BM |
03RANGOON1488 | NLD DEMONSTRATIONS FAIL TO MATERIALIZE [...] (C) Summary: Burma's 83rd National Day anniversary, commemorating a 1920 student strike that accelerated the independence movement, passed quietly on November 18 with the SPDC and the NLD and other pro-democracy groups holding separate, low-key ceremonies. Broader NLD demonstrations failed t [...] | 2003-11-19 10:06:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL BM NLD |
03RANGOON1489 | EXPOSING RISKS OF HIV/AIDS IN BURMA [...] SUMMARY: The Ministry of Health held Burma's second annual HIV/AIDS exposition in Rangoon, attracting 70,000 visitors, raising HIV/AIDS awareness, and administering on-site HIV/AIDS tests to those interested. However, whether the expo successfully reached Burma's high-risk populations is un [...] | 2003-11-20 07:55:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | TBIO SOCI PGOV EAID PHUM PREL BM NGO |
03RANGOON1509 | BURMA'S MUSLIM LEADERS, FOREIGN DIPLOMATS FETED [...] (SBU) Summary: Two Iftaar dinners hosted recently by the Embassy community made great strides in improving already good relations with the Burmese and Diplomatic Muslim communities. There were good exchanges on religious diversity, the role of Islam in the United States, religious tensions in [...] | 2003-11-21 07:19:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | KISL SCUL KPAO PREL BM |
03RANGOON1512 | ANOTHER REGIME SHOWCASE: BURMA HOSTS REGIONAL [...] (C) Summary: Burma hosted a four-country economic summit in mid-November, producing few tangible results but delivering another public relations coup for a military regime in the hunt for international legitimacy. The Thai Embassy in Rangoon says that their delegation pressed the generals in [...] | 2003-11-21 07:46:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV ETRD ECON BM |
03RANGOON1516 | BURMA'S BUSINESSWOMEN KNOCKING ON TEAK CEILING [...] (SBU) Summary: While striving to retain its political independence, the Myanmar Women's Entrepreneur Association (MWEA) has had some success helping established Burmese businesswomen climb the business ladder. Though it has had less success building economic capacity at the lower rungs of the [...] | 2003-11-24 05:06:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | ECON KWMN PGOV BM |
03RANGOON1518 | SPDC LIFTS HOUSE ARREST RESTRICTIONS FOR FIVE NLD [...] (C) Summary: On November 23 and 24, the SPDC lifted house arrest restrictions imposed upon five senior NLD leaders. NLD members welcome the news that five of the "Uncles" have been released; however, the party's four core leaders, including ASSK, remain under SPDC-imposed isolation. The Depa [...] | 2003-11-24 10:04:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM BM NLD |
03RANGOON1519 | RANGOON INCIDENTS/ANOMALIES [...] (U) The following are incidents of hostile intelligence service activity reported by Embassy officers in recent weeks. 2. (S/NF) On November 11 the Deputy Chief of Mission hosted an event at his residence for the official Amcit community. Military Intelligence (MI) officers questione [...] | 2003-11-25 04:28:00 | Embassy Rangoon | SECRET | ASEC PREL BM |
03RANGOON1529 | BURMA: 2003 ANNUAL TERRORISM REPORT [...] (SBU) Letters below correspond to questions in ref A, para 2. A. Burma's solid position against international terrorism continued in 2003. Burma has ratified, acceded to, or signed six of the twelve international counter-terrorism conventions and indicated it is considering fast action on [...] | 2003-11-25 09:45:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | PTER BM |
03RANGOON1534 | RELEASED NLD OFFICIAL BACK ON THE JOB [...] (C) Summary: Senior NLD leader U Nyunt Wei, newly released from house arrest, says his pro-democracy party will refuse to participate in the regime's reconvened National Convention. He expressed surprise at his own release and pondered whether ASSK and other CEC members might also get a surpr [...] | 2003-11-26 09:37:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM BM NLD |
03RANGOON1552 | BURMA'S COCKROACH ECONOMY [...] (C) Summary: Considering the dismal state of the Burmese economy, it is surprising that the Burmese state remains both viable and stable. How is that people are able to quietly endure and survive? How can the ruling military regime be in a stronger position than ever? We see three major fact [...] | 2003-12-03 01:35:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ECON PGOV BM |
03RANGOON1562 | WAITING FOR GODOT: NLD LEADERS IN A HOLDING [...] (C) Summary: Recently released senior leaders of the NLD indicate they will remain politically active and press ahead with the challenge of reviving the democracy movement and protecting the survival of their political party. However, the "Uncles" admit that they find it difficult to form a p [...] | 2003-12-03 10:17:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV PHUM BM NLD |
03RANGOON1564 | WORLD AIDS DAY IN BURMA [...] SUMMARY: The GOB, close on the heels of its well-attended HIV/AIDS Exposition (reftel),on World AIDS Day held ceremonies and HIV/AIDS activities in Rangoon and other cities. According to two government-controlled weeklies, the GOB ranks HIV/AIDS as the number three national health concern. [...] | 2003-12-04 08:07:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | PGOV TBIO EAID PHUM PREL SOCI BM NGO |
03RANGOON1566 | ALLEGED COUP PLOTTERS SENTENCED TO DEATH [...] (C) SUMMARY: According to Embassy sources, a secret SPDC court on November 28 sentenced to death nine persons, including a magazine editor and several individuals actively involved with opposition movements, for allegedly planning to assassinate regime leaders and bomb key government installa [...] | 2003-12-05 00:35:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PHUM BM |
03RANGOON1572 | BURMA: REGIME RELEASES ADDITIONAL MAY 30 DETAINEES [...] (C) Summary: The SPDC acknowledged on December 5 that it had recently released up to 16 NLD party members who had been detained in connection with the May 30 Depeyin attack. By the regime's own admission, 14 individuals associated with the attack remain in detention. The regime's decision to [...] | 2003-12-05 10:17:00 | Embassy Rangoon | SECRET | PREL PGOV PHUM BM NLD |
03RANGOON1574 | NLD LEADERSHIP ON NATIONAL CONVENTION PROCESS [...] (U) The following refers to questions raised in reftel A. 2. (C) NLD Central Executive Committee members detailed to the Chief of Mission and Emboffs (reftel B) the minimum steps necessary for the party to resume participation in a National Convention process. (NOTE: In 1995, when the SPDC [...] | 2003-12-08 09:12:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PHUM PGOV BM NLD |
03RANGOON1595 | BURMA FLOATS MONEY LAUNDERING RULES AND [...] (SBU) Summary: As if from thin air, the Burmese government has issued long-awaited regulations to accompany a money laundering law passed in June 2002. Simultaneously, the government launched an investigation into two banks pinpointed by the United States as linked to narcotraffickers. While [...] | 2003-12-12 07:45:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL//NOFORN | SNAR PGOV EFIN BM |
03RANGOON1598 | A VISIT TO CHINA'S BURMESE PROVINCE: MONGLA AND [...] (C) Summary: Some clear themes emerged from a trip to the Burmese corner of the Golden Triangle. The area's cities are relatively affluent, thanks to border trade. However, this affluence, combined with low education levels, poor healthcare, and very little international attention, has helpe [...] | 2003-12-15 04:46:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | SOCI EAID SNAR ECON SCUL PHUM KHIV KWMN PREL PGOV BM CM NGO |
03RANGOON16 | BURMA'S INDEPENDENCE DAY; THE NLD CALLS FOR [...] (C) Summary: Burma's January 4 Independence Day celebrations produced no new gestures of reconciliation and perhaps a slight hardening of positions on both sides. The National League for Democracy called for an end to political oppression, the release of all political prisoners, and the initi [...] | 2003-01-06 07:24:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL BM NLD |
03RANGOON1606 | UN TRIES AGAIN TO MAP BURMA'S PROBLEMS [...] (SBU) Summary: A new UN resident representative for Burma is attempting to complete a humanitarian needs assessment and strategy report that his predecessor failed to extract from the UN bureaucracy. The report is intended to come alongside an ambitious data collection project, which should he [...] | 2003-12-17 03:02:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EAID SOCI ECON PGOV BM |
03RANGOON161 | UNHCR TO CLOSE IN BANGLADESH [...] (C) Summary: UNHCR tells us it plans to close down its refugee operations in Bangladesh at the end of 2003. In 2004, it will look at the possibility of closing its operations in Burma's northern Rakhine State. Whatever the merits of the decision in Bangladesh, in Burma, premature closure of [...] | 2003-02-06 07:57:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREF BG BM |
03RANGOON1616 | SPDC MUM ON SUCCESSFUL THAI "ROAD MAP" FORUM [...] (C) A multilateral meeting on Burma, held December 15th in Bangkok, appears to have been a political victory for Burma's ruling regime. Readouts of the meeting from Tokyo (ref A),Washington, and Bangkok indicate that there were some tough questions put to the Burmese representative, Foreign M [...] | 2003-12-19 06:19:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV BM |
03RANGOON1623 | BURMA: 2003-2004 INTERNATIONAL NARCOTICS CONTROL [...] Burma is the world's second largest producer of illicit opium and the second largest cultivator of opium poppy. The gap between Burma and the number one producer of illicit opium and number one cultivator of poppy, Afghanistan, increased considerably in 2003. Burma remains the primary sourc [...] | 2003-12-22 09:44:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | EFIN KCRM PTER BM TAGS |
03RANGOON1644 | CEASE-FIRE ETHNICS VIEW ASSK DIALOGUE AS ROAD MAP [...] (C) Summary: A leading coalition of ethnic minority political parties, associated with Burma's cease-fire groups, insists that the SPDC must engage with ASSK and other political leaders before reconvening a National Convention. The coalition also demands that the country's ethnic groups must b [...] | 2003-12-29 10:01:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV BM ASSK |
03RANGOON165 | BURMA'S TOURIST SECTOR: LIES, DAMN LIES, AND [...] (SBU) Summary: Can there really have been 500,000 foreign tourists, including 15,000 Americans, in Burma last year? Despite the GOB's triumphant claims, we think not. Evidence from the local tourism industry, the Embassy's Consular Section, and a measure of plain common sense, suggest a much [...] | 2003-02-07 02:23:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EIND CASC ECON BM |
03RANGOON1653 | NLD LEADERS FORMING LEGAL CASE TO RELEASE ASSK [...] (C) Summary: According to NLD sources, released CEC members are consulting with party lawyers on building a possible legal case to press for the release of ASSK and other NLD officials. Using Burma's opaque court system is unlikely to get the SPDC to budge, but legal action could generate re [...] | 2003-12-30 10:13:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM BM ASSK NLD |
03RANGOON167 | WIN AUNG IN INDIA AND OTHER RECENT GOB TOURS OF [...] (C) Summary: The SPDC's recent trips to India, China, and Bangladesh, together with its exchanges with Thailand, are intended to shore up regional support for Burma in anticipation of a possible deterioration in Burma's relations with the West. According to the Director of MFA's Southwest and [...] | 2003-02-07 03:15:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL BG IN BM |
03RANGOON168 | REGIME NAMES CHANGE, GAME REMAINS THE SAME [...] (SBU) Summary: The State Peace and Development Council (SPDC) announced on February 1 the selection of a new "Secretary 2" and the rotation, including two retirements, of several regime ministers. The outgoing ministers won't be missed. The incoming Secretary 2 may eventually establish hi [...] | 2003-02-07 03:47:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PINR PREL BM |
03RANGOON178 | BURMA'S ENERGY POLICY: BETTER LUCKY THAN GOOD [...] (C) Summary: Burma may have found a patch for its energy problems in 2003. A slower decline at the aging A'Pyauk gas fields (about 50 miles north northwest of Rangoon),unexpectedly large finds of gas in the recently developed Nyaungdon field (about 20 miles northwest of the capital),and bet [...] | 2003-02-10 02:52:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ENRG ECON EINV BM |
03RANGOON185 | A NEW WAVE OF POLITICAL ARRESTS [...] (C) Reuters reported on February 10 that the regime had arrested 12 opposition activists for plotting to create unrest in Burma. The report did not provide many details on the arrests but it did note that 7 low-level members of the National League for Democracy (NLD) members and the Secretary [...] | 2003-02-10 10:11:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PHUM BM NLD |
03RANGOON190 | JAPANESE VIEWS OF RAZALI'S MISSION [...] (C) Summary: According to Japanese Embassy sources in Rangoon, at the upcoming UN meetings in Tokyo, Japan will argue that the current sanctions-based western approach to Burma has failed and should be revised to allow for a more gradual process of transition, more direct aid support and more [...] | 2003-02-11 07:53:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL BM UN |
03RANGOON194 | UN SEES LOOMING HUMANITARIAN CRISIS IN BURMA [...] (C) Summary: The UN country team in Burma has painted a stark picture of the nation's humanitarian situation. It has also forecast dire consequences for Burma's poor, and for regional stability, if the situation is not addressed quickly. The UNDP Resident Representative in Rangoon will prese [...] | 2003-02-13 08:32:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | EAID SOCI ECON BM |
03RANGOON195 | NLD CEREMONY PROVIDES PLATFORM FOR PEOPLES' [...] (SBU) Summary: The National League for Democracy and other opposition parties represented by the Committee Representing the People's Parliament (CRPP) celebrated Burma's Union Day on February 12 at NLD headquarters. In this first ever CRPP public celebration of a national holiday, the growi [...] | 2003-02-13 10:14:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM BM NLD |
03RANGOON203 | REGIME PRESENTS EVIDENCE ON POLITICAL ARRESTS [...] (C) Summary: The SPDC presented its evidence against political activists arrested over the last month in a February 10 press conference. The activists were allegedly conspiring with "insurgent and terrorist" groups in Thailand. While one of those arrested was allegedly planning some explosi [...] | 2003-02-14 10:08:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM BM |
03RANGOON213 | BURMA'S BANKS CRASH [...] (C) Summary: Burma's expected banking crisis is no longer pending; it's here. According to bankers in Rangoon, depositors withdrew more than one-quarter of their deposits with Burma's private banks during the week ending February 14, following revelations of connections between the private ba [...] | 2003-02-19 04:46:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | EFIN BM |
03RANGOON214 | BANKING CRISIS CONTINUES; STILL NO EFFECTIVE [...] (C) Summary: Burma's banking crisis has continued to build in the absence of government action. Several private banks have effectively closed, while the Myanmar Bankers Association has agreed to further reduce the limits on withdrawals to only 200,000 kyat (i.e., $200) per account per week. [...] | 2003-02-19 09:16:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | EFIN BM |
03RANGOON225 | BURMA'S BANKS: GOB TAKES ACTION, BUT IS IT ENOUGH? [...] (C) Summary: The GOB has agreed to extend loans beginning next week to the country's beleaguered private banking sector. However, the regime blames the banks for their predicament, and has apparently decided to let the crisis run its course without trying any extraordinary new steps to reassu [...] | 2003-02-21 09:52:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | EFIN PREL ECON BM |
03RANGOON228 | AUNG SAN SUU KYI AVOIDS JAIL, CALLS REGIME'S [...] (SBU) Summary: Aung San Suu Kyi was found guilty of wrongful restraint February 21 in a civil suit brought by her cousin. The NLD Chairman says the court's judgment was "definitely politically motivated," and her lawyer outlined several procedural irregularities. Daw Suu reportedly objected [...] | 2003-02-24 00:40:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | PGOV BM ASSK |
03RANGOON235 | BURMA'S BANKS: SURVIVAL OF THE FITTEST [...] (C) Summary: The GOB has finally made a public statement (on February 21) and committed to a strategy that will hopefully spark a turnaround and begin to reshape the private banking sector. As the crisis enters its second week, we can only await the effect of the GOB's strategy on depositors, [...] | 2003-02-24 10:48:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | EFIN PREL ECON BM |
03RANGOON236 | BURMA'S DUAL BANKING CRISES: WHO'S PAYING THE [...] (C) Summary: The simultaneous crash of the formal and informal banking sectors in Burma starting February 14 led many to expect the worst. Although day laborers and small depositors have been hit the hardest, thus far calm has dominated. People are frustrated, but not angry enough to take po [...] | 2003-02-24 11:16:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | EFIN PREL ECON BM |
03RANGOON248 | USG HUMAN RIGHTS STRATEGY FOR BURMA [...] (SBU) The following draft report is provided in response to tasking contained in reftel. The text of the report has also been sent by e-mail to EAP/BCLTV. 2. (SBU) Begin report text: Embassy Rangoon Human Rights Strategy for Burma The United States has staked out a position in Burma [...] | 2003-02-26 09:09:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | KDEM PHUM BM |
03RANGOON249 | CHINESE BANKS ARE GOATS, BUT WON'T BE SLAUGHTERED [...] (C) Summary: Mounting public frustration with the country's disgraced, largely Chinese-owned, private banks has led to fears among the Chinese business community and others of an anti-Chinese backlash. Though this remains a possibility, particularly if SPDC decides it needs a convenient scape [...] | 2003-02-26 09:56:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | EFIN ECON BM |
03RANGOON258 | MUSLIM REPRESSION AND RESENTMENT NEAR BURMA'S [...] (C) Summary: The Burmese regime's repression of the mostly Muslim population of northern Rakhine State, located along the border with Bangladesh, is breeding resentment and poverty. DCM visited the area in mid-February as part of a trip to the region organized by UNHCR for diplomats. UNHCR [...] | 2003-02-27 08:47:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PINS PREF KISL BM UNHCR |
03RANGOON261 | NEW HEALTH MINISTER PROGRESSIVE ON VCT [...] (U) This is an action request for EAP/BCLTV. Please see paragraph 7. 2. (SBU) Summary: The COM had a productive courtesy call on the new Health Minister, pressing him on expanded VCT, discussing an expected private health care law, and presenting the case for visits to Burma by Orbis and [...] | 2003-02-27 11:27:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EAID SOCI ECON BM NGO |
03RANGOON271 | BURMA'S BANKS: HOPING FOR THE BEST, EXPECTING THE [...] (C) Summary: Week two of the banking crisis started with grand hopes of a resolution to liquidity problems, but closed with little change in the overall situation. The GOB started the week strong, with the apparent extension of Central Bank loans on the 24th, but remained disturbingly silent a [...] | 2003-02-28 10:13:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | EFIN PREL ECON BM |
03RANGOON29 | UPDATE ON WWII REMAINS RECOVERY IN BURMA [...] (SBU) Summary: The recovery of the remains of some 600 WWII missing personnel (mostly crews of aircraft that crashed while flying "the hump" from India to China) is an important USG priority in Burma. With fairly good cooperation from the Government of Burma, the recovery operation is moving [...] | 2003-01-08 09:41:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | MOPS PREL BM |
03RANGOON299 | BURMA'S BANKS: GOVERNMENT CUTS LIFELINE [...] (C) Summary: The regime has pulled the rug out from under the private banks, denying them any Central Bank credit. Though some reconfiguration of the banking system seems inevitable, the GOB has been mum so far on its exact intentions. The longer the delay in action, the longer the country's [...] | 2003-03-05 11:14:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | EFIN PREL ECON BM |
03RANGOON30 | DANGERS LURK WITHIN BURMA'S SHADOW BANKS [...] (SBU) Summary: The surprisingly large informal banking sector in Burma has become a major cause of inflation, and a threat to the stability of the already weakened Burmese economy. A crackdown combined with a general liberalization of the official banking sector would be the best course for [...] | 2003-01-08 10:25:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EFIN ECON BM |
03RANGOON300 | ILO PUSHES FOR PROGRESS ON FORCED LABOR [...] (C) Summary: On February 28, ILO Liaison Officer Ms. Perret-Nguyen provided Emboffs with a status report on her efforts to engage the regime on forced labor before the ILO Governing Board meeting on Burma in late March. Ms. Perret-Nguyen has been focusing on getting the regime to accept a p [...] | 2003-03-06 06:43:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ELAB PHUM PREL BM |
03RANGOON304 | BURMESE STRONGMAN ILL WITH CANCER [...] (C) A reliable source with very close personal ties to top military medical officers corroborated recent DAO Rangoon reports that Vice Senior General Maung Aye has been hospitalized. Our source indicated, though, that Maung Aye had been diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer that is not trea [...] | 2003-03-06 09:07:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PINS BM |
03RANGOON309 | BURMA: THIRD ANNUAL TIP REPORT [...] (SBU) The following report responds to the checklist provided in reftel requesting information on trafficking in persons activities in Burma. The report will also be forwarded to EAP/BCLTV in Word format. Begin Report: Overview of Country's Activities - A. Burma is a country of origin [...] | 2003-03-07 07:59:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | ASEC ELAB KCRM KFRD KWMN PHUM PREF PREL SMIG BM |
03RANGOON31 | END GAME IN BURMA'S ETHNIC WARS [...] (C) Summary: Burma has basically won its ethnic wars. While some small-scale operations continue, the situation now is nothing like it was in the late 1980s. Then, 20 separate insurgent groups could put more than 60,000 troops in the field in Burma. Now, the five or six groups that remain ac [...] | 2003-01-08 10:49:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PINS SNAR PHUM PREL MOPS BM |
03RANGOON318 | VISA BANS: A COMPARISON OF U.S. AND E.U. POLICIES [...] SUMMARY: An analysis of American and E.U. visa policies toward Burmese "who formulate, implement, or benefit from policies that impede Burma's transition to democracy" shows that American and E.U. consular officials refuse to issue visas to more or less the same people, but sometimes for diffe [...] | 2003-03-10 07:35:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | CVIS CMGT BM |
03RANGOON334 | OPIUM CULTIVATION DOWN SHARPLY IN BURMA [...] (C) Summary: According to UNODC experts, Burma's notorious Kokang Region is now free of opium. So is northern Shan State from Kutkai to Muse. According to UNODC's opium surveyors, preliminary indications from the data they have collected throughout Shan State suggest that the area under opiu [...] | 2003-03-13 05:22:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | SNAR KCRM BM |
03RANGOON348 | BURMA'S BANKS: PASSING THE BUCK ON TO BORROWERS [...] (C) Summary: The GOB has settled on a response to the banking crisis that will likely just expedite the disaster it is ostensibly trying to avoid. The regime, through a military-run committee, demanded that banks restore liquidity by calling in loans. With the economy at a standstill, many b [...] | 2003-03-17 09:12:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | EFIN PINS ECON BM |
03RANGOON355 | LABOR MINISTER REJECTS ILO ACTION PLAN [...] (SBU) COM Martinez met with Labor Minister Tin Winn on March 18 to encourage greater Burmese cooperation with the ILO on forced labor. Specifically, the COM urged the Minister to accept Rangoon ILO Liaison Officer Ms. Perret-Nguyen's recommendations for a plan of action to be presented at th [...] | 2003-03-19 06:48:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | ELAB PHUM BM |
03RANGOON359 | NLD COMMENTS ON PRISONER RELEASES, INTIMIDATION, [...] (SBU) Summary: On March 18, NLD Central Executive Committee members told Embassy officials that the SPDC included 3 NLD prisoners in the 45 prisoners released on March 16. However, the NLD also charged that the SPDC continues to condone, if not direct, harassment of the NLD and Aung San Suu [...] | 2003-03-19 10:07:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PHUM BM NLD ASSK |
03RANGOON370 | PINHEIRO SEEKING SPDC APPROVAL FOR HR ASSESSMENT [...] (SBU) Summary: On March 20, UN Special Rapporteur Pinheiro briefed the U.S., EU, Japanese, and Australian Ambassadors on his current visit to Burma. Pinheiro said the 6-day visit is to update information prior to his March 31 presentation to the UN Human Rights Committee and to request gove [...] | 2003-03-21 06:04:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PHUM BM |
03RANGOON377 | PINHEIRO SUSPENDS MISSION TO PROTEST GOVERNMENT [...] (C) Summary: Pinheiro suspended his fifth mission to Burma on March 24 to protest a government eavesdropping incident at a supposedly confidential interview he conducted. He will not return until he receives an explanation of the incident and a renewed government commitment to the guidelines f [...] | 2003-03-24 11:35:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PHUM PGOV BM |
03RANGOON387 | DISCOVERY OF IED NEAR U.S. EMBASSY - RANGOON [...] (U) AT APPROXIMATELY 06:20 THIS MORNING, AN IMPROVISED EXPLOSIVE DEVICE (IED) WAS DISCOVERED IN MAHABANDOOLA PARK WHICH FRONTS MERCHANT STREET ON THE NORTH SIDE OF THE CHANCERY. THE DEVICE WAS DISCOVERED DURING A ROUTINE CHECK BY HOST COUNTRY SECURITY SERVICES AND WAS DESCRIBED AS A 1/2-POUN [...] | 2003-03-27 06:58:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | ASEC AMGT PTER BM |
03RANGOON394 | BANGLADESH PRIME MINISTER LOOKS EASTWARD, [...] (C) Summary: Bangladesh Prime Minister Khaleda Zia's three day visit to Burma produced understandings on trade, transport connections, and refugees. Terrorism was not discussed, but, according to the Bangladeshi Defense Attache, Bangladesh has continued with efforts to clean up its side of th [...] | 2003-03-28 08:20:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL ETRD PTER BG BM |
03RANGOON398 | A DAY OF CONTRASTS AND BOMBS IN RANGOON [...] (SBU) Summary: Armed Forces Day, March 27, saw the military government mount its traditional large military parade and host a state banquet in the posh Armed Forces grand hall and theater. The pro-democracy parties celebrated Anti-Fascist Resistance Day (commemorating the 1945 switch of Gene [...] | 2003-03-28 09:40:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PINS BM NLD |
03RANGOON4 | BURMA'S GARMENT INDUSTRY SEAMS DOOMED [...] (SBU) Summary: The threat of sanctions, the ongoing consumer boycott, and the GOB's own inane trade and investment policies are decimating the Burmese garment sector. The upcoming elimination of textile quotas in 2005 should put the final nail in the Burmese garment industry's coffin. The r [...] | 2003-01-02 08:33:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EIND ETRD KTEX BM |
03RANGOON429 | DEMOCRACY DEMONSTRATOR RECEIVES SANCTUARY INSIDE [...] (C) SUMMARY: A young man involved in a sidewalk pro-democracy demonstration April 4 dashed into the British embassy to avoid arrest and as of April 7, remains inside. His co-demonstrator, a monk from Bago, is in regime hands. End Summary. 2. (C) British embassy sources tell us that on Frid [...] | 2003-04-07 08:25:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREF PHUM BM |
03RANGOON43 | UNDP'S PROGRAM IN BURMA - LINKING BASIC HUMAN [...] (C) Summary: UNDP will be seeking a more flexible mandate for its operations in Burma at the January 21 meeting in New York. The USG should support that request, but should also demand that UNDP and other UN agencies play a more active role in regard to human rights monitoring and protection o [...] | 2003-01-10 03:59:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | EAID PHUM BM UNDP NGO |
03RANGOON430 | WILL BURMA'S BANKS SURVIVE? SIGNS POINT TO NO [...] (C) Summary: Another payday passed without incident on March 31, but that does not mean that all is well in Burma. The banking crisis continues grimly on, with increasing negative spillover into the general economy. Though bankers, borrowers, and businesses are begging for mercy, government p [...] | 2003-04-07 08:38:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | EFIN ECON PGOV BM |
03RANGOON433 | NEW FUNDING INITIATIVE: WHY NOT KEEP AN OPEN MIND? [...] (U) This is an action request. Please see paragraph seven. 2. (C) Summary: The language of the recent FY 2003-04 omnibus spending measure's managers' report (asking us to work with the NLD on a "new initiative" to outline a comprehensive needs assessment) seems at odds with subsequent guidan [...] | 2003-04-08 02:46:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | EAID SOCI BM |
03RANGOON439 | REGIME EASES UP ON ASSK HARASSMENT [...] (SBU) Summary: NLD spokesman U Lwin told Poloff on April 7 that ASSK and party were harassed by SPDC and local authorities representatives for the first few days of their visit to Chin State. However, Military Intelligence (MI) officials, who provided earlier assurances that there would be n [...] | 2003-04-08 08:52:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PHUM BM ASSK NLD |
03RANGOON444 | FUNDING EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITY FOR OPPOSITION [...] Summary: In three separate meetings in recent months, democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi (ASSK) has raised the issue of providing educational opportunity to opposition youth who are denied the right to attend Burmese universities and denied passports to travel abroad for study. She has appea [...] | 2003-04-09 09:08:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | KPAO EAID BM NGO ASSK |
03RANGOON445 | JAPAN ON BURMA: WE WANT A SPECIAL RELATIONSHIP TOO [...] (C) Summary: Minutes from a short meeting between the Japanese Ambassador and the Burmese Minister of National Planning and Economic Development emphasize the new pro-engagement policy outlined by the Japanese at the recent ICG meeting in Tokyo. The Ambassador's remarks give some insight into [...] | 2003-04-09 09:12:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL ECON BM |
03RANGOON446 | RAZALI'S NEXT VISIT [...] No summary [...] | 2003-04-09 09:14:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV BM |
03RANGOON447 | SUCCESSION ISSUES [...] (C) Summary: There are no laws or rules governing succession within the SPDC in Burma. Nevertheless, Than Shwe, Maung Aye and Khin Nyunt have begun to line up successors, including in particular Lieutenant Generals Thura Shwe Mann, Soe Win and Tin Aung Myint Oo. These are the three youngest [...] | 2003-04-09 09:22:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PINR BM |
03RANGOON448 | CAN BURMA'S RICE REFORMS WORK? [...] (SBU) Summary: Rice merchants are nervously anticipating the impending privatization of Burma's rice markets. Though the long-term benefits of this step are manifold, a hurried implementation of this drastic policy could have some unwelcome side effects in the short haul. End summary. GOB [...] | 2003-04-09 09:28:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EAGR ETRD ECON BM |
03RANGOON45 | JAPAN EXPANDS DEBT RELIEF; AGREES TO HOST [...] (C) Summary: Japan has agreed to host a consultative group meeting on Burma in mid-February. It is also edging towards support for economic reform in Burma. How far it can or should go in that regard, absent real political reform, will likely be one of the prime topics at the February meeting [...] | 2003-01-10 09:09:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL EFIN EAID BM JP |
03RANGOON48 | THAI MINISTERS POISED TO OVERRUN RANGOON [...] (C) Summary; At least six Thai ministers and the Chiefs of the Thai Armed Services will all parade through Burma during January in pursuit of agreements on trade and illegal workers, among other issues. There may also be some action on the border in early February between the Burmese and the [...] | 2003-01-13 02:40:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL TH BM |
03RANGOON484 | ASSK GIVES PRESS A DOWNBEAT ASSESSMENT OF HER YEAR [...] (SBU) Summary: Aung San Suu Kyi told reporters and diplomats April 23 that her trips to various regions of the country reassured her that ethnic groups are anxious for national reconciliation. She provided details on how the trips had been marred by attempts to intimidate NLD supporters. A [...] | 2003-04-23 10:44:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PHUM BM ASSK |
03RANGOON489 | A VISIT TO A WWII REMAINS RECOVERY SITE [...] SUMMARY: COM, DASD Jerry Jennings (POW and MIA Affairs),DATT, and others inspected ongoing WWII remains recovery operations in Burma's northernmost Kachin State on March 23. END SUMMARY. 2. After flying from Rangoon to the Kachin capital of Myitkyina aboard a USAF C-12 out of Bangkok, [...] | 2003-04-24 08:53:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | MOPS PREL BM |
03RANGOON517 | EAP DAS DALEY MEETS WITH AUNG SAN SUU KYI [...] (C) SUMMARY: EAP DAS Matt Daley, COM, and note taker spent over an hour and a half with Aung San Suu Kyi at her residence April 27 discussing a host of political issues. UN Special Envoy Razali's influenced was undermined, in the NLD leader's view, when Malaysian PM Mahathir bowed to the re [...] | 2003-04-30 00:46:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV EAID KDEM BM NLD ASSK |
03RANGOON524 | BURMA HRDF GRANT PROPOSALS [...] (U) Embassy Rangoon submits the four proposals described below in response to reftel request for projects promoting democracy and human rights. The projects were chosen because they directly support U.S. goals in Burma in regard to strengthening civil society and democratic principles. They [...] | 2003-04-30 09:02:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EAID KDEM PGOV PHUM BM |
03RANGOON53 | WHAT'S BEST FOR BURMA? UNCLEAR. [...] (C) Summary. During a conversation with David Rockefeller at the Chief of Mission's residence on January 12th, Aung San Suu Kyi talked about the need for a speedy transition, the dangerous state of the nation's education system, and her growing public support outside Rangoon. Unfortunately, AS [...] | 2003-01-13 08:05:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PHUM ECON BM ASSK |
03RANGOON539 | REGIME RELEASES SALAI TUN THAN, 20 OTHER POLITICAL [...] (U) In a May 4 press release, the State Peace and Development Council (SPDC) announced the release of 21 political prisoners. Dr. Salai Tun Than, a well-respected academic who was arrested for staging a one-man political demonstration in 2001 was among those released. Salai Tun Than is an a [...] | 2003-05-05 10:50:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | PREL PHUM BM |
03RANGOON543 | JAPAN'S NEW BURMA POLICY: FULL ENGAGEMENT WITH NO [...] (C) Summary: The new Japanese "Three Pillars" strategy of humanitarian aid, economic reform, and democracy was officially unveiled on April 29. The Japanese ambassador in Rangoon explained the details and origin of this policy to the Chief of Mission (COM) during a lunch on May 5. Though he [...] | 2003-05-06 07:02:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL ECON EAID KDEM BM |
03RANGOON549 | 60TH ANNIVERSARY OF "SIAM-BURMA DEATH RAILWAY" [...] (SBU) SUMMARY: COM, DATT, and others participated in a May 1 Australia-organized ceremony commemorating the 60th anniversary of the infamous Siam-Burma Death Railway. 133 Americas were among the estimated 12,000 Allied POWs who perishing while slaving on the railway's construction. This wa [...] | 2003-05-07 06:57:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | PREL MOPS BM |
03RANGOON554 | EAP DAS DALEY MEETS WITH SPDC SECRETARY ONE [...] (C) SUMMARY: EAP DAS Matt Daley, COM, and DCM (note taker) met with Secretary 1, General Khin Nyunt April 27 in Rangoon. General Khin Nyunt emphasized counter-terrorism cooperation and the added security the GOB has provided to the U.S. Embassy. Daley urged the GOB to accelerate dialogue wi [...] | 2003-05-07 10:00:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV PTER BM |
03RANGOON560 | BURMA'S BANKS: THE BEATDOWN GOES ON [...] (C) Summary: The future is not clear, and certainly not bright, at end of the second full month of the Burmese banking crisis. The banks' restrictions on withdrawals are still in place as are orders that banks recover outstanding loans. Bankers continue to speculate on mergers and bankruptci [...] | 2003-05-08 09:53:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | EFIN ECON PGOV BM |
03RANGOON563 | BURMA: WHO WILL PAY THE PRICE FOR FREEING RICE? [...] (C) Summary: The GOB's official announcement of its rice liberalization policy answered the questions: who, what, where, and when. However, why, how, and how much are still vague. Until these questions are answered, the success of the new policy will be uncertain. However, we are encouraged [...] | 2003-05-09 04:44:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EAGR ETRD ECON BM |
03RANGOON574 | ENERGY GIANTS FUND BURMESE MODEL VILLAGES [...] (SBU) Summary: A visit to the Total/UNOCAL pipeline zone in Tanintharyi Division revealed an impressive level of socio-economic development. A lack of government interference, and the determination of well-funded corporate citizens to push the envelope, have allowed for decent living standard [...] | 2003-05-12 09:29:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EAID ECON EPET PGOV BM |
03RANGOON575 | OPIUM LARGELY GONE, FARMERS MAY STARVE IN NORTHERN [...] (U) Summary: After a month-long assessment, a UNODC mission told diplomats April 10 that "opium production in Burma was plainly ending." Northern Shan State, including areas controlled by cease-fire groups like the Kokang Chinese, was essentially clear of opium production. However, farmers w [...] | 2003-05-13 02:11:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | SNAR BM |
03RANGOON623 | THIRTEEN YEARS ON, NLD CALLS ON JUNTA TO HONOR [...] (U) Summary: At a ceremony honoring the 13th anniversary of multiparty elections in Burma, the National League for Democracy, which won 392 out of the 485 elected seats, called on the regime to honor the election's results. Citing the junta's pledges from the pre- and post-election period th [...] | 2003-05-28 04:28:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | PGOV KDEM PHUM BM NLD |
03RANGOON625 | ROHINGYA PROJECT PROPOSAL [...] Summary: Embassy Rangoon would like to apply for a $20,000 grant from PRM's Ambassador's Fund for an assessment of communicable diseases among returning refugees in Burma's northern Rakhine State. If done immediately, the assessment can provide the basis for a comprehensive health program in [...] | 2003-05-28 08:41:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | PREF EAID BM |
03RANGOON635 | NLD, GOVERNMENT SUPPORTERS CLASH IN NORTHERN BURMA [...] (C) Summary: The military junta may be preparing a new crackdown on Aung San Suu Kyi and the National League for Democracy. At a news conference May 31, the government accused the NLD of provoking a riot in Sagaing Division northwest of Mandalay that left four dead and more than 50 injured. I [...] | 2003-05-31 16:07:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PINS PREL BM NLD ASSK |
03RANGOON636 | BURMESE GOVERNMENT CRACKS DOWN ON NLD FOLLOWING [...] (C) Summary: The Chief of Mission delivered reftel B demarche to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs today and will follow up tomorrow with the Deputy Foreign Minister and the Minister of Labor. In company with Ambassadors from Germany and Italy and the British Charge, she also confirmed NLD Cen [...] | 2003-06-01 12:25:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PINS PREL BM NLD |
03RANGOON637 | BOMBINGS IN TACHILEIK [...] (C) Summary: No one has yet claimed responsibility for the bombings in Tachileik on May 21, though the Burmese have blamed the Shan State Army (South) and the Thai blame the Wa. The good news is that Thai and Burmese police officers are cooperating in the investigation, though it remains to b [...] | 2003-06-02 06:50:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PTER PINS BM |
03RANGOON639 | NLD SHUT DOWN; AUNG SAN SUU KYI WHEREABOUTS STILL [...] (C) Summary: The NLD has been effectively shut down in Burma. Its offices have been closed and its senior leaders are under detention. Aung San Suu Kyi has been brought back to Rangoon, ostensibly for "her own protection," but it is not clear yet where she is being held. Universities, whic [...] | 2003-06-02 10:05:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PINS PREL BM ASSK NLD |
03RANGOON640 | BURMESE - U.S. W.W. II REMAINS RECOVERY TECHNICAL [...] (C) After consultation with DOD DAS Jennings and other appropriate individuals involved in the W.W.II Remains Recovery Technical talks scheduled for June 4-6 in Rangoon, the mutual decision to postpone the talks was made today, June 2. The most recent regime crackdown on the democratic oppos [...] | 2003-06-02 10:13:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | MOPS PREL BM |
03RANGOON646 | INSIDERS' VIEWS ON HOW TO INFLUENCE BURMA'S RULING [...] (S) Summary: Burma's businessmen have been telling us in no uncertain terms that neither economic sanctions nor constructive engagement will expedite political reform under the current circumstances. With surprising unanimity, these insiders have asserted that "coercive persuasion" is the only [...] | 2003-06-03 10:57:00 | Embassy Rangoon | SECRET | PREL KDEM PGOV ETRD BM |
03RANGOON647 | MFA BRIEFING ON NLD/GOVERNMENT CLASHES [...] (C) Summary: Deputy Foreign Minister Khin Maung Win's briefing for diplomats on the recent deadly clash between NLD and government supporters in Depeyin satisfied no one. While he provided a faithful rehash of government press reporting on the incident, he would not say where Aung San Suu Kyi o [...] | 2003-06-03 12:58:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PINS PREL BM ASSK NLD |
03RANGOON653 | RAZALI VISIT TO RANGOON [...] (C) Summary: Post continues in its conviction that Special Envoy (SE) Razali should not come to Rangoon absent firm assurances that he will be allowed a meeting with Aung San Suu Kyi. However, we understand that the SE is still undecided. If Razali chooses to come without guarantees of any [...] | 2003-06-04 10:46:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PHUM MY BM |
03RANGOON657 | UNFPA'S BURMA SCORECARD IS GOOD, SO FAR [...] (SBU) Summary: UNFPA, into the second year of its four-year "special program" in Burma, is encouraged by its successes. To help ensure further progress, though, the agency's Rangoon office hopes that a chronic shortage of contraceptives will be remedied in short order. The agency plans to ex [...] | 2003-06-05 10:18:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | AORC EAID SOCI BM UNFPA NGO |
03RANGOON665 | RAZALI: NO ACCESS TO ASSK AS YET, MEETING WITH [...] (C) Summary: Late on June 7, Special Envoy Razali briefed COM Martinez on his meeting earlier in the day with SPDC Secretary One Khin Nyunt. Khin Nyunt told Razali that the crackdown on the NLD was in response to actions by ASSK that constituted an unacceptable threat to the SPDC. He assur [...] | 2003-06-07 15:33:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PHUM BM ASSK |
03RANGOON675 | SE RAZALI TO MEET WITH ASSK [...] (C) Summary: UN Special Envoy Razali gave COM a private read-out of his meeting this morning, June 9, with Vice Senior General Maung Aye. Maung Aye told Razali that "as a special consideration" to the UN and Razali's efforts, the SPDC had reversed a previous decision to not allow anyone acc [...] | 2003-06-09 11:01:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM BM ASSK |
03RANGOON681 | RAZALI SAYS ASSK IN GOOD HEALTH, BUT WHAT ABOUT [...] (C) Summary: UN Special Envoy Razali had a brief meeting with Aung San Suu Kyi this morning (June 10) and reported to diplomats later that she was not injured and was "feisty, as usual." While Razali was quite pleased, with good reason, that he gained access to ASSK, he made no progress on [...] | 2003-06-10 11:53:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PHUM BM NLD ASSK |
03RANGOON682 | SPDC STRIKES CONCILIATORY TONE IN SECOND BRIEFING [...] SUMMARY: In a June 10 briefing for journalists and diplomats following UN Special Envoy Razali's departure from Rangoon, the Foreign Ministry provided more details of the May 30 ambush of Aung San Suu Kyi's (ASSK) motorcade near Depeyin and side-pedaled on several issues connected to the atta [...] | 2003-06-10 12:24:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | PREL KPAO BM ASSK NLD |
03RANGOON696 | COM PRESSES HOME MINISTER TO RELEASE DETAINEES AND [...] (C) Summary: On June 11, COM had a frank meeting with Minister of Home Affairs Colonel Tin Hlaing to discuss the recent crackdown on the NLD and to deliver an advance copy of this year's Trafficking In Persons report. On recent NLD detentions, Tin Hlaing denied press reports that the gover [...] | 2003-06-12 12:19:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM BM |
03RANGOON707 | BURMA'S OPIUM FIELDS -- GOING, GOING, .... [...] (C) Summary: According to information presented by UNODC's Resident Representative, Burma eliminated approximately one-quarter of its opium fields in 2003. According to UNODC's latest survey, the acreage under opium cultivation in Burma in 2003 totaled only 62,100 hectares, down 24 percent fr [...] | 2003-06-16 08:45:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | SNAR KCRM PINS BM |
03RANGOON71 | BAD GOVERNANCE HAMPERS UNICEF'S EFFORTS IN BURMA [...] (C) SUMMARY: UNICEF's $12m annual program in Burma is striving to improve child welfare in a country where 35% of children under the age of 5 are malnourished. It has achieved some laudable successes, but overall prospects are severely constrained by an inept, illegitimate, and corrupt mili [...] | 2003-01-16 03:15:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV EAID BM NGO |
03RANGOON713 | ICRC EXPECTS TO SEE ASSK AND OTHER DETAINED NLD [...] (C) Summary: ICRC expects to visit Aung San Suu Kyi and the other detained NLD leaders within the next few days. Meanwhile, the universities have reopened and Rangoon remains quiet. End Summary. ICRC To See ASSK and Other NLD Leaders 2. (C) ICRC officers have advised us that ICRC has been [...] | 2003-06-17 05:55:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PINS PHUM PREL BM ASSK NLD |
03RANGOON724 | AUNG SAN SUU KYI REPORTEDLY BEING HELD IN [...] No summary [...] | 2003-06-19 08:50:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PHUM BM ASSK |
03RANGOON757 | BURMA'S COUNTERNARCOTICS PERFORMANCE [...] Summary: The Burmese government (GOB) has reduced opium cultivation, cooperated with the United States, Australia, China, Thailand, and other states on a series of major narcotics cases, and continued to prosecute traffickers. It has failed in regard to its new money laundering law, whose i [...] | 2003-06-25 09:50:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | SNAR KCRM BM |
03RANGOON764 | NO NEWS IS GOOD NEWS - BURMESE GOVERNMENT CENSORS [...] (U) The Burmese government is now censoring or controlling distribution of some foreign periodicals that are normally sold with official authorization in Burma. This is an effort to remove international reports of the May 30 attack on the National League for Democracy (NLD) convoy in Depeyin a [...] | 2003-06-26 09:26:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | PREL PHUM KPAO BM |
03RANGOON769 | LOCAL REACTION MIXED ON NEW BURMA SANCTIONS [...] (C) Summary: The Embassy has received much solicited and unsolicited reaction to the impending U.S. sanctions. We've heard from foreign diplomats, businessmen, resident U.S. citizens, some NLD members, and GOB economic officials. Generally people understand our motives, but are very skeptical [...] | 2003-06-26 11:39:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ETRD EFIN ECON BM |
03RANGOON773 | CONDITIONS IN INSEIN PRISON [...] No summary [...] | 2003-06-27 06:30:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PHUM PGOV BM |
03RANGOON778 | EMBASSY OFFICERS VISIT RESIDENCES OF DETAINED [...] (C) Summary: Pol/Econ chief, accompanied by a senior Burmese FSN, went to the residences of eight of the ten CEC members on June 26. We found the security at the houses of the Central Committee members lax in contrast to 2000, when the GOB posted military intelligence agents (MI) and Minist [...] | 2003-06-27 09:17:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PHUM BM NLD |
03RANGOON78 | EVALUATION OF THE WA ALTERNATIVE DEVELOPMENT [...] This is an action message. See paragraph 7. 2. Summary: The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime has invited the USG to participate in the final evaluation of the Wa Alternative Development Project. We have been the prime movers behind this project. If possible, we should plan to p [...] | 2003-01-17 01:50:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | SNAR BM |
03RANGOON79 | BURMA: THE ILLUSION OF ECONOMIC STABILITY [...] (C) Summary: Since last Fall, Burma has seen the formation of new government economic advisory committees, a relatively stable kyat, and slowing consumer price inflation. Could this mean the regime is finally taking real steps to improve the economic situation? Unfortunately not. The exchang [...] | 2003-01-17 03:36:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ECON EFIN BM |
03RANGOON832 | U.S. INVESTOR, GARMENT WORKERS FEAR NEW BURMA [...] (SBU) Summary: The input on pending U.S. sanctions on Burma continues to roll in. In the last several days we've heard the fears and concerns of the largest U.S. investor in Burma, Unocal, and also from 28,000 garment workers. End summary. Unocal Sees Unintended Consequences 2. (SBU) T [...] | 2003-07-09 08:29:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ETRD EIND EPET BM |
03RANGOON837 | BURMESE MPS-ELECT APPEAL TO SYG ANNAN, PLAN TO [...] (C) Seventy Burmese MPs-elect (elected in the junta-annulled 1990 election) have written to UN Secretary General Kofi Annan informing him that they have asked Senior General Than Shwe to release the political prisoners and implement the UN resolutions regarding restoring democracy in Burma. [...] | 2003-07-10 07:43:00 | Embassy Rangoon | SECRET | PREL PGOV BM NLD |
03RANGOON838 | ETHNIC LEADERS PLAN APPEAL TO LEADER OF JUNTA [...] (S) Summary: Reverend Saboi Jum, the head of the Kachin Baptist Convention, has revealed plans by ethnic leaders to appeal directly to the head of the SPDC for a return to the path of national reconciliation. Jum asked COM if the release of Aung San Suu Kyi alone would be enough to ease US p [...] | 2003-07-10 10:35:00 | Embassy Rangoon | SECRET | PREL PHUM BM |
03RANGOON846 | BURMA'S BANKS: STILL AWAITING SENTENCING [...] (C) Summary: The situation for some of Burma's largest private banks may have stabilized for the time being, though it is still critical. The government, despite some tinkering around the edges, has still not revealed its vision for the future. We're sure of only two things: the economy will [...] | 2003-07-16 08:57:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | EFIN ECON BM |
03RANGOON859 | BURMA: HUNDI MAKES THE WORLD GO ROUND [...] (S) Summary: In the absence of a reliable method for remitting foreign exchange, the "hundi" system flourishes in Burma. The system is used by nearly everyone in the country who needs to get dollars in or out, from NGOs to military officers. Though hundi in Burma is undoubtedly used to facil [...] | 2003-07-18 08:19:00 | Embassy Rangoon | SECRET | EFIN SNAR PTER ECON ETRD BM |
03RANGOON860 | MP'S-ELECT SHARE THEIR POLITICAL VIEWS [...] (S) Summary: MPs-elect told us July 18 that they expect Aung San Suu Kyi to be released fairly soon, that the party remains strong and its members dedicated and loyal, and that they hope to avoid any "sporadic" anti-regime action that could serve as a pretext for an even tougher crackdown on [...] | 2003-07-18 08:43:00 | Embassy Rangoon | SECRET | PGOV PREL KDEM BM ASSK NLD |
03RANGOON890 | MANDALAY OUTREACH CENTER: NOW MORE THAN EVER [...] (U) This is an action request. See para 2. 2. (SBU) Summary: In order to expand its democracy training and outreach, Embassy proposes to establish an American Center Teaching Annex in Mandalay (see reftels),Burma's second largest city and its geographic and cultural center. The American [...] | 2003-07-25 05:37:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | KPAO PREL ABLD ASEC BM |
03RANGOON897 | MOSQUE RAZED, PARAMILITARIES TRAINED [...] (C) Trouble in Sittwe: Local officials on July 22 reportedly tore down a mosque in Sittwe, 70 miles SE of the Bangladeshi border, and arrested seven Muslims, one of whom subsequently died in custody. This information came to us from Bangladeshi, Pakistani, and UN contacts. Apparently the m [...] | 2003-07-28 10:01:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM KISL BM |
03RANGOON900 | BURNING FOR BOOKS IN BURMA: HIGH SUCCESS [...] SUMMARY: American Center publications and library programs are currently enjoying new highs of popularity. The military government of Burma censors the press, dictates radio and television broadcasts, limits access to the internet, and controls every educational institution across Burma, c [...] | 2003-07-29 09:14:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | KPAO OIIP KDEM PGOV BM |
03RANGOON910 | BURMA'S INVESTMENT CLIMATE STATEMENT [...] Table of Contents: Summary Preface: U.S. Investment in Burma Subject to Sanctions  [...] | 2003-07-31 07:15:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | EINV KTDB BM OPIC |
03RANGOON919 | UPDATE ON AUNG SAN SUU KYI'S LOCATION; VISITS TO [...] (S) NLD insiders tell us Aung San Suu Kyi has recently been held in the house of a military officer on the complex of a counter-terrorism unit in Hlegu Township, a few miles north of Rangoon's international airport. We do not know if she is there permanently or was moved temporarily (from the [...] | 2003-08-01 09:26:00 | Embassy Rangoon | SECRET | PGOV PREL KDEM BM ASSK NLD |
03RANGOON921 | NATIVES RESTLESS OVER SCOPE OF NEW SANCTIONS [...] This is an action request. Please see paragraph 5. 2. The Charge d'Affaires, a.i. and Econoff held briefings on the new U.S. sanctions on July 30th for U.S. citizens, and July 31st for Burmese and third-country businesspeople, NGOs, and the diplomatic and UN community. Both briefings were [...] | 2003-08-01 10:17:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | EFIN AFIN BM |
03RANGOON949 | NEW BURMA SANCTIONS EQUAL NEW BURMA REFUGEES? [...] (SBU) Summary: The new U.S. sanctions on Burma will have a negative impact on the economy as a whole, and the garment sector in particular. NGOs believe that the unemployment caused by the sharp decline of the garment industry will lead to an increase of trafficking in persons and attempted e [...] | 2003-08-08 10:33:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | ETRD ECON PREF PHUM PGOV BM NGO |
03RANGOON950 | SANCTIONS CATCH BUSINESSES, GOVERNMENT FLAT-FOOTED [...] (C) Summary: Businesses have faced more trouble than they expected from the new U.S. sanctions on Burma. While local traders are scurrying to find a creative solution to their financial problems, the Burmese government has refused to take any action other than attempt to reassure the business [...] | 2003-08-08 10:46:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ETRD ECON PGOV BM |
03RANGOON951 | GOB'S CONCERNS OVER AUGUST 7 SECURITY INCIDENT [...] Post has received information from the Department that uniformed Secret Service arrested 3 Burmese students at the Burmese embassy the morning of August 7 after they tried to use a ladder to remove the Burmese flag and replace it with their own (a Burmese dissident report on the incident said [...] | 2003-08-08 12:35:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | ASEC PGOV BM |
03RANGOON963 | RUMORS OF AUNG SAN SUU KYI,S DEATH APPEAR TO BE [...] (U) Ref A article in the Thai daily Bangkok Siam Rat (titled "Rumor Says Suu Kyi Dead; Dream of Democracy Shattered") reported on rumors that an assailant recently stabbed detained opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi to death. Although there are many uncertainties regarding ASSK,s current wher [...] | 2003-08-11 08:39:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV ASEC BM ASSK |
03RANGOON966 | LOCAL NLD PUBLICLY SUPPORTS SANCTIONS [...] (C) We received a letter dated July 29, addressed to President Bush and signed by sixteen rank and file Rangoon Division members of the National League for Democracy (NLD). A translation of the letter and a copy of the original has been pouched to EAP/BCLTV. 2. (C) The letter offered thanks [...] | 2003-08-12 03:59:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV ETRD BM NLD |
03RANGOON977 | FEW EARLY VOLUNTEERS FOR BURMESE RICE TRADE [...] (C) Summary: With only two or three months remaining before rice harvest time, private traders and agronomists are dubious that the GOB's rice liberalization policy will be a real short term success. Too many uncertainties and holes remain for that to happen. However, all agree that the regi [...] | 2003-08-13 11:55:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | EAGR ETRD PGOV BM |
03RANGOON978 | BURMESE DEPUTY FM: "U.S-BURMA RELATIONS AT ROCK [...] (C) Summary: Burma's Deputy Foreign Minister (DFM) told us on August 12 that the country's ruling generals are deeply upset with new U.S. sanctions and concerned about their impact on the Burmese economy, but feel confident they can mitigate any negative consequences. He said that the 2003 B [...] | 2003-08-13 11:55:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | EFIN ETRD PGOV PHUM PREL BM |
03RANGOON993 | JAPANESE AMBASSADOR URGES DEPUTIES TO ADDRESS BURMA [...] (C) Summary: The Japanese Ambassador to Burma says that he will urge his Deputy Foreign Minister to address next steps in Burma during a September meeting with Deputy Secretary Armitage. He advocates that the U.S. and Japan SIPDIS quietly collaborate in developing a package of carrots a [...] | 2003-08-16 02:53:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV JA BM |
03RANGOON994 | BURMA SANCTIONS: GOVERNMENT STUMBLES FORWARD [...] (C) Summary: Hints of two informal trade policy changes (an attempted shift from the dollar to the euro and unofficial liberalization of border trade) may steer the post-sanctions environment in a clearer direction. Border trade will boom, especially if the regime is serious about reforms on [...] | 2003-08-16 03:05:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ETRD EFIN ECON PGOV BM |
04RANGOON1014 | BURMESE PRIME MINISTER KHIN NYUNT: CHINA FREQUENT [...] (C) Summary: Both the PRC Embassy and the Burmese Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) described Burmese Prime Minister Khin Nyunt's 11-18 July visit to China, his eighth overall though the first as PM, as a huge success. The visit, during which Khin Nyunt met senior Chinese leaders and repor [...] | 2004-08-06 09:48:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL//NOFORN | PREL ECON PGOV PHUM BM CH |
04RANGOON1030 | BURMA GETS FIRST PIECE OF GLOBAL FUND PIE [...] (U) Summary: On August 4 the GOB Ministry of Health facilitated a signing ceremony in Rangoon which initiated the tuberculosis (TB) component of a Global Fund (GF) grant to Burma, the country's first tranche of funding from the GF. The first two-year phase of the TB component is for $6.9 milli [...] | 2004-08-10 10:25:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | TBIO SOCI PGOV EAID PHUM PREL BM NGO |
04RANGOON1035 | THE NATIONAL LEAGUE FOR DEMOCRACY: MONSOON SEASON [...] (C) Summary: The NLD CEC has established regular communications with ASSK and U Tin Oo. An ongoing NLD petition drive to free the two leaders has proven minimally appealing to party members and supporters, and has also encountered some regime resistance in Mandalay and Sagaing divisions. Wi [...] | 2004-08-11 09:56:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV BM ASSK NLD |
04RANGOON1048 | UNHCR LOOKS FOR SHORT-TERM FUNDS FOR EASTERN [...] (C) Summary: UNHCR's activities in the recently opened eastern border areas are gaining momentum. As the GOB expands its preparations for possible future repatriation of refugees in Thailand, the UNHCR is expanding its roving presence and basic infrastructure work. We support the UNHCR reque [...] | 2004-08-16 09:29:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREF PHUM EAID PINS PGOV BM NGO |
04RANGOON1049 | BURMA: NLD APPEALS TO HIGH COURT TO FREE ASSK, [...] (C) Summary: The National League for Democracy (NLD) on August 16 initiated a legal maneuver requesting that Burma's High Court order the GOB to release ASSK and U Tin Oo and to allow the party to reopen its offices. NLD leaders are under no illusion that the effort will force the regime to r [...] | 2004-08-16 09:54:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV BM NLD ASSK |
04RANGOON1056 | BURMA: HISTORIC HEROIN BUST REVEALS MAJOR [...] (C) Summary: Burma's largest heroin seizure in history (592 kilos seized along the southern coast in early July) has uncovered a major drug trafficking syndicate with possible connections to traffickers and markets in Thailand, Vietnam, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Australia, India, and the United S [...] | 2004-08-18 07:59:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | SNAR PREL PGOV KCRM KISL BM |
04RANGOON1057 | BURMA'S ENERGY SECTOR: WHISTLING IN THE DARK [...] (C) Summary: With the worst of Rangoon's dry season blackouts easing during the current monsoon rains, many are pondering whether the GOB will fix Burma's chronic energy problems before next spring. Signs most definitely point to 'No.' Burma's energy situation continues to suffer from three m [...] | 2004-08-18 08:44:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ENRG ECON PGOV BM |
04RANGOON1080 | FOR BURMA'S REGIME, LOYALTY TRUMPS FAMILY [...] (SBU) MORE OPPRESSION: At the recent funeral of a famous Burmese writer (and NLD MP-elect),the Charge, a.i. met the wife of political prisoner Dr. Than Nyein. Dr. Than Nyein was elected on the NLD ticket in 1990 from PM General Khin Nyunt's hometown of Kyauktan. The NLD MP-elect was senten [...] | 2004-08-24 07:52:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | PGOV PHUM PINR BM NLD |
04RANGOON1085 | SUPPORT FOR BURMESE POLITICAL PRISONERS [...] (C) SUMMARY: The NLD runs a modest but very successful program to assist its imprisoned members. Post is interested in exploring ways to bolster this NLD effort and/or find parallel means to help political prisoners and their families. See action request para 8. End Summary. 2. (SBU) [...] | 2004-08-25 05:27:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PHUM EAID PGOV KDEM BM NLD |
04RANGOON1090 | NLD MP ARRESTS: PETITION DRIVE FALLOUT? [...] (C) Summary: In mid-August the Burmese regime rounded up nine members and supporters of the National League for Democracy, including two MPs-elect, at several upcountry locations. NLD leaders believe that the arrests are in retaliation for the party's ongoing petition drive to release NLD le [...] | 2004-08-25 09:01:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM BM NLD |
04RANGOON110 | BURMA CAN'T FIGHT PHONY PHARMAS FROM INDIA AND [...] (SBU) Summary: Sick Burmese are suffering under a flood of fake, unregistered, or sub-standard pharmaceuticals primarily imported from India and China. Though honest importers and the government are making some efforts to deal with the situation, little can be done without a better regulatory [...] | 2004-01-23 04:49:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EAID SOCI ECON BM |
04RANGOON1100 | ALLEGED NORTH KOREAN INVOLVEMENT IN MISSILE [...] (S) SUMMARY: North Korean workers are reportedly assembling "SAM missiles" and constructing an underground facility at a Burmese military site in Magway Division, about 315 miles NNW of Rangoon, according to XXXXXXXXXXXX . This unsolicited account should not be taken as authoritative, but it tracks [...] | 2004-08-27 08:08:00 | Embassy Rangoon | SECRET | PARM PINR PREL KNNP BM KN |
04RANGOON1132 | GOB TALKS THE TALK ON GETTING TOUGH WITH HUMAN [...] (C) Summary: According to senior GOB police officials, Burma has undertaken a plethora of activities in recent months to combat trafficking of persons. We see ample evidence that the GOB continues to demonstrate a growing political will to combat trafficking and to improve cooperation with U [...] | 2004-09-01 11:07:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM ELAB SMIG BM |
04RANGOON1136 | BURMA: "HELL'S ANGELS" IN THE EAST, SLAVE LABORERS [...] (C) Summary: UNHCR's latest assessment mission along Burma's eastern border revealed KNU strength to be significantly diminished and, by contrast, an alarming and widespread presence of DKBA soldiers "who resemble the Hell's Angels" in appearance, swagger, and influence. Meanwhile, on the we [...] | 2004-09-02 07:02:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREF PHUM PGOV PINS ELAB BM |
04RANGOON1149 | INSIDE BURMA'S NLD PARTY: YOUNG TURKS VS OLD LIONS [...] (C) Summary: The National League for Democracy (NLD) held a series of recent meetings that pitted state and divisional party officials (younger leaders who demand a pro-active stance approach to the regime) against members of the NLD Central Executive Committee (octogenarians who are disincli [...] | 2004-09-03 10:34:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM BM NLD |
04RANGOON1151 | GOB INDIFFERENT TO HISTORIC FLOODING [...] (C) Summary: Record rainfall in July and August led to historic flooding throughout Burma, rendering thousands homeless and causing severe damage to rice crops. The Burmese regime denied that any flooding occurred and arrested individuals for distributing video footage of flooded towns. GOB [...] | 2004-09-03 11:00:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | SENV EAGR ECON PGOV BM |
04RANGOON1176 | AMERICAN CENTER ANNEX IN MANDALAY: FREQUENTLY ASKED [...] (SBU) Given the summer-cycle turnover in personnel working on Burma issues, we thought it would be helpful to provide a quick synopsis of the plan to establish an annex of Rangoon's American Center in Mandalay. This informal format provides Embassy Rangoon's perspective on many questions fre [...] | 2004-09-09 09:57:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EAID ABLD ASEC PREL KPAO KDEM BM |
04RANGOON121 | UWSA SEEKS TO IMPORT PRECURSOR CHEMICALS LEGALLY [...] (C) SUMMARY: The leadership of the United Wa State Army, while trumpeting the dramatic reduction of opium poppy production in Wa territories, is seeking special dispensation to openly import precursor chemicals, ostensibly for the industrial processing of natural rubber. End Summary. 2. [...] | 2004-01-28 10:34:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | SNAR PGOV BM |
04RANGOON1224 | SHOWDOWN AT THE ILO? GOB CAVALIER ON FORCED LABOR [...] (U) This is an action request. Please see para 11. 2. (C) Summary: The ILO's Burma representative corroborates UNHCR reports of a "serious resurgence" in forced labor in Rakhine State. He adds that the GOB has dismissed all recent ILO interventions on forced labor and appears to be compl [...] | 2004-09-16 10:44:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PHUM PGOV PINS ELAB BM |
04RANGOON1225 | THE BURMESE REGIME'S "SELECTIVE ENGAGEMENT" WITH [...] (C) Summary: A recent exchange of top military visits between Burma and Thailand indicates improving relations between the SPDC and the Royal Thai Armed Forces and is a sign that many wounds have healed since the two armies squared off during a series of deadly border skirmishes in mid-2002. [...] | 2004-09-16 10:58:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV PINR MARR BM TH |
04RANGOON1237 | BURMESE REGIME OUSTS FOREIGN AFFAIRS TEAM [...] (C) Summary: On September 18, the SPDC conducted a mini-shuffle of the GOB cabinet, in the process ousting the regime's primary foreign affairs team and giving a boost to the trusted Minister of Labor, U Tin Winn. Gone to pasture are the unimpressive Minister of Foreign Affairs, U Win Aung, [...] | 2004-09-20 10:59:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV PINR BM |
04RANGOON125 | CHINESE DAMS, CHINESE INFLUENCE IN BURMA [...] (SBU) SURGING CHINESE SOCIO-ECONOMIC INFLUENCE: Emboffs traveling on GOB-organized "Study Visit" to border regions and central Burma January 23 - 26 witnessed a high degree of Chinese socio-economic influence across a 325-mile stretch of Burma's Shan State border with China, especially in the [...] | 2004-01-29 07:21:00 | Embassy Rangoon | SECRET | PREL ENRG KNNP BM CH |
04RANGOON1250 | BURMA'S NEW FOREIGN MINISTER: NOT READY FOR PRIME [...] (SBU) Summary: The Burmese regime's surprise choice as new Foreign Minister, a recently promoted Major General with thirty years of operational and combat military experience, is a virtual unknown in local diplomatic and military circles. FM Nyan Win's overseas experience appears limited to [...] | 2004-09-22 11:33:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV PINR MARR CVIS BM |
04RANGOON1257 | BURMESE ACTIVIST'S RETURN TO THE GULAG? [...] (SBU) Summary: On September 21, GOB authorities detained a 58-year old Burmese political activist for demonstrating in front of UNDP offices in Rangoon. U Ohne Thant, who has served over 13 years in the Burmese political gulag, was carrying a placard calling for the United Nations to help imp [...] | 2004-09-23 10:21:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | PREL PHUM PGOV BM |
04RANGOON1268 | RAZALI'S HOPES FOR BURMA MEETINGS IN NEW YORK [...] (C) Summary: According to UN Special Envoy Razali's Rangoon-based liaison, broad consultations on the margins of the UNGA at the end of September will be a difficult undertaking, but are essential in order to achieve a greater consensus on "what is absolutely necessary for the (Burmese) regim [...] | 2004-09-24 10:27:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV BM |
04RANGOON1269 | ALL SMILES: PM KHIN NYUNT'S TRIP TO SINGAPORE [...] (C) Summary: Prime Minister General Khin Nyunt made a recent trip to Singapore--part official, part medevac--in what the regime views as another successful effort to garner ASEAN support for the SPDC's road map to democracy. End Summary. 2. (SBU) On September 20 the COM and P/E chief call [...] | 2004-09-24 10:30:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV ECON BM SN |
04RANGOON1294 | BURMA'S GARMENT MAKERS FEAR 2005 [...] (C) Summary: After a few months of improved fortune for Burma's garment sector (reftel),things are turning gloomy as 2005 nears. Industry officials are hopeful but not optimistic that the troubled industry will survive the end of quotas in 2005. If not, factory closures and layoffs will lik [...] | 2004-09-30 01:53:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ETRD ECON KTEX BM |
04RANGOON13 | THAN SHWE AND KHIN NYUNT - A CONTRAST IN STYLE [...] (C) Summary: Prime Minister Khin Nyunt and Senior General Than Shwe hosted weekend functions involving Rangoon's diplomatic corps that illustrated the marked contrast in their styles. Khin Nyunt is engaging and polished, while Than Shwe is distant, grandiose, and strikes some observers as s [...] | 2004-01-05 08:52:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV BM |
04RANGOON1301 | BURMA'S SCHIZOPHRENIC TIPS POLICY [...] (C) Summary: Though the Burmese government is taking steps to combat transnational trafficking in persons, it's becoming increasingly evident that the GOB is approaching domestic trafficking -- including forced labor -- from a different, less vigilant, angle. End summary. Anti-TIPs Unit, Not [...] | 2004-09-30 07:06:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PHUM ELAB PGOV BM |
04RANGOON131 | AN ODD TRIP WITH FIVE BURMESE MINISTERS [...] (C) Summary: Two Emboffs joined five senior Burmese cabinet ministers and others in a four-day, 1,400 mile "Study Visit" of border areas and central Burma January 23 - 26. Traveling at close quarters with these ministers revealed them to be greedy, pampered, highly organized, and perpetually [...] | 2004-01-30 09:20:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL MOPS EAID BM |
04RANGOON1315 | THE NLD ENFORCES "PARTY DISCIPLINE" [...] (C) Summary: On September 29, the NLD CEC suspended three local level party leaders following an "unauthorized" quiet march in support of several standard NLD policy positions. One senior NLD advisor told us that that the CEC, including ASSK, believes "party discipline must be enforced--otherw [...] | 2004-10-04 10:48:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM BM NLD |
04RANGOON1322 | BURMA'S NEW FOREIGN MINISTER: "EXPECT NO CHANGE IN [...] (C) Summary: New Foreign Minister U Nyan Win met with the COM on October 5, only his third encounter as FM with a diplomat in Rangoon. By all appearances, Nyan Win is a caretaker foreign minister under instructions from SPDC Chairman Than Shwe to hold the regime line. He declared that the G [...] | 2004-10-05 10:43:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PINR BM |
04RANGOON1330 | BURMA: RICE POLICY INDECISION [...] (C) Summary: A surprising re-entry into the rice market by the GOB's agricultural export arm adds another layer of confusion to the government's rice policy. We don't see the GOB remaining in the business long, though we cannot predict the imminent return of the private sector either. However [...] | 2004-10-07 01:47:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | EAGR ETRD ECON PGOV BM |
04RANGOON1343 | AUNG SAN SUU KYI THANKS AMERICA FOR ITS SUPPORT, [...] (C) SUMMARY: Aung San Suu Kyi sent a verbal message via a trusted Burmese confidante to us October 8 to: A) thank the U.S. for its continued strong support of democracy in Burma, B) warn that "some in the UN system are seeking to undermine America,s efforts in Burma," and C) seek USG support [...] | 2004-10-12 08:36:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL EAID BM ASSK NLD |
04RANGOON1345 | BURMA'S GRUNTS VS. MI: ROUND ONE? [...] (C) Summary: An apparent up-country attack by the Burmese army's regular forces on a once untouchable interagency unit including military intelligence officers has led to speculation that long-simmering hatred between MI and the regular troops has begun to heat up. The incident is quite extra [...] | 2004-10-14 00:33:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PINS PGOV PINR MOPS ETRD ECON BM |
04RANGOON1357 | BURMA TO HOST MAJOR REGIONAL TIPS CONFERENCE [...] (SBU) Summary: The Burmese Government, with support from the United Nations, is preparing to host a three-day regional conference on trafficking in persons, October 27-29. This is a safe issue for the generals. It provides an easy platform on which to interact with their neighbors and to impr [...] | 2004-10-19 00:03:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | PHUM ELAB PGOV BM |
04RANGOON1359 | BURMESE PRIME MINISTER OUSTED? CRESCENDO OF [...] No summary [...] | 2004-10-19 11:08:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV MOPS PINR BM |
04RANGOON1365 | SPDC REFUSES TO FREE THOSE CONVICTED OF CONTACT [...] (SBU) The Burmese Supreme Court Special Appellate Bench ruled on October 14 not to throw out the high treason and conspiracy convictions against three individuals for, among other things, having in their possession business cards of the ILO representative in Burma. The three had initially bee [...] | 2004-10-20 06:40:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ELAB PHUM PGOV BM |
04RANGOON1366 | MILITARY INTELLIGENCE-AFFILIATED MEDIA SHUT DOWN [...] (C) Summary: Following the October 19 removal of General Khin Nyunt as Prime Minister and Chief of Military Intelligence (ref A),32 journals and magazines with links to Military Intelligence (MI) have apparently been temporarily closed down. Quasi-independent media licensed through other mi [...] | 2004-10-20 09:52:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV ECON BM |
04RANGOON137 | AVIAN FLU: BURMA TIGHTENS DEFENSES TO REPEL NEW [...] (SBU) Summary: There appears to be no avian influenza yet in Burma and the government has taken the initiative to keep it that way. An interagency committee has begun a broad prevention program, which includes cutting off imports of baby chicks from Thailand. Though we are relatively confide [...] | 2004-02-02 07:28:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EAGR TBIO SOCI PGOV BM |
04RANGOON1372 | TOUGH(ER) GUYS MOVE UP IN RANGOON: BIOGRAPHIC [...] No summary [...] | 2004-10-20 10:43:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV MOPS PINR BM |
04RANGOON1374 | BURMESE JUNTA CHIEF TO SEEK INDIAN ENLIGHTENMENT? [...] (C) Summary: Despite a week of significant political change in Burma, we have seen no signs that SPDC Chairman Senior General Than Shwe plans to cancel a trip planned to India on October 24. If Than Shwe travels as planned, it would be an additional sign that the SPDC has effected a seamless, [...] | 2004-10-21 10:08:00 | Embassy Rangoon | SECRET | PREL PGOV ECON BM IN |
04RANGOON1375 | UNHCR CAUTIOUS OF SPDC CHANGES [...] (SBU) Summary: UNHCR officials took the opportunity of a senior-level visit to Burma to stress that the time was not right for repatriation of Burmese refugees from Thailand. However, they said that roving missions and assessments in the eastern border regions were very important and would con [...] | 2004-10-21 10:31:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | PREF PHUM PGOV BM |
04RANGOON138 | BURMA SANCTIONS: GARMENT INDUSTRY TAKES STOCK [...] (C) Summary: We are getting a slightly clearer picture of the impact of last year's U.S. import ban on the Burmese garment industry -- the industry most directly impacted by the measure. Even the most optimistic garment manufacturers say they will not survive 2005, when the global quota system [...] | 2004-02-02 09:10:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | KTEX ETRD PHUM ECON PGOV BM |
04RANGOON1382 | FOREIGN MINISTER SAYS "NO CHANGE IN FOREIGN [...] No summary [...] | 2004-10-22 10:14:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV BM |
04RANGOON1385 | SPDC-KNU TALKS ABORTED; POSSIBLE RESUMPTION IN [...] (C) Summary: After perfunctory SPDC-KNU talks on October 19 failed to get off the ground because of changes in GOB leadership, the regime will likely resume negotiations in December-January, when the dust from deposed Prime Minister Khin Nyunt's "retirement," (hanging over Military Intellig [...] | 2004-10-22 12:36:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PINS PREL PGOV BM |
04RANGOON1386 | PUSHING A BIG ROCK UP A STEEP HILL: UNFPA TRIES TO [...] (SBU) Summary: The UNFPA's three-day tour through upper Burma in mid-October for members of the diplomatic community and INGOs presented a microcosm of life today in this country: a graceful, capable people burdened by a Government that takes decisions based on its own interests. End Summary [...] | 2004-10-22 12:37:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | PHUM PGOV EAID SOCI BM NGO |
04RANGOON1401 | KHIN NYUNT'S OUSTER: ONE WEEK LATER [...] (C) Summary: A week after Khin Nyunt's ouster there is calm in the streets, Than Shwe seems comfortably in power, and MI's political and probably economic power is being eroded. However, there remain many variables -- especially relations with ethnic cease-fire groups post-Khin Nyunt -- that [...] | 2004-10-26 10:22:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PINS PGOV ECON MOPS BM |
04RANGOON1402 | BUSINESS AS USUAL: THE SPDC SHOWS LITTLE CONCERN [...] (C) Summary: Minister of Labor U Tin Winn told COM on October 25 that his government would "reassess the utility of the ILO" if the ILO's Governing Body decided to implement the measures outlined in Article 33 of the International Labor Conference's resolution of 2000. In response to our sta [...] | 2004-10-26 11:14:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ELAB PGOV PHUM BM ASSK |
04RANGOON1409 | THE ROUND-UP CONTINUES: MORE NLD ACTIVISTS PUT [...] (SBU) SUMMARY: The SPDC's round-up of the NLD's elected Members of Parliament continues, with more jail sentences and general harassment. An estimated 150 of the original 392 elected members remain free, but most of them have left their home communities and are living sub-rosa around Rangoo [...] | 2004-10-27 11:10:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | PREL PHUM PGOV BM NLD |
04RANGOON1421 | ECHO COMING TO BURMA [...] (U) Summary: The EU plans to open a Rangoon branch of the European Community Humanitarian Office (ECHO) by the end of this year to monitor and supplement the considerable humanitarian assistance it currently provides for Burma programs from Bangkok and Brussels. According to one Bangkok-bas [...] | 2004-11-04 04:27:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | PHUM EAID PREL PGOV BM NGO |
04RANGOON1422 | MAINLAND SE ASIA AND CHINA PLEDGE TIP COOPERATION [...] (C) Summary: The Coordinated Mekong Ministerial Initiative against Trafficking (COMMIT) moved forward in Rangoon, October 27-29. All of the participating governments seemed to find a comfortable confluence of political, strategic, and operational elements in the MOU they signed and the sup [...] | 2004-11-04 05:02:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PHUM ELAB PGOV EAID BM |
04RANGOON1425 | INDIAN AMBASSADOR RATES THAN SHWE VISIT AN [...] (C) Summary: India's Ambassador to Burma concludes that the SPDC Chairman's October 24-29 visit to India was "a very important success" that addressed Burma's domestic situation, secured GOB support for an Indian UNSC seat, and yielded progress on bilateral security and trade issues. The Amb [...] | 2004-11-04 08:18:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV PHUM BM IN |
04RANGOON1426 | RANGOON ILO WARY OF REACTIVATING COUNTERMEASURES [...] (SBU) Summary: Two weeks before the ILO Governing Body's consideration of Burma, ILO's Rangoon liaison had more bad news about forced labor in Burma. Despite some progress in a year-old treason case against three men who contacted the ILO, there were increasing incidents of forced labor, poor [...] | 2004-11-04 09:48:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | ELAB PHUM PGOV BM |
04RANGOON1435 | BURMA: CONGRATULATIONS TO PRESIDENT BUSH FROM THAN [...] (U) On November 4, 2004 Embassy Rangoon received a diplomatic note from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs transmitting a congratulatory letter (unsigned) from Senior General Than Shwe to President Bush on the occasion of the latter's re-election. Post will forward the original to EAP/BCLTV. Th [...] | 2004-11-08 09:55:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | PREL OPDC BM |
04RANGOON1437 | THE BIG KAHUNAS STRIKE AGAIN [...] (C) Summary: The after-shocks from Prime Minister Khin Nyunt's recent demise again shook the ground in Rangoon over the weekend of November 5-7, as two influential members of the government--the Minister of Labor and the Minister of Home Affairs--were pushed off their perches. Authorities ar [...] | 2004-11-08 10:45:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV MOPS PINR BM |
04RANGOON1443 | A VISIT TO PROJECT OLD SOLDIER 101 [...] (SBU) SUMMARY: INL-funded Project Old Soldier 101, a crop-substitution program founded by WWII veterans of OSS Detachment 101, appears to be doing an excellent job providing farmers profitable alternatives to raising opium poppies in the rugged hills of northeastern Burma. Approximately 4,000 [...] | 2004-11-09 08:18:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | SNAR EAID EAGR PREL MOPS BM NGO |
04RANGOON1445 | SHAN CEASE-FIRE GROUP WARY OF GOB INTENTIONS [...] (S) SUMMARY: In the course of travel to visit an INL-funded project in Shan State, Emboff encountered the leadership of the Shan State Army (SSA),a former insurgent group that has concluded a cease-fire agreement with the GOB. Shan leaders are concerned that the post-Khin Nyunt regime will m [...] | 2004-11-09 09:25:00 | Embassy Rangoon | SECRET | PINS PGOV SNAR EAID BM |
04RANGOON1450 | PRO-DEMOCRACY ETHNIC PARTIES SEEK USG ASSISTANCE [...] (S/NF) Hkun Htun Oo, acting in his capacity as head of the ten-party United Nationalities Alliance (UNA),formally requested USG financial assistance for UNA member parties for "democracy and humanitarian affairs" in a meeting with emboffs November 9th. 2. (SBU) Hkun Htun Oo, besides headin [...] | 2004-11-10 09:50:00 | Embassy Rangoon | SECRET//NOFORN | KDEM EAID PINR PREL BM |
04RANGOON1456 | CAPACITY-BUILDING PROGRAM FOR RISING ETHNIC PARTY [...] (SBU) SUMMARY: Embassy Rangoon's Public Affairs Section (PAS) recently initiated a leadership capacity building program (called the "Global English" Program) for 23 representatives from nine ethnic democratic political parties. The program's nine-month curriculum, targeted at rising or curr [...] | 2004-11-12 02:44:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | KDEM KPAO EAID PREL BM |
04RANGOON1462 | THE BURMESE REGIME AIRS ITS DIRTY LAUNDRY: FORMER [...] (C) Summary: In an apparent campaign to smear former Prime Minister General Khin Nyunt and in the process diminish the authority of the military intelligence (MI) apparatus that he created and controlled, the SPDC on November 7 published a stunning "explanation" of his recent ouster. Gone is [...] | 2004-11-12 10:44:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PINR ECON BM |
04RANGOON1470 | BURMA STRIVES TO BECOME A (CENSORED) HI-TECH HUB [...] (C) Summary: Burma's generals are pushing to develop an IT and software sector well beyond the country's needs and abilities. Though a side effect of this effort has been improved communications and expanded access of some Burmese to the Internet, too many basic problems remain for this campa [...] | 2004-11-16 10:10:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ECPS TSPL PGOV SCUL ECON BM |
04RANGOON1485 | SMALL EXPLOSION NEAR RANGOON DISTRICT COURT: NO [...] (C) Summary: A small explosion occurred early November 18 near the Rangoon district court. No one was hurt, making this incident reminiscent of the June 26 explosion at the Rangoon railway station (reftel). It appears the government is trying to justify tightened security measures as more [...] | 2004-11-18 10:13:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ASEC PGOV PREL BM |
04RANGOON1488 | BURMESE REGIME BEGINS RELEASE OF 4,000 PRISONERS [...] (C) Summary: Citing "irregularities" of deposed Prime Minister Khin Nyunt's recently disbanded National Intelligence Bureau (NIB),the Burmese regime commenced on November 18-19 to release nearly 4,000 prisoners, including an unknown number of political detainees. Although some observers sp [...] | 2004-11-19 11:14:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM BM |
04RANGOON1499 | FIFTEEN YEARS IN THE BURMESE GULAG [...] (C) Summary: One of Burma's best-known dissidents, Min Ko Naing (aka Paw Oo Tun),freed on November 19 after 15 years spent in Burmese prisons, met with Emboffs and discussed his long, isolated, and arduous stint in the military regime's gulag. The 42 year-old former Rangoon University zoology [...] | 2004-11-23 11:13:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL KDEM BM |
04RANGOON150 | SUPPORTING HUMAN RIGHTS AND DEMOCRACY: THE U.S. [...] No summary [...] | 2004-02-03 10:52:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | PHUM PREL PGOV BM |
04RANGOON1503 | BURMA: TATMADAW TAKES AWAY M.I.'S KEYS [...] (C) Summary: Since former Prime Minister Khin Nyunt was ousted in mid-October, the SPDC has been striking at areas of economic graft formerly controlled by him and his Military Intelligence (MI) apparatus. One of the most visible crackdowns is on the illegal import of cars from Thailand and C [...] | 2004-11-24 09:32:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ETRD ECON PGOV BM |
04RANGOON1504 | BURMA PRISONER RELEASES: BEFORE YOU GET TOO [...] (SBU) The GOB's announcement on November 18th that nearly 4,000 prisoners -- mostly common criminals as it turns out -- would be released (ref A) is not symbolic of an improving attitude toward the democratic opposition. There have been no releases since November 19th, and of those released (o [...] | 2004-11-24 10:48:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL KDEM BM NLD |
04RANGOON1507 | STATUS OF NLD DEPUTY CHAIRMAN U TIN OO [...] (S) SUMMARY: NLD deputy chairman U Tin Oo, 77, remains under house arrest, although has been allowed to visit a private clinic for medical diagnosis. He is undergoing medical treatment and may need surgery. His wife, Dr. Tin Moe Wai, met with DCM November 26 to delivered a personal note fr [...] | 2004-11-29 09:53:00 | Embassy Rangoon | SECRET | PREL PHUM KDEM PGOV BM NLD |
04RANGOON1518 | BURMA: KHIN NYUNT'S CRONIES FEELING THE SQUEEZE [...] (C) Summary: The purge of those close to ex-PM Khin Nyunt is spreading to economic cronies -- no matter their "worth" to the economy. This purge, combined with the ongoing crackdown on smuggling, will certainly cause some economic disruption. How much, and for exactly how long, remain unclea [...] | 2004-11-30 08:41:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ECON PGOV BM |
04RANGOON1519 | EMBASSY RANGOON CONDUCTS HIV/AIDS TRAINING FOR ALL [...] Summary. Embassy Rangoon has completed HIV/AIDS awareness training for all current mission staff in accordance with the Department of State's HIV/AIDS workplace policy and a Plan of Action established at the July 2003 HIV/AIDS Chiefs of Mission Conference in Bangkok, at which COMs committed [...] | 2004-11-30 09:45:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | TBIO SOCI KHIV APER BM |
04RANGOON1522 | BURMA: KHIN NYUNT'S GONE, BUT BIG BROTHER'S STILL [...] (C) Summary: At the behest of the GOB, several Burmese-language newspapers have published articles detailing encounters between members of the diplomatic community, including U.S. Embassy personnel, and democracy activists, in the process reiterating that Big Brother's still on the job despite [...] | 2004-12-01 07:16:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PINR PINS PREL PHUM ASEC BM |
04RANGOON1524 | BURMESE REGIME RECALLS FOREIGN ENVOYS FOR [...] (C) Summary: The GOB has instructed its 37-odd foreign envoys to return to Burma in three separate batches for "reorientation" and "familiarization" with new members of the government and senior military officers. One senior official insists that rumors all of the ambassadors will be ousted a [...] | 2004-12-01 09:43:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV BM |
04RANGOON1530 | NLD SAYS GOB HAS EXTENDED ASSK HOUSE ARREST [...] (C) Summary: Though there has been no official GOB announcement, on December 1st the NLD issued a statement indicating the SPDC would continue to hold Aung San Suu Kyi (ASSK) under house arrest for another year. We suspect ASSK has requested her subordinates issue this statement to publicize [...] | 2004-12-02 09:45:00 | Embassy Rangoon | SECRET | PREL PGOV PHUM BM ASSK |
04RANGOON1540 | VETERAN POLITICIANS CALL FOR RELEASE OF ASSK, [...] (U) Summary: The Veteran Politicians, a respected group of Burma's aging war heroes and retired government officials, commemorated the country's 84th "National Day" on December 6 by praising recently released political prisoners; urging the early release of opposition leaders ASSK and U Tin Oo [...] | 2004-12-06 10:43:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM KDEM BM ASSK |
04RANGOON1544 | FOREIGN-OWNED NEWSPAPER FEELS THE POST-KHIN NYUNT [...] (C) Summary: The Australian co-owner and editor of Burma's only non-GOB English-language newspaper, under serious pressure from the regime, has appealed to Rangoon-based ambassadors for statements of support should his publication "be closed down for any reason." Like many others who enjoyed [...] | 2004-12-07 07:37:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ECON EINV PGOV PREL BM |
04RANGOON1549 | MORE SORDID TALES OF PRISON LIFE FOR POLITICAL [...] (C) Summary: U Kyaw Hsan, a 72 year-old NLD MP-elect released on November 19 after spending nine of the previous twelve years at Insein Prison, is already back on the job. Our recent encounter with this elderly but energetic activist revealed additional evidence that the regime's primary tool [...] | 2004-12-07 11:12:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM BM NLD |
04RANGOON1556 | BURMA: THE EYES HAVE IT [...] (SBU) Summary: A favorite of ASSK's, U.S.-based NGO ORBIS, arrived in Mandalay on December 5th. The flying eye hospital and 11 foreign doctors will spend two weeks providing free operations for patients and education and hands-on training for nearly 100 Burmese medical staff. Despite clear be [...] | 2004-12-09 03:30:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EAID SOCI ECON BM ASSK NGO |
04RANGOON1563 | NLD ISSUES ULTIMATUM TO THAN SHWE [...] (C) Summary: Excerpts from a December 2nd letter from the NLD to Senior General Than Shwe indicate a new effort to engage the SPDC and prompt a bilateral dialogue. The letter is purportedly the "soft" approach, which, if ignored, will be followed up by more "confrontational methods." Though t [...] | 2004-12-10 05:20:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PHUM PGOV KDEM BM NLD |
04RANGOON1569 | THAI PRIME MINISTER MEETS WITH SENIOR GENERAL THAN [...] (C) Summary: On December 9, Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra visited Rangoon and met with State Peace and Development Council (SPDC) Chairman Senior General Than Shwe. Thaskin reportedly assured Than Shwe that Thailand would continue a policy of non-interference in Burma's internal aff [...] | 2004-12-13 09:45:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREF PHUM BM ASEAN |
04RANGOON1572 | BURMESE PRO-DEMOCRACY LEADERS REQUEST FINANCIAL [...] (SBU) Congress has appropriated and earmarked millions of dollars to support Burma's pro-democracy movement and those Burmese seeking refuge from the junta's tyranny. While a portion of this funding appropriately supports thousands of Burmese who have fled their country, direct support for th [...] | 2004-12-14 04:59:00 | Embassy Rangoon | SECRET//NOFORN | EAID KDEM PINR BM |
04RANGOON1577 | UNHCR'S THIN BLUE LINE BETWEEN THE SPDC AND [...] (C) Summary: The UN's refugee agency has essentially exhausted its mandate to oversee repatriation operations along the Bangladesh border in northern Rakhine State and settled into an uneasy but crucial role providing a wide umbrella of protection, and coordinating basic relief services, for [...] | 2004-12-14 08:25:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREF PGOV PHUM KISL BM NGO |
04RANGOON158 | FIELD OBSERVATIONS OF UNICEF BURMA [...] (SBU) SUMMARY: Thirty-five percent of Burma's children are malnourished, while one out of ten dies by age five, according to UNICEF. Emboff traveled with a UNICEF team to Karen and Mon States recently to observe UNICEF's field operations. Embassy Rangoon is highly supportive of UNICEF's act [...] | 2004-02-04 09:10:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EAID PGOV PREL BM UNICEF NGO |
04RANGOON1582 | BURMA'S BUDDHIST SUMMIT: WE BUILT IT, NOW FIND [...] (SBU) Summary: The SPDC carried off its World Buddhist Summit despite the 11th hour loss of the primary sponsor and the 1,600 attendees it was planning to bring. The regime saved face by launching a dual strategy of publicly belittling its departed Japanese co-sponsor while using influential [...] | 2004-12-15 03:06:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | SCUL PHUM PREL PGOV BM |
04RANGOON1587 | SPDC REMOVES ASSK'S PERSONAL BODYGUARDS FROM [...] (C) Summary: According to the NLD, in the pre-dawn hours of December 14 GOB police officials required the departure of ASSK's entire contingent of personal bodyguards from the compound where she resides under house arrest. In recent weeks, the GOB has increasingly restricted access to ASSK an [...] | 2004-12-15 10:34:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PINS PREL KDEM BM ASSK |
04RANGOON1591 | FURTHER RESTRICTIONS ON AUNG SAN SUU KYI [...] (C) Summary: The SPDC has increased its restrictions on Aung San Suu Kyi by reducing the visits of her doctor to one time a week, prohibiting the doctor from contacting NLD members, and tailing her housekeeper as she leaves the compound for grocery shopping. In short, ASSK is now being held [...] | 2004-12-16 09:34:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM KDEM BM ASSK NLD |
04RANGOON16 | ANTIDOTE TO THE REGIME: THE DEMOCRACY MOVEMENT'S [...] (C) Summary: On January 4, the 56th anniversary of Burma's independence, pro-democracy political parties and supporters held quiet, but well-attended, commemorative events in Rangoon. In contrast to the regime's official ceremonies, heavily militarized functions that trumpeted the SPDC's self [...] | 2004-01-05 10:41:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM KDEM BM NLD |
04RANGOON161 | SPDC TRIES TO ENHANCE "UNDERSTANDING" OF BURMA [...] (C) SUMMARY: A two day seminar on "Understanding Myanmar" on January 27-28 was certainly the first time we have seen the government willing to discuss its policies in even a reasonably open forum. However, few attendees took the opportunity to publicly push important issues with the often sen [...] | 2004-02-05 06:03:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL ECON BM |
04RANGOON1612 | PROVISIONING ASSK, MORE ARRESTS, AND PRISONER [...] (C) As of December 20, new arrangements for ensuring Aung San Su Kyi's (ASSK) access to food reportedly had been instituted. A designated individual who has served a similar role in the past is to bring food for ASSK and the two women who remain with her in the compound each morning at 0900 h [...] | 2004-12-21 09:20:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PHUM KDEM BM ASSK NLD |
04RANGOON1627 | BURMA: 2004 ANNUAL TERRORISM REPORT [...] Embassy Rangoon's submission for the annual terrorism report follows. Post will update the final section of this short statement when GOB provides requested information. Burma Burma maintained its solid position against international terrorism in 2004. The regime previously enacted an anti- [...] | 2004-12-23 09:57:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | PTER ASEC BM |
04RANGOON1629 | INDONESIA QUAKE HITS BURMA [...] Rangoon awoke on Sunday the 26th to a 5.3 earthquake, the largest since 1958 in the capital, testimony to the vast power of the quake off Indonesia. Though there were no reports of casualties or major damage in Rangoon, there were scattered reports throughout the area of slightly damaged buil [...] | 2004-12-27 09:07:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | AEMR CASC PREL PINR PGOV AMGT BM |
04RANGOON1633 | TFXO01: TSUNAMI DEATH TOLL RISES IN BURMA [...] (SBU) Summary: It is evident now that Burma's remote coastal and delta regions suffered at least several dozen casualties and, at the village level, significant property damage from the earthquakes and tsunami of December 26th, although the full extent of the impact is still unclear. As of CO [...] | 2004-12-28 10:15:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | AEMR CASC PREL PINR PGOV AMGT BM |
04RANGOON1643 | TFXO01: (12/29) BURMESE GOVERNMENT UPS TSUNAMI [...] (SBU) Summary: As of December 29th, the GOB's official earthquake/tsunami death toll in Burma is 51 dead and 70 missing, though the real numbers may be higher. There have been no reports of Amcit casualties or verified cases of missing Americans. The GOB has declined offers of assistance fro [...] | 2004-12-29 10:19:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | AEMR CASC PREL PINR PGOV AMGT BM |
04RANGOON1647 | BURMA: GOB AFFIRMS THAT ASSK WILL REMAIN ISOLATED [...] (C) Summary: The new Minister of Home Affairs, offering the first official GOB word on the current status of Aung San Suu Kyi's detention, says that ASSK and NLD Vice Chairman U Tin Oo are no longer considered held "in protective custody," but rather are detained under a specific provision of [...] | 2004-12-30 05:41:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV PHUM PINR BM ASSK |
04RANGOON1649 | TFXO01: (12/30) BURMA SITUATION SEEMS STABLE...FOR [...] Summary: All USG personnel in Burma are accounted for and safe. There have still been no reports of Amcit casualties or verified cases of missing Americans. There was no new information on casualties in Burma on December 30th, though a UN team found little evidence to dispute GOB claims of D [...] | 2004-12-30 10:20:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | AEMR CASC KFLO PREL PINR PGOV AMGT BM |
04RANGOON167 | STILL NO AVIAN FLU IN BURMA; GOVERNMENT PREPARES [...] (SBU) Summary: Burma does not have any reported cases of avian flu. Though the government is taking precautionary measures (ref B),if an outbreak were to occur the regime would be ill-prepared to face it. However, even if the worst happens, due to current USG Burma policy it's unlikely that [...] | 2004-02-06 02:29:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | TBIO ECON EAID AMED KHIV BM |
04RANGOON172 | UNHCR GAINS ACCESS TO FORMER CONFLICT AREAS IN [...] (C) Summary: On the heels of a cease-fire agreement between the Burmese regime and the insurgent Karen National Union (KNU),the UNHCR will sign an agreement with the GOB o/a February 13 allowing unprecedented access to former conflict areas along the Burma-Thailand border. UNHCR plans to as [...] | 2004-02-06 10:40:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREF PREL PGOV KISL BM |
04RANGOON174 | BURMA'S BANKS: THE YELLOW FLAG IS LIFTED [...] (SBU) Summary: After months of speculation and rumor the government has allowed three of the country's six biggest private banks to resume operations -- albeit under strict new regs and a promise to roll heads if there are any foul ups. Though some of the new regulations are sound, others are [...] | 2004-02-09 06:05:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EFIN ECON PGOV BM |
04RANGOON199 | SPDC STILL ARRESTING NLD MEMBERS [...] (SBU) SUMMARY: Despite talk of a "new year of transition," the SPDC has perpetuated old habits by continuing to arrest NLD members for conducting peaceful political activities. These latest arrests, over a dozen total, stand in contrast to reports of an on-going dialogue between ASSK and the [...] | 2004-02-13 11:12:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM BM NLD |
04RANGOON205 | SPDC TRANSFERS IMPRISONED NLD VICE CHAIRMAN TO [...] (C) Summary: The Burmese regime has transferred 77 year-old NLD Vice Chairman U Tin Oo from a remote prison cell in northwest Burma to house arrest in Rangoon. All NLD members detained for direct participation in the May 2003 NLD convoy have now been released from prison. However, along wit [...] | 2004-02-17 09:38:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM BM NLD |
04RANGOON206 | UNION DAY WRAP UP [...] (C) SUMMARY: The GOB celebrated Burma's 57th Union Day with an official ceremony in Rangoon's People's Square, attended by high-level SPDC officials and their faithful minions. Diplomats were invited to a low-key MOFA event co-hosted by the Myanmar Asean Women's Friendship Association. The [...] | 2004-02-17 10:38:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV BM NLD |
04RANGOON207 | GOB APPROVES NEW UNHCR OPERATION [...] (SBU) UNHCR Director for Asia and the Pacific, Mr. Jean Marie Fakhouri, told Rangoon diplomatic corps February 13 that the GOB was giving UNHCR the green light to enter Karen (Kayin) State, Mon State, and Tenasserim (Tanintharyi) Division and conduct limited operations beginning March 1. Fakh [...] | 2004-02-17 11:15:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | PREL PGOV PREF BM NGO |
04RANGOON214 | NO BIOTECH REGULATIONS IN BURMA [...] The Burmese government currently has no laws or regulations on the books regarding the import of biotechnology-derived food products. The Ministries of Agriculture, Forestry, Livestock and Fisheries, and the Customs Department are now forming a working committee to draw up a framework to addr [...] | 2004-02-19 04:59:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | ECON ETRD SENV TBIO TSPL BM |
04RANGOON219 | IN SEARCH OF PEACE AND DEVELOPMENT: THANLYIN AND [...] (SBU) Summary: A recent trip to Prime Minister General Khin Nyunt's home region of Kyauktan and Thanlyin (previously called Syriam),only a 45-minute jaunt southwest of downtown Rangoon, proved once again that kinship in this patronage-rich society has its privileges. The region is still very [...] | 2004-02-19 10:23:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | ECON PGOV PHUM EIND BM |
04RANGOON232 | REGIME BLOCKS NLD LEADERS FROM VISITING ASSK [...] (C) Summary: The five free members of the NLD's Central Executive Committee (CEC) attempted on February 17 to visit Aung San Suu Kyi (ASSK) at her Rangoon residence, where she is under house arrest, but were rebuffed by the Burmese regime. The "uncles" have in recent weeks taken a more visib [...] | 2004-02-20 09:49:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV BM NLD ASSK |
04RANGOON233 | NLD IN THE PROVINCES: RARIN' TO GO [...] (C) SUMMARY: The Department's Burma Desk Officer joined Poloff and PolFSN on an early February three-day 500-mile road trip from Rangoon to Mon and Karen States, which lie on Burma's southeastern border with Thailand. NLD members we met in Mon and Karen States seemed fairly well organized and [...] | 2004-02-20 09:54:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV PHUM PINS BM NLD |
04RANGOON237 | UPDATE ON A MON STATE OF MIND [...] (C) SUMMARY: Emboff and FSN met Feb 14 with a high-level New Mon State Party (NMSP) delegation visiting Rangoon to meet with the PM and to attend the 57th Union Day activities -- including the State Banquet hosted by Than Shwe. The NMSP, one of the major cease-fire groups, discussed a wide a [...] | 2004-02-23 09:50:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV PINS ELAB PHUM BM |
04RANGOON238 | AMERICAN CENTER SPEAKER PROMOTES DIALOGUE ON [...] (SBU) Summary: Embassy Rangoon's Public Affairs Section hosted Fulbright Scholar Jeffrey Kamakahi for programs on diversity, inequality, and social change with Burma's many ethnic, racial, and religious groups. Though the target audiences greatly appreciated his visit, they also expressed th [...] | 2004-02-23 10:07:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | PHUM PGOV KISL KPAO BM |
04RANGOON239 | BURMA: ANOTHER TENTATIVE STEP ON MONEY LAUNDERING [...] (C) Summary: As is its custom, the GOB released with no warning news of three important steps toward the implementation of its anti-money laundering law. It announced the setting of threshold amounts for banking and real estate transactions, and the naming of members to its nascent Financial [...] | 2004-02-23 10:08:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | EFIN SNAR ECON PGOV BM |
04RANGOON240 | BURMA: WFP PLANS EMERGENCY FOOD ASSISTANCE TO [...] (C) Summary: The World Food Programme (WFP) plans to initiate on March 1 a one-year program to assist former poppy farmers suffering from food insecurity. The program will cost about $4 million and target about 180,000 beneficiaries in the ethnic Kokang and Wa border areas through food-for-wo [...] | 2004-02-23 10:08:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | EAID EAGR PGOV SNAR PREF BM NGO |
04RANGOON243 | REGIME HAMMERS ACTIVISTS WITH LENGTHY PRISON TERMS [...] (C) Summary: The SPDC has handed down prison sentences ranging from 7 to 17 years to six university activists who distributed a handful of leaflets criticizing the regime's "road map for democracy." This harsh treatment is business as usual for a regime that tolerates no dissent. Meanwhile, [...] | 2004-02-25 00:39:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PHUM PGOV BM |
04RANGOON247 | BURMA'S PATRONAGE SYSTEM: THE DOG WAGS THE TAIL [...] (C) Summary: Burma's military leadership thrives atop a flourishing patronage system that dates back hundreds of years. The junta holds the key to huge success or crushing failure for those in business, the military, or civil service, but only rewards the most loyal and pliable. Such an envi [...] | 2004-02-25 10:00:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ECON MCAP PGOV MARR MOPS BM |
04RANGOON249 | FILIPINO ENVOY MAKES LOW-KEY VISIT TO BURMA [...] (C) Summary: Filipino Foreign Secretary Albert made her debut visit to Burma February 18-19 to get to know her Burmese counterpart and to resurrect a moribund Burma-Philippines Joint Commission. Her public remarks were laudatory of regime road map efforts. However, she did not meet with the [...] | 2004-02-25 10:06:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV BM RP |
04RANGOON250 | RANGOON'S OUSTED MAYOR: DOWNFALL OF A FAVORITE SON [...] (C) Summary: U Ko Lay, who served as Rangoon's powerful mayor for fifteen years following the military regime's rise to power in 1988, has endured five months of disgrace stemming from an investigation into his corrupt practices and culminating in his forced retirement. The murky demise of a [...] | 2004-02-25 10:32:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV ECON BM |
04RANGOON252 | EU REPS MEET WITH BURMESE PM IN RANGOON [...] (C) Summary: EU ambassadors resident in Rangoon and Bangkok met recently with the Burmese Prime Minister and Foreign Minister. The EU ambassadors assured COM that the meeting was not for the purpose of delivering any new EU policy message. COM cautioned them that they needed to be extreme [...] | 2004-02-25 11:08:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV BM |
04RANGOON298 | NLD LEADERS CHEERED BY SECRETARY'S BURMA COMMENTS [...] (SBU) The free members of the National League for Democracy's (NLD) Central Executive Committee (CEC) were very pleased that Secretary Powell had mentioned Burma's democracy struggle during his March 2nd speech to the Heritage Foundation. NLD leader, and Nobel Peace Laureate, Aung San Suu Kyi [...] | 2004-03-04 10:19:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | OPRC PGOV BM NLD |
04RANGOON305 | BURMA GOES BACK TO BASICS ON TERRORIST FINANCING [...] (S) Summary: Burma's efforts to fight terrorist financing suffer from several systemic and policy problems -- including corruption, a massive informal economy, and lack of professional capacity. Likewise, the GOB has been slow to complete its UN reporting requirements and has not yet taken ac [...] | 2004-03-05 07:56:00 | Embassy Rangoon | SECRET | PTER EFIN ETTC PREL BM |
04RANGOON306 | RAZALI'S TWELFTH VISIT TO RANGOON [...] (C) Summary: On March 5, COM met with Leon de Reidmatten (UN Special Envoy (SE) Tan Sri Razali's man in Rangoon) and got a comprehensive readout of Special Envoy Razali's twelfth visit to Rangoon. The fact that Razali came and twice met with Aung San Suu Kyi is good - as is the news that she [...] | 2004-03-05 11:25:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PHUM BM ASSK NLD |
04RANGOON310 | BURMA: FOURTH ANNUAL TIP REPORT [...] (SBU) SUMMARY: The following report responds to the checklist provided in reftel requesting information on trafficking in persons activities in Burma from March 2003 to March 2004. The report will also be forwarded by e-mail to EAP/BCLTV in MS Word format. END SUMMARY. BEGIN REPORT Ove [...] | 2004-03-08 10:29:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | KCRM PHUM KWMN SMIG KFRD ASEC PREF ELAB BM |
04RANGOON317 | BURMA DENIES NUCLEAR OR MISSILE LINKS WITH NORTH [...] (S) SUMMARY: Deputy Foreign Minister Khin Maung Win told the CDA, a.i. March 9 that Burma "has no links whatever with North Korea regarding nuclear technology or missile technology," and has no intentions of buying missiles or missile technology from North Korea. He allowed that Burma had pu [...] | 2004-03-09 10:42:00 | Embassy Rangoon | SECRET | PREL KNNP SNAR BM KN ARF |
04RANGOON34 | BURMA: LIBERALIZED RICE EXPORTS AREN'T SO LIBERAL [...] (SBU) Summary: The GOB's sudden decision to "suspend" exports of rice was the latest foible in the move toward allowing the private sector to export rice for the first time in 40 years. Aside from further underlining the regime's ambivalence about giving up control of Burma's most important p [...] | 2004-01-09 07:31:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EAGR ETRD ECON PGOV BM |
04RANGOON365 | CAMPUS COMMOTION: RANGOON AND MYITKYINA STUDENT [...] (C) Summary: According to Embassy sources, recent student-led protests over administrative issues at two university campuses, one located in a Rangoon suburb and the other in Kachin State in northern Burma, resulted in military intervention to restore "order." These reports indicate the regim [...] | 2004-03-18 10:53:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM MOPS BM |
04RANGOON369 | BURMA WELCOMES PRESIDENT'S EMERGENCY AIDS PLAN [...] (C) SUMMARY: Burma is interested in new program possibilities under the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (ref A) and has requested further consultations with the Embassy and USAID Bangkok to examine details of what the emergency plan actually means for Burma. Probably for reasons o [...] | 2004-03-19 08:19:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL EAID SOCI KHIV PHUM PGOV BM NGO |
04RANGOON370 | MOFA ON DPRK MISSILES, ROAD MAP [...] (C) SUMMARY: MOFA Political Director General U Thaung Tun, covering a range of political issues, reiterated to COM on March 18 the GOB's position that Burma has refused North Korea offers to buy missiles and has no intention of resuming diplomatic relations with DPRK. He that although the GO [...] | 2004-03-19 08:24:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV PHUM BM |
04RANGOON382 | DIFFERENT STROKES FOR DIFFERENT FOLKS: ONE [...] (C) Summary: While spending ten days in remote Shan State with a senior military intelligence officer during the annual USG-Burma opium yield survey, we were constantly told that Prime Minister Khin Nyunt has undertaken a full-court press to implement his "road map" to democracy. This focus h [...] | 2004-03-24 07:51:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PINS PINR MARR SNAR BM |
04RANGOON393 | BURMA'S NATIONAL CONVENTION: INK FOR THE RUBBER [...] Summary: Members of the National Convention Convening Work Committee demonstrate scant appreciation for the guiding principles and mechanics of constitution drafting. There is no indication the planned drafting process will involve genuine dialogue, negotiation, debate, or collaboration. By [...] | 2004-03-26 10:06:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | PGOV SCUL BM |
04RANGOON4 | DON'T BLAME US FOR BURMA'S WIMPY MANUFACTURING [...] (SBU) Summary: Though U.S. sanctions have hurt some Burmese manufacturers, these punitive measures are not primarily to blame for the sector's perilous situation. An array of systemic problems, chronic mismanagement by the government, and periodic external shocks, have made Burma a wasteland [...] | 2004-01-02 06:47:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EIND ECON PGOV BM |
04RANGOON404 | SPDC CELEBRATES ARMED FORCES DAY, NLD HAILS [...] (C) Summary: On March 27, the SPDC celebrated the 59th Anniversary of Armed Forces Day with a traditional military parade, sundry speeches lauding the accomplishments of the modern Burmese Army, and an official state dinner complete with a now-standard depiction of Senior General Than Shwe as [...] | 2004-03-29 12:37:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV BM NLD |
04RANGOON412 | BURMESE-RUSSIAN NUCLEAR REACTOR PROJECT [...] (C) In a March 24 conversation, the Russian ambassador in Rangoon, Oleg Kabanov, told the COM that he had met with the Burmese Minister of Science and Technology, U Thaung, on March 23 and discussed the status of the proposed Burmese-Russian nuclear reactor project that has been hanging fire, [...] | 2004-03-30 09:46:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ENRG PREL PGOV RS BM |
04RANGOON438 | BURMA: INDONESIAN AMBASSADOR PREVIEWS ALATAS VISIT [...] (C) Summary: Indonesian Ambassador to Burma, Wyoso Prodjowarsito, revealed on March 31 that Presidential Advisor Ali Alatas may revisit Burma o/a April 17, although that date could slip due to the concurrent Burmese New Year. Prodjowarsito portrayed Indonesia as a close friend of Burma and su [...] | 2004-04-06 06:21:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV BM ID |
04RANGOON470 | BURMESE MUSLIMS BRACE FOR FALLOUT [...] (C) SUMMARY: Rangoon-based Muslim leaders are advising Muslims to expect a severe GOB reaction following the April 7 attack on the Burmese Embassy in Kuala Lumpur (ref A). The Foreign Ministry publicly condemned the attack, though avoiding mention of the attackers' ethnicity and religion, a [...] | 2004-04-09 10:21:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREF PHUM PTER PGOV PINS KISL MY BM |
04RANGOON471 | RANGOON MISSIONS ON PREPARATIONS FOR BANGKOK II [...] (C) Summary: Our recent calls on six Rangoon-based EU and ASEAN diplomatic missions to discuss the second meeting of the "Bangkok Process" on Burma revealed a range of assessments on the road that lies ahead. Most of the missions believe that the SPDC will release ASSK within days or weeks a [...] | 2004-04-09 10:25:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV BM |
04RANGOON481 | NLD LEADERS IN A "WAIT AND SEE" MOOD [...] (S) Summary: During our April 19 visit to re-opened NLD headquarters, recently released Chairman U Aung Shwe played down press reports that he believes ASSK's release is imminent and denied rumors of a meeting between top SPDC and NLD leaders, but acknowledged that the regime had allowed him [...] | 2004-04-19 10:59:00 | Embassy Rangoon | SECRET | PREL PGOV BM NLD |
04RANGOON487 | BURMA: MALAYSIAN AMBASSADOR BELIEVES GOB WILL [...] (C) Summary: Malaysia's ambassador to Burma believes that the GOB is "firm" in wanting to postpone the April 29-30 Bangkok II meeting in order to avoid "getting clobbered" by the international community. Nonetheless, he believes that the signs are good ASSK will be released soon and assesses [...] | 2004-04-20 10:15:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV BM MY |
04RANGOON488 | THE BURMA-THAI BORDER TRADE CHRONICLES: PART I, [...] (C) Summary: A recent joint visit by Bangkok and Rangoon Econoffs to Ranong and Kawthaung, along the southern Burmese-Thai border, shows business as usual in the informal movement of goods and people. However, the formal economy on both sides is sluggish due to the continued ban on Thai fishi [...] | 2004-04-21 03:37:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ETRD ECON PREL PGOV EFIS BM TH |
04RANGOON497 | THE BURMA-THAI BORDER TRADE CHRONICLES: PART II, [...] (C) Summary: A recent visit by Bangkok and Rangoon Econoffs to Mae Sot and Myawaddy, the largest trading point on the Burmese-Thai border, shows trade volumes that are flourishing despite U.S. sanctions and increasingly ludicrous Burmese trade policy. Even more than it does the sleepy Kawthau [...] | 2004-04-22 02:08:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ETRD ECON PREL PGOV PHUM BM TH |
04RANGOON501 | BURMA: CHINESE VISIT A "BIG EVENT" FOR PRC-SPDC [...] (C) Summary: The Chinese ambassador to Burma characterized the recent visit by Vice Premier Wu Yi as a "big event" for bilateral relations, noting 21 agreements had been signed and commenting that China had selected areas of cooperation that would be of import not only to the current regime [...] | 2004-04-22 05:40:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL ECON PGOV BM CH ASSK |
04RANGOON502 | BURMESE NARCOTICS: CHINESE AMBASSADOR ADVOCATES [...] (C) Summary: The Chinese ambassador to Burma advocates shifting international focus from counter-drug activities toward alternative and long-term development as a means to keep farmers from cultivating poppy and producing opium. He said current PRC counternarcotics activities in Burma are mo [...] | 2004-04-22 05:47:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL SNAR BM CH |
04RANGOON509 | BURMA'S NATIONAL UNITY PARTY: NIGHT OF THE LIVING [...] (C) Summary: Leaders of the pro-regime National Unity Party (NUP) reveal an outlook on Burma and the world reminiscent of the bygone days of Ne Win and his "Burmese Way to Socialism" ideology, which viewed the international community, and domestic dissenters, as enemies of the state. The NUP [...] | 2004-04-22 10:56:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV ECON BM |
04RANGOON513 | THE BURMA-THAI BORDER TRADE CHRONICLES, PART III: [...] (C) Summary: Despite predictions that new U.S. sanctions would cause major changes in border trade and migration, a recent visit by Bangkok and Rangoon Econoffs to two of the three major Thai-Burma border crossings (refs A and B) shows business as usual in the movement of goods and people. Tho [...] | 2004-04-23 04:33:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ETRD PHUM PREL ECON PGOV BM TH NGO |
04RANGOON514 | GOB PULLS THE PLUG ON BANGKOK II [...] (C) Summary: According to an MFA contact, Burma has opted out of the second meeting of the "Bangkok Process" and requested a postponement of at least one month, likely part of an effort to focus exclusively on reconvening the National Convention on May 17. We suspect the GOB realizes that the [...] | 2004-04-23 08:13:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV BM TH |
04RANGOON535 | GOB RELEASES MORE POST-DEPAYIN PRISONERS [...] (C) On April 25 the GOB released 24 more of the estimated 250 pro-democracy activists arrested across Burma in the government crackdown immediately following the May 30, 2003 attack on the National League for Democracy (NLD) convoy at Depayin. Four other NLD members, including an MP-elect, wh [...] | 2004-04-28 09:53:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PHUM PGOV BM NLD |
04RANGOON537 | KNU OBSERVERS TO ATTEND NATIONAL CONVENTION [...] (C) SUMMARY: According to a well-placed, Rangoon-based ethnic Karen leader, the Karen National Union (KNU) will send a two-person observer delegation to the National Convention (NC) in May. The postponed SPDC-KNU talks originally scheduled for late April could take place in late May, despit [...] | 2004-04-27 10:15:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PINS BM |
04RANGOON542 | FREED PRIVATE BANKS WARM UP [...] (C) Summary: Three of Burma's private banks, re-opened under tight new regulations in February, seem to be surviving nicely in the new environment. With deposits reaching pre-crash levels, the banks are set to start issuing loans for the first time since February 2003. However, this bright s [...] | 2004-04-30 05:29:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | EFIN ECON PGOV BM |
04RANGOON544 | BURMA: NLD MAKES "SUGGESTIONS" (CONDITIONS) FOR [...] (C) Summary: For the first time in a year the NLD CEC met this week as a full group, including detained leaders ASSK and U Tin Oo. Over the course of two private sessions, facilitated by military intelligence, the party leadership formed a series of "suggestions" that the SPDC must take on b [...] | 2004-04-30 10:18:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV BM NLD |
04RANGOON545 | BURMA: VIEWS FROM MILITARY INTELLIGENCE [...] (C) On April 24 DATT and P/E Chief had an opportunity to chat at length with Major General Kyaw Win, second in command to General (and Prime Minister) Khin Nyunt as the powerful deputy chief of Burma's military intelligence. The occasion was a social event, but a significant portion of our d [...] | 2004-04-30 10:20:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV BM |
04RANGOON559 | ENERGIZING BURMA'S SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTREPRENEURS [...] (SBU) Summary: The executive director of the American Chamber of Commerce in Thailand visited Rangoon explaining the benefits of a more active civil society role for the business community and delivering the message that combined voices were more effective in pushing reform. Progressive busin [...] | 2004-05-06 05:00:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | ECON KPAO PGOV SCUL KWMN BM |
04RANGOON563 | NLD LOOKING AHEAD TO CONSTITUTIONAL REFERENDUM? [...] (C) Summary: Post has received some indications from NLD insiders that the party plans to focus its efforts on the constitutional referendum phase of the SPDC's road map. Rather than fight against terribly long odds at the stacked-deck National Convention, the party may feel its continuing m [...] | 2004-05-06 09:35:00 | Embassy Rangoon | SECRET | PGOV KDEM BM NLD |
04RANGOON574 | STATUS OF KAREN REFUGEE AND IDP RETURNS [...] (C) SUMMARY: UNHCR's first assessment mission into Burma's south-eastern border area in early April found a heavy presence of Burmese Army troops and a lack of the basic infrastructure needed to support the tens of thousands of refugees projected to eventually return from Thailand. Though UNH [...] | 2004-05-10 09:07:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREF PINS BM TH |
04RANGOON58 | CULTIVATING THE FOURTH ESTATE [...] The Rangoon American Center hosted Burma's first journalism training course, conducted by the Indochina Media Memorial Foundation (IMMF),an independent media support foundation based in Thailand, November 10 to 23, 2003. The two-week course was designed to introduce young journalists to the [...] | 2004-01-14 03:26:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | KDEM KPAO BM |
04RANGOON587 | NATIONAL CONVENTION SET TO RECONVENE, NLD [...] (C) Summary: According to top NLD leaders, as of May 12 the SPDC has not responded to NLD "suggestions" put forth two weeks ago that would improve the political environment and allow the party to attend the regime's forthcoming reconvened National Convention. Registration for the Convention w [...] | 2004-05-12 10:15:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV BM NLD |
04RANGOON594 | NLD SAYS SPDC WON'T BUDGE ON ASSK RELEASE AND [...] (S) NLD spokesman U Lwin requested a meeting with P/E chief on May 13 and reported that he had met the previous evening with ASSK. He conveyed to ASSK the Embassy's oft-repeated offer to assist her and the NLD in any way possible. ASSK, who was "delighted and very encouraged" by the USG's co [...] | 2004-05-13 10:25:00 | Embassy Rangoon | SECRET | PGOV BM ASSK NLD |
04RANGOON600 | NLD DECLARES BOYCOTT OF NATIONAL CONVENTION [...] (C) Summary: The NLD, failing to secure the release of party leaders ASSK and U Tin Oo, declared publicly on May 14 that the party will not attend the SPDC's National Convention. Burma's leading pro-democracy ethnic coalition will follow suit. However, NLD leaders allow that if the regime c [...] | 2004-05-14 10:21:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV BM NLD |
04RANGOON601 | SPDC REJECTS CEASE-FIRE GROUPS' NC APPEAL [...] (C) SUMMARY: The SPDC rejected an 11th hour appeal from Burma's eight largest cease-fire groups on May 12 to allow free discussions during the National Convention. The SPDC's reported response on May 13 stated the Prime Minister is upset the cease-fire groups don't want the military involved [...] | 2004-05-14 10:27:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PINS BM |
04RANGOON611 | RAZALI'S "MAN IN RANGOON" ON NATIONAL CONVENTION [...] (C) Summary: Leon de Reidmatten (LDR),UN Special Envoy Razali's "man in Rangoon" told COM that up until May 12, NLD leaders believed that an agreement had been reached to allow the party to participate in the National Convention. Despite the NLD's May 14 announcement that they would not par [...] | 2004-05-17 11:40:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV BM NLD |
04RANGOON612 | NATIONAL CONVENTION RECONVENES WITHOUT NLD AND [...] (C) Summary: The Burmese regime's National Convention reconvened on May 17 with over 1,000 hand-picked delegates in attendance, but without the participation of the NLD and the UNA nor the presence of the U.S. and EU missions. The NLD, on the basis that its existing demands are reasonable and [...] | 2004-05-17 11:57:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV BM NLD |
04RANGOON625 | BURMA'S PRIVATE RICE EXPORTS: A FAILED EXPERIMENT [...] (C) Summary: Burma's military and its economic tentacles are apparently benefiting from the GOB's January freeze on private sector rice exports, buying up thousands of tons at discount prices. Though the purchases are good for farmers who were stuck with massive surpluses when private exporter [...] | 2004-05-18 10:43:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | EAGR PGOV ECON BM |
04RANGOON631 | MONEY LAUNDERING: FATF COMES TO BURMA [...] (C) Summary: Anti-money laundering legislation and supervision were the topics of three days of discussions between FATF and the Burmese government. Though the GOB has made much progress on paper, concerns remain over some troubling details and prospects for proper enforcement. As FATF consi [...] | 2004-05-19 10:41:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | EFIN PGOV SNAR BM |
04RANGOON637 | NATIONAL CONVENTION: CENTER OF THE REGIME'S [...] (C) Summary: The Burmese regime's National Convention has thus far revealed little more than instructions and warnings to its hand-picked delegates who will have no opportunity to reconsider pre-drafted components of a new constitution. It is clear that the SPDC has reconvened the Convention [...] | 2004-05-20 10:37:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV BM |
04RANGOON638 | BURMA UPHOLDS CONVICTIONS FOR CONTACTING ILO [...] (C) A special two-judge panel of the Burmese Supreme Court on May 12 supported a secret lower court's ruling from November 2003 that two men, Naing Min Kyi and Aye Mint, are guilty of treason for contacting the International Labor Organization (ref). However, on the basis of a lack of eviden [...] | 2004-05-21 00:23:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ELAB PHUM BM |
04RANGOON644 | BURMA'S FORESTRY MINISTER TAKES A MEETING [...] (SBU) Summary: In the COM's first meeting with Burma's Forestry Minister we were able to finally get the GOB's official line on wildlife trafficking and illegal timbering, and clarify an outstanding rumor regarding the punishment of a Ministry official for illegal contact with the Embassy. Tho [...] | 2004-05-21 07:52:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | SENV PGOV EAGR PHUM BM |
04RANGOON647 | BURMESE REGIME'S STRATEGIC VIEWS OF U.S. AND CHINA [...] (C) SUMMARY: The United States wants to dominate Burma in order to penetrate China's soft underbelly, according to Burmese Prime Minister General Khin Nyunt. The PM, speaking with a visiting ethnic leader, laid out his strategic views of the United States and China. Burma must resist U.S. [...] | 2004-05-21 08:06:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL SNAR PINR BM CH |
04RANGOON675 | BURMA AND CHINA: TRUE FRIENDSHIP OR MARRIAGE OF [...] (C) Summary: Burma's ruling SPDC views China as its key bilateral partner and seeks to use the relationship as evidence of its legitimacy and to offset pressure by the international community, particularly the United States, for concrete movement toward national reconciliation and democracy. [...] | 2004-05-27 00:13:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL ECON PGOV MARR BM CM |
04RANGOON676 | ILO IN BURMA: A TREASONOUS MINION? [...] (C) Summary: ILO's man in Rangoon briefed diplomats on ambiguous news from Burma's Supreme Court, increased forced labor reports, and the GOB's inadequate responses. All of these issues will be discussed in Geneva on June 5th in the context of the ILO's postponed timetable for a Plan of Action [...] | 2004-05-27 03:47:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ELAB PHUM PGOV BM ILO |
04RANGOON678 | NLD COMMEMORATES 14TH ANNIVERSARY OF 1990 ELECTIONS [...] (C) Summary: The NLD on May 27 marked 14 years since the party's stunning victory in the 1990 general elections. At a somber event at party headquarters, attended by several hundred members and supporters, the NLD demanded that the results of the 1990 elections be implemented without delay. [...] | 2004-05-27 07:15:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM BM NLD |
04RANGOON680 | BURMA: COUNTERNARCOTICS CERTIFICATION REPORT CARD [...] (SBU) This message responds to ref A request for a report card on the Government of Burma's cooperation on counternarcotics efforts in preparation for the annual certification process. In the text below Embassy Rangoon has assessed progress on existing benchmarks, in the prescribed report car [...] | 2004-05-27 08:44:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | SNAR BM |
04RANGOON681 | NEW BANGLADESH COMMERCIAL OFFICE: MUCH A-BUZZ [...] (SBU) Pol/Econ Officers paid a courtesy call on newly arrived Bangladesh Commercial Counselor Mohammed Aftabuzzaman on May 13, 2004. Aftabuzzaman has been charged with opening a commercial office and increasing bilateral trade between Burma and Bangladesh, which he characterized as currently [...] | 2004-05-27 09:36:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL ETRD BM BG |
04RANGOON694 | BURMESE TAKE TO THE ETHER TO AVOID SANCTIONS [...] (SBU) SUMMARY: BURMESE BUSINESSES HAVE A WELL-EARNED REPUTATION FOR CREATIVITY IN THE FACE OF OBSTACLES. MANY HAVE FOUND WAYS TO WORK AROUND LAST YEAR'S BAN ON U.S. FINANCIAL SERVICES (INCLUDING TRADE FACILITATION AND CREDIT CARD SERVICES). ONE OF THE LATEST METHODS INVOLVES LARGER COMPANIES [...] | 2004-06-01 10:23:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EFIN ECON PGOV BM |
04RANGOON695 | ACTIVISTS ARRESTED ON ANNIVERSARY OF DEPAYIN [...] (C) SUMMARY: ON THE ANNIVERSARY OF THE REGIME-ORCHESTRATED ATTACK ON THE NLD AT DEPAYIN ON MAY 30, 2003, THE REGIME ARRESTED AT LEAST NINE VERIFIED AND POSSIBLY DOZENS MORE YOUTHS INVOLVED IN DISTRIBUTING COPIES OF THE UN UNIVERSAL DECLARATION ON HUMAN RIGHTS. THE NLD HELD RELIGIOUS SERVICES [...] | 2004-06-01 10:32:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PHUM PGOV BM ASSK NLD |
04RANGOON714 | VIEWS FROM THE THREE RING NATIONAL CONVENTION [...] (C) SUMMARY: AFTER A THREE WEEK LOCKDOWN AT THE NATIONAL CONSTITUTIONAL CONVENTION, 700 DELEGATES GOT A WEEKEND PASS FOR JUNE 5-6. DESPITE THIS RELEASE, NEWS FROM NYAUNG HNA PIN HAS BEEN SCARCE. SOME SECOND AND THIRD-HAND TALES HAVE BEEN TRICKLING OUT ATTESTING TO THE FARCICAL AND PRE-ORDAINE [...] | 2004-06-08 07:32:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PINS BM |
04RANGOON719 | ETHNICS HOPING AGAINST HOPE [...] (C) SUMMARY: THE NATIONAL CONVENTION (NC) RESUMED JUNE 7 AFTER A TWO-DAY RECESS. THOUGH THE SPDC'S EMPTY PROMISES TO RE-EXAMINE THE 104 PRINCIPLES HAVE LEFT THE ETHNIC CEASE-FIRE GROUPS (CFGS) RATHER FRUSTRATED, THE CFGS PARADOXICALLY STILL HOPE FOR SOME DELIVERABLES ON THE SHARING OF POWER [...] | 2004-06-09 01:35:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PINS BM |
04RANGOON728 | BURMA: DEPUTY FOREIGN MINISTER MAKES RARE EMBASSY [...] (C) SUMMARY: A SURPRISE, BUT WELCOME, MEETING BETWEEN THE CHIEF OF MISSION AND THE DEPUTY FOREIGN MINISTER WAS MORE SIGNIFICANT FOR ITS OCCURRENCE THAN ITS CONTENT. NONETHELESS, DURING THE CORDIAL 30-MINUTE EXCHANGE THE COM PRESSURED FOR A ROLE FOR THE NLD IN THE "ROAD MAP FOR DEMOCRACY," AND [...] | 2004-06-09 10:18:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PTER BM |
04RANGOON74 | KNU COMING TO TOWN? [...] SUMMARY: After several days of confusion about who is coming and when, local contacts reported today, Thursday Jan 15, that a 21-strong KNU delegation led by Gen. Bo Mya has arrived from Bangkok. While here, the KNU will reportedly only discuss a cease-fire and Karen autonomy, not the natio [...] | 2004-01-15 10:39:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV BM |
04RANGOON764 | BURMA'S IMPORTERS TAKE ANOTHER BLOW [...] (SBU) SUMMARY: A PLAN TO STICK IMPORTERS WITH HUGE NEW CUSTOMS EXPENSES IS PAR FOR THE COURSE. IT ADVANCES THE GOB'S DUAL ECONOMIC PRIORITIES -- RAISING REVENUE WITHOUT REFORMING THE DECREPIT TAX SYSTEM AND DISCOURAGING IMPORTS. THE IMPACT ON THE ECONOMY IS HARD TO PREDICT. FLOURISHING SMUGG [...] | 2004-06-18 05:58:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL//NOFORN | ETRD ECON PGOV BM |
04RANGOON768 | BURMESE USING THAIS TO VIOLATE U.S. IMPORT BAN [...] SUMMARY: BURMESE GARMENT FACTORY OWNERS ADMITTED TO AN EMBASSY OFFICER THAT THEIR COMPANY IS CIRCUMVENTING THE U.S. IMPORT BAN ON BURMESE PRODUCTS BY EXPORTING THEIR "U2" AND "ADIDAS" BRAND GARMENTS OVERLAND TO BANGKOK, AND THEN RE-EXPORTING THROUGH A THAI COMPANY DIRECTLY TO THE UNITED STATE [...] | 2004-06-18 08:23:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | ETRD ECON CVIS KTEX TH BM |
04RANGOON770 | BURMA'S BUDGETEERS WAVE MAGIC WAND [...] (SBU) SUMMARY: BURMA'S FY 2004-05 STATE BUDGET MAGICALLY APPEARED IN LATE APRIL, SPORTING FIGURES AND PREDICTIONS FROM UNKNOWN SOURCES. UNSURPRISINGLY, THE MILITARY GETS A BOOST, BUT SO DO HEALTH AND EDUCATION. THE INITIAL TAKE CALLS FOR A REDUCED DEFICIT DUE TO INCREASED TAX RECEIPTS AND AN [...] | 2004-06-21 04:00:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EFIN ECON PGOV BM |
04RANGOON779 | ASSK'S BIRTHDAY PASSES QUIETLY [...] (C) SUMMARY: AROUND 300 NLD PARTY FAITHFUL ATTENDED A CEREMONY AT NLD HEADQUARTERS IN RANGOON TO MARK THE NLD-CREATED BURMESE NATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY AND ASSK'S COINCIDENT 59TH BIRTHDAY, WHILE THE USUAL HEAVY SECURITY PRESENCE LOITERED NEARBY. THE DAY PASSED PEACEFULLY, AND NO ARRESTS WERE MADE [...] | 2004-06-22 08:53:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM BM ASSK NLD |
04RANGOON790 | KOWI PARTNERS MEET, LAY OUT CONCERNS TO GOB [...] (SBU) ACCORDING TO UNODC'S BURMA OFFICE, ON JUNE 21ST EIGHT AGENCIES OF THE BURMESE GOVERNMENT SAT DOWN WITH THE UN, INGO, AND JAPANESE GOVERNMENT IMPLEMENTING PARTNERS FOR THE KOKANG AND WA INITIATIVE (KOWI) TO DISCUSS BARRIERS TO SUCCESSFUL IMPLEMENTATION. NO DONORS WERE INVITED TO ATTEND. [...] | 2004-06-23 09:40:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | SNAR PGOV BM |
04RANGOON802 | KHIN NYUNT MEETS UNOCAL [...] (C) Summary: Bangkok-based representatives of Unocal were in Burma to introduce a new regional chief. While paying a courtesy call on PM General Khin Nyunt, the Unocal reps heard upbeat talk of Burma's energy sector and of Burma-Thai relations. The PM also made vague promises of a release of [...] | 2004-06-24 10:32:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ENRG PGOV BM |
04RANGOON805 | THE MADRASSAS OF RANGOON [...] (S) Summary: Despite pervasive and sometimes aggressive religious discrimination that favors Burma's Buddhist majority, Islamic religious education has survived and flourished in Rangoon Division. Though Rangoon's madrassas operate under vigilant MI attention, there are up to 130 schools -- s [...] | 2004-06-25 02:24:00 | Embassy Rangoon | SECRET | SCUL PGOV PTER EFIN KISL BM |
04RANGOON815 | GOB BLAMES EXILE GROUPS FOR JUNE 26 BOMBINGS [...] (C) Summary: On June 26th, three small bombs exploded and four were disarmed at the main Rangoon train station. The GOB blamed exile opposition groups for the incident, just as it did for a similar event last July. We think it more likely the GOB did this itself to try to besmirch these oppo [...] | 2004-06-28 08:26:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PINS PGOV ELAB BM |
04RANGOON82 | RUMP CEC PUTTING HOUSE IN ORDER [...] (C) SUMMARY: The five NLD CEC members not under house arrest continue to meet daily and are pushing the security envelope further. The CEC is "putting the house back in order" and has held meetings with NLD Chairs from all of Burma's States and Divisions. Township-level meetings have begun [...] | 2004-01-16 10:11:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV BM NLD |
04RANGOON857 | THE MANDALAY NLD: ON THE DEFENSIVE [...] (C) SUMMARY: The regime has recently increased its efforts to suppress the actions of the NLD in Mandalay through intrusive and intimidating surveillance of senior NLD members. Despite the regime's efforts, the NLD maintains a positive spirit while it continues to hold out hope for UN interven [...] | 2004-07-07 07:31:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM BM NLD |
04RANGOON862 | NLD AND ASSK: THE SOUNDS OF SILENCE [...] (C) Summary: UN Special Envoy Razali's "Man in Rangoon" painted a gloomy picture of the current state of the NLD. While the party and its executive board remain in stasis, awaiting the release of General Secretary Aung San Suu Kyi, the GOB steams ahead along its bogus democracy "Road Map." Tho [...] | 2004-07-07 09:17:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PINS PGOV BM NLD ASSK |
04RANGOON88 | BURMA: RUMORS OF CONSTRUCTION OF A NUCLEAR REACTOR [...] (S/NF) An expatriate businessmanXXXXXXXXXXXX recently volunteered to an Embassy Officer that he had heard rumors that a nuclear reactor was being built near Minbu, in central Magway Division on the Irawaddy River. The businessman added that he personally had seen a "massive" barge containing large- [...] | 2004-01-20 09:44:00 | Embassy Rangoon | SECRET//NOFORN | PGOV PARM PREL BM RS KS KNPP |
04RANGOON881 | KYAUKSE: THAN SHWE'S TIKRIT [...] (C) Summary: A visit to Senior General Than Shwe's hometown of Kyaukse revealed a town of above average development, but with lingering religious tensions. After Buddhist-Muslim religious riots here in October 2003, there seems to have been little attempt by anyone to systematically eliminat [...] | 2004-07-13 09:35:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM KISL BM |
04RANGOON882 | SENIOR GOB OFFICIAL DISCUSSES TIP AND DRUG ISSUES, [...] (C) Summary: Minister of Home Affairs Colonel Tin Hlaing says that while the SPDC gives "regular" consideration to releasing ASSK, the GOB will not repeat a 1995 "mistake" of freeing the NLD leader that led to the collapse of the National Convention. The Minister, while cordial, criticized o [...] | 2004-07-13 09:53:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV PHUM SNAR BM NLD |
04RANGOON883 | BURMA: NATIONAL CONVENTION "ADJOURNS" ON SCHEDULE [...] (C) Summary: The constitutional National Convention (NC) "adjourned" (as the state press put it) on July 9th, ending an eight week session that has gone largely according to the SPDC's script. The NC will allegedly reconvene in the late Fall to continue its "deliberations." We see no reason w [...] | 2004-07-13 10:06:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PINS BM |
04RANGOON886 | Western China Woos Burma Trade [...] (SBU) Summary: The largest-ever business delegation to travel to Burma from Southwest China's Sichuan province visited Rangoon in late June for a Chinese-export trade fair. Ironically, many Chinese goods exhibited at the fair are on Burma's list of items restricted or banned for import. Bur [...] | 2004-07-14 02:20:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | ETRD PREL ECON BM CH |
04RANGOON892 | GOB PRISONER RELEASES: LESS THAN MEETS THE EYE [...] (C) Summary: GOB claims of significant releases of political prisoners in 2004 are a bit misleading. While many have been freed this year, most are those who have been picked up and then quickly released without charge, or those who were arrested following last May's attack on ASSK's convoy b [...] | 2004-07-14 10:18:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PINS PGOV PHUM BM NLD |
04RANGOON894 | BURMA NGOS LAY OUT CONSERVATION PRIORITIES [...] (SBU) Summary: A team of locally based environmental NGOs, backed by local experts, has produced a comprehensive analysis of Burma's most pressing priorities for biodiversity conservation. The report is the first of its kind that we've seen and is realistic in its objectives and its assessment [...] | 2004-07-15 06:22:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | SENV PGOV BM NGO |
04RANGOON899 | GOB BRIEFS DIPLOMATS ON NATIONAL CONVENTION [...] (C) Summary: On July 14 Burma's Deputy Foreign Minister led a briefing of the Rangoon dipcorps on the recently adjourned National Convention (NC). He did not rule out future participation by the NLD in the constitution drafting process, but gave no indication that efforts are underway to acc [...] | 2004-07-15 11:13:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV BM |
04RANGOON91 | GOB RELEASES 26 NLD MEMBERS [...] (C) Summary: On January 16, the GOB released 26 NLD members detained in connection with the ill-fated May 30 NLD convoy, including seven Members-elect of Parliament. With the exception of ASSK and three senior party officials, all previously detained participants in the convoy have now been [...] | 2004-01-21 00:20:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV PHUM BM NLD |
04RANGOON912 | BURMA'S GARMENT SECTOR TAKES A TURN FOR THE BETTER [...] (C) Summary: New garment orders from Europe and Canada have put about 25,000 back to work around Rangoon. These orders are offering a much smaller profit margin than normal, though, thus the GOB is gaining little extra income from the new business. Despite the good news, garment factory owner [...] | 2004-07-20 07:50:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ETRD ECON KTEX BM |
04RANGOON914 | RAZALI REP SAYS UNSYG WILL PURSUE BURMA MEETING AT [...] (C) Summary: Leon de Riedmatten, UN Special Envoy Razali's representative in Rangoon, says that UNSYG Kofi Annan hopes to organize a consultative group meeting on Burma on the margins of the upcoming UNGA to discuss next steps and strategies. The UNSYG will most likely invite traditional con [...] | 2004-07-20 09:53:00 | Embassy Rangoon | SECRET | PREL PGOV BM |
04RANGOON923 | NLD AND GOB GO THROUGH THE MOTIONS ON MARTYRS' DAY [...] (C) Summary: The GOB and the NLD marked Martyrs' Day on July 19 with separate, low-key events. The GOB, per its tradition, took all necessary measures to ensure a quiet and subdued holiday. At NLD headquarters, opposition parties held a brief event for several hundred supporters, members, a [...] | 2004-07-21 11:51:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV BM NLD |
04RANGOON924 | NLD LEADERS UNDERTAKE PETITION DRIVE [...] (C) Summary: According to NLD CEC members, the party quietly launched a petition drive on July 19 to secure signatures on a letter to the SPDC demanding that the regime release ASSK and U Tin Oo from house arrest, allow all party offices to reopen, and free all political prisoners. To date, [...] | 2004-07-21 12:01:00 | Embassy Rangoon | SECRET | PREL PGOV BM NLD |
04RANGOON945 | THE WHO JOINS GOB TO FIGHT HIV/AIDS, TUBERCULOSIS, [...] Summary: Dr. Jack Chow, Assistant Director-General for the World Health Organization for HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria (HTM),called on the COM on July 21 to discuss his visit to Burma during which he met with the GOB Minister of Health and other health officials, announced 92 million in [...] | 2004-07-26 10:32:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | TBIO SOCI PGOV EAID PHUM PREL BM NGO |
04RANGOON959 | IRRAWADDY FLOODING DRAWS SCANT INTEREST [...] (SBU) Starting July 18th, heavy rains caused the upper Irrawaddy River to overflow its banks, and flood waters reportedly reached four to ten feet in the Kachin State capital of Myitkyina. Local NGOs in Myitkyina reported the worst flooding since 1997, fouled wells, thousands homeless, and pe [...] | 2004-07-28 10:36:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EAID SENV PGOV BM NGO |
04RANGOON967 | ECONOMIC TENSIONS IN THE BURMESE MILITARY [...] (C) Summary: There has been much talk recently of perceived "rifts" in the senior military leadership of Burma and between the regional commanders and the central command structure. Some claim that these rifts are based on starkly differing views on the best political path for Burma to take. [...] | 2004-07-30 08:22:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV ECON MCAP PINS PINR BM KBIO |
05RANGOON10 | NEW BURMA PRISONER RELEASES: LOVING-KINDNESS AND [...] (U) The GOB announced on January 2nd that it had released 5,588 additional prisoners from jails around the country. The release announcement was scheduled to precede the January 4th Independence Day holiday. Unlike the three prior mass releases (ref B) in this case the government did not claim [...] | 2005-01-03 11:06:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | PHUM PGOV KDEM BM NLD |
05RANGOON1015 | BURMA: THAI FM FINDS GOOD HEALTH, GOOD VIBES AMONG [...] (SBU) Summary: Thai FM Kantathi Suphamongkhon made a 24-hour visit to Rangoon August 31-September 1, his first to Burma as Foreign Minister. The highlight of the trip was a bilateral meeting with State Peace and Development (SPDC) Chairman Than Shwe, joined by Vice Chairman Maung Aye and oth [...] | 2005-09-02 05:30:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL BM |
05RANGOON1036 | BURMA: HOST COUNTRY AVIAN INFLUENZA PREPAREDNESS [...] (SBU) SUMMARY: This cable contains responses to questions sent to post (ref A) on the level of preparedness of the Government of Burma (GOB) for a possible outbreak of Avian Influenza. Official GOB data is difficult to obtain and is often not reliable. Our responses are based on the best inf [...] | 2005-09-08 11:50:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PINR SOCI PGOV PHUM EAID EAGR BM |
05RANGOON1038 | BURMA: INTERNATIONAL PARTNERSHIP ON AVIAN FLU AND [...] (SBU) On September 9, post delivered ref A talking points and the Statement of Core Principles to MFA Americas Division Director U Min Lwin and International Organizations Division Director U Denzil Abel. Per ref D, we excised the talking point that specifically invited Burma to join the partn [...] | 2005-09-09 05:23:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EAGR EAID ECON KSCA PREL SOCI TBIO BM |
05RANGOON104 | BURMA: U.S. BILATERAL INITIATIVES VICTIM OF [...] (C) Summary: The GOB's new intelligence chief has considerably less political stature and experience than ousted Prime Minister and Military Intelligence Czar Khin Nyunt and oversees a military intelligence apparatus with a reduced mandate and less authority. It is unclear whether the new ap [...] | 2005-01-14 22:10:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV PHUM SNAR MOPS KCRM BM |
05RANGOON1046 | NLD UNDER RENEWED HARASSMENT, URGES U.S. PRESSURE [...] (C) SUMMARY: NLD leaders told the Charge during a September 12 introductory call that GOB authorities had recently increased pressure on senior party officials, leading the NLD to actively avoid giving the SPDC any pretext to crack down on upcoming party events. At the same time, the GOB has [...] | 2005-09-12 11:46:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL EAID BM NLD |
05RANGOON105 | BURMA: MYSTERIOUS DEATH OF SENIOR SPDC AIDE SPARKS [...] (C) Summary: The mysterious death on January 21 of SPDC Vice Chairman Maung Aye's personal assistant sparked rumors of a senior regime power struggle, but as of COB January 25 the SPDC is carrying on with business as usual and nothing appears to be amiss in Rangoon. Sources are inconsistent on [...] | 2005-01-25 08:59:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV MARR BM |
05RANGOON1053 | BURMA: ASEAN PERSPECTIVES - PART I [...] (C) Summary: Charge's courtesy calls on four ASEAN Ambassadors revealed differing, but in the end negative, views on Burma's future. While the departing Malaysian and Bruneian ambassadors were blunt in their negative assessments of the current conditions, the relatively new Singaporean ambass [...] | 2005-09-14 09:59:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL ECON EINV BM RP SN MY BX |
05RANGOON1054 | AUSTRALIA SEES GRIM BURMA GETTING GRIMMER [...] (C) SUMMARY: Australian Ambassador Bob Davis painted a bleak picture of life in Burma today during Charge's initial call on him on September 13. His outlook matched the pessimistic perspectives of Malaysia's and Brunei's Ambassadors on September 12 (ref A). Davis said that Burma in 2005 i [...] | 2005-09-14 10:10:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL BM AU |
05RANGOON1059 | ASEAN TO EU: "NO BURMA, NO ASEAN" [...] (C) Summary: In a show of unity, ASEAN countries have agreed to pull out of a September 16-17 ASEM Economic Ministerial Meeting. This follows a decision by the Dutch government, in accordance with the EU's Common Position on Burma, to deny a visa to the senior Burmese delegate. According to R [...] | 2005-09-16 06:12:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL BM NL |
05RANGOON1065 | CORRECTED COPY--EXPLOSIVES FOUND DURING WEEK OF [...] No summary [...] | 2005-09-20 09:54:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | ASEC PTER BM |
05RANGOON107 | KACHIN CEASE-FIRE LEADERS GEAR UP FOR THE NATIONAL [...] (C) Summary. Kachin Independence Organization (KIO) leaders, meeting with Emboff to gauge current U.S. policy toward the GOB ahead of the upcoming National Convention session, view their relationship with the GOB as basically unchanged following former PM Khin Nyunt's ouster. The KIO consid [...] | 2005-01-24 09:26:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PINS PHUM BM |
05RANGOON1073 | BURMA SQUEEZES INFORMAL TRADE TO PRODUCE REVENUE [...] (C) Summary: GOB officials refuse to commit their new trade regulations to paper, and business reps are too mistrustful to place orders based on unwritten rules. Recent announcements of new regulations designed to bring more trade into the formal sector and increase revenues appear unlikely t [...] | 2005-09-22 06:16:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ECON ETRD PGOV PREL BM |
05RANGOON1080 | BURMA: CUTTING OFF CONVENTIONAL ARMS TRADE WITH [...] (U) On September 21, visiting EAP/MLS Director and Rangoon P/E Chief delivered reftel talking points during a previously scheduled meeting with the MFA's Acting Deputy General for Political Affairs, U Phae Thann Oo, and Director of the Americas Division, U Min Lwin. 2. (S) In delivering the [...] | 2005-09-26 01:47:00 | Embassy Rangoon | SECRET | PARM PREL MNUC KNNP BM EU |
05RANGOON1094 | COMMERCE AND LABOR MINISTERS PAINT A ROSY PICTURE [...] (C) SUMMARY: In separate introductory calls on the Ministers of Commerce and Labor, the Charge heard different but equally unrealistic views on Burma's economy and the country's labor situation. The Commerce Minister advanced the traditional GOB argument that forced labor is "an accepted part [...] | 2005-09-27 09:31:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ECON ELAB ETRD PHUM PREL BM |
05RANGOON1095 | NLD CRITICIZES REGIME'S SELF-IMPOSED ISOLATION [...] (C) Summary: Observing that Burma "cannot stand or live in isolation in today's world," Burma's leading opposition political party, the National League for Democracy, commemorated its 17th anniversary by roundly criticizing the military regime for refusing to cooperate with the United Nations [...] | 2005-09-27 09:33:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL BM NLD |
05RANGOON11 | BURMA: TALKING DRUGS WITH THE NEW HOME MINISTER [...] (C) Summary: The new Home Affairs Minister, Maj Gen Maung Oo, Burma's top counterdrug official, took our recent drug certification demarche in stride, blaming ousted Prime Minister Khin Nyunt for not sharing counterdrug intelligence. He said the GOB now must "start from zero" in combating mo [...] | 2005-01-03 11:11:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | SNAR KCRM PINR EFIN BM |
05RANGOON1108 | A CHINESE FLY-ON-THE-WALL VIEW OF THE BURMESE [...] (C) Summary: A courtesy call on the departing Chinese Ambassador to Burma, who has the greatest access among the diplomatic corps to senior GOB officials, gave us unique insight into the mind set of the regime's top generals. Although his views reveal little common ground between China and th [...] | 2005-09-30 04:42:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV PINS PINR PHUM CM BM |
05RANGOON1121 | ENERGY MINISTER: EXPORT RECEIPTS TRUMP POWER NEEDS [...] (C) Summary: A courtesy call on Burma's Minister of Energy, Brig Gen Lun Thi, revealed GOB confidence that it can generate increased revenues through natural gas exports while meeting domestic energy needs with new hydropower projects. Lun Thi, one of the GOB cabinet's longest-serving members, [...] | 2005-10-04 10:41:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ENRG PGOV PINR ECON BM |
05RANGOON1128 | RUSSIAN ARMS TRADER TO OPEN BURMA OFFICE [...] (C) Summary: A Russian diplomat in Rangoon says that a major state-owned Russian arms dealer, Rosoboronexport State Corporation, will open an office in Burma as "a natural presence to support Russia's growing commercial military relationship" with the SPDC military regime. The diplomat also [...] | 2005-10-05 10:36:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PARM MASS PREL BM RS |
05RANGOON1129 | RUSSIAN AMBASSADOR SEES A DIFFERENT BURMA [...] (C) Summary: the Charge,s initial courtesy call on Russian Ambassador Oleg Kabanov on September 27 revealed that U.S. policy and Russian policy toward Burma remain poles apart. Amb. Kabanov echoed the Burmese regime,s assertions that only the military can maintain order in the country and th [...] | 2005-10-06 00:12:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL BM RS |
05RANGOON1139 | BURMESE KYAT DEPRECIATES TO RECORD LOW [...] (SBU) Summary: The unofficial rate of the Burmese kyat reached a record low of K.1360/$1 on September 30, beating the previous record of K.1270/$1 in September 2002. This depreciation reflects the worsening economic situation, and may continue until at least Nov/Dec, when the kyat traditional [...] | 2005-10-07 04:52:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | ECON ETRD PGOV BM |
05RANGOON1157 | BURMA ILL-PREPARED FOR AVIAN INFLUENZA OUTBREAK [...] (C) Summary: Representatives in Burma of the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) assess that the GOB is aware of a potential Avian Influenza threat in Burma and has some sort of a national preparedness plan. The WHO and FAO representatives note, ho [...] | 2005-10-12 09:08:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PINR SOCI PGOV PHUM EAID EAGR BM |
05RANGOON1174 | GOB GETS REVENGE FOR FORCED LABOR CONVICTIONS [...] SUMMARY: Ma Su Su Nway, an NLD youth member who successfully sued local Burmese officials last January for subjecting local residents to forced labor, was herself counter-sued in the same court, and on October 13 was sentenced to 18 months in prison. Her supporters, including renowned student [...] | 2005-10-14 04:57:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | PGOV PHUM PREL ELAB BM |
05RANGOON1177 | DEMOCRACY PROMOTION STRATEGIES: BURMA [...] (C) Summary: The promotion of democracy in Burma is this mission's top priority as reflected in our Mission Program Plan. Our support for promoting democracy and respect for human rights has been long-standing and requires perseverence. Although this strong support for democracy has severel [...] | 2005-10-17 01:02:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL KDEM BM |
05RANGOON1179 | BURMA: BAD YEAR FOR MANDALAY BUSINESSES [...] No summary [...] | 2005-10-18 08:40:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ECON ETRD PGOV BM |
05RANGOON1185 | ROHINGYA REFUGEES AND REBELS - A VIEW FROM OUTSIDE [...] (C) SUMMARY: Rangoon Poloff traveled to Bangladesh in mid September to visit Rohingya refugee camps and to meet agencies that assist the refugees. Despite living in refugee camps for over a decade amid squalid conditions and sometimes suffering violence and intimidation, very few refugees ind [...] | 2005-09-29 02:08:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL PREF PINS PTER BM |
05RANGOON1186 | MANDALAY ACTIVISTS MANAGE TO PERSEVERE [...] (C) SUMMARY: The Charge met in Mandalay on October 7 with NLD senior organizer Win Mya Mya, the leadership of YMCA, and toured the Phaung Daw Oo Monastery high school. These activists report that the government has made it increasingly difficult to operate within Mandalay and the surrounding [...] | 2005-10-19 07:32:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL BM NLD |
05RANGOON1198 | ASEAN PERSPECTIVES ON BURMA: PART II [...] (C) Summary: The Ambassadors of Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia, like their ASEAN colleagues (ref A) encourage U.S. engagement with the Burmese regime, but share generally negative views on the current situation and prospects for progress in Burma. Of this group, only the Thai [...] | 2005-10-21 09:29:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL TH LA CB ECON EINV BM ID VN |
05RANGOON1199 | SOUTH ASIAN VIEWS ON BURMA: ENGAGE THE GENERALS [...] (C) Summary: The Burmese regime has generally looked North and East (China and ASEAN) for its foreign political relationships and to China and Thailand for its primary economic ties to the outside world. India's two-year old policy of sustained engagement with the current SPDC regime, howeve [...] | 2005-10-21 09:37:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL BM IN PK CE NP BG |
05RANGOON1202 | POST-GLOBAL FUND HIV/AIDS OPTIONS IN BURMA [...] (U) SUMMARY: The UK's Department for International Development (DFID) has contracted a consultant to meet with donors and key players to identify viable options to help fill the void created by the termination of the Global Fund (GF) in Burma. Many donors wish to replace the Fund for HIV/AIDS [...] | 2005-10-24 10:19:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EAID KHIV PGOV PHUM BM NGO |
05RANGOON1203 | BURMA'S SOARING FUEL PRICES HIT THE POOREST FIRST [...] (C) Summary: Without prior or public notice, the GOB decreased its significant fuel subsidies on October 20, boosting diesel prices by a whopping 750 percent overnight. Consumers at the pumps will now pay $1.20/gal. and be held to an existing 60/gal. per month limit, with many expected to sel [...] | 2005-10-24 10:46:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ECON ETRD PGOV ASEC BM |
05RANGOON1204 | BURMA: SMALL EXPLOSION AT TRADERS HOTEL ON OCTOBER [...] SUMMARY: On Friday, October 21, at around 1838 hours (local time),a small explosion occurred near Traders Hotel, which is located less than a mile from the Chancery. (Note: Embassy TDYers and long-term Overseas Building Operations (OBO)/New Embassy Compound (NEC) personnel reside at this loca [...] | 2005-10-24 11:08:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | ASEC PTER CASC PGOV PREL BM |
05RANGOON121 | IS THE BURMESE REGIME COMING UNGLUED? [...] (C) Summary: At the end of a week of wild rumors and speculation involving the fate of the SPDC's top three leaders, there are no signs of unusual activity and by all appearances the Burmese regime is conducting business as usual. We don't rule out that something could be amiss. Former PM Kh [...] | 2005-01-28 06:28:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV PHUM PINR BM |
05RANGOON1215 | ILO WILL ANNOUNCE BURMA'S INTENTION TO WITHDRAW [...] (C) Summary: The International Labor Organization (ILO) will issue on October 28 what its representative in Burma calls an "explosive" report that reveals the GOB's intention to withdraw from the organization, only the second time in recent decades that a member state has quit the ILO over la [...] | 2005-10-27 13:32:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV ELAB PHUM BM |
05RANGOON1219 | AVIAN INFLUENZA: BURMA UPDATE: OCTOBER 27, 2005 [...] (SBU) SUMMARY: The public in Burma is waking up to new stories and rumors about Avian Influenza (AI),prompting sudden fluctuations in poultry prices in some Rangoon markets this week. The UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has been working closely with the GOB's Livestock Breeding and [...] | 2005-10-27 23:20:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | TBIO SENV AMED CASC KSCA BM |
05RANGOON122 | BIOGRAPHY: U WUNNA MAUNG LWIN (PROPOSED AMBASSADOR [...] (SBU) Summary: Post has compiled newly available biographical information on U Wunna Maung Lwin, who has been proposed by the GOB to be the next ambassador from Burma to Washington. Reftel forwarded the GOB's request for agrement and an official CV. U Wunna Maung Lwin, Burma's current amba [...] | 2005-01-28 06:30:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | PGOV PHUM PINR BM |
05RANGOON1234 | EASTERN SHAN STATE: BURMA'S NON-BURMA [...] (SBU) Summary: Rangoon PolEcon Officer and FSN Political Specialist recently traveled throughout eastern Shan State, visiting the trading crossroads of Tachileik (on the border with Thailand) and Mongla (on the border with China),as well as the regional capital, Kenteng. Falling under the in [...] | 2005-11-02 04:39:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL PINS ECON BM CM TH |
05RANGOON1235 | ENGAGE BURMA: EUROPEAN VIEWS [...] (C) Summary: Recent meetings with all European diplomatic missions represented in Rangoon (plus two accredited missions resident in Bangkok) revealed waning support for advancing democracy and human rights in Burma, and growing interest in expanding humanitarian assistance. The British join u [...] | 2005-11-02 05:40:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL EAID SW FR GM UK YI IT EZ BM |
05RANGOON1236 | BURMA: TIP NGOS WORKING WITH TIGHTER RESTRICTIONS [...] (C) Summary: Representatives of international NGOs and UN agencies working on Trafficking-in-Persons (TIP) projects told Mark Taylor, G/TIP's Senior Coordinator, about the difficulties they face in Burma, including expired MOUs with the government, restricted travel for expatriate staff, and p [...] | 2005-11-02 07:13:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | KCRM KWMN PHUM ELAB PGOV EAID BM NGO |
05RANGOON1248 | BURMA AND CHINA MAKE ECONOMIC DEALS AT NANNING EXPO [...] (C) Summary: At the second China-ASEAN Business and Investment Summit and Expo in Nanning on October 18-20, 2005, the governments of Burma and China signed a framework agreement for a concessional 1 billion yuan ($124 million) loan to finance a fertilizer plant near Rangoon. The Myanmar Chamb [...] | 2005-11-03 10:24:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ECON ETRD PREL PGOV EFIN BM CM |
05RANGOON1256 | BURMA'S KACHIN STATE: COUPS, TEAK, AND CHINESE [...] (C) Summary: On a recent trip to Kachin State in Burma's far north, Emboff gained insight into a failed coup attempt within an ethnic cease-fire group, the NDA-K. The outfit, once one of the region's most significant insurgent groups, is now little more than a business organization that reaps [...] | 2005-11-04 06:36:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PINS MARR SENV SNAR BM CM |
05RANGOON1257 | BURMA AI UPDATE: QUASHING OUTBREAK RUMORS [...] (SBU) SUMMARY: Rumors of avian influenza (AI) outbreaks are making the rounds in Burma. A reported suspicious outbreak in Tachileik, eastern Shan State appears to be unsubstantiated. FAO says it heard that the GOB sent a team to investigate a reported outbreak in northern Shan State, but kno [...] | 2005-11-04 07:52:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EAID EAGR PGOV PHUM SOCI TBIO BM |
05RANGOON1262 | ETHNIC SHAN LEADERS: OUT FOR THE COUNT? [...] (SBU) SUMMARY: A GOB court has sentenced eight leading ethnic Shan politicians and cease-fire group leaders, arrested in February 2005, to stiff prison sentences ranging from 12 to over 100 years. The harshest sentence of all was reserved for Hkun Htun Oo, one of Burma's most effective pro-de [...] | 2005-11-07 11:12:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL//NOFORN | PGOV PHUM PINS BM |
05RANGOON1265 | LEAVING ON A JET PLANE: GOB BEGINS CAPITAL MOVE [...] (C) Summary: The GOB announced on November 7 that it had commenced an operation to move its "seat of administration" to the remote rural town of Pyinmana in central Burma, 243 miles north of Rangoon. Civil servants from at least nine of the GOB's 30 ministries began moving on November 6, unde [...] | 2005-11-07 11:36:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL BM |
05RANGOON1275 | BURMA: CHARGE MEETS THE MINISTER OF HEALTH [...] (C) SUMMARY: The Charge made a courtesy call November 8 on Dr. Kyaw Myint, Minister of Health. The minister assured the Charge of the GOB's commitment to transparency on avian influenza outbreaks in Burma and his ministry has several initiatives to mitigate the spread of AI. The minister des [...] | 2005-11-09 10:56:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL//NOFORN | EAID EAGR PGOV SOCI TBIO BM |
05RANGOON1276 | NLD VIEWS ON CAPITAL RELOCATION [...] (C) Summary: In an exchange of views on November 8 with NLD leaders, party Secretary U Lwin expressed befuddlement over the regime's relocation of Burma's capital to remote Pyinmana. He revealed, however, his own participation in military exercises under a former Burmese dictator that had con [...] | 2005-11-09 11:06:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL BM |
05RANGOON1281 | BURMA'S KACHIN STATE: RESOURCES CAN'T BUY PEACE [...] (C) Summary: An uneasy peace presides over remote Kachin State in Burma's extreme north, a region long associated with conflict. On a recent trip, Emboff learned that local democracy activists are active, though severely hampered by GOB harassment; natural resources remain abundant, but poor [...] | 2005-11-10 03:18:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ECON SENV PGOV PHUM PREL PINS BM |
05RANGOON1293 | BURMA'S INFLATION FUELS A RISE IN CRIME [...] (U) Summary: With unusual candor, the Director General of the Burma police acknowledged the existence of serious crime in Rangoon on October 23 and described a new campaign to combat it. The recent crime wave coincides with a 750% increase in petrol prices, which caused further inflation in c [...] | 2005-11-10 11:26:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | PGOV ASEC CASC ECON BM |
05RANGOON1294 | CHARGE MEETS WITH RANGOON MILITARY COMMANDER [...] (C) Summary: Charge met with Burma's Chief of Military Affairs Security and Rangoon Military Commander Lt. Gen. Myint Swe on November 9 to discuss security issues affecting the U.S. Embassy. Charge outlined specific ways in which security could be improved around our Embassy, noting that th [...] | 2005-11-10 11:29:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ASEC AMGT CMGT PGOV PREL PTER BM |
05RANGOON1295 | BURMESE GOVERNMENT HEADS FOR THE HILLS [...] (C) Summary: As the first week of the GOB's relocation of the capital to remote Pyinmana comes to a close, it appears the move will encompass a more significant portion of the government than most observers initially expected. Up to a dozen ministries are already on the move, with more office [...] | 2005-11-10 11:51:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL BM |
05RANGOON1297 | BURMA'S KYAT ON THE REBOUND? [...] (U) Summary: From a record low of K.1360/$1 on September 30, the Burmese kyat appreciated 8.1% to K.1250/$1 on October 31, 2005. Local moneychangers forecast that it will continue to appreciate through tourist season (until May 2006). Despite the kyat's appreciation, prices of consumer goods [...] | 2005-11-14 03:46:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | ECON ETRD PGOV BM |
05RANGOON1298 | BURMA: THE MEANING OF HUMAN RIGHTS AND FREEDOM [...] (U) Reftel requested quotes from individuals around the world on the meaning of human rights and freedom. Burma is a source of great inspiration in this regard, given the courage of its many activists and pro-democracy supporters who have struggled for years to overcome the tyranny and repress [...] | 2005-11-14 13:18:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PHUM BM |
05RANGOON1304 | BURMA AI UPDATE: NOVEMBER 17, 2005 [...] SUMMARY: We have met in the past week with the Minister of Health and other embassies to gather information on AI and to coordinate planning. We have seen reporting from the Burmese media, closely controlled by the GOB, raising public awareness of AI issues. End Summary. 2. On November [...] | 2005-11-17 03:01:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | EAGR EAID PGOV PHUM PREL SOCI TBIO BM CACS |
05RANGOON1307 | JAPAN IN BURMA: PROFILE IN COWARDICE [...] (C) Summary: The Japanese Ambassador to Burma said he used recent meetings with senior GOB officials to pursue GOJ objectives on democratization, human rights, and economic reform. He believes he succeeded in convincing Burma to reconsider its ILO withdrawal, but indicated that he did not ra [...] | 2005-11-17 11:27:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL ECON BM JA |
05RANGOON1321 | SHAN LEADERS TRANSFERRED TO NORTHERN PRISONS [...] (U) Summary: Embassy sources report that GOB authorities recently transferred Shan leaders, including ethnic pro-democracy leader Hkun Htun Oo, from Insein Prison in Rangoon to remote detention facilities in northern Burma. This will make it more difficult for family members to offer them vita [...] | 2005-11-22 10:15:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL BM |
05RANGOON1323 | BURMA: RESPONSES TO AVIAN AND PANDEMIC INFLUENZA [...] Burma has made some strides in preparing for a potential avian influenza (AI) pandemic, but much more needs to be done. Our responses to questions in ref A follow: PREPAREDNESS /COMMUNICATION 2. Does the government have a preparedness plan/strategy for preventing avian flu from becoming [...] | 2005-11-23 05:10:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | EAGR EAID PGOV PHUM PREL SENV SOCI TBIO BM |
05RANGOON1324 | MFA'S RANGOON BRANCH OFFICE STILL OPEN FOR VISAS [...] (SBU) Summary: On November 22, conoff met with MFA's Consular Division Director to discuss anticipated changes in visa processing due to the ongoing GOB move to a new administrative capital in Pyinmana, particularly as it affects USG official travelers. The MFA official advised that visa proc [...] | 2005-11-23 10:30:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | CVIS CASC KFRD PREL PGOV BM |
05RANGOON1325 | CAPITAL MOVE UPDATE: ON A ROAD TO NOWHERE [...] (C) Summary: The regime's absurd relocation of Burma's capital to remote Pyinmana continues apace, three weeks into "Phase I" of the move. Evidence that the GOB has constructed a massive capital complex belies foreign press speculation that Pyinmana is a mere village. The new capital city, [...] | 2005-11-23 11:10:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL BM |
05RANGOON1326 | GOB RESPONDS TO HAVEL-TUTU UNSC EFFORT [...] (C) Summary: The Burmese Government has distributed to diplomatic missions "an analytical review," authored by unidentified Rangoon University academics, as a rebuttal to the so-called Havel-Tutu report that made a case for the UN Security Council to address the Burma crisis. The "review" ec [...] | 2005-11-23 11:30:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PHUM BM UNSC |
05RANGOON1333 | BURMA: DEMOCRATIC OPPOSITION SHOWS UNITY [...] (U) SUMMARY: Burma's democratic opposition groups gathered in Rangoon to mark the country's National Day on November 25. Veteran politicians spoke with candor about the lack of basic freedoms, the deteriorating economic situation, and the continued detention of leading political prisoners. Th [...] | 2005-11-28 11:09:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL ECON BM NLD |
05RANGOON1345 | BURMA: DIPLOMATS BRIEFED ON NATIONAL CONVENTION [...] (U) SUMMARY: The GOB held a briefing on December 1 for diplomats to share plans for the National Convention (NC),scheduled to reconvene on December 5. The GOB blamed the NLD and its supporters in the West for the delay in the NC, originally convened in 1993, from completing its long-awaited [...] | 2005-12-01 11:24:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL PINS BM |
05RANGOON1346 | BURMA'S NEW CAPITAL: NOT READY FOR PRIME TIME [...] (C) Summary: Embassy officers, making an unannounced (and unwelcome) visit to the Burmese regime's new capital in Pyinmana, observed a massive, though largely unfinished, project to construct a new city from scratch. A nearby military zone, inaccessible to Emboffs, is even more substantial a [...] | 2005-12-02 09:24:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL ECON SNAR MARR BM |
05RANGOON1351 | ILO REP DISAPPOINTED BY UNCHANGED BURMA POSTURE [...] (C) ILO Liaison Officer Richard Horsey returned to Rangoon on November 28 after a one month absence. Horsey told poloff that he met soon after returning with Minister of Labor U Thaung, who assured Horsey that his personal security would be safeguarded and stressed the GOB's commitment to inv [...] | 2005-12-05 10:25:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ELAB PHUM PREL BM |
05RANGOON1352 | BURMA: MEDIA BRIEFING ON NATIONAL CONVENTION PLANS [...] (U) Following the Burmese government's briefing for diplomats on December 1 (ref A),the GOB held two briefings on December 3 for local and international media. The first briefing was conducted in Burmese and the second in English for foreign media, granted special journalist visas to cover t [...] | 2005-12-05 10:53:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL BM |
05RANGOON1355 | TOURISM IN BURMA DOWN THIS SEASON [...] (SBU) Summary: Projected tourist arrivals for Burma's November-March high season have dropped from last year. Despite the regime's and the tourism industry's efforts to make vacationing in Burma more attractive and less bureaucratic, overseas campaigns by exiles to discourage travel to Burma, [...] | 2005-12-06 06:58:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ECON ETRD PGOV SENV BM CACS |
05RANGOON1360 | BURMA: NLD EXPRESSES GRATITUDE FOR U.S. ROLE AT [...] The Embassy received a letter from National League for Democracy (NLD) Chairman U Aung Shwe on December 7, 2005 expressing gratitude to the USG and to Ambassador Bolton for successfully securing a consensus at the UN Security Council on Burma. A copy of the original has been pouched to EAP/M [...] | 2005-12-07 09:53:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | PGOV BM UNSC NLD PREL |
05RANGOON1361 | THEY'RE BACK: REGIME RECONVENES NATIONAL CONVENTION [...] (C) Summary: The Burmese regime reconvened the third session of its National Convention (NC) on December 5 with diatribes against its foreign and domestic critics and instructions that its 1,000-plus hand-picked delegates toe the party line. The regime clearly views the NC charade as an inde [...] | 2005-12-07 10:25:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL BM |
05RANGOON1377 | BURMA EXPECTS DIP CORPS TO MOVE TO PYINMANA IN 2008 [...] (U) SUMMARY: Ministry of Foreign Affairs officials told the diplomatic corps on December 9 that the Government of Burma expects all diplomatic missions to move to the new administrative capital of Pyinmana some time in early 2008. MOFA officials told the 55 diplomats and UN agency representat [...] | 2005-12-12 09:42:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | PGOV PREL AMGT BM |
05RANGOON138 | UWSA DRUG INDICTMENTS: ONE WEEK LATER [...] (C) Summary: The GOB has yet to go public with a reaction to the January 24 indictments against seven top UWSA leaders, although sources claim the GOB (and the Wa) are preparing to hold press conferences. UNODC staff and NGO partners, convinced that all is quiet and normal in Wa territory, ar [...] | 2005-02-01 11:33:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | SNAR KCRM BM |
05RANGOON1387 | BURMA'S PRIVATE BANKS WAITING IN THE WINGS [...] (SBU) Summary: Burma's six private banks, while offering an alternative to its highly inefficient state financial institutions, continue to suffer from the country's 2003 banking crisis. Operating under onerous restrictions, arbitrary interventions and a bleak investment climate results in sl [...] | 2005-12-15 01:22:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ECON EFIN PGOV BM |
05RANGOON1412 | BURMA: 2005 INCSR PART II [...] Following is the 2005-2006 revision of the International Narcotics Strategy Report, Part II: Financial Crimes and Money Laundering for Burma. 2. Burma, a major drug producing and trafficking country, has a mixed economy with substantial state-controlled companies, mainly in energy and heavy [...] | 2005-12-19 10:18:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | EFIN KCRM PTER ECON KTFN BM |
05RANGOON1413 | UNHCR ON DEPLORABLE CONDITIONS IN RAKHINE STATE [...] (C) SUMMARY: In a December 14 meeting, the UNHCR Representative for Burma described its relationship with the GOB and UNHCR's access to northern Rakhine State and to the eastern border with Thailand (septel). UNHCR works primarily with the Ministry of Immigration and military commanders in Ra [...] | 2005-12-19 11:01:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | EAID PGOV PHUM PREF PREL BM |
05RANGOON1420 | BURMA'S ILO REP READY FOR ENGAGEMENT [...] (C) Summary: Burma's ILO Liaison Officer Richard Horsey received further assurances from the Labor Minister, both about his personal security and about the regime's willingness to engage on forced labor. He will raise the cases of Burmese villagers who have been charged by authorities with re [...] | 2005-12-20 10:36:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ELAB ECON PGOV BM |
05RANGOON1421 | PYINMANA: THE HOUSE THAT THREATS BUILT [...] (C) Summary: The GOB has used a variety of incentives, including political pressure, forced donations, promises of in-kind payments, cash advances and "free" construction materials, to induce Burmese companies to build the extensive government and military facilities in the regime's new admini [...] | 2005-12-20 10:36:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ECON PGOV PREL BM |
05RANGOON1422 | NEW HUMANITARIAN FUND FOR BURMA? [...] (SBU) A consultant to the Rangoon UN Resident Coordinator's office presented a draft proposal for a new Humanitarian Fund at a December 12 meeting of members of the international community. The new program would partially address the funding gap caused by the Global Fund's termination by cre [...] | 2005-12-20 10:36:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | PHUM EAID SOCI KHIV BM NGO |
05RANGOON1423 | UNHCR AWAITS APPROVAL TO WORK IN THE SOUTHEAST [...] (C) SUMMARY: In a December 14 meeting, the UNHCR Representative for Burma described the UNHCR's relationship with the GOB and UNHCR's access to the southeastern border region with Thailand. The UNHCR has informal support to do needs assessments, but still lacks an MOU to officially work in th [...] | 2005-12-21 02:16:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | EAID PREF PGOV PHUM PINS PREL BM NGO |
05RANGOON143 | CONSERVATION, ECO-TOURISM GET FOOTHOLD IN SOUTHERN [...] (SBU) Summary: Local NGOs have created small-scale but real success stories in a remote corner of Burma's southern Chin State. Conservation and eco-tourism projects are helping to slow the deterioration of the under-funded, decade-old, Natmataung National Park. While the successes are encour [...] | 2005-02-04 02:37:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | SENV ECON PGOV BM NGO |
05RANGOON1439 | BURMA: 2005 INCSR PART I - DRUGS AND CHEMICAL [...] No summary [...] | 2005-12-23 05:41:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | SNAR KCRM BM |
05RANGOON1440 | FAMILIES VISIT SHAN POLITICAL PRISONERS [...] (C) SUMMARY: Family members of imprisoned Shan political and military leaders managed to visit the detainees for the first time since the GOB relocated them to remote prisons. Although several of the political prisoners signed documents with their attorneys that will facilitate legal appeals, w [...] | 2005-12-23 05:54:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL BM |
05RANGOON1444 | THE SLIPPERY SLOPE TO A DRUG-FREE WA REGION [...] (U) SUMMARY: United Wa State Army (UWSA) leaders told visiting diplomats that drugs have turned the ethnic Wa into "pariahs." The Wa leaders claimed, however, that they have turned a new page and "put narcotics behind us," appealing for increased international assistance and a reversal of U.S. [...] | 2005-12-27 08:25:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL//NOFORN | EAID KCRM PGOV PHUM PINS PREL SNAR BM NGO |
05RANGOON1448 | AN UNEASY AND UNCERTAIN PEACE IN KACHIN STATE [...] (C) SUMMARY: After a rocky year in Kachin State, marked by renewed tension among and within former insurgent groups, an uneasy though uncertain peace has settled in this northern border region. The Burmese regime has released the leaders of a failed September coup within one former insurgent g [...] | 2005-12-28 07:36:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PINS SNAR BM |
05RANGOON1449 | REGIME'S DESTRUCTIVE ATTEMPTS TO CORRUPT YOUTH AND [...] (C) SUMMARY: On Dec. 22, Charge Villarosa hosted a small gathering of high-level NLD women (including four MPs) representing Rangoon, Mandalay and Mogok cities, Bago Division, Karen State, Shan State, and Mon State. The Charge arranged the meeting to gather information on the situation outs [...] | 2005-12-29 03:27:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL SOCI SNAR EAID ECON BM NLD |
05RANGOON146 | NEW GAS IN BURMA: PIPE DREAMS? [...] (C) Summary: The Burmese government is salivating over prospects that a tri-nation (Burma-Bangladesh-India) pipeline will be constructed to carry Burmese natural gas to India. Though the developers of the new gas fields and the three governments are full of good news at the moment, outside obs [...] | 2005-02-04 04:47:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ENRG PREL ECON BM |
05RANGOON148 | BURMA: UNODC REACTS TO WITHDRAWAL OF USG FUNDING [...] (C) Summary: UNODC's Burma representative was disappointed, but not surprised, to learn of a February 1 decision by INL to withdraw funding from UNODC's supply reduction Wa Project. Having been previously briefed on UWSA indictments, he was aware that U.S. funding for the program was in jeopa [...] | 2005-02-04 05:55:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | SNAR KCRM EAID BM |
05RANGOON167 | EMINENT HIV/AIDS RESEARCHER EXPECTS AIDS TO "TAKE [...] Summary: On February 1, COM and emboffs met with Dr. Robert C. Gallo, co-discoverer of the HIV virus, and representatives of WHO, UNOCAL Myanmar Offshore Co. Ltd., and Total E&P Myanmar to discuss HIV/AIDS in Burma. Dr. Gallo, guest of TOTAL, was on a three-day visit to Rangoon, meeting with [...] | 2005-02-08 06:06:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | TBIO SOCI PGOV EAID KHIV BM |
05RANGOON178 | HAS BURMA TURNED THE CORNER ON FORCED LABOR? [...] (U) Summary: A Burma court has set a landmark precedent by sentencing four local government officials to jail terms for using forced labor. This action could scare local authorities and encourage other citizens to file similar charges. Also, two persons who were initially sentenced to death [...] | 2005-02-10 09:37:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ELAB PHUM PGOV PREL BM |
05RANGOON185 | BURMESE AUTHORITIES ARREST PRO-DEMOCRACY ETHNIC [...] (S) Summary: In what could be a significant setback for the democracy movement, Burmese security authorities have arrested several ethnic Shan political leaders and democracy activists, including Hkun Htun Oo, an influential political party chief and longtime ASSK supporter. Authorities have [...] | 2005-02-11 05:52:00 | Embassy Rangoon | SECRET | PREL PGOV PHUM PINS BM NLD |
05RANGOON187 | THE SPDC'S ECONOMIC PRIORITIES [...] (S/NF) Summary: A sensitive GOB document has given us a rare glimpse at the economic policymaking process of the SPDC's top leadership. From its list of 30 "guidelines," it's clear that the SPDC is not totally ignorant of the economy's key problems (energy shortages, budget deficits, and poor [...] | 2005-02-14 00:35:00 | Embassy Rangoon | SECRET//NOFORN | ECON PGOV BM |
05RANGOON190 | BURMA'S GARMENT SECTOR: SAVED BY THE TAX [...] (SBU) Summary: All but in the grave, Burma's garment sector has been kept alive -- barely -- by China's decision to impose an export tax on its garments. Though no new hires or re-opened factories are likely, the manufacturers expect to maintain the status quo in the short term thanks to order [...] | 2005-02-14 04:35:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ETRD ECON KTEX PREL BM |
05RANGOON196 | BURMA: NLD DISTANCES ITSELF FROM TALK OF PARALLEL [...] (C) Summary: The NLD hosted a commemoration of Union Day on February 12, but deferred to ethnic political parties to chair the event and deliver speeches. Representatives of the SNLD, whose leaders were arrested just two days prior to Union Day, were absent, although several hundred pro-demo [...] | 2005-02-14 11:03:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PINS BM NLD |
05RANGOON20 | OPPOSITION CALLS FOR "CLEAN SLATE," SPDC THREATENS [...] (C) Summary: Democratic opposition groups held their annual January 4th Independence Day celebrations despite a negative SPDC response to a December demand for dialogue before the holiday. The observances were well attended and seem to indicate a unity of purpose among the different groups. [...] | 2005-01-05 06:39:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PHUM KDEM BM NLD |
05RANGOON201 | SHAN CEASE-FIRE GROUPS THREATEN CONVENTION BOYCOTT [...] (C) Summary: Two Shan cease-fire groups, the Shan State Army North and the Shan State National Army, threaten to boycott the National Convention (NC) if their political leader, detained since February 7, is not released. Seven other cease-fire groups appear to support the Shan effort. In a se [...] | 2005-02-15 09:39:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PINS BM |
05RANGOON209 | SPECIAL 301: BURMA'S IPR SITUATION WORTH WATCHING [...] (SBU) Summary: This cable is in response to reftel request. Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) are not adequately protected in Burma. There is insufficient legislative protection and basically no law enforcement attention to the problem. There are unverified rumors of unregulated optical me [...] | 2005-02-17 05:43:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | ECON ETRD KIPR PGOV PREL BM |
05RANGOON21 | BURMA: UPDATE ON RELEASED POLITICAL PRISONERS [...] (U) Summary: According to NLD sources, the GOB released about 20 political prisoners as part of an amnesty of 5,588 prisoners on January 2nd. Among those released were Zaw Thet Htwe (a journalist sentenced to death in 2003),two NLD MP-elects (including Ohn Kyaing, a famous journalist),two N [...] | 2005-01-05 08:16:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | PGOV PHUM KDEM BM NLD |
05RANGOON22 | TFXO01: (1/5) UN REPORTS BURMA WAS "SPARED" [...] (SBU) Summary: Contravening recent press reports questioning the low number of reported dead and missing in Burma, the UN issued a report on January 5th stressing that it appears Burma was largely "spared." According to the report UN, Red Cross, and NGO missions in the affected areas have not [...] | 2005-01-05 09:31:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | AEMR CASC PREL PINR PGOV AMGT KFLO BM |
05RANGOON220 | GAMBLING IN BURMA: ILLEGAL, BUT INEVITABLE [...] (C) Summary: This cable is in response to tasking in ref A. Gambling has been illegal in Burma for 106 years; however, it occurs with impunity across the country. Most of the gambling is surreptitious -- illegal lotteries in particular -- though some is in garish casinos on the Thai and Chi [...] | 2005-02-18 05:22:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | EFIN ECON SNAR PGOV BM |
05RANGOON224 | BURMA: A TOUGH WEEK AND A MISERABLE YEAR FOR THE [...] (C) Summary: It's been a long week for the democratic opposition: Burma's most influential pro-democracy ethnic leader is behind bars; the regime put NLD leader U Tin Oo on notice that he, like Aung San Suu Kyi, will likely spend a third consecutive year in detention; the NLD, possibly to fo [...] | 2005-02-18 06:48:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM BM ASSK NLD |
05RANGOON248 | BURMA'S NLD CONTINUES TO SHED ITS MEMBERS [...] (C) Summary: This week the National League for Democracy expelled three more members from its ranks. They are youthful party activists who appear to be tired of the "wait and see" mentality of the octogenarian leadership of the NLD's Central Executive Committee. The NLD leadership seems dete [...] | 2005-02-24 11:05:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM BM NLD |
05RANGOON266 | BURMA: PM SOE WIN GETS BLUNT ADVICE FROM FILIPINO [...] (C) Summary: The Burmese regime's new Prime Minister, Soe Win, recently visited Manila and, as we've heard it, received a friendly though fairly blunt message from President Arroyo: the international community expects a timetable for the regime's road map; the process will not be accepted wit [...] | 2005-03-02 06:06:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV BM RP |
05RANGOON273 | BURMA: GOB "REJECTS" HUMAN RIGHTS REPORT [...] (C) Summary: Calling our human rights report "nothing more than a catalogue of unsubstantiated allegations," the GOB says the United States "does not have the moral authority" to pass judgment on Burma and failed to take into account "major progress and positive developments" such as new infr [...] | 2005-03-03 13:21:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PHUM PGOV PREL ELAB ECON BM |
05RANGOON291 | BURMA: RESPONSE TO FIFTH ANNUAL ANTI-TRAFFICKING [...] (SBU) Summary: The following report contains Post's responses to the fifth annual anti-trafficking in persons questionnaire contained in reftel requesting information on trafficking in persons in Burma from March 2004 to March 2005. End Summary. 2. (U) Embassy point of contact on TIP is p [...] | 2005-03-08 07:41:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | PHUM ELAB SMIG ASEC PREF KCRM KWMN KFRD BM |
05RANGOON296 | BURMA: ASEAN AMBASSADORS RESPOND TO RAZALI CLAIMS [...] (C) Summary: The Chief of Mission (COM) met separately with the Singaporean, Indonesian, and Malaysian ambassadors in Rangoon to hear their views on Burma's ASEAN chairmanship in 2006. They dismissed the idea that their governments were prepared to be more activist on the issue of the Burmese [...] | 2005-03-08 10:37:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PHUM PGOV BM |
05RANGOON31 | TFXO01: (1/6) UN BRIEFS DIPLOMATIC CORPS, ASKS FOR [...] (SBU) Summary: The UN briefed diplomats on January 6th on the results of recently completed assessment missions to affected parts of Burma. These surveys were conducted without any GOB interference and did not discover any areas of massive damage or death -- though the teams have not yet visi [...] | 2005-01-06 10:29:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | AEMR CASC PREL PINR PGOV AMGT KFLO BM |
05RANGOON313 | Burmese Sage Urges USG Boycott of '06 ASEAN [...] (SBU) Burma's foremost female journalist, writer, and social critic, Ludu Daw Amar, recommends that the United States boycott the 2006 ASEAN summit scheduled to be hosted by the Burmese junta. Her strongly worded counsel, in keeping with her nearly 70 years of public activism for equality and [...] | 2005-03-14 08:15:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | PREL BM ASEAN |
05RANGOON316 | MANDALAY NLD COFFERS EMPTY, USDA STRIVING TO [...] (C) Emboffs met March 8 in Mandalay with members of the National League for Democracy's Mandalay Division executive committee. In a wide-ranging discussion, the NLD leaders updated us on harassment party members receive from police and the Union Solidarity Development Association (USDA),the [...] | 2005-03-15 07:16:00 | Embassy Rangoon | SECRET | PGOV PHUM EAID KDEM BM NLD |
05RANGOON32 | TFXO01: UN AGENCIES WANT U.S. SATELLITE PHOTOS OF [...] (U) This is an action request. Please see paragraph 3. 2. (SBU) The World Food Programme (WFP) Country Director asked on behalf of the UN Country Team (UNCT) for access to the satellite imagery of the Burma coastline referred to by Secretary Powell in his January 4th press briefing on Phuke [...] | 2005-01-06 10:36:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | AEMR PINR PREL BM |
05RANGOON327 | BURMA: GOVERNMENT STYMIES EFFORTS TO DEVELOP AGING [...] (C) Summary: Burma's onshore oil fields are decrepit, old, and produce very little. Western oil companies decided 10 years ago that new onshore prospects were not promising. Nonetheless, high world oil prices have created a wave of new foreign investment in onshore development and exploration. [...] | 2005-03-16 09:33:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ENRG PREL ECON PGOV BM |
05RANGOON332 | BURMA: TRIAL UNDERWAY FOR HKUN HTUN OO AND OTHER [...] (SBU) Summary: A trial of leading pro-democracy ethnic leader Hkun Htun Oo, and three other members of the Shan Nationalities League for Democracy (SNLD),is underway. The GOB has rejected family-appointed lawyers and instead assigned government attorneys to defend them. Family members have [...] | 2005-03-16 10:43:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM BM NLD |
05RANGOON333 | MANDALAY: SERVING BURMA'S COMMERCIAL NEEDS FROM [...] (C) Summary: Mandalay's status as a commercial hub has not saved it from the economic malaise gripping all of Burma. The usual culprits are to blame -- government mismanagement of the economy, a moribund banking system, and low consumer purchasing power -- and no fix is in sight. The hangover [...] | 2005-03-17 05:03:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ETRD ECON PGOV BM |
05RANGOON334 | FIGHTING TERRORIST FINANCING IN BURMA [...] (S) The following responds to the questions posed in reftel regarding the GOB's efforts to combat terrorist financing: (A) The GOB has not seized, frozen, or forfeited any assets under UN Security Council Resolutions 1267 or 1373. However, the GOB issued its required UNSC Resolution 1455 re [...] | 2005-03-17 05:06:00 | Embassy Rangoon | SECRET | EFIN PTER ETTC KTFN BM |
05RANGOON345 | BURMA: THE POLITICAL PRISONER REVOLVING DOOR [...] (SBU) Summary: The GOB has released prominent political prisoner Ko Ko Gyi. However, authorities simultaneously arrested three democratic opposition MPs-elect. The GOB relentlessly continues to arrest pro-democracy leaders who it fears might unite the Burmese opposition. End Summary. 2. [...] | 2005-03-21 11:02:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | PGOV PHUM BM NLD |
05RANGOON351 | BURMESE ARMY PREPARES TO THROW A PARTY - FOR ITSELF [...] (C) Summary: The Burmese regime is undertaking extensive preparations to commemorate the country's 60th Armed Forces Day (March 27),in more grandiose fashion than ever, with a traditional military parade and associated events, to which the general public is denied any access. This year, in a [...] | 2005-03-22 11:11:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL PINS MOPS ASEC BM |
05RANGOON353 | NLD VIEWS SPDC AS "UNFIT" TO CHAIR ASEAN [...] (S) Summary: Two of the National League for Democracy's (NLD) top leaders tell us that: "the SPDC is unfit and unsuitable" to take over the ASEAN chair in 2006; the National Convention will recess o/a April 5; the NLD will host a low-key commemoration of Resistance Day (aka Armed Forces Day) [...] | 2005-03-23 09:57:00 | Embassy Rangoon | SECRET | PREL PGOV PHUM BM NLD |
05RANGOON358 | DFM TANAKA'S BURMA VISIT: READ-OUT FROM THE [...] (C) On March 25, Japanese Embassy political counselor Ichiro Maruyama provided a full read-out on Deputy Foreign Minister Hitoshi Tanaka's March 22-24 visit to Rangoon, his fourth visit to Burma spanning the past three decades. Maruyama's brief on Tanaka's meeting with Prime Minister Soe Win g [...] | 2005-03-25 07:26:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PHUM PGOV BM JA |
05RANGOON366 | RELEASED STUDENT LEADERS ADD SPICE TO NLD [...] (U) Summary: The NLD hosted on March 27 its annual commemoration of Resistance Day, attended by several hundred party members, supporters, and diplomats. An otherwise routine event was given a significant boost by the dramatic arrival and attendance of a group of recently released student ac [...] | 2005-03-28 10:31:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | PGOV PHUM BM NLD |
05RANGOON368 | INDONESIAN QUAKE A NO-SHOW IN BURMA [...] Summary: The March 28 earthquake off Indonesia apparently has had no impact on Burma. Embassy efforts to contact coastal resorts failed, but there is no evidence that Amcits were in any danger. GOB officials were unaware of the quake last night until alerted by embassy officers. Local diplo [...] | 2005-03-29 10:53:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | EAID PGOV BM |
05RANGOON372 | BURMA'S INFORMAL ECONOMY: COMMODITY TRADE [...] (SBU) Summary: As noted in ref B, the gray and black markets help keep the Burmese people and government afloat in the rough seas of chronic economic mismanagement. However, little is clearly known about the size of these markets except for unsubstantiated assumptions that they are perhaps ev [...] | 2005-03-30 03:06:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ETRD EAGR ENRG ECON PGOV BM |
05RANGOON379 | ALL SMILES: INDIAN FOREIGN MINISTER'S VISIT TO [...] (C) Summary: The latest in a string of high-profile regional visitors to Rangoon (ref C),Indian Foreign Minister Natwar Singh conducted a bilateral trip to Burma March 24-27. Although the visit was characterized as ""not substantive,"" Singh achieved dual objectives of maintaining dialogue with [...] | 2005-03-30 11:17:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV ECON BM IN |
05RANGOON380 | NATIONAL CONVENTION RECESSES FOR BURMESE NEW YEAR [...] (C) Summary: The National Convention is scheduled to recess on March 31. Some ethnic cease-fire group delegates have already departed to "come clean" with their unregistered vehicles by the March 31 deadline. This session "discussed" nearly half of the agenda items. Some cease-fire groups ar [...] | 2005-03-31 05:23:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM ECON BM |
05RANGOON390 | PUBLIC DIPLOMACY TRAINING PROMOTES INTER-ETHNIC [...] (U) This cable includes an Action Request. Please see paragraph 11. 2. (C) Summary. As the "Global English" Program completes its fifth month, enthusiasm for the course remains high among the 23 enrolled participants representing nine ethnic democratic political parties. Despite some obst [...] | 2005-04-01 04:33:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | KDEM KPAO EAID PREL BM |
05RANGOON400 | SINGAPORE PM LEE'S BURMA VISIT: BEATING AROUND THE [...] (C) Summary: Singapore Prime Minister Lee visited Burma on March 30 and, contrary to international press reports and a preview by his foreign minister of an anticipated tough approach (ref A),he apparently did not directly urge Burma to give up its turn to chair ASEAN in 2006. However, we're [...] | 2005-04-04 10:55:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV ECON BM SN |
05RANGOON401 | BURMA'S "ABSCONDING" WASHINGTON EMBASSY STAFF [...] (U) The New Light of Myanmar, the Burmese regime's official English language daily, carried on April 3 a 2-paragraph article about a diplomatic official who "absconded" from the Burmese embassy in Washington on April  [...] | 2005-04-04 10:57:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV PHUM BM |
05RANGOON402 | BURMA: GOB SHUTS MONEY LAUNDERING BANKS [...] (C) Summary: After an opaque 16-month investigation, the GOB revoked the banking licenses of Asia Wealth Bank and Myanmar Mayflower Bank. The two banks had clear ties to narco-traffickers and money laundering; however, the GOB has made no public statement that the banks were closed for either [...] | 2005-04-04 11:25:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | EFIN PGOV SNAR BM |
05RANGOON406 | BURMA: POLICE ARREST A FIFTH MP-ELECT [...] (SBU) According to the NLD Central Executive Committee (CEC),the police arrested U Saw Hlaing, a MP-elect from Indaw, Sagaing Division, on March 30. He had just returned to his home district after MC'ing the NLD's "Resistance Day" observance on March 27 (ref A). According to the CEC, author [...] | 2005-04-05 10:45:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | PHUM PINS PGOV BM NLD |
05RANGOON407 | ALLEGED NORTH KOREAN CONSTRUCTION SITE IN CENTRAL [...] (S) The construction of high-tension power lines running to a secretive building site in Magwe Division has been halted, according to second-hand information from a Burmese military engineer working in the area. The sensitive project (19.55 N, 94.25 E),purportedly under construction by North [...] | 2005-04-05 11:02:00 | Embassy Rangoon | SECRET | PARM PINR KNNP PREL BM KN |
05RANGOON426 | SENTENCING BEGINS FOR KHIN NYUNT'S MILITARY [...] (C) Summary: Military Intelligence officials who were arrested along with former Prime Minister Khin Nyunt are beginning to receive prison sentences. Some reported sentences appear to be exaggerated, but the officials are being charged for violations with penalties ranging from 5 years to lif [...] | 2005-04-11 08:58:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL MARR BM |
05RANGOON43 | BURMA 2004 INVESTMENT CLIMATE STATEMENT [...] Table of Contents: Summary Preface: U.S. Investment in Burma Subject to Sanctions Openness to Foreign Investment Conversion and Transfer Policies Expropriation and Compensation Dispute Settlement Performance Requirements and Incentives Right to Private Ownership and Establishment Protect [...] | 2005-01-11 04:41:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | EINV KTDB BM OPIC USTR |
05RANGOON440 | BURMA "RECALLS" UNREGISTERED VEHICLES [...] (U) Summary: On a recent visit to Karen State, Emboffs saw hundreds of impounded vehicles. Many people lost the savings they invested in cars and their depression was palpable. They fear the loss will have a negative long-term economic and social impact on the region. Yet, some unregistered [...] | 2005-04-12 08:42:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM BM |
05RANGOON457 | HOW WILL CHEVRONTEXACO HANDLE BURMA? [...] (C) Summary: The announcement of ChevronTexaco's pending purchase of Unocal has sparked speculation that the energy giant will sell its Burma acquisitions. Though there are strong incentives to do so, especially the possibility of a consumer boycott and other exile-led pressures, there are ma [...] | 2005-04-19 09:53:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ENRG ECON PGOV BM |
05RANGOON460 | SHAN EXILES GET A RISE OUT OF BURMESE [...] (C) Summary: Reacting to a recent exile-based declaration of independence for the "Federated Shan States," the SPDC on April 19 declared a host of unnamed groups as "unlawful associations," which could expose those who support democracy and human rights in Shan State to jail terms of up to 13 [...] | 2005-04-20 11:19:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PINS BM NLD |
05RANGOON462 | BURMA: MONEY LAUNDERING LAW NOT BEING USED TO SHUT [...] (C) Summary: Three weeks after the GOB's closure of two banks suspected of money laundering, there is still no official indication of whether the banks were shut due to money laundering offenses. Indeed, the GOB's public posture, and the opinion of the banking community, indicate that the law [...] | 2005-04-21 07:42:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | EFIN SNAR ECON PGOV BM |
05RANGOON469 | STRANGE BEDFELLOWS: SPDC AND NLD COMMUNE ON SHAN [...] (C) Summary: In a highly unusual gesture, the GOB reached out to the NLD leadership on April 21 to request permission to publish the party's recent statement on its policy toward ethnic nationalities and secessionist movements. The party not only agreed, but was buoyed by a first-ever encount [...] | 2005-04-22 06:34:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV PHUM BM NLD |
05RANGOON481 | BURMA: BEYOND THE ASEAN CHAIR ISSUE [...] (C) Summary: In contrast to considerable regional commentary focused on the scheduled rotation in 2006 of the ASEAN chair to Burma, the military regime's top generals have been silent. Than Shwe and Maung Aye will be extremely reluctant to miss out on the "glory" and legitimacy afforded by h [...] | 2005-04-26 10:53:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV PHUM BM |
05RANGOON489 | MANDALAY EXPLOSION KILLS TWO, INJURES OVER A DOZEN [...] (SBU) On April 26, a credible source with ties to the GOB notified the Embassy that an explosive device had detonated in the late afternoon in Mandalay city's central market, Ze Gyo. An Embassy contract employee in Mandalay, Burma's second largest city, visited the scene shortly after the exp [...] | 2005-04-27 10:23:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | PGOV PINS ASEC CASC BM |
05RANGOON507 | SPDC TO SHAN SECESSIONIST: SEE YOU IN COURT, BUDDY! [...] (C) Summary: Embassy sources say that the GOB has lodged a case against the exile leaders of the self-proclaimed Federated Shan States. The GOB will likely confiscate any property the exiles hold in Burma, revoke their citizenship, and ultimately sentence them to death, although in this case [...] | 2005-05-02 07:26:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV PHUM PINS BM |
05RANGOON518 | BURMESE GOVERNMENT ANGLING TO (RE-)MONOPOLIZE THE [...] (C) Summary: There is mounting circumstantial evidence that the GOB is seeking to assert full control over Burma's still developing Internet and IT sectors. Declining fortunes of the country's once high-flying private Internet service provider, rumors of expanded influence and aspirations of t [...] | 2005-05-03 09:41:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ECPS TSPL PGOV SCUL ECON BM |
05RANGOON525 | USING ESF TO PROMOTE DEMOCRACY IN BURMA [...] (S) The paramount U.S. policy interest in Burma is promoting democracy, a objective predicated on the legitimacy of the 1990 elections in many U.S.-sponsored UN resolutions and policy statements. Congress has earmarked millions of dollars in Economic Support Funds to specifically foster this [...] | 2005-05-04 07:25:00 | Embassy Rangoon | SECRET | EAID PREL PHUM KDEM BM NLD |
05RANGOON542 | DEADLY EXPLOSIONS ROCK RANGOON [...] (U) Summary: On the afternoon of Saturday May 7, three nearly simultaneous explosions at two busy shopping centers and an official trade fair in downtown Rangoon reportedly killed and injured dozens. GOB military and police units immediately secured the explosion locations, beefed up their pr [...] | 2005-05-07 14:36:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | PGOV PINS ASEC CASC BM |
05RANGOON549 | RANGOON TRIPLE BOMBINGS: MAY 9 SITREP [...] (C) Summary: Two days following the May 7 triple bombing, Rangoon is quiet, but city residents are in a state of shock over the carefully coordinated explosions that targeted crowded areas frequented by affluent Burmese as well as by foreign residents. The GOB has not altered its casualty fi [...] | 2005-05-09 10:21:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV PINS PTER ASEC CASC BM |
05RANGOON555 | UNICEF IN BURMA [...] (SBU) Summary: UNICEF is effective in most of its core programs in Burma, and is planning to expand and refocus its activities in the next five years. Though some criticisms remain, particularly dealing with UNICEF's administrative laxness and close cooperation with the GOB, the country direc [...] | 2005-05-10 08:00:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EAID ECON PREL SOCI BM NGO |
05RANGOON57 | LEADING GOVERNMENT FIGURES: BURMA [...] (SBU) Per reftel request, included are the names, titles, and best available phone numbers for top leaders in the Burmese ruling junta -- the State Peace and Development Council (SPDC) -- and the Foreign Ministry. Name of Country: Union of Burma Date: 1/13/2005 A) Head of Government Name [...] | 2005-01-13 07:55:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | PGOV PINR PREL BM |
05RANGOON573 | BOMBINGS: REGIME REACTION SURREAL BUT PREDICTABLE [...] (C) Summary: The Burmese regime is treating the shocking May 7 triple bombings as a non-event; there are few signs of enhanced security and control of information has been heavy-handed. Over 90 wounded victims remain hospitalized and the death toll has reportedly approached 30 persons, altho [...] | 2005-05-12 11:57:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV PHUM PTER ASEC CASC ECON BM |
05RANGOON579 | NLD CHAIRMAN ON USG DEMOCRACY ASSISTANCE [...] (C) Summary: NLD Chairman Aung Shwe is taking an increasingly assertive position within the party as Aung San Suu Kyi remains isolated under strict house arrest. Aung Shwe endorsed opening a branch American Center in Mandalay to support democracy training beyond Rangoon and said he would soo [...] | 2005-05-16 02:06:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL EAID KPAO KDEM BM NLD |
05RANGOON58 | BURMA: VICIOUS CYCLE OF ECONOMIC DESPONDENCY [...] (C) Summary: One year after the GOB allowed most private banks to resume operations, the banking situation has improved little. Stringent regulations cap deposits at unreasonably low levels, Burma's chilly economic situation has dried up demand for loans, and the GOB still refuses to implemen [...] | 2005-01-13 08:07:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | EFIN ECON PGOV BM |
05RANGOON590 | BOMBINGS: GOB BLAMES "SUPERPOWER NATION" (UNITED [...] (C) Summary: The GOB, in a bizarre May 15 press conference that attempted to connect an array of alleged anti-Government conspiracy plots, concluded "it is crystal clear" that "a world famous organization" (read: the CIA) trained and supported the perpetrators behind the May 7 triple bombing. [...] | 2005-05-16 11:18:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV PTER PINR ASEC CASC BM |
05RANGOON599 | THE GENERALS' FAIRY TALE BUDGET [...] (SBU) Summary: Burma's new fiscal year budget tells a tale of reduced budget deficits due to spending cuts and strong revenue growth by Burma's state-owned firms. Unfortunately, this same tale is told every year, with the ending inevitably changed by supplementary appropriations and inaccurate [...] | 2005-05-18 11:06:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | ECON PGOV BM |
05RANGOON60 | NLD: "WE HAVE LOST CONTACT WITH ASSK" [...] (C) Summary: As a result of the regime's increasing restrictions on Aung San Suu Kyi, NLD party leaders report they now have "absolutely no contact" with the detained democracy leader. Nothing would indicate ASSK is facing imminent danger. However, the NLD's information is troubling in that [...] | 2005-01-13 09:28:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM BM NLD ASSK |
05RANGOON605 | BURMA: UNODC CASH FLOW WOES [...] (SBU) Summary: UNODC-Burma says it is strapped for funding and may need to reduce counterdrug activities as of August. Prospects for 2006 funding are solid, but UNODC is seeking an additional $400,000 for its next illicit crop survey. We recommend support for several UNODC projects in FY2006 t [...] | 2005-05-19 09:03:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | SNAR KCRM PREL EAGR BM |
05RANGOON62 | BURMA: IMPLICATIONS OF OPERATION WARLORD [...] (SBU) Summary: Imminent U.S. Attorney indictments of UWSA leaders, seven of which are scheduled to be unsealed in New York on January 24, are the product of a DEA-led law enforcement investigation ("Operation Warlord") that will disrupt drug activities of key traffickers and producers. Unseali [...] | 2005-01-14 07:31:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | SNAR KCRM PREL PGOV PINS ASEC BM |
05RANGOON639 | BURMA: SHIFTING ALLIANCES AMONG SHAN ARMIES [...] (C) Summary: The Burmese regime has successfully pressured elements of ethnic cease-fire groups in Shan State to surrender their weapons. These groups comprise former rebels seeking autonomy or independence from Rangoon who were allowed to retain their arms as part of an agreement to give up [...] | 2005-05-24 09:25:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PINS BM |
05RANGOON646 | BURMA: NLD PLANS NEW PETITION DRIVE [...] (C) On May 26 NLD Chairman U Aung Shwe and Secretary U Lwin requested a meeting with P/E chief and poloff to inform the Embassy that the party plans to launch a petition drive on May 27, coinciding with an NLD 15th anniversary commemoration of the 1990 legislative election. The new petition d [...] | 2005-05-26 09:36:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM KDEM BM NLD |
05RANGOON66 | BURMA: GOB CANCELS UNODC TRIP TO WA TERRITORY [...] (SBU) UNODC country representative Jean-Luc Lemahieu informed us on January 18 that the Government of Burma had canceled an annual counternarcotics visit to Wa territory for members of the diplomatic corps. The trip had been scheduled to get underway on January 24, coinciding with the planned [...] | 2005-01-18 08:03:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | SNAR KCRM ASEC BM |
05RANGOON668 | BURMA: 2005 COUNTERNARCOTICS REPORT CARD [...] (U) This message responds to ref A request for a report card on the Government of Burma's cooperation on counternarcotics efforts (based on benchmarks established in November 2004, ref B, and delivered to the GOB in December 2004, ref C) in preparation for the annual certification process. [...] | 2005-06-02 09:22:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | SNAR KCRM BM |
05RANGOON682 | BURMA: REAL POLITICAL REFORM NEEDS A STRONG, [...] (C) Summary: Burma's lack of a strong independent civil society and progressive middle class are fundamental obstacles to the ultimate success of any democracy movement. The SPDC's patronage system and a lack of good education opportunities make it difficult for the business community to devel [...] | 2005-06-07 04:13:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PINR ECON EAID KDEM BM |
05RANGOON688 | A BANNER YEAR FOR FOREIGN INVESTMENT IN BURMA? [...] (SBU) Summary: Despite no improvement to Burma's investment climate, approved FDI last year increased by the largest amount in five years. The new apparent mini-boom is largely due to Chinese interest in Burma's questionable onshore oil and gas reserves, though new Thai and Japanese investmen [...] | 2005-06-08 02:31:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EINV ECON PGOV BM |
05RANGOON692 | BURMA'S RELENTLESS CRACKDOWN CONTINUES AGAINST [...] (C) Summary: Events in past weeks demonstrate that the GOB's appetite for pursuing pro-democracy opponents has not abated. Detentions, interrogations, harsh jail sentences, intimidation, and even a custodial death litter the landscape. End Summary. 2. (C) Aung Hlaing Win, a youth member o [...] | 2005-06-08 09:41:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL BM NLD |
05RANGOON714 | BURMA: ALLEGED USE OF CHEMICAL WEAPONS ALONG THAI [...] (S/NF) Per reftel request, we are providing this Embassy Rangoon interagency response to questions regarding the alleged use of chemical weapons by Burmese army forces in a battle near the Thai border in February 2005. Answers are keyed to numbered reftel questions. CG Chiang Mai has cleared [...] | 2005-06-14 10:24:00 | Embassy Rangoon | SECRET//NOFORN | PINR MOPS PHUM BM |
05RANGOON729 | BURMA: FIVE POLITICAL ACTIVISTS RECEIVE LIFE [...] (C) Summary: Five political activists were sentenced to life imprisonment on June 13. They were among a group of six activists arrested in December and included four former members of the National League for Democracy (NLD). The NLD leadership had previously suspended the four and expressed [...] | 2005-06-16 10:47:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL BM NLD |
05RANGOON730 | BURMA: TRAVEL RESTRICTED FOR NGOS AND UN [...] (SBU) Summary: Since three bombs rocked Rangoon in early May, the GOB has made it clear to INGOs and UN agencies that free travel of expats is a thing of the past. Though there is nothing in writing, and the new policy is not being consistently applied, the Minister of Health briefed NGO work [...] | 2005-06-16 10:50:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EAID SOCI PGOV BM NGO |
05RANGOON739 | BURMA: NLD FAITHFUL TURN OUT FOR ASSK'S 60TH [...] Summary: An estimated 700 persons attended the function sponsored by the National League for Democracy (NLD) to honor the 60th birthday of Aung San Suu Kyi (ASSK). Although there was a heavy security presence on the street outside NLD headquarters, the event passed peacefully. A few embassies [...] | 2005-06-20 08:51:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | PGOV PHUM PREL BM NLD ASSK |
05RANGOON749 | BURMA: UNHCR AND WORLD VISION ASKED TO CURTAIL [...] (C) Summary: The GOB has asked the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in Burma to curtail its activities on the eastern border with Thailand. UNHCR is not sure why. The Minister of Home Affairs (MOHA) told UNHCR that in the future the Ministry of Progress of Border Areas a [...] | 2005-06-21 09:41:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | EAID PGOV PHUM PREF PREL BM NGO |
05RANGOON76 | BURMA'S IT SECTOR LOSES ITS CHAMPION [...] (C) Summary: Since former PM, and IT champion, Khin Nyunt was ousted in October 2004, the computer industry has faced a rapid decline in government support. It is also coming to terms with the reality of Burma's human resources shortcomings. The situation is in flux at the moment, but ultima [...] | 2005-01-19 10:42:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ECPS TSPL PGOV SCUL ECON BM |
05RANGOON763 | SPDC GETS SERIOUS ABOUT A NEW CAPITAL [...] (C) Summary: Amidst a swirl of rumors, evidence is emerging that the SPDC truly plans to move at least some portion of the government 250 miles northward to Pyinmana. The GOB has not publicized the decision or the alleged order that will have several ministries on the move by July 1st. Similar [...] | 2005-06-28 07:06:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PINS MCAP BM |
05RANGOON77 | BURMA: INPUT FOR REPORT TO CONGRESS ON NORTH [...] (U) NORTH KOREANS ACCESS TO INTERNATIONAL REFUGEE PROTECTION IN BURMA: Burma is not a signatory to the 1951 UN Convention on Refugees and cannot be considered as hospitable for any individuals seeking refugee protection. To the contrary, the regime's egregious human rights practices, militar [...] | 2005-01-19 11:04:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREF PREL PHUM KN BM |
05RANGOON794 | GOB DECRIES SECURITY COUNCIL EFFORT [...] The Ministry of Foreign Affairs called us in on July 6th to complain about the USG raising Burma at the UN Security Council on June 24th (ref A). An account of the Security Council intervention appeared in the embassy's "American News and Views" publication, produced daily by the Public Affair [...] | 2005-07-06 09:07:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | PGOV PREL BM UNSC |
05RANGOON799 | BURMA: NLD VERIFIES POLITICAL PRISONER RELEASES [...] (SBU) SUMMARY: On July 6 the GOB implemented another prisoner release. National League for Democracy (NLD) sources say up to 410 prisoners were released from 11 prisons around the country. The NLD has reported 260 political prisoners among the released, though we can verify only 114 names. [...] | 2005-07-07 10:04:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | PGOV PHUM PREL BM NLD |
05RANGOON820 | NLD DECLARATION CALLS FOR ASSK RELEASE, DIALOGUE [...] (SBU) On July 5 the Embassy received a request from the National League for Democracy to deliver to U.S. Congressional leaders a declaration signed by 114 Members-elect of Parliament calling for the unconditional release of all democracy activists (including Aung San Suu Kyi and U Tin Oo); a m [...] | 2005-07-12 11:50:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL BM ASSK NLD |
05RANGOON824 | BURMA'S RICE POLICY: THE MIDDLE PATH [...] (SBU) Summary: The GOB has tweaked its rice export policy again to allow some private companies to sell the staple overseas, but only if the rice has been grown on "new" land. This tortured evolution is not a meaningful return of the private sector to the rice trade, and will not bring rice ex [...] | 2005-07-13 07:32:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | ETRD EAGR ECON BM |
05RANGOON825 | BURMA HOLDS IT CARDS ON ASEAN CHAIR ISSUE [...] (C) Summary: According to senior GOB officials, Burma will not announce a decision on the 2006 ASEAN chair issue in Vientiane and will approach the annual ASEAN meetings with an "ambiguous" position, apparently intent to keep open its options and kick the can further down the road until at lea [...] | 2005-07-13 10:42:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PINR BM |
05RANGOON835 | BURMA: NLD BASHING - THE BEAT GOES ON [...] SUMMARY: Since the release of over 300 political prisoners on July 6, the GOB has detained at least 12 new political prisoners. Details of a few detentions in the first two weeks of July follow. Several were detained under a law restricting the movements of criminals. Discouraging political [...] | 2005-07-15 05:51:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | PGOV PHUM PREL BM NLD |
05RANGOON861 | GOB OFFICIAL: FREEDOM FOR ASSK "INEVITABLE" [...] (C) Summary: A senior MFA official told Emboffs it is "inevitable" that the SPDC generals will release ASSK in order to include her in the national reconciliation process and achieve a durable solution to the country's political crisis. However, while the official's observations are logical, [...] | 2005-07-25 06:55:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL BM ASSK |
05RANGOON862 | BURMA: FORMER PM KHIN NYUNT RECEIVES SUSPENDED [...] (S) A reliable Embassy source, a lawyer with close ties to former Military Intelligence officials, said on July 25 that the secret trial of former Prime Minister Khin Nyunt is over. The General, ousted in October 2004, was apparently sentenced to 44 years imprisonment under eight different cr [...] | 2005-07-25 11:14:00 | Embassy Rangoon | SECRET | PGOV PHUM BM |
05RANGOON87 | A RARE GLIMPSE INTO BURMA'S NAGA REGION [...] (SBU) SUMMARY: Burma's Naga region, abutting the Indian border some 350 miles NW of Mandalay, is quiet but edgy, with "three governments--the underground, the Indian underground, and the Government" all exploiting villagers' resources, according to a Naga leader. Traditional opium poppy cult [...] | 2005-01-21 05:20:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | PGOV SNAR MOPS PINS SENV BM |
05RANGOON871 | SPDC SILENT ON ASEAN CHAIR ANNOUNCEMENT [...] (C) Summary: The announcement in Vientiane that Burma would relinquish its rotation to the ASEAN chair apparently came as a complete surprise to many GOB officials and diplomats in Rangoon. Official state media has thus far ignored the development entirely and GOB officials refuse to comment [...] | 2005-07-27 10:25:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL BM |
05RANGOON873 | NLD PURSUES PARLIAMENTARY LETTER CAMPAIGN [...] (C) Burma's leading pro-democracy party, the National League for Democracy (NLD),as part of a petition campaign launched on May 27 (ref C),provided Emboffs on July 27 with a list of foreign embassies to which it has delivered copies of its declaration, signed by 114 Members-elect of Parliame [...] | 2005-07-28 10:49:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL KDEM BM NLD |
05RANGOON877 | CHINESE FM LI CALLS ON THE BURMESE GENERALS [...] No summary [...] | 2005-07-29 06:40:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL BM CH |
05RANGOON88 | GOB, UNODC TAKE PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES IN ADVANCE [...] (C) Summary: The GOB, as well as the UNODC, has undertaken efforts to clear Wa territory in northern Shan State of all UN and NGO expatriate staff in anticipation of an international law enforcement operation o/a January 24 targeting UWSA leaders. We continue to have no expectation that GOB [...] | 2005-01-21 05:48:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | SNAR KCRM BM |
05RANGOON887 | GOB FINALLY ACKNOWLEDGES FORGOING ASEAN CHAIR [...] (C) Summary: The SPDC on August 1 finally acknowledged the Vientiane communique of one week ago announcing that Burma would forgo the 2006 ASEAN Chair. One senior GOB official claimed to us that the SPDC generals, if Burma hosted ASEAN, would have been forced to make democracy and human rights [...] | 2005-08-02 07:41:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL BM |
05RANGOON893 | SENIOR GOB OFFICIALS ADDRESS SUNDRY BILATERAL [...] (C) Summary: At an August 1 farewell event, the COM pressed Deputy FM Maung Myint and the GOB to release ASSK and other political prisoners and allow their participation in the political process; urged the GOB to forget asking for "patience" and to make fundamental changes now; and requested [...] | 2005-08-02 11:09:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL CASC BM TT |
05RANGOON896 | COM'S FAREWELL CALL AT FOREIGN AFFAIRS [...] (C) Summary: During an August 3 farewell call on the Deputy Foreign Minister, the COM pressed for the release of ASSK and other opposition leaders and appealed for a more regular dialogue between GOB officials and Embassy officers. The COM also addressed several Amcit cases, gaining consular a [...] | 2005-08-03 10:35:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL CASC BM |
05RANGOON9 | TFXO01: (1/3) RED CROSS IN BURMA REPORTS HIGHER [...] (SBU) Summary: A preliminary Red Cross report on the extent of the damage in Burma gives figures higher than the GOB's official tally, but still quite low compared to Thailand. UN agencies and NGOs are continuing their assessments and small-scale relief operations, however the GOB is not like [...] | 2005-01-03 10:57:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | AEMR CASC KFLO PREL PINR PGOV AMGT BM NGO |
05RANGOON901 | PARTING THOUGHTS ON BURMA [...] (C) After three years as Chief of Mission in Rangoon, I offer a few parting perspectives on the feared and reclusive generals who rule Burma; our continuing efforts to mitigate the threats posed by the military regime to our national interests, to regional stability, and to the people of Burma; [...] | 2005-08-04 08:54:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL ECON SNAR BM |
05RANGOON904 | BURMA: WFP EXTENDS ASSISTANCE TO EX-POPPY GROWERS [...] Summary: The World Food Programme has extended emergency food assistance for a second year in Burma's Shan State. The new $7.9 million program will benefit over 347,000 beneficiaries in ex-poppy growing communities and WFP would "welcome (donor) support." End Summary. 2. WFP, like other U [...] | 2005-08-04 11:23:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | EAID EAGR PGOV SNAR PREF BM NGO |
05RANGOON908 | KNU LETTER TO SPDC APPEALS FOR PEACE [...] (U) SUMMARY: The President of the Karen National Union (KNU) recently wrote a letter to SPDC Senior General Than Shwe proposing peace talks and a political, vice military, solution to their conflict. The KNU views the 2004 "gentlemen's agreement" cease-fire, brokered by KNU General Bo Mya and [...] | 2005-08-05 06:20:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL PINS BM |
05RANGOON909 | WFP CHIEF REVEALS GOB SKIMMING DURING BURMA VISIT [...] (C) SUMMARY: WFP Executive Director James Morris, the UN's most senior visitor to Burma in over a year, told Rangoon donor missions that, unbeknownst to WFP, the GOB has been levying a 10% "export tax" on all commodities that WFP purchases in country for its feeding programs. Morris was angry [...] | 2005-08-08 00:21:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL EAID EAGR BM NGO |
05RANGOON924 | THE STATE TAKES OVER ANOTHER PRIVATE BANK IN BURMA [...] (U) SUMMARY: An apparent GoB takeover of Myanmar Universal Bank (MUB),Burma's sixth largest bank (measured by deposits),triggered increased withdrawals from MUB and a few other banks and has reduced fragile public confidence in the banking sector. The GoB has not announced reasons for the a [...] | 2005-08-10 10:40:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ECON EFIN PGOV SNAR BM |
05RANGOON927 | BURMA: EDUCATION MINISTER OUSTED, MORE CHANGES TO [...] (SBU) SUMMARY: The Burmese regime announced on August 11 changes in leadership at two ministries and within the Prime Minister's office, including the firing of the Minister of Education. The mini-shuffle may be a further rooting out of former-PM Khin Nyunt loyalists and sources indicate more [...] | 2005-08-11 07:26:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | PGOV PINR BM |
05RANGOON951 | GOB SHARES INFORMATION ON FOUR SUSPICIOUS MUSLIM [...] (C) Summary: Burmese security officials recently shared with Emboffs biographic data for four Muslim Indian nationals of "Pakistani origin," whom the GOB had deported in June for "suspicious behavior." The GOB did not provide any direct evidence of terrorist activities by the four, and Burma h [...] | 2005-08-16 03:44:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PTER PREL PGOV BM |
05RANGOON973 | SPDC TO ALITAS: REFORM OKAY AT THE UN, NOT HERE [...] (C) Summary: Former Indonesian FM Ali Alitas made a three-day visit to Burma August 18-20 as a UN special envoy on United Nations reforms. His primary objectives, however, were to gain rare UN entree to top regime officials, to press for broader UN access to Burma, and to deliver a letter fro [...] | 2005-08-22 11:27:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL BM |
05RANGOON974 | UNDP CHIEF IN BURMA CALLS GLOBAL FUND'S DEMISE [...] (C) SUMMARY: UNDP's Burma chief, the senior UN official in country, briefed donors on August 22 on the recent decision by the Global Fund (GF) to terminate it program in Burma. He said the GF was never truly workable in Burma and he is relieved it was canceled before substantial commitments we [...] | 2005-08-22 12:22:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | EAID PGOV PHUM BM NGO |
05RANGOON979 | BURMA: THAN SHWE HEALTH ISSUES FUEL POWER STRUGGLE [...] (C) Summary: Heightened activity on August 23-24 at a Rangoon military hospital, including visits by senior-level officials, are the source of rumors that the leader of Burma's military regime, Senior General Than Shwe, has fallen seriously ill. It is possible that Than Shwe checked into the [...] | 2005-08-24 11:03:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PINS ASEC BM |
05RANGOON989 | BURMA: RUMORS PERSIST THAT SOMETHING'S AMISS [...] (SBU) Summary: August 25 was yet another day of unsubstantiated rumors in Rangoon involving speculation that State Peace and Development Council (SPDC) Chairman Than Shwe has suffered a medical setback and/or that senior regime generals are involved in a power struggle. If nothing unusual has [...] | 2005-08-25 11:36:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PINS ASEC BM |
05RANGOON996 | BURMA: GOB PRESS CONFERENCE "CLARIFIES" OLD NEWS [...] SUMMARY: The SPDC Information Committee, in an August 28 "press conference" held in Rangoon, declared four opposition groups "unlawful associations" and again accused "destabilizing Western countries" of being behind recent security threats to Burma. In response to a press query, a GOB offici [...] | 2005-08-29 11:12:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | PGOV PHUM PINS BM |
06EFTORANGOON1092 | LOCAL NLD YOUTH HONOR ACTIVIST SU SU NWE [...] (SBU) SUMMARY: Despite increased scrutiny and harassment by the authorities, local NLD Youth members in Twante Township outside Rangoon held a ceremony July 30 honoring Su Su Nwe, the recently released political prisoner who successfully sued the regime over forced labor in her village (ref [...] | 2006-08-01 11:20:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | PGOV PHUM ECON PREL BM |
06RANGOON1010 | FEAR AND INTIMIDATION AT WORK IN BURMA [...] (C) Summary: The Charge met with Deputy Foreign Minister Kyaw Thu on July 18 to determine whether there was genuine regime interest in re-engaging with the international community as UN U/SYG Gambari had indicated. Kyaw did not respond directly, but made it clear that his ability to meet wit [...] | 2006-07-20 06:01:00 | Embassy Rangoon | SECRET | PGOV PREL BM |
06RANGOON1012 | PROGRESS ON TRANSNATIONAL TIP SLOWING [...] No summary [...] | 2006-07-20 07:14:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM KWMN KCRM PREL BM |
06RANGOON1013 | SURRENDER OF SHAN STATE ARMY-SOUTH BRIGADE [...] No summary [...] | 2006-07-20 07:22:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM SNAR PINS BM |
06RANGOON1014 | BURMA,S NGOS OPERATING IN AN UNSTABLE ENVIRONMENT [...] No summary [...] | 2006-07-20 08:56:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM ECON EAID PREL BM |
06RANGOON1017 | BURMA'S BUDGET, FOR WHAT IT'S WORTH [...] (SBU) Summary: The GOB published its 2006-07 budget, as well as 2005-06 supplemental expenditures in the minimally distributed Burma Gazette. Although accurate amounts and totals are impossible to determine, categories with the largest expenditures in both years are clear: state-owned enterpr [...] | 2006-07-21 03:47:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EFIN PGOV BM |
06RANGOON1036 | IN BURMA, SMALL NGO EFFORTS SCORE BIG IMPACT [...] (SBU) SUMMARY: While international NGOs and organizations in Burma face increasing pressure on their activities (reftel),local initiatives to improve health and educational and meet other basic development needs are growing. These projects, often organized by NLD-affiliated civic leaders and [...] | 2006-07-21 09:33:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | PGOV PHUM ECON PREL BM |
06RANGOON1042 | KAYAH STATE - BURMANS IN AND KARENNIS OUT [...] (C) SUMMARY: Catholic Bishop Sotero Phamo of Loikaw, the capitol of Kayah State, briefed Charg on July 21 on daily life in his diocese. Ethnic Burmans have taken over leadership of the state and businesses, backed by nearly a dozen Burmese Army battalions. Kayah residents, predominately ethn [...] | 2006-07-24 10:01:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM ECON PREF PINS BM |
06RANGOON1050 | BURMA: MANUVEURING FOR CHANGE [...] (S) Summary: Aung San Suu Kyi's (ASSK) doctor met with Charge July 20 to discuss recent developments. He has not seen her since June 10 when she was ill, but expects to see her again by early August. He indicated that plans to use Martyr's Day, July 19, to launch public protests against the [...] | 2006-07-25 05:59:00 | Embassy Rangoon | SECRET | PGOV PHUM BM |
06RANGOON1057 | INSPIRING THOSE WHO SEEK CHANGE IN BURMA [...] (C) Summary: Ludu Sein Win shows what can be done in Burma today, contradicting the many who have concluded that nothing can be done. He defied his police monitors to write a well-articulated plea for change that appeared May 23 in the International Herald Tribune. Increasing desperation has [...] | 2006-07-25 10:07:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM BM |
06RANGOON1061 | JOHNNY COMES MARCHING "HOME" TO BURMA [...] (C) SUMMARY: The GOB confirmed rumors that Johnny Htoo, former child soldier and co-leader of Karen rebel faction "God's Army," surrendered to the SPDC with eight others on July 19. Along with his twin brother Luther, he briefly led local Karen compatriots to resist the Burmese Army in the la [...] | 2006-07-26 08:46:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PINS BM |
06RANGOON1065 | DISCORD AMONG BURMA'S KAREN INSURGENTS [...] (C) SUMMARY: The power vacuum created by the grave illness of Karen National Union (KNU) leader General Bo Mya has opened a serious split between the KNU and its armed faction, the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA). While the KNU feels pressured by exile groups to continue the fight, the [...] | 2006-07-27 10:30:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PINS ASEC BM |
06RANGOON1075 | BURMA'S WOMEN'S AFFAIRS FEDERATION TOUTS ITSELF [...] (C) SUMMARY: Although the Myanmar Women's Affairs Federation (MWAF),an organization closely linked to the GOB, claims to prevent human trafficking and assist victims, its primary focus seems more geared to propaganda. Its small operating budget limits its effectiveness. The organization has [...] | 2006-07-31 09:42:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM EAID KWMN BM |
06RANGOON1076 | CHINA WORRIED ABOUT DRUGS FROM BURMA [...] (C) SUMMARY: China's Political Section chief in Rangoon told emboffs that China does not consider trafficking in persons (TIP) between China and Burma to be a serious issue, but she called drug trafficking China's "number one headache," and indicated that illegal logging complicated bilateral [...] | 2006-07-31 10:27:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM ECON SENV SNAR PREL BM |
06RANGOON1077 | MIN KO NAING TRIES TO UNIFY BURMA'S OPPOSITION [...] (C) SUMMARY: Min Ko Naing, former political prisoner and leader of the "88 Generation Students," used the July 19 Martyrs' Day holiday to show support for the NLD in an ongoing effort to mend the fractured relationship between the NLD and student groups. Min Ko Naing is taking on a more act [...] | 2006-07-31 10:57:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL BM |
06RANGOON1097 | BURMA: THE REGIME HARDENS ITS POSITION ON ASEAN, [...] (C) SUMMARY: Burma's ruling Generals are the hardest of the hardliners. They have made decisions to harden their positions on ASEAN, the democratic opposition, and the ethnic minorities. Only high-ranking UN representatives may be allowed access to Aung San Suu Kyi; visiting ASEAN representa [...] | 2006-08-02 11:16:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM ECON PREL BM |
06RANGOON1098 | IMF TEAM VISITS BURMA FOR ARTICLE IV CONSULTATIONS [...] (C) Summary: An International Monetary Fund (IMF) team visited Burma July 10-21 for annual Article IV consultations. Charge met with them privately during their visit plus hosted a separate roundtable for the team with Burmese private sector business and economic observers. The IMF team re [...] | 2006-08-03 03:38:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | EFIN PGOV IMF BM |
06RANGOON1115 | A BURMESE GENERAL GETS HIS COMEUPPANCE [...] (C) Summary: Charge and DATT met with LTG Myint Swe August 2 to see what kind of dialogue we could maintain. It became clear that Myint Swe's previously expansive view of his areas of authority (reftels) has been considerably reduced. Now he's just a general responsible for embassy security [...] | 2006-08-08 03:36:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL BM |
06RANGOON1122 | POL TEMPLATE...DO NOT ERASE! [...] No summary [...] | 2006-08-08 11:04:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM ECON PREL BM |
06RANGOON1123 | STUDENT ACTIVISTS COMMEMORATE THE 1988 UPRISING [...] (C) Summary: Over 500 democracy activists and supporters gathered in Rangoon on August 8, the 17th anniversary of the 1988 pro-democracy uprising, to commemorate their fallen comrades in a religious ceremony held at Thaikpan Monastery in Rangoon. The event, organized by the 88 Generation Stude [...] | 2006-08-08 11:15:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM ECON PREL BM |
06RANGOON1124 | BURMA: CHARGE MEETS WITH MINISTER FOR HOME AFFAIRS [...] (C) SUMMARY: After several requests and cancellations, Charge finally met with Minister for Home Affairs Maung Oo to stress the importance of meaningful progress toward democracy, the release of political prisoners, and greater access to Burma for journalists. The Minister lamented the West [...] | 2006-08-08 11:20:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM ECON PREL BM |
06RANGOON1136 | WA TURNING TO CHINA RATHER THAN BURMA [...] (SBU) Summary: The Wa are rapidly being pulled into China's orbit and will resist any new concessions to the Burmese regime that would restrict their current relative autonomy. While they will talk with the Burmese, the Wa have no intention of ever giving up their arms. The ban on opium cul [...] | 2006-08-10 07:40:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV SNAR PREL BM |
06RANGOON1170 | BURMA: 11 AIDS ACTIVISTS AND 20 MONKS ARRESTED [...] (C) Summary: Eleven HIV/AIDS activists close to the 88 Students Generation Group were arrested August 13 for not properly registering to spend the night at a monastery where they were preparing a ceremony for HIV/AIDS victims. Members of Min Ko Naing's Students Group and the NLD gathered at t [...] | 2006-08-14 10:34:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM KHIV PREL BM |
06RANGOON1182 | BURMA'S REPRESENTATIVES TO UNGA [...] No summary [...] | 2006-08-16 08:39:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | PREL OTRA OVIP UNGA BM |
06RANGOON1195 | THREE DISEASES FUND DONORS MOVE AHEAD [...] (SBU) Summary: The new Three Diseases (3D) Fund in Burma should become operational by December 2006. The UN is recruiting Fund staff and the UK just announced a $38 million funding commitment to the 3D Fund, while the Netherlands committed one million euros. The six donor nations -- UK, EC, [...] | 2006-08-18 14:16:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PHUM EAID SOCI KHIV BM |
06RANGOON1196 | BURMESE HARASSMENT CONTINUES PAST DEATH [...] (U) On August 12, ex-political prisoner and NLD member Ko Than Lwin died of complications related to HIV/AIDS. Ko Than Lwin had contracted HIV/AIDS in jail after being arrested in 1998 and sentenced to 14 years in prison for distributing copies of the opposition journal "New Era." He was rele [...] | 2006-08-18 14:16:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | PGOV PHUM ECON PREL BM KHIV |
06RANGOON1208 | ADDITIONS TO BURMA'S REPRESENTATIVES TO UNGA [...] The GOB sent us 2 additional names for their representation at the 61st UN General Assembly. They are: His Excellency U Kyi Thein, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary, New Delhi Member Daw Myat Myat So, Director, Foreign Economic Relations Department, Ministry of National Plann [...] | 2006-08-22 03:16:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | PREL OTRA OVIP UNGA BM |
06RANGOON1216 | LOOKING FOR RICE IN BURMA [...] (SBU) Summary: The GOB closely monitors rising rice prices to avoid social unrest if Rangoon residents can't find, or can't afford, enough rice - Burma's staple food. Recent official efforts to control rice prices include a virtual ban on rice exports from May through July of this year and the [...] | 2006-08-23 02:56:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | EAGR ECON PGOV BM |
06RANGOON124 | TECHNOCRATS WILLING TO ENGAGE ON AVIAN INFLUENZA [...] (C) Summary: The first visit of USAID's Regional Infectious Diseases Advisor based in Bangkok, prompted a rare level of access and engagement by GOB counterparts. Eager for information as well as support, experts at the Ministries of Health and, especially, Livestock and Fisheries discussed [...] | 2006-01-31 01:12:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | EAGR EAID AMED PGOV PREL SOCI TBIO KFLU BM |
06RANGOON1240 | FEW TAKERS FOR LAND IN BURMA'S NEW CAPITAL [...] (SBU) Summary: On August 20, the Naypyitaw City Development Committee (NCDC) announced that it will accept applications to buy residential plots and small business sites in Burma's new capital. By tightly regulating private development in the new capital, the GOB aims to provide services to t [...] | 2006-08-30 08:35:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | ECON PGOV BM |
06RANGOON1241 | RESPONSES ON KARENNI NATIONAL DEFENCE ARMY [...] (C) SUMMARY: Little information is available about the Karenni National Defence Army (KNDA) outside of open sources. Post has no information or evidence that the KNDA has engaged in any activities that are considered acts of terrorism, nor has it posed any threat to U.S. national security or [...] | 2006-08-30 09:34:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PINS PREF PTER BM |
06RANGOON1249 | BURMA: AI UPDATE - AUGUST 30, 2006 [...] (SBU) Summary: Burma has reported no new cases of Avian Influenza (AI) since a February/March 2006 poultry outbreak, which was contained in April. Donors, including USAID, support targeted WHO and FAO activities to improve local capacity to address AI. Although the GOB continues to cooperate [...] | 2006-08-31 08:04:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EAGR EAID AMED PGOV PREL CASC TBIO KFLU BM |
06RANGOON1269 | AUNG SAN SUU KYI IN GOOD HEALTH, BUT NOT FREE [...] (C) Summary: Aung San Suu Kyi (ASSK) had another meeting with her doctor on August 24, two and half months after she last saw him. According to Dr. Tin Myo Win (aka Douglas),she remains in good health and keeps busy with meditation, listening to the radio, and walking around her compound. H [...] | 2006-09-06 08:04:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL BM |
06RANGOON1287 | RESPONSES ON CHIN NATIONAL LEAGUE FOR DEMOCRACY [...] (C) SUMMARY: Post has no evidence that Chin National League for Democracy (CNLD) has ever planned or engaged in violence to achieve its objectives, nor that it poses any threat to the United States. The CNLD is an ethnic political party with no armed faction. The CNLD has held discussions wi [...] | 2006-09-08 06:40:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREF PTER BM |
06RANGOON1288 | RESPONSES ON THE ARAKAN LIBERATION PARTY [...] (C) SUMMARY: Post has no information that the Arakan Liberation Party (ALP) has engaged in any activities that are considered acts of terrorism, nor do we have any information that it poses any threat to U.S. national security or to the security of U.S. nationals or allies. Little information [...] | 2006-09-08 06:50:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREF PINS PTER BM |
06RANGOON1323 | UNFPA PROPOSES TO EXPAND ITS BURMA PROGRAM [...] (SBU) Summary: At its September 13 Executive Board meeting in New York, UNFPA plans to propose a new four-year program for assistance in Burma that expands its current projects into new areas, including emergency obstetric care and expanded HIV/AIDs prevention, according to UNFPA's representa [...] | 2006-09-13 07:50:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EAID ECON PGOV BM |
06RANGOON1327 | PREPARING GAMBARI FOR HIS NEXT VISIT TO BURMA [...] (C) Summary: Post supports U/SYG Gambari's efforts to foster dialogue in Burma, but another trip stage-managed by the regime would be counterproductive. The regime's extension of Aung San Suu Kyi's house arrest shortly after Gambari's last visit was a slap in the face of the UN. Gambari nee [...] | 2006-09-13 10:39:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM ECON PREL BM |
06RANGOON1346 | NGOS IN BURMA TRY TO STAY FREE OF INTERFERENCE [...] (SBU) Summary: Seven months after the GOB issued new guidelines designed to regulate international and local NGOs operating in Burma, no one is sure which rules apply to which NGOs, but most organizations continue to face increased scrutiny and restrictions on their activities. Lack of coordi [...] | 2006-09-18 06:46:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PHUM PGOV EAID BM |
06RANGOON1354 | CHINESE IN RANGOON NOT EAGER TO MOVE NORTH [...] (SBU) Summary: the Charge d'Affaires a.i. and the Political Counselor of the Chinese Embassy told DCM on September 15 that China has no plans to move its embassy from Rangoon to Burma's isolated new capital. They believe that the Russians may take advantage of an upcoming visit by Russia's D [...] | 2006-09-18 09:50:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL CH BM |
06RANGOON136 | YAWN: BURMESE REGIME RECESSES NATIONAL CONVENTION [...] (C) Summary: The Burmese regime recessed its National Convention (NC) on January 31, ending the third session of an indefinite process to produce a new constitution that accords the military preeminent governing powers. The GOB did not announce a date to reconvene the NC, although a senior g [...] | 2006-02-01 09:07:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL BM |
06RANGOON1360 | CHALLENGES IN REMOTE SOUTHERN CHIN STATE [...] (SBU) Summary: One visit to Mindat District in southern Chin State is enough to confirm it is one of the least developed areas in Burma. The impoverished majority Christian population faces widespread officially sanctioned religious discrimination. Lack of employment options remains a major [...] | 2006-09-19 05:10:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM EAID ECON BM |
06RANGOON1361 | SPDC AND UNICEF DISCUSS CHILD SOLDIERS [...] (C) SUMMARY: SPDC Secretary-1 Lt. Gen. Thein Sein recently told UNICEF that Burma is making progress on reducing child soldiers in its military, although UNICEF admits it has no mechanism to verify these claims. The regime continues to refuse UNICEF's request for regular, unannounced visits to [...] | 2006-09-19 05:48:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM KOCI BM |
06RANGOON1363 | RESPONSES ON KAYAN NEW LAND PARTY [...] (C) SUMMARY: Post has no information or evidence that the Kayan New Land Party (KNLP) has engaged in any activities that are considered acts of terrorism, nor has it posed any threat to U.S. national security or to the security of U.S. nationals or allies. The KNLP was a founding member of the [...] | 2006-09-19 08:51:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PINS PREF PTER BM |
06RANGOON1375 | BURMA'S FORMER POLITICAL PRISONERS PERSEVERE [...] (C) Summary: Years in Burmese prisons have not dampened the will of many political prisoners to work within the country to promote change. Despite a tough adjustment period to life on the outside, former prisoners once active in the pro-democracy movement still hold tightly to their beliefs. [...] | 2006-09-20 09:32:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PHUM EAID KPAO BM |
06RANGOON1376 | LITTLE PROGRESS ON FORCED LABOR IN BURMA [...] (C) Summary: ILO Burma Liaison Officer Richard Horsey said the GOB is making slow progress on the two outstanding issues raised at the June International Labor Conference (ILC): a moratorium on prosecutions of forced labor complainants, and agreement on a mechanism to handle forced labor compl [...] | 2006-09-20 10:32:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ELAB PHUM PGOV BM |
06RANGOON1377 | OPPOSITION ELATED BY UNSC ATTENTION TO BURMA [...] (C) Summary: The UNSC's decision to place Burma on its September agenda was greeted warmly by leaders of the National League for Democracy (NLD),student activists, and ethnic parties in Burma. The regime reacted by praising China, Russia, and other countries who opposed UNSC action and blast [...] | 2006-09-20 10:42:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL BM |
06RANGOON138 | BURMA: WORLD VISION MOVES FORWARD AGAIN [...] (C) SUMMARY: Six months ago, the future of World Vision International (WVI) aid programs in Burma looked bleak. The GOB had ordered WVI to close some projects and restricted expatriate staff from conducting field visits. In the past three months, however, the GOB's cooperation has measurably [...] | 2006-02-02 05:45:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | EAID PGOV PHUM PREL BM |
06RANGOON1382 | COURT DISMISSES CASE CITED BY ILO [...] No summary [...] | 2006-09-21 06:47:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | ELAB PHUM PGOV BM |
06RANGOON140 | BURMESE AND SHAN FORCES FIGHT IT OUT [...] (C) SUMMARY: A recent GOB "news" conference announced the surrender of elements of the insurgent Shan State Army - South in northern Shan State. However, the GOB neglected to mention that the surrender followed a serious battle, in which a DEA source claims the Shan killed dozens of Burmese A [...] | 2006-02-02 07:29:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PINS PREL BM |
06RANGOON1417 | NO MOVEMENT AT THE TOP IN BURMA [...] (C) SUMMARY: On September 22, Agence France-Press (AFP) wire service reported that the regime's top two generals planned to hand over their military roles to subordinates. The report has so far proved to be groundless. GOB controlled media continue to show both commanders in uniform performin [...] | 2006-09-26 00:33:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV BM |
06RANGOON1432 | BURMA: TOP OPPOSITION LEADERS DETAINED BY REGIME [...] (C) Summary: At 6:30 a.m. on September 27, Police Special Branch officers came to the homes of the leaders of the 88 Generation Students -- Min Ko Naing, Ko Ko Gyi and Htay Kway -- and NLD MP elect U Hla Theing, and took all four to separate locations for questioning. SB questioned U Hla [...] | 2006-09-27 09:47:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL BM |
06RANGOON1436 | BURMA: REGIME CONTINUES TO DETAIN OPPOSITION [...] (C) Summary: 88 Generation Student leaders Min Ko Naing, Ko Ko Gyi, and Htay Kywe remain in detention today at a Police Special Branch office in Rangoon. Min Ko Naing has been in contact with members of his group and communicated that he is being pressured to sign statements about the regime [...] | 2006-09-28 08:19:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL BM |
06RANGOON146 | ILO REP PUSHING FOR GOB ACTION TO MATCH PROMISES [...] (C) Summary: The Government of Burma has reacted to international concern over their 2005 treatment of the ILO Liaison Officer (ref B),swiftly approving his latest request for in-country travel to look at forced labor issues and taking his personal security seriously for the first time. On th [...] | 2006-02-03 04:57:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ELAB PGOV PREL PHUM BM |
06RANGOON1461 | (C) REGIME DETAINS TWO MORE PRO-DEMOCRACY LEADERS; [...] (U) SUMMARY: On September 30 the GOB detained two more leaders of the 88 Generation Students pro-democracy group. In a meeting with emboffs shortly before his arrest, 88 Generation leader Pyone Cho said their organization is preparing for the potential long-term detention or arrest of sever [...] | 2006-10-02 09:41:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL BM |
06RANGOON1466 | REGIME MAKES IT HARDER TO DO BUSINESS IN BURMA [...] (U) Summary: Traders who still try to do business in Burma now face additional headaches from long customs clearance delays, visa uncertainties, and unpredictable new policies. The regime's surprise June crackdown on corruption within the Customs Department froze trans-border trade briefly and [...] | 2006-10-03 08:22:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ECON PGOV BM |
06RANGOON1471 | BURMA'S TEXTILES AND APPAREL SECTOR: SMALL AND [...] Summary: Employment levels and company profits in the Burmese garment and textile sector decreased steadily over the past three years, and accounted for less than five percent of total trade earnings in 2005. Since most garment exports are produced using imported goods, the chief economic im [...] | 2006-10-04 07:22:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | ECON ETRD KTEX BM |
06RANGOON1472 | FATF TEAM INSPECTS GOB FINANCIAL SECTOR [...] (SBU) Summary: USG members of a Financial Action Task Force (FATF) team visiting Burma last week confirmed FATF will recommend that Burma be dropped from the Non Compliant Countries and Territories (NCCT) list at the upcoming FATF Vancouver plenary on October 12-13. FATF inspectors said GOB [...] | 2006-10-04 09:42:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | EFIN ECON PGOV PTER ETTC KTFN BM |
06RANGOON1474 | UN REMAINS CAUTIOUS IN BURMA [...] (C) Summary. The UN Resident Coordinator (UNRC) in Burma shared with us yesterday an internal UN report on U/SYG Gambari's Friday September 29 UNSC briefing, which indicates that Gambari's next visit to Burma may focus more on continuing a dialogue with the ruling military regime than pushin [...] | 2006-10-04 10:54:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL BM |
06RANGOON1475 | BURMA REGIME PRESSURES CEASE-FIRE GROUPS TO OPPOSE [...] (C) SUMMARY: Official GOB media is publishing daily notices by ethnic cease-fire groups that condemn the UNSC decision to place Burma on its agenda. Several cease-fire groups told us privately that they issued the notices under pressure and privately thanked the United States for its initiati [...] | 2006-10-04 14:58:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL BM |
06RANGOON1485 | BURMA: UPDATE ON DETAINED PRO-DEMOCRACY LEADERS [...] (C) Summary: Nine days after the detention of Min Ko Naing, Ko Ko Gyi, and Htay Kywe and five days after the arrest of Pyone Cho and Min Zeya, the regime is taking a harder line, while public frustration is rising. Articles appearing today in the regime's mouthpiece daily paper indicate the [...] | 2006-10-05 10:04:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL BM |
06RANGOON15 | INDEPENDENCE DAY: REGIME SUBDUED, OPPOSITION BUOYED [...] (C) Summary: The Burmese military regime and the democratic opposition commemorated Burma's independence anniversary on January 4 with sharply contrasting and separate events. The SPDC focused on criticizing those who oppose the regime and on heralding its own achievements since assuming powe [...] | 2006-01-05 10:52:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL ECON PINS ASEC BM |
06RANGOON1503 | AI RESPONSE IN BURMA REMAINS A WORK IN PROGRESS [...] (SBU) Summary: The World Health Organization (WHO) and Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO),together with the Burmese Ministry of Health (MOH) and Livestock Breeding and Veterinary Department (LBVD) hosted donor and training workshops in Rangoon on September 28-29. U reps used the donor me [...] | 2006-10-11 01:48:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EAGR EAID AMED PGOV CASC TBIO KLFU BM |
06RANGOON1512 | KACHINS BET ON THE NATIONAL CONVENTION PROCESS [...] (C) SUMMARY: The Kachin Independence Organization's (KIO) delegate to the National Convention believes the ethnics must try to strike the best possible deal with the regime via the National Convention and try to amend the constitution later, following a period of confidence building. He thinks [...] | 2006-10-13 04:17:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL BM |
06RANGOON1518 | DEADLINE LOOMS FOR GOB ACTION ON FORCED LABOR [...] (C) Summary: ILO Liaison Officer Richard Horsey has been able to maintain regular contact with the Ministry of Labor over the past three months and has begun discussions on a mechanism to address forced labor charges in Burma. Horsey said the GOB's reaction to the draft text has been generally [...] | 2006-10-13 09:08:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ELAB ECON PGOV PHUM BM |
06RANGOON1519 | BURMA: MFA DEMARCHES CHARGE ON UNSC DISCUSSION [...] (U) On October 10, Deputy Director General of the MFA's International Organizations Division, U Hla Myint, called in the Charge d'Affaires to deliver a lackluster protest against U.S. comments during the September 29 UNSC discussion on Burma. Noting that the Foreign Minister had instructed h [...] | 2006-10-13 09:41:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL BM |
06RANGOON152 | GOB PLANS DRACONIAN REGULATIONS FOR UN/NGOS [...] (C) Summary: The Burmese regime plans invasive new guidelines increasing its control over UN agencies and NGOs and further restricting the delivery of international assistance. If implemented, the draconian regulations would assign GOB ministries sweeping authority, including oversight of all [...] | 2006-02-06 10:02:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL EAID BM |
06RANGOON1520 | KAYAH: A VIEW OF BURMA'S SMALLEST STATE [...] (C) SUMMARY: Despite obstacles to travel, emboffs made a rare visit to Loikaw, capital of Kayah State, on September 26-29. Local businesspersons, religious leaders, and humanitarian workers described the very rigid controls by authorities on their movements and activities. Tourism is non-exi [...] | 2006-10-13 10:25:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PINS EAID BM |
06RANGOON1521 | A WHITE REVOLUTION IN BURMA? [...] (C) Summary: Detained pro-democracy leaders Min Ko Naing, Htay Kywe, and Ko Ko Gyi contacted members of their organization via cell phone on October 12, instructing them to begin demanding that the GOB release them. Meanwhile, the 88 Generation Students have obtained over 210,000 signatures [...] | 2006-10-13 10:39:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL BM |
06RANGOON1536 | KNU AND SPDC RE-ESTABLISH COMMUNICATIONS [...] (C) SUMMARY: The recent visit to Rangoon by a team representing the Karen National Union (KNU) was not to negotiate a cease-fire agreement, but to re-establish communication links for future negotiations with the regime. The KNU representatives said they would return in two to three weeks, but [...] | 2006-10-17 09:56:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PINS PREL BM |
06RANGOON154 | GOB PLANS DRACONIAN REGULATIONS FOR UN/NGOS [...] (C) Summary: The Burmese regime plans invasive new guidelines increasing its control over UN agencies and NGOs and further restricting the delivery of international assistance. If implemented, the draconian regulations would assign GOB ministries sweeping authority, including oversight of all [...] | 2006-02-07 00:58:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL EAID BM |
06RANGOON1542 | THE DRY ZONE SPILLS OVER: FLOODS, AIDS AND TIP [...] (C) Summary: Recent heavy rains created havoc across Burma's central Dry Zone. Dams burst, Mandalay airport's main access road flooded, and many other roads washed away, leaving dozens of villagers drowned and transportation crippled. Excessive rains severely damaged peanut crops, a primary [...] | 2006-10-18 06:22:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | EAGR ECON PGOV PHUM PREL GTIP SOCI BM |
06RANGOON155 | YAWN: BURMESE REGIME RECESSES NATIONAL CONVENTION [...] (C) Summary: The Burmese regime recessed its National Convention (NC) on January 31, ending the third session of an indefinite process to produce a new constitution that accords the military preeminent governing powers. The GOB did not announce a date to reconvene the NC, although a senior g [...] | 2006-02-07 01:20:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL BM |
06RANGOON1559 | LETTER FROM NLD TO GAMBARI [...] (SBU) Summary: The Chairman and Secretary of the National League of Democracy (NLD) asked the Embassy to pass copies to Secretary Rice and Ambassador Bolton of a letter they sent to SIPDIS Ibrahim Gambari, Under Secretary General at the United Nations. We have abridged the text to focus on [...] | 2006-10-20 08:15:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | PGOV PHUM PREL BM |
06RANGOON156 | BURMESE AND SHAN FORCES FIGHT IT OUT [...] (C) SUMMARY: A recent GOB "news" conference announced the surrender of elements of the insurgent Shan State Army - South in northern Shan State. However, the GOB neglected to mention that the surrender followed a serious battle, in which a DEA source claims the Shan killed dozens of Burmese A [...] | 2006-02-07 01:21:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PINS PREL BM |
06RANGOON157 | AN ALTERNATIVE TO THE GLOBAL FUND IN BURMA [...] (U) SUMMARY: Six Western donor countries seek to establish a new fund addressing Burma's "Three Diseases" of HIV/AIDS, malaria, and TB. A "formulation team" of consultants will visit Burma for three weeks in February to establish the parameters for the program, which the UN Office for Project [...] | 2006-02-07 02:58:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | EAID PGOV PHUM SOCI KHIV BM |
06RANGOON1571 | GOB DEFENDS ITS GUIDELINES ON HUMANITARIAN AID [...] (SBU) Summary: GAO Senior Analysts met with Burmese government officials during their 10-day visit to discuss the GOB's new guidelines for humanitarian assistance issued last February. The guidelines have caused confusion and apprehension in the IO/INGO/NGO community. The Director General of [...] | 2006-10-25 05:49:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM EAID PREL BM |
06RANGOON1572 | MIN KO NAING MARKS HIS BIRTHDAY IN JAIL [...] (C) SUMMARY: Min Ko Naing's family marked his October 18 birthday in Rangoon while he and four other 88 Generation Student leaders remained in regime detention. GOB media railed against the 88 Generation Students "wear white" campaign protesting the detentions, while Mandalay authorities rush [...] | 2006-10-25 06:01:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL BM |
06RANGOON1588 | ILO SPECIAL ADVISOR DEPARTS BURMA EMPTY HANDED [...] (C) SUMMARY: ILO Special Advisor Francis Maupain briefed us on his unsuccessful negotiations with GOB officials on October 20-21 to try to establish a credible mechanism for ILO investigations of forced labor complaints. After reaching tentative agreement with the GOB permitting the ILO unfet [...] | 2006-10-25 08:38:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ELAB ECON PGOV PHUM BM |
06RANGOON1593 | EMBASSY RANGOON CONTACT INFORMATION FOR ASEAN [...] No summary [...] | 2006-10-26 09:33:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | PREL BM |
06RANGOON1609 | TRYING TO GET A POLITICAL DIALOGUE GOING IN BURMA [...] (C) Aung San Suu Kyi (ASSK) confidants have proposed a means to resume a political dialogue, which UN U/SYG Gambari might suggest to Than Shwe when they next meet in Burma. Apparently ASSK wrote a letter to Than Shwe in 2004 proposing a way forward whereby she would step back from the NLD party [...] | 2006-10-30 08:42:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV BM UN |
06RANGOON1615 | WFP'S NEW PROGRAM FOCUSES ON BURMA'S NEEDIEST [...] (SBU) Summary: Under a new Country Director, the World Food Program (WFP) will continue to supply food to three of Burma's most vulnerable regions in Shan and Rakhine States, and Magwe Division. WFP plans to consolidate these three programs and expand operations slightly to include selected v [...] | 2006-10-31 10:56:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EAGR EAID ECON PGOV BM |
06RANGOON1622 | BURMA TIGHTENS THE NOOSE ON ICRC [...] (C) SUMMARY: Shortly after the arrival of a new head of delegation for the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC),the GOB informed the INGO that it could no longer work to support detainees in Burma directly, warned ICRC to stay away from border areas, and ordered two ICRC field offi [...] | 2006-11-03 05:28:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL BM |
06RANGOON1624 | PRAYING FOR CHANGE IN BURMA [...] (C) SUMMARY: The 88 Generation Students began a weeklong prayer campaign on October 29, calling on Burmese of all faiths to pray for the release of all political prisoners, as well as for flood victims in central Burma and for peaceful national reconciliation. The prayer campaign culminates on [...] | 2006-11-03 11:55:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL BM |
06RANGOON1633 | BURMA: 2006-2007 INCSR PART II [...] No summary [...] | 2006-11-06 09:49:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | EFIN ECON KCRM KTFN BM |
06RANGOON1670 | BURMESE REGIME FILES CHARGES AGAINST OPPOSITION [...] (C) Summary: Reliable Embassy sources have told us that on November 6 the regime charged Min Ko Naing and the four other detained 88 Generation Student (88GS) leaders under the 1950 Emergency Provision Act, a catch-all law the regime uses to prosecute most political prisoners. The UN has not y [...] | 2006-11-09 10:33:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL BM |
06RANGOON1678 | GAMBARI FINDS LITTLE GIVE IN BURMESE GENERALS [...] (C) Summary: UN Under Secretary General Ibrahim Gambari made a second visit to Burma November 9-12 to try to get a political dialogue going and increase the space for humanitarian assistance. It does not appear at this time that he made much, if any, progress. He met with Burma's senior mili [...] | 2006-11-13 10:01:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL BM |
06RANGOON1679 | BURMA: AI UPDATE [...] (U) Summary: GOB authorities have not reported any new cases of Avian Influenza in Burma since the outbreak in poultry in Mandalay and Sagaing Divisions was contained in April 2006. On October 30, the government imposed a ban on the import and use of AI vaccine, as well as on animal bones and [...] | 2006-11-13 10:15:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EAGR EAID AMED PGOV PREL CASC TBIO KFLU BM |
06RANGOON1686 | CI TO PROTECT BURMESE TURTLES [...] (SBU) Summary: Despite Burma's unpredictable environment for NGO activities, Conservation International (CI) recently received provisional GOB approval for two major projects to address threats to a number of animal species in Burma, including the critically endangered Burmese Star Tortoise and [...] | 2006-11-15 10:02:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | SENV ECON PGOV BM |
06RANGOON1701 | GAMBARI'S MEETINGS IN BURMA - UNCENSORED [...] (C) Summary: UN U/SYG Gambari delivered a strong message to Burma's senior generals that the regime must choose between taking concrete steps toward democracy or face further action in the UNSC, according to UN Resrep Charles Petrie. General Than Shwe angrily denied that there was a humanitar [...] | 2006-11-16 11:23:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL BM |
06RANGOON1704 | EYES ON BURMA'S PRIZE: NATURAL GAS [...] (SBU) Summary: New oil and gas discoveries off Burma's northwestern coast have prompted intense international maneuvering as representatives from India, China, Thailand and South Korea vie for investment options, production contracts and purchasing rights to the resources. Although the GOB has [...] | 2006-11-17 02:49:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ENRG ECON PGOV BM |
06RANGOON171 | GOB SENDS MIXED MESSAGES ON UN/NGO RESTRICTIONS [...] (C) Summary: On February 7, the GOB issued new guidelines to UN agencies and INGOs regarding the delivery of international assistance in Burma. In contrast to a draft version of draconian new requirements issued a few days ago, the new guidelines appear "vague, redundant, and fairly non-contr [...] | 2006-02-07 10:34:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL EAID BM |
06RANGOON1711 | CHINESE AMBASSADOR SPEAKS OUT ON BURMA [...] (C) Summary: During a long exchange with the Chinese Ambassador, Charge d'Affaires emphasized that the U.S. and China should use their cooperative and constructive relationship to work together to find mutually acceptable ways to promote change in Burma. The Chinese Ambassador emphasized Chi [...] | 2006-11-17 11:29:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL BM |
06RANGOON1713 | GOB TRIES TO SQUEEZE TAXPAYERS [...] (SBU) Summary: Eager to squeeze out more revenues, Burma's military regime has pushed tax officials to clamp down on tax evaders. Government efforts to increase tax collection have increased revenues somewhat, but many still bribe their way out of payments. End Summary. Salaries Rise, Taxe [...] | 2006-11-20 06:18:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | ECON EFIN PGOV BM |
06RANGOON1717 | BURMA: NLD REACTS TO GAMBARI VISIT [...] (C) Summary: During a short meeting with U/SYG Gambari during his November 9-12 visit to Burma, the NLD "Uncles" repeated their desire for a genuine dialogue with the regime. They told us Gambari seemed better briefed on the political situation in Burma this visit, in contrast to their meeti [...] | 2006-11-21 02:19:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL BM |
06RANGOON1722 | A TALE OF TWO SITTWES: BURMA'S ETHNIC TENSIONS [...] (SBU) Summary. Non-Buddhist ethnic minorities in Burma's Rakhine State face the worst of times, with a flat economy, no citizenship rights, and no freedom to seek better opportunities elsewhere. The UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO),World Food Program (WFP),UN High Commission on [...] | 2006-11-27 09:51:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | PHUM PREL PGOV EAID BM |
06RANGOON1727 | ILO TAKES A HARD LINE ON BURMA [...] (C) Summary: ILO Liaison Officer Richard Horsey said the ILO Director General would deliver a letter on November 24 to SYG Annan and U/SYG Gambari, summarizing Burma's lack of progress on forced labor. The letter will state that Burma is not cooperating to find a mechanism to address forced [...] | 2006-11-27 11:50:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL ELAB BM |
06RANGOON1741 | THAIS LOOKING FOR NEW DIRECTIONS IN BURMA [...] (C) Pol/econ chief met with Thai Embassy poloff Pornpan Mah November 28 to discuss Thai PM Surayud Chulamont's visit to Burma. Pornpan said Thailand is no longer willing to be on the front-line defending the regime's actions to the international community, but will in the future carefully co [...] | 2006-11-29 11:01:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL BM |
06RANGOON1743 | ICRC WON'T GIVE UP ON BURMA [...] (C) Summary: The recent announcement by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) that the GOB was forcing them to close their five field offices in Burma was not timed to coincide with Gambari's briefing to the UN Security Council, ICRC officials insist. They issued the statement [...] | 2006-11-30 10:02:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL EAID BM |
06RANGOON1762 | THE GOB'S LONG-WINDED DEFENSE AGAINST UNSC ACTION [...] (U) Summary: the GOB called a last-minute press conference in Nay Pyi Taw on November 29 to try to refute UNSC discussion of the regional threat Burma poses through the spread of refugees, diseases and narcotics to neighboring states. Two Cabinet Ministers, joined by a Deputy Minister and the [...] | 2006-12-01 11:21:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL SOCI SNAR BM |
06RANGOON1766 | AUNG SAN SUU KYI FINALLY SEES HER DOCTOR [...] (C) Summary: Dr. Tin Myo Win, aka Douglas, met with his most famous patient, Aung San Suu Kyi, on November 16, almost three months after his last visit August 24. He expects to see her again on December 21. He found her in good health, confirmed by an ultrasound examination. Douglas also re [...] | 2006-12-04 10:17:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL BM |
06RANGOON1767 | BURMA REGIME AND KAREN MISTRUST CONTINUES [...] (C) SUMMARY: Recent discussion between Karen delegates to the National Convention (NC) reveals that the ruling regime mistrusts both the Karen National Union (KNU) and the proxy army it created to fight the KNU, the Democratic Karen Buddhist Army (DKBA). The KNU reportedly has invited the DKB [...] | 2006-12-04 10:38:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PINS BM |
06RANGOON1769 | BURMA AI UPDATE - DECEMBER 5 [...] No summary [...] | 2006-12-05 05:43:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EAGR EAID AMED PGOV PREL CASC TBIO KFLU BM |
06RANGOON1776 | BURMA AI UPDATE - DECEMBER 5 [...] (SBU) Summary: Burma has not reported any new cases of AI since it contained the March - April 2006 poultry outbreak through extensive culling. The GOB continues to work with donors to improve its surveillance, reporting, and response capabilities. David Castellan, a short-term advisor to FAO [...] | 2006-12-07 02:10:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EAGR EAID AMED PGOV PREL CASC TBIO KFLU BM |
06RANGOON1777 | BURMA: OPPOSITION WINS HEARTS ON WORLD AIDS DAY [...] SUMMARY: The National League for Democracy (NLD) and members of the 88 Generation Students (88GS) used World AIDS Day to show compassion and care for HIV/AIDS victims and their families and to help raise greater awareness among the public. The NLD honored over 100 HIV/AIDS health workers and [...] | 2006-12-07 10:20:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | PGOV PHUM SOCI KHIV BM |
06RANGOON1783 | GOB TRIES TO WHITEWASH EXTENSIVE FLOOD DAMAGE [...] (SBU) Summary: Closely-held GOB reports confirm that severe flash floods in central Burma in October damaged over 200,000 acres in Mandalay and Sagaing Divisions and Shan State. Despite unofficial reports of significant human deaths and crop losses, the GOB has not officially acknowledged tha [...] | 2006-12-08 08:57:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | ECON PGOV EAGR BM |
06RANGOON1785 | BURMA: THE REGIME FINDS ITS OWN "88 GENERATION [...] No summary [...] | 2006-12-08 09:15:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL BM |
06RANGOON179 | BURMESE PRIME MINISTER'S AGENDA IN CHINA [...] (C) Summary: Burmese Prime Minister General Soe Win will make his first bilateral visit to China February 14-18 where he will seek to maintain mutually beneficial economic relations; tap PRC largesse for more grants and loans; and flaunt the legitimacy that the relationship provides the regime [...] | 2006-02-09 09:33:00 | Embassy Rangoon | SECRET | PREL ECON CH BM |
06RANGOON1794 | BURMA: ICRC UPDATE [...] (C) ICRC Head of Delegation Pierre-Andre Conod told us today that, during a December 8 meeting in Nay Pyi Taw with the Minister of Home Affairs, he obtained permission to keep ICRC's five field offices open in Kyengtung, Taunggyi, Hpa-an, Moulmein, and Mandalay, but did not obtain permission [...] | 2006-12-12 10:56:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL BM |
06RANGOON1803 | BURMA'S BUSINESS ENVIRONEMNT: "BETTER THAN [...] (SBU) Summary: The GOB's economic mismanagement continues to erode Burma's business environment. The regime makes unreasonable and arbitrary decisions with little thought of the economic consequences. For example, all business transactions must be conducted in the remote new capital of Nay [...] | 2006-12-18 06:50:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ECON PGOV BM |
06RANGOON1807 | BURMA'S RICE SUPPLY SHRINKS AFTER OCTOBER FLOODS [...] (U) Rumors are have circulated around Rangoon about an impending rice shortage as Burmese officials move rice stocks to provinces in central Burma hit by severe flooding in October. In addition, smuggling, inflated production estimates, poor storage, and inadequate buffer stocks exacerbate th [...] | 2006-12-18 10:05:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | ECON PGOV EAGR EAID BM |
06RANGOON1812 | OPPOSITION LEADER MISSES ANOTHER BIRTHDAY PARTY [...] (U) Summary: On December 18, friends and relatives marked the 45th birthday of Ko Ko Gyi, detained 88 Generation Students (88GS) leader, at a Rangoon monastery, making offerings to the monks and feeding approximately 800 supporters who participated. Military Intelligence monitored the event, [...] | 2006-12-19 08:21:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL BM |
06RANGOON1814 | RESTRICTING PRAYERS FOR AUNG SAN SUU KYI [...] (C) SUMMARY: After Shwedagon Pagoda officials harassed worshippers in November at their weekly prayers for Aung San Suu Kyi, thirteen participants wrote a letter of complaint to regime leaders. Authorities ordered the worshippers to request advance permission for future prayers, but allowed t [...] | 2006-12-20 10:02:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL BM |
06RANGOON1818 | BURMA PUMPS OIL AND GAS POTENTIAL FOR CASH NOW [...] (SBU) Summary: Development of Burma's oil and gas reserves continues apace, from existing facilities upgrades to new exploration deals. The government needs hard currency and correctly sees the sector as its best source of revenue. End Summary. Upgrades of Existing Facilities ------------ [...] | 2006-12-22 06:37:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ECON PGOV ENRG BM |
06RANGOON1828 | BURMA: THE KNU AFTER GENERAL BO MYA [...] (C) SUMMARY: The death of Karen insurgent leader General Bo Mya did not come as a surprise, but leaves the Karen National Union (KNU) without a strong, charismatic leader. Sidelined by poor health in recent years, Bo Mya continued to influence KNU leaders and policy. It is uncertain if the re [...] | 2006-12-27 04:27:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PINS BM |
06RANGOON1829 | BURMA: THREE ETHNIC TRAFFICKING VICTIMS RETURN [...] (U) SUMMARY: The recent case of three Kachin women who were trafficked to China to be brides for Chinese men illustrates how the lack economic opportunity for Burma's ethnic minorities makes them increasingly vulnerable to human traffickers. After being lured to the Chinese border by an acqua [...] | 2006-12-27 04:46:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | KCRM KWMN PHUM BM |
06RANGOON206 | BURMESE PM GOES TO CHINA WITH A LONG SHOPPING LIST [...] (C) Summary: When he makes his first bilateral visit to China on February 14-18, Burmese Prime Minster Soe Win will seek an agreement on closer cooperation on drug trafficking, a donation of 100 used train cars, and Chinese views on the GOB's draft industrial zone law. These agenda items are in [...] | 2006-02-13 10:15:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL ECON CH BM |
06RANGOON207 | NLD SHOWS UNITY WITH ETHNICS ON UNION DAY [...] (U) SUMMARY: At ceremonies marking Burma's 59th Union Day, the NLD quietly unveiled a new plan for national reconciliation. NLD Chairman U Aung Shwe said that the NLD would endorse the ruling SPDC (the State Peace and Development Committee) as a legitimate interim government if the SPDC agree [...] | 2006-02-13 10:50:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL BM |
06RANGOON213 | REQUEST TO SEE AUNG SAN SUU KYI DENIED [...] (C) SUMMARY: Min Lwin, Director of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' (MFA) Americas Division, told the Embassy on February 13 that the Charge would not be allowed to meet with imprisoned NLD Secretary General Aung San Suu Kyi (ASSK) "at this moment" because she remains "under restriction." Min [...] | 2006-02-14 07:35:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM ECON PREL BM |
06RANGOON214 | U.S. DOLLAR MOVES UNDERGROUND IN BURMA [...] (SBU) Summary: Banks in China, Japan and Singapore are now refusing to handle Burma's government and commercial dollar-denominated business, forcing many companies to transfer their business transactions to their personal offshore accounts to keep cash flowing. Meanwhile, the ruling regime is [...] | 2006-02-14 07:40:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ECON PGOV BM |
06RANGOON223 | BURMA'S DEPUTY FOREIGN MINISTER WANTS TO TALK [...] (C) Summary: Charge met February 14 with Deputy Foreign Minster Kyaw Thu at his request. Repeatedly emphasizing his interest in assisting Charge feel comfortable in Burma, he leisurely addressed a wide range of topics, including the problems of inadequate food and slow construction in Pyinman [...] | 2006-02-16 05:38:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV CASC PREL BM |
06RANGOON235 | BURMA'S VAST INTERNMENT CAMP: NORTHERN RAKHINE [...] (SBU) Summary: In a country where everyone is oppressed by the military, some are treated worse than others. In general, the ethnic minorities are treated worse than the ethnic Burman majority, and non-Buddhists face more restrictions on their religious practices. Charge visited Northern [...] | 2006-02-17 09:23:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PHUM PREF PREL EAID BM |
06RANGOON244 | BURMA'S INADEQUATE IPR REGIME [...] (U) Burma is, and should remain, on the 2006 Special Mention List for Special 301 Review. Following is an update on the current IPR protection situation in Burma. Overview --------- 2. (U) Burma does not have adequate IPR protection. Patent, trademark, and copyright laws and regulations a [...] | 2006-02-22 05:57:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | ECON ETRD KIPR PGOV SNAR BM |
06RANGOON246 | NLD'S FLEXIBLE OFFER TO THE BURMESE REGIME [...] (C) SUMMARY: NLD leaders have low expectations that the Burmese regime will respond favorably to their February 12 proposal to convene the Parliament elected in 1990 in return for the opposition's recognition of the ruling regime as a transitional government. The NLD is nonetheless encouraged [...] | 2006-02-22 07:09:00 | Embassy Rangoon | SECRET | PGOV PHUM PREL BM NLD |
06RANGOON248 | COMMUNAL RIOTS IN MAGWAY DIVISION [...] (SBU) SUMMARY: Communal rioting erupted between Buddhist and Muslim communities in central Burma on February 16. Sources report that three people died and ten others sustained injuries as Buddhist Burmans attacked Muslim and Indian shops, homes, and mosques. Authorities imposed a news blackou [...] | 2006-02-22 09:02:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PINS PREL ECON KISL BM |
06RANGOON249 | MORE FROM BURMA'S DEPUTY FOREIGN MINISTER [...] (C) Summary: Deputy Foreign Minister Kyaw Thu requested Charge meet with him again February 22 - alone. He apparently wants to continue a dialogue (ref A),made more difficult by his move to Pyinmana and difficult to do by phone because, he said, others could be listening in. Again referrin [...] | 2006-02-22 23:33:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL BM |
06RANGOON253 | AMERICAN CENTER HELPING NLD EDUCATE ACTIVISTS AND [...] (C) Summary: our American Center (AC) in Rangoon has attracted extra attention from both pro-democracy activists and the ruling regime as our programs reach more people. Representatives from Burma's National League for Democracy (NLD) contact the AC daily and regularly use our Information Re [...] | 2006-02-23 23:40:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL KPAO BM NLD |
06RANGOON257 | BURMA COUNTRY CLEARANCE FOR TERRENCE MARKIN [...] Embassy Rangoon grants country clearance and welcomes the visit of Mr. Terrence C. Markin, Political Officer, to Burma March 15-17, 2006 for consultations. 2. Control officer for this visit is Timothy Arnts, Regional Affairs Chief, phone: (95) (1) 379-880 ext. 4219. Additional point of c [...] | 2006-02-24 08:32:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | OTRA BM |
06RANGOON258 | BURMA COUNTRY CLEARANCE FOR MICHAEL HONNOLD [...] Embassy Rangoon grants country clearance and welcomes the visit of Mr. Michael J. Honnold, Refugee Coordinator for Southeast Asia, to Burma March 8-10, 2006 for consultations. 2. Control officer for this visit is D. Dean Tidwell, phone: (95) (1) 379-880 ext. 4259, or email at TidwellDD@sta [...] | 2006-02-24 09:53:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | OTRA BM |
06RANGOON259 | BURMA: CONVERGING ON AI ISSUES [...] (SBU) SUMMARY: USAID's Regional Infectious Diseases Advisor, on a second visit to Rangoon, encouraged WHO and FAO to identify needs and strengthen their capacity to investigate and respond to AI outbreaks in Burma. The GOB updated its national response plan, but some responsible ministries st [...] | 2006-02-26 23:42:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | EAGR EAID AMED PGOV PHUM PREL SOCI TBIO KFLU BM |
06RANGOON260 | BURMESE ARMY GETS TOUGH WITH CEASE-FIRE GROUPS [...] (C) SUMMARY: The Burmese military recently detained four Kachin Independence Army (KIA) soldiers near Bhamo, Kachin State. The Burmese accused them of traveling outside their territory while armed. Separately, a Burmese unit opened fire on Shan State Army - North (SSA-N) troops inside the SS [...] | 2006-02-26 23:42:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL PINS BM |
06RANGOON27 | THE NLD SUGGESTS A TRIPARTITE "SUPREME BODY" [...] (C) Summary: Burma's leading opposition party, the NLD, recently floated a proposal for a "supreme leading body"--comprised of the military regime, political parties, and ethnic nationalities--to govern a transition to democracy. Although the NLD has no specific plan for the proposal, party [...] | 2006-01-09 09:59:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL BM |
06RANGOON270 | BURMA: TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS REPORT [...] No summary [...] | 2006-03-01 03:25:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | PHUM KWMN KCRM KFRD ASEC PREF ELAB SMIG BM |
06RANGOON272 | ICRC WON'T GIVE UP ON BURMA [...] (C) SUMMARY: The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) confirmed to international media on February 27 that Burma's ruling regime is now blocking ICRC access to the country's prisons and detention camps. ICRC officials told us on Feb. 28 that they publicly acknowledged their ongoing [...] | 2006-03-01 07:36:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL BM |
06RANGOON287 | OPPORTUNITIES AND OBSTACLES IN MANDALAY [...] (SBU) Summary: The Embassy held a highly successful "Outreach Week in Mandalay" February 26-March 2. The Charge led over a dozen Embassy staff to Burma's second largest city and conducted a broad range of meetings and outreach activities with NGOs, business leaders, political parties, religi [...] | 2006-03-03 06:28:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM ECON PREL BM |
06RANGOON289 | IN MANDALAY, TRADE UP AND TOURISM DOWN [...] (U) Summary: Enough people make money from trade with China to keep upscale retailers busy in Mandalay, Burma's second largest city. However, due to rising prices and the poor state of the economy, residents are increasingly price sensitive, making it tougher to prosper there. Europeans, the [...] | 2006-03-03 06:42:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | ECON PGOV BM |
06RANGOON290 | MANDALAY: DIPLOMATIC VIEWS [...] (C) Summary: During an Embassy "Outreach Week in Mandalay" (ref A),the Charge called on the Indian and Chinese Consuls General to exchange views on local political and economic developments. Despite the close relationship that China and India enjoy with the Burmese regime, both Consuls need [...] | 2006-03-03 06:55:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV ECON ETRD BM CM IN |
06RANGOON299 | MANDALAY: NON-BUDDHISTS NEED NOT APPLY [...] (C) SUMMARY: As part of our Mandalay Outreach Week (ref A),we met with Christian leaders in Mandalay on March 1 to discuss religious issues in central Burma. They described the tight restrictions local authorities place on religious meetings and church construction, as well as general GOB di [...] | 2006-03-06 08:35:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL PREF BM SK |
06RANGOON3 | BURMESE REGIME CORRUPTS YOUTH AND COERCES SUPPORT [...] (C) SUMMARY: Charge met on Dec. 22 with NLD women leaders (including four Members-elect of Parliament) representing Rangoon, Mandalay, and Mogok cities; Bago Division; Karen State; Shan State; and Mon State. The NLD matriarchs, some who had snuck out of their homes, covertly boarded trains fo [...] | 2006-01-03 10:54:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL SOCI SNAR EAID ECON BM |
06RANGOON312 | NATURE, GOVERNMENT CONSPIRE AGAINST RICE FARMERS [...] (U) Summary: In 2005, unpredictable new export restrictions, higher fuel prices, political interference in planting decisions, and a shorter than usual summer monsoon added new problems for Burmese rice farmers. Rice exports increased 90% over the previous year to 220,000 metric tons as a GOB [...] | 2006-03-08 00:42:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EAGR PGOV ECON BM |
06RANGOON319 | EU HUMANITARIAN AID IN BURMA [...] (U) SUMMARY: The European Union has established an EU Humanitarian Aid office in Rangoon to improve coordination of its 8 million euro aid projects in Burma. The new office supports humanitarian projects in health, water and sanitation, nutrition, and protection. The EU Humanitarian Aid offi [...] | 2006-03-08 06:27:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EAID PGOV PHUM PREF PREL BM NGO |
06RANGOON325 | YUDHOYONO VISIT TO BURMA: LIGHT AND FLUFFY [...] (C) Summary: Indonesian President Yudhoyono's March 1-2 visit to Burma appears to have been purely protocol and devoid of any substantive political message to regime leaders. SPDC Chairman Than Shwe gave the Indonesian President a standard recitation of regime achievements and its road map t [...] | 2006-03-08 10:54:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV BM ID |
06RANGOON345 | SUSPECTED AI OUTBREAK AMONG BIRDS IN BURMA [...] (U) SUMMARY: On March 12, GOB officials informed FAO and WHO officials of a suspected outbreak on March 8 of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) at a commercial poultry farm in Mandalay Division. Specimens collected by a joint-ministerial investigation team from Rangoon tested positive f [...] | 2006-03-14 23:31:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EAGR EAID AMED PGOV PREL SOCI TBIO CASC KFLU BM |
06RANGOON355 | BURMA AI OUTBREAK - MARCH 15 UPDATE [...] (U) SUMMARY. In response to a suspected AI outbreak on March 8 in Pyi-gyi-dagun Township, Mandalay authorities have banned all sales of chickens, ducks, and eggs. A Bangkok-based USAID expert on AI and an Embassy Rangoon FSN agricultural specialist will join a FAO and WHO assessment team tra [...] | 2006-03-15 11:13:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EAGR EAID AMED PGOV PREL CASC TBIO KFLU BM |
06RANGOON356 | ALL SMILES: INDIAN PRESIDENT VISITS BURMA [...] (C) Summary: For the second week in a row, a regional head of state visited Burma and allowed the ruling generals to bask in perceived legitimacy. Indian President Kalam's March 8-11 visit was the first-ever to Burma by an Indian head of state. The two countries concluded MOUs on petroleum [...] | 2006-03-16 06:43:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PHUM ECON EAID BM IN |
06RANGOON359 | BURMA AI OUTBREAK - MARCH 16 UPDATE [...] (C) SUMMARY. On March 15, NIAH Bangkok confirmed that chicken specimens from Burma tested positive for the H5N1 Avian Influenza virus (AI). The Bangkok laboratory faxed the information to the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries the same day, and at 9:00 p.m. on March 15, the GOB made its fir [...] | 2006-03-16 23:24:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | EAGR EAID AMED PGOV PREL CASC TBIO KFLU BM |
06RANGOON362 | VILLAGERS REVIVE THE IRRAWADDY DELTA'S FOREST [...] (U) Summary: A Burmese domestic NGO, the Forest Resource and Environment Development and Conservation Association (FREDA),uses village-based programs to slow rampant deforestation in the southern part of Irrawaddy division. Residents have cut down 86% of the forest cover for firewood, buildin [...] | 2006-03-17 05:29:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | SENV ECON PGOV BM NGO |
06RANGOON363 | SOMETIMES YOU FEEL LIKE A NUT [...] (SBU) Summary: Senior regime leaders, in their latest self-sufficiency scheme, have ordered Burmese around the country to plant seven million acres of physic nut in a misguided effort to reduce Burma's reliance on imported diesel fuel. This high profile campaign does not have any support from [...] | 2006-03-17 05:29:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ECON PGOV SENV EAGR BM |
06RANGOON364 | BURMA AI OUTBREAK UPDATE - MARCH 17 [...] (SBU) SUMMARY. The FAO/WHO assessment team is on the ground in Mandalay to investigate confirmed cases of AI at poultry farms in the district. Supplementary supplies of PPE and disinfectant arrived in Rangoon on March 16 and some have already reached the field investigation teams in Mandalay. [...] | 2006-03-17 08:41:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EAGR EAID AMED PGOV PREL CASC TBIO KFLU BM |
06RANGOON366 | BURMESE IDPS AND REFUGEES NEED MORE HELP [...] (C) SUMMARY: A visiting PRM team discussed refugee and IDP issues with IOs and donor counterparts in Rangoon March 8-10. UNHCR described its activities in northern Rakhine State and efforts to improve access to eastern border areas. ICRC outlined its lack of access to prisons and labor camps, [...] | 2006-03-17 10:02:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREF PGOV PHUM ECON PREL BM NGO |
06RANGOON368 | BURMESE FUTURE LOOKING DIRE [...] (C) Summary: Leon de Riedmattan, outgoing head of the Swiss NGO Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue in Burma, hosted a lunch March 15 for western Ambassadors. De Riedmattan, whose visa has been halted after nine years of efforts to promote national reconciliation, offered a grim assessment of th [...] | 2006-03-19 23:35:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL EAID ELAB BM |
06RANGOON370 | CHIN STATE'S UNEASY COHABITATION WITH THE REGIME [...] (U) Summary. Burma's ethnic minority Chin population, long victims of the Burmese regime's "Myanmarization" program, has reached a stage of uneasy but peaceful cohabitation with ruling authorities in its home state. In underdeveloped Chin State along Burma's western border with India, ethnic [...] | 2006-03-20 08:54:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | PGOV PHUM PINS PREL ECON ETRD CVIS KFRD BM IN |
06RANGOON372 | BURMA AI OUTBREAK UPDATE - MARCH 20 [...] (U) SUMMARY. No human cases of AI have been reported in Burma to date. A joint FAO/WHO assessment team, accompanied by USAID Bangkok Infectious Diseases Advisor and Embassy's FSN agricultural specialist, visited hospitals and poultry farms in Mandalay and Sagaing Divisions on March 17-18 to [...] | 2006-03-20 10:00:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EAGR EAID AMED PGOV PREL CASC TBIO KFLU BM |
06RANGOON384 | FORMER POLITICAL PRISONER DIES IN BRUTAL ATTACK [...] (C) SUMMARY: A former political prisoner and student activist during the 1988 pro-democracy uprising, Thet Naing Oo, died on March 17 following a public beating by police and fire brigade officers. His family placed a death announcement in local newspapers and on March 20 held a funeral atten [...] | 2006-03-21 09:37:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM BM NLD |
06RANGOON394 | RISING PRICES HIT BURMA'S POOR...AGAIN [...] (SBU) Summary: Rising prices in February again hit Burma's poor hard, with significant increases in the cost of basic foods, transportation, and fuel. A slight, but unexpected, depreciation of the kyat increased the price of imported consumer goods. Dry season power shortages increased, lead [...] | 2006-03-23 04:33:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | ECON ETRD PGOV BM |
06RANGOON399 | BURMA AI UPDATE - MARCH 23 [...] (U) SUMMARY. FAO Bangkok reported a possible new AI outbreak among poultry in Shan State, but local contacts have not yet been able to confirm. Foreign donors have yet to respond to the GOB's request for additional assistance, although Australian animal testing equipment en route before the [...] | 2006-03-23 23:30:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EAGR EAID AMED PGOV PREL CASC TBIO KFLU BM |
06RANGOON403 | BURMA GIVES ILO THE COLD SHOULDER [...] (C) Summary: Labor Minister U Thaung told ILO Special Advisor Francis Maupain that the GOB will not negotiate how it handles claims of forced labor and made it clear the GOB will not take any significant action to address the international community's forced labor concerns. According to ILO L [...] | 2006-03-24 06:41:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ELAB PGOV PREL ECON BM |
06RANGOON406 | PYINMANA: THE EMPEROR'S NEW CAPITAL [...] (C) Summary: Months after announcing the sudden relocation of Burma's capital, the military regime continues efforts to build a new city to house thousands of civil servants who have already moved and are attempting to carry out government operations at remote, unserviced locations. There are [...] | 2006-03-24 08:00:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM ECON PREL BM |
06RANGOON419 | THE FRUSTRATIONS OF A BURMESE ECONOMIST [...] (SBU) Summary: U Myint, a retired UN economist, freely offers economic advice to regime leaders and democratic activists. He doubts senior leader Than Shwe receives any of it because he "does not listen to anyone." Were Than Shwe to heed Myint's advice, Burma would concentrate less on tradit [...] | 2006-03-28 06:40:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ECON PGOV BM |
06RANGOON43 | BURMESE ARMY RAIDS KACHIN CEASE-FIRE UNIT [...] (C) Summary: On January 2, a Burmese Army (BA) company, after sharing drinks and food with known members of the Kachin Independence Organization (KIO),attacked and killed five members of the cease-fire group. Senior KIO and Burmese regime officials met on January 8 in Rangoon to discuss the [...] | 2006-01-11 09:18:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PINS PREL MOPS SNAR ECON BM |
06RANGOON437 | BURMA AI OUTBREAK SITE ASSESSMENT [...] (SBU) SUMMARY. A joint FAO/WHO team, accompanied by a USAID Regional Infectious Diseases advisor and a FSN from the Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS),assessed an AI outbreak in Sagaing and Mandalay Divisions, Burma, on March 17-18. Government of Burma (GOB) officials reported cases to the OI [...] | 2006-03-30 09:23:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EAGR EAID AMED PGOV PREL CASC TBIO KFLU BM |
06RANGOON445 | BURMESE DON'T BUDGE FOR ASEAN [...] (C) Summary: Malaysian Foreign Minister Syed Hamid made a brief March 23-24 visit to Burma on behalf of ASEAN, but could only gain access to second-tier regime officials who recited the standard party line on the SPDC's road map to democracy. The Malaysian Embassy tells us that Hamid appeale [...] | 2006-03-31 10:57:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV BM MY |
06RANGOON446 | EMBASSY'S MANDALAY WEEK - ONE MONTH LATER [...] (C) SUMMARY: One month after the Embassy's outreach week in Mandalay, the regime continues to react. Security officials interrogated 50 local residents who had contact with Emboffs during our February 27 - March 2 visit to outreach week in Mandalay, and the GOB ordered many Burmese newspapers [...] | 2006-03-31 11:08:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM ECON PREL BM |
06RANGOON447 | GOB STIFFS NLD COMPROMISE OFFER [...] (C) Summary: After six weeks of silence, the GOB finally reacted to a National League for Democracy proposal for political compromise with an official editorial that accused the party of attempting to "grab power." NLD leaders called the editorial "unhelpful" and told us they were disappointe [...] | 2006-03-31 11:20:00 | Embassy Rangoon | SECRET | PGOV BM ASSK NLD PHUM PREL |
06RANGOON451 | NLD AND ETHNICS: DIFFERING VIEWS ON FEDERALISM [...] (C) SUMMARY: During the recent PD-sponsored visit of a U.S. federalism expert, senior National League for Democracy (NLD) party leaders asserted that they do not consider ethnic minority states capable of properly forming and running their own subnational administrations in a post-transition [...] | 2006-04-03 09:31:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL SOCI SNAR EAID BM NLD |
06RANGOON452 | KACHIN YOUTH EVOLVE INTO A POLITICAL ENTITY [...] (C) SUMMARY: In Burma's northernmost state, diverse political, religious, military, and ceasefire groups struggle to address the needs of the Kachin people, who face extensive discrimination from Burma's ruling military regime (ref A). One group of activists who seem to be breaking out and fo [...] | 2006-04-03 09:44:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL SOCI SNAR EAID BM |
06RANGOON456 | WAGE INCREASE DOES NOT APPEASE CIVIL SERVANTS [...] (SBU) Summary: Just three days before its annual military showcase on Armed Forces Day, the government announced a significant increase in public sector wages: a 400% jump for the lowest civil service positions and 1,167% for senior levels. Workers will receive the raises at the end of April. [...] | 2006-04-04 05:06:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ECON PGOV BM |
06RANGOON459 | BURMA AI UPDATE - APRIL 4 [...] (U) SUMMARY. On March 31, WHO/FAO Burma briefed UN agencies and diplomatic missions on the country's AI situation. A Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries (MLF) director gave a chronology of the AI outbreaks in central Burma, which began on March 3, and the GOB's efforts to control the disease [...] | 2006-04-04 09:10:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EAGR EAID AMED PGOV PREL CASC TBIO KFLU BM |
06RANGOON460 | UNODC SEEKS FUNDING FOR BURMA OPIUM SURVEYS [...] (SBU) Summary: UNODC-Burma is seeking USG support to help cover a budget shortfall of $100,000 to complete its ongoing 2006 opium yield survey, as well as additional funding in the amount of $260,000 to conduct its 2007 survey. These surveys offer the most reliable evidence to measure progres [...] | 2006-04-05 04:08:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | SNAR KCRM BM |
06RANGOON461 | NLD TRAINS MEMBERS ON HUMAN RIGHTS / AIDS AWARENESS [...] (C) SUMMARY: On March 31, the National League for Democracy (NLD) completed the first module of its distance-learning "Human Resource and Development Program," an initiative of Aung San Suu Kyi. This course trained 96 NLD activists from throughout Burma. Embassy Rangoon helped the NLD plan t [...] | 2006-04-05 04:27:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM BM NLD ASSK |
06RANGOON462 | SOMETHING BETTER THAN NOTHING:FIGHTING TIP IN BURMA [...] (SBU) Summary: High level GOB attendance gave the first anti-Trafficking in Persons National Seminar the visible support needed for lower level officials to implement Burma's new Anti-Trafficking Law. International NGOs had unprecedented input on the drafting process, the first time the curr [...] | 2006-04-06 09:13:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PHUM PREF ELAB SMIG KWMN KCRM BM |
06RANGOON471 | APRIL 7 SITREP: IED INCIDENT AT INTERNATIONAL [...] (U) Embassy personnel spent April 7 following up on the April 6 discovery and dismantling of an improvised explosive device (IED) on the campus of the USG-sponsored International School of Yangon (ISY). The device was packed with what local security personnel determined was 1.5 pounds of exp [...] | 2006-04-07 11:42:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | ASEC PTER PGOV BM |
06RANGOON475 | REQUEST FOR A SCIENCE FELLOW IN BURMA [...] (SBU) Post requests that a Science Fellow from the Smithsonian Institution or the Environmental Protection Agency be placed at the U.S. Embassy in Rangoon to assess and prepare a detailed report on the regional environmental impact of the ruling military regime's policies, especially actions [...] | 2006-04-10 09:15:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | AMGT APER KSCA OTRA SENV TSPL BM |
06RANGOON477 | THE PRESSED, SUPPRESSED, AND OPPRESSED IN BURMA [...] (SBU) SUMMARY: The GOB continued its harassment of ordinary citizens as well as pro-democracy advocates through pressure, intimidation, arbitrary detention, arrest, and imprisonment. Scattered crackdowns of individuals around the country on various charges during late March demonstrate that t [...] | 2006-04-10 10:40:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM BM |
06RANGOON505 | NLD HOLDS OUT HOPE FOR DIALOGUE [...] (S) Summary: NLD leaders expressed disappointment, but not surprise, that the SPDC failed to respond directly to their February proposal for a way out of the country's political impasse. They plan to issue a statement within the next few days again appealing for a genuine dialogue with the r [...] | 2006-04-20 09:08:00 | Embassy Rangoon | SECRET | PGOV PHUM ECON PREL BM |
06RANGOON516 | FORMER STUDENT LEADER STAYS THE COURSE [...] (C) Summary: Min Ko Naing--former pro-democracy student leader, political prisoner, and current activist--is struggling with the challenges of readjusting to life outside of solitary confinement and the pressures of meeting the expectations of his many followers and supporters. As in 1988, h [...] | 2006-04-24 00:31:00 | Embassy Rangoon | SECRET | PGOV PHUM PREL BM |
06RANGOON521 | KAREN-BURMESE CLASHES CREATE REFUGEES AND IDP'S [...] (C) Summary: Over the last few weeks, Burmese Army units struck at over a dozen villages and roadside locations around the town of Bawgalagyi in northern Karen State in a new push to wrest control of the Karen hold there. According to an Embassy contact, this has resulted in a new wave of IDPs [...] | 2006-04-25 02:52:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREF PINS MOPS BM TH |
06RANGOON530 | NLD: REGIME NEEDS LEGITIMACY TO ADDRESS WOES [...] (C) Summary: In a departure from previous party policies, the NLD issued a statement on April 21 that emphasized Burma's urgent need for humanitarian assistance and underscored that the ruling military regime requires legitimacy in order to deal immediately with the "calamities and pandemics [...] | 2006-04-25 09:02:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM BM |
06RANGOON543 | ANOTHER CHAT WITH BURMA'S DEPUTY FOREIGN MINISTER [...] (C) Summary: Charge met with Deputy Foreign Minister Kyaw Thu on April 25 to continue discussions in the hope of gathering more insights into the opaque regime. He did not disappoint. We discussed a range issues from his recent trip to China to obtaining multiple entry visas for regional of [...] | 2006-04-26 04:40:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL APER BM CH |
06RANGOON56 | REGIME POSES OBSTACLES TO ICRC PRISON ACCESS [...] (C) Summary: The GOB has imposed new restrictions, including the meddling of regime-controlled organizations, that hamper the ability of ICRC to access and inspect the country's vast gulag of prison detention facilities and labor camps. These restrictions "have slowed down considerably the f [...] | 2006-01-17 10:28:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM EAID PM |
06RANGOON576 | NLD BASHING TRUMPS COUNTERDRUG SUCCESSES [...] (C) Summary: According to attendees at an April 26 drug burn in eastern Shan State, the GOB's Minister of Information and other senior officials hijacked the law enforcement event to pursue an ongoing political campaign to paint exile groups as terrorists and to denigrate recent efforts by the [...] | 2006-04-28 10:20:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV SNAR BM |
06RANGOON588 | CYCLONE MALA HITS HARD, DIES QUICKLY [...] (SBU) Summary: Burma dodged another bullet from Mother Nature when Cyclone Mala hit landfall on April 29, quickly weakened into a tropical storm, and then completely petered out. Before arriving on the western coast of Burma, however, the cyclone created substantial rainfall and heavy winds t [...] | 2006-05-01 11:01:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL EAID SENV CASC BM |
06RANGOON591 | SOUTHERN KAREN FOCUS ON ECONOMIC WOES, NOT FIGHTING [...] (C) Summary: Local residents during our recent visit to the H'pa-An capital region of southern Karen State expressed no pressing concern with recent skirmishes between Burmese military and Karen National Union (KNU) units in the northern part of the state. Numerous contacts characterized the [...] | 2006-05-02 10:33:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PINS ECON PREL BM |
06RANGOON601 | RANGOON EARTH DAY ENCOURAGES CIVIC PARTICIPATION [...] (SBU) Earth Day 2006 gave Post a chance to support the efforts of private individuals who, by addressing environmental issues, show citizens how they can take more control over their futures from the repressive ruling regime. Embassy employees donated funds for mangrove reforestation, a nasce [...] | 2006-05-04 08:48:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | SENV ECON PGOV BM |
06RANGOON602 | RUSSIAN AMBASSADOR: "WE SEEK CLOSER TIES TO BURMA" [...] (C) Summary: The Russian Ambassador, a four-year veteran in Rangoon, described Russia and Burma as at the "beginning of a new stage in bilateral cooperation." The two countries recently exchanged senior level visitors "to reinvigorate relations." The Ambassador described sanctions as counte [...] | 2006-05-04 08:49:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PARM MASS PHUM PGOV BM RS |
06RANGOON603 | GOB GRANTS UNHCR RENEWED ACCESS TO KAREN STATE [...] (SBU) Summary: On April 27, UNHCR signed an MOU with the Ministry of Border Areas reinstating access to southeast Burma, including Karen State. UNHCR's country representative, baffled but grateful for the GOB's reversal oQUNHCR access, said that his agency plans to establish a field presence [...] | 2006-05-04 08:55:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREF PGOV PHUM PINS PREL BM |
06RANGOON604 | OFFICIALS UPDATE VISITING FAS REPS ON AI [...] (SBU) SUMMARY: During an introductory visit, APHIS Area Director Ned Cardenas and FAS Agricultural Attache Russ Nicely received an open, thorough update from Livestock Breeding and Veterinary Department (LBVD) officials about current GOB efforts to contain the recent Avian Influenza outbreak. [...] | 2006-05-05 00:55:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EAGR EAID AMED PGOV PREL CASC TBIO KFLU BM |
06RANGOON612 | BORDERS OVER DEMOCRACY: INDIAN AMBASSADOR TO BURMA [...] (C) Summary: The Indian Ambassador dropped by May 4 to chat with Charge. He offered insights into how India views it relationship with Burma: by and large a friendly neighbor in comparison to Pakistan, Bangladesh, or China. While he agrees that political reform is needed and will come even [...] | 2006-05-05 11:04:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL BM IN |
06RANGOON617 | ICRC: DIMINISHING ACCESS [...] (C) Summary: ICRC's Burma operations remain in a state of flux as the organization faces increased GOB restrictions on access to detention facilities and border areas. It must also cope with the interference of Government-affiliated organizations. To make matters worse, the Ministry of Healt [...] | 2006-05-08 10:34:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL EAID BM |
06RANGOON622 | UNDP STRUGGLES INSIDE, AND OUTSIDE, BURMA [...] (C) Summary: UNDP officials told us that implementation of new GOB regulations for aid agencies and NGOs has been uneven and unpredictable. The GOB has not yet enforced compliance with the most restrictive of the new regulations, and some government entities have proven more flexible than ot [...] | 2006-05-09 08:58:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL EAID BM |
06RANGOON623 | BURMA UNPREPARED TO FIGHT AI IN HUMANS [...] (SBU) Summary: WHO Country Director Dr. Adik Wibowo reported that Australia will donate A$1,000,000 (approximately $770,000) and the Asia Development Bank plans to donate US$1,000,000 to combat AI in Burma, but stressed that more work is needed to handle an AI epidemic effectively. On a recen [...] | 2006-05-09 09:37:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EAGR EAID AMED PGOV PREL CASC TBIO KFLU BM |
06RANGOON624 | FOOD SHORTAGES AND ROADWORK IN NORTHERN KAREN [...] (C) Summary: A recent trip to Taungoo near northern Karen State provided a new dimension to the ongoing conflict between the GOB and the Karen National Union (KNU). The GOB has halted all transportation of food and other goods into the area of northern Karen, resulting in food shortages in K [...] | 2006-05-09 09:46:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PINS PGOV PHUM ECON PREF BM |
06RANGOON650 | CABINET SHUFFLE: RIDE OF THE MAJORS-GENERAL [...] (C) Summary: The Burmese regime announced on May 15 its first senior GOB cabinet shuffle in over a year. In a series of nine orders, signed by SPDC Secretary-1 Lt Gen Thein Sein, the regime ousted two veteran Ministers, militarized the entire leadership of the Ministry of Immigration, split t [...] | 2006-05-16 11:12:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM ECON PREL BM |
06RANGOON668 | SOCIAL PROJECTS BENEFIT PIPELINE VILLAGES [...] (SBU) Summary: The controversial pipeline running from the Yadana gas field in the Andaman Sea to Thailand is expected to produce over $800 million in revenue this year for its joint venture partners TOTAL, UNOCAL, PTTEP (the Thai government petroleum company),and the Myanmar Oil and Gas Ente [...] | 2006-05-19 09:57:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | ECON ENRG SOCI PGOV BM |
06RANGOON669 | NLD LEADERS TO MEET WITH GAMBARI, AND SUNDRY PARTY [...] (C) Summary: NLD leaders were scheduled to meet with UN U/SYG Gambari on May 19, but only learned of the meeting one day in advance--a likely reflection of the regime's desire to control the visit as closely as possible. On May 27, the NLD will commemorate its 1990 election victory, draw atte [...] | 2006-05-19 10:06:00 | Embassy Rangoon | SECRET | PGOV PHUM ECON PREL BM |
06RANGOON678 | RESPONSE TO THE DEPARTMENT'S 212(F) ACTION REQUEST [...] Summary: The Burmese pension system provides a negligible ongoing benefit that should not affect the consideration of a retired applicant who would have been subject to 212(f) review before retirement. Regarding retired applicants and 212(f) review, we recommend: 1) that retired senior civil [...] | 2006-05-22 10:11:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | BM CVIS |
06RANGOON679 | UN U/SG GAMBARI VISIT SURPASSES EXPECTATIONS [...] (C) Summary: UN Under Secretary General Ibrahim Gambari visited Burma May 18-20. He did manage to see Aung San Suu Kyi for 45 minutes, although no one had expected it. He also visited the senior generals in their new capital and heard promises of greater openness. Gambari downplayed the si [...] | 2006-05-22 10:48:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREL PGOV PHUM EAID BM UN |
06RANGOON698 | NORTH KAREN STATE - WHERE DO YOU RUN? [...] (C) SUMMARY: A Rangoon-based Karen contact who recently visited Taungoo discussed security conditions in nearby Karen State. Fighting erupted in northern Karen State in early 2006 after the Burmese army started moving into traditional Karen-controlled areas. Authorities established a food em [...] | 2006-05-26 07:45:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PINS PREF BM |
06RANGOON699 | ILO REP PESSIMISTIC BEFORE LABOR CONFERENCE [...] (C) Summary: On the eve of the annual International Labor Conference (ILC),ILO Liaison Officer Richard Horsey has seen no signals that the new openness that UN Under Secretary General Gambari thought he saw during his meeting with Senior General Than Shwe would extend to forced labor. Horsey [...] | 2006-05-26 09:58:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ELAB ECON PGOV PREL BM |
06RANGOON700 | NLD REACTION TO GAMBARI VISIT [...] No summary [...] | 2006-05-26 10:03:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM ECON PREL BM |
06RANGOON704 | UNFPA IN BURMA: MAINTAINING STATUS QUO [...] (SBU) UNFPA's efforts to build capacity among reproductive health care providers, provide contraceptives, raise awareness and conduct research have provided valuable, effective assistance at the local level. GOB involvement has been mainly supportive. The key issues to address at the upcomin [...] | 2006-05-30 07:09:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PREF SOCI BM |
06RANGOON707 | GOING IT ALONE IN SOUTHERN BURMA [...] (C) Summary: The Burmese government, having gained an upper hand over insurgents and perceiving no local political threats, generally neglects the southern Burmese seaport of Dawei. The coastal border region, however, blessed with a robust fishing industry and productive agricultural sector, [...] | 2006-05-30 09:27:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PINS PREL ECON EAID SOCI BM TH |
06RANGOON710 | ONE STEP FORWARD, TWO STEPS BACK: ASSK NOT RELEASED [...] (C) Summary: On May 26, the Burmese regime extended the detention of Aung San Suu Kyi, re-sealed the street that runs in front of her Rangoon compound, and detained several supporters. ASSK thus began the fourth consecutive year of her current confinement. ASSK's NLD party issued a statement [...] | 2006-05-30 10:35:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL BM |
06RANGOON713 | DRUG OUTREACH PROJECTS IN NORTHERN SHAN STATE [...] (U) Summary: UNODC-supported Outreach Projects appear effective in dealing with demand for narcotics and harm reduction for residents of northern Shan State. The GOB cooperates with NGOs to address drug abuse and associated problems, including high HIV/AIDS infection rates, but does not addre [...] | 2006-05-31 07:43:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | SNAR KCRM BM |
06RANGOON727 | NLD THANKS SECRETARY RICE FOR SUPPORT [...] (C) SUMMARY: Qe National League for Democracy (NLD) passed a letter to the Secretary via Embassy Rangoon. The text of the letter appears below; the Charge will hand carry the original to Washington this week. In a June 2 meeting, NLD leaders reiterated concern that the UNSYG may request his [...] | 2006-06-05 08:34:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL OPDC BM |
06RANGOON728 | BURMA: 2006 COUNTERNARCOTICS REPORT CARD [...] (U) This message responds to ref A request for a report card on the Government of Burma's cooperation on counternarcotics efforts, based on benchmarks established in late 2005 (ref B),in preparation for the FY 2007 certification process. 2. (SBU) Begin Text of 2006 Certification Report Ca [...] | 2006-06-05 09:25:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | SNAR KCRM BM |
06RANGOON73 | JAPAN QUIETLY NUDGES BURMA [...] (C) Summary: Hideaki Mizukoshi, Director of Southeast Asia in Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, told Charge that he urged the GOB to activate a dialogue with the international community and start talking with Aung San Suu Kyi. He told the GOB that Burma's lack of progress on democracy and [...] | 2006-01-18 09:13:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL BM |
06RANGOON732 | BURMA: DEMOCRACY AWAITS ANOTHER DAY [...] (C) Embassy Rangoon's Pol/Econ Chief departs post this week, ending a three-year tour and having spent six of the past eight years on Burma-related assignments. We asked him to share a few unvarnished views on the current situation. He observes that the prospect for meaningful improvement in [...] | 2006-06-05 10:33:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM ECON PREL BM |
06RANGOON738 | FORMER STUDENT LEADERS DISCUSS NEXT MOVES [...] (C) SUMMARY: Former student activists and political prisoners Min Ko Naing and Ko Ko Gyi shared their views on U/SYG Gambari's visit and their own political strategies in a meeting on June 1. They praised USG efforts on Burma in the U.N., which they said would encourage the Burmese people. Th [...] | 2006-06-06 09:27:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL BM |
06RANGOON745 | GOB RELEASES ONE LABOR RIGHTS PRISONER [...] (C) Summary: The GOB, facing increased scrutiny of its forced labor practices at the annual International Labor Conference (ILC) in Geneva, responded on June 6 by releasing Su Su Nway, who was imprisoned in 2005 in retaliation for bringing a successful forced labor lawsuit against authorities. [...] | 2006-06-07 10:04:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ELAB ECON PGOV BM |
06RANGOON752 | BURMA: REGIME TOUGHS GET TOUGHER [...] (SBU) SUMMARY: Recent actions by regime authorities show a trend of strengthened surveillance and control of movement and meeting by opposition parties and the general public. In May, Rangoon officials started a campaign to photograph all household members in selected Rangoon communities. Tow [...] | 2006-06-08 09:56:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREF BM |
06RANGOON762 | BURMA'S ROAD TO PROSPERITY LEADS TO CHINA [...] (SBU) Summary: On a visit to Muse, the main border crossing point for trade with China, emboffs observed how trade enriches the Burmese towns along the route, and has spawned development on the Chinese side of the border. The GOB retains only a small percentage of potential revenue generated [...] | 2006-06-09 09:24:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | ECON PGOV PREL CM BM |
06RANGOON775 | DESPITE REGIME SECRECY, AUNG SAN SUU KYI RECOVERING [...] (C) Summary: According to National League for Democracy (NLD) officials and her doctor, NLD leader Aung San Suu Kyi has now recovered from a recent illness that drew worldwide concern. Despite the ruling regime's tight control over information about her illness, which began on June 8, her do [...] | 2006-06-12 11:06:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM ECON PREL BM |
06RANGOON777 | AT THE BURMA/INDIA BORDER: CHINESE GOODS AND TIGHT [...] (SBU) Summary: A recent trip to the Burma/India border in Sagaing Division revealed that, as elsewhere, Chinese products dominate border trade. Tight official security in Tamu restricted our movement and access to Burmese citizens in this area where some insurgents remain active. Unlike som [...] | 2006-06-13 02:14:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ECON PREL PGOV BM |
06RANGOON778 | BURMA BUSINESS REPS PESSIMISTIC ABOUT FUTURE [...] (SBU) Summary: At a recent meeting with visiting EAP/MLS Director Scot Marciel, Burmese business representatives described the many challenges they face in the current business environment, including multiple exchange rates, lengthy bureaucratic delays, constant power shortages, rising costs, [...] | 2006-06-13 02:38:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | ECON ETRD PGOV BM |
06RANGOON79 | REGIME TIGHTENS THE NOOSE ON U.N. ACTIVITIES [...] (C) Summary: The Burmese regime appears poised to curtail the residency of a UN-sponsored mediator and confidant of Aung San Suu Kyi and impose new restrictions on UN agencies and international NGOs. The UN agencies and INGOs have devised creative measures to adapt to restrictions, but the re [...] | 2006-01-19 03:09:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL EAID BM |
06RANGOON799 | SPDC ROAD SHOW GOES TO KAREN STATE [...] (C) SUMMARY: In another of its carefully choreographed road shows for local diplomats and hand-picked media, the Burmese ruling regime showcased its "peace and development" program in pacified areas of Karen State and characterized the Karen National Union as a "terrorist organization" solely [...] | 2006-06-14 11:43:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL PINS BM |
06RANGOON806 | SU SU NWAY: RELEASED TO FIGHT ANOTHER DAY [...] (C) Summary: NLD activist Su Su Nway emerged from her surprise June 6 release from Insein Prison committed to continue her efforts to eliminate forced labor and gain freedom for other political prisoners. She faced isolation and threats in prison, but continued to fight for human rights at ev [...] | 2006-06-15 10:39:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ELAB PHUM PGOV PREL ECON BM |
06RANGOON816 | BURMESE CELEBRATE ASSK'S BIRTHDAY DESPITE CONTROLS [...] (SBU) Summary: Aung San Suu Kyi celebrated her 61st birthday within the walls of her compound in Rangoon, where she remains under house arrest. The NLD marked the day with a gathering of hundreds of supporters at party headquarters who attended a speaking competition, gave donations to the chi [...] | 2006-06-19 11:14:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM ECON PREL BM |
06RANGOON82 | BURMA'S PRO-AMERICAN KACHIN STATE [...] (SBU) SUMMARY: Charge traveled to Myitkyina, the capital of Kachin State in northernmost Burma, Jan 8-10 and met with interlocutors from a variety of different organizations representive of the Kachin people, one of Burma's seven main ethnic minority groups. She heard the same themes repeat [...] | 2006-01-20 00:03:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM ECON SOCI SNAR PREL BM |
06RANGOON843 | BURMA/TIP: MUTED REACTION TO THE 2006 TIP REPORT [...] (SBU) Summary: The GOB officially reacted to the 2006 Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report through a critique in the state press June 20. Although it was given front-page attention, regime criticism of the Tier 3 ranking was restrained, reflecting the SPDC's expectation to retain Tier 3 ranki [...] | 2006-06-21 10:41:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | KCRM KWMN PGOV PHUM PREL BM |
06RANGOON846 | GOB "PERMITS" EIGHT DEPUTY MINISTERS TO RETIRE [...] (C) SUMMARY: The GOB announced on June 16 the "retirement" of eight deputy ministers and one Supreme Court justice. Five of the retiring deputy ministers were military officers and two were ex-military. The GOB has not announced their replacements yet, but these retirements will create space f [...] | 2006-06-22 07:45:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM ECON PREL BM |
06RANGOON848 | KAREN STATE: JUST ANOTHER DRY SEASON OFFENSIVE? [...] (C) SUMMARY: During a GOB-organized trip for diplomats to Karen State June 8-10, a former Burmese Army battlefield commander recalled the Burmese Army's 1983-84 dry season offensive against the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA) and the KNLA's major miscalculation that enabled the Burmese [...] | 2006-06-22 08:58:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL PINS BM |
06RANGOON849 | ILO READY FOR GOB ACTION ON COMMITMENTS [...] (C) Summary: On June 20, immediately upon his return from the International Labor Conference (ILC),ILO Country Liaison Officer Richard Horsey requested a meeting with Labor Minister U Thaung to follow up on the commitments on forced labor made by the GOB in Geneva. Horsey singled out the USG [...] | 2006-06-22 10:19:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ELAB PGOV ECON BM |
06RANGOON87 | FORMER STUDENT LEADERS: MOBILIZING THE MIDDLE [...] (C) Summary: Min Ko Naing and Ko Ko Kyi, former student leaders of Burma's 1988 pro-democracy movement, have become increasingly active in the year since their release from lengthy prison terms. GOB authorities have eased off their surveillance in recent months, prompting the two activists to [...] | 2006-01-23 11:06:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL BM |
06RANGOON876 | BURMA MISSES A COPPER PLATED OPPORTUNITY [...] (C) Summary: Economic mismanagement keeps Burma from cashing in on the global rise in copper prices. The experiences of Ivanhoe, the Canadian firm in a joint venture with the GOB to extract and export copper, illustrate the difficulties most firms face doing business in Burma. End summary. [...] | 2006-06-27 10:08:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ECON PGOV ETRD BM |
06RANGOON887 | UN RANGOON PROBES FOR OPENING IN BURMESE LEADERSHIP [...] (C) Summary: Onder Yucer, the temporary UN Resident Coordinator in Rangoon met with Charge on June 27 to discuss his efforts to persuade the GOB to loosen restrictive guidelines on humanitarian organizations, as well as the UN's role in negotiating some sort of political transition. He met Ju [...] | 2006-06-28 09:44:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM EAID PREL BM |
06RANGOON904 | BURMA READY TO START TALKING TO ILO [...] (C) Summary: The Deputy Minster of Labor told ILO Liaison Officer that the GOB is ready to begin discussions with ILO representatives in Geneva. ILO members at the recent International Labor Conference (ILC) deferred further action against the GOB on the condition that it resume talks to dev [...] | 2006-07-03 02:36:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ELAB ECON PGOV BM |
06RANGOON905 | JAPAN SHIFTS FOCUS FOR ASSISTANCE TO BURMA [...] (SBU) Summary: After giving assurances that it will channel official foreign aid in Burma through NGOs, the Japanese government continues to provide some targeted financial and technical assistance directly to the GOB. However, the bulk of its support goes through the UN. Japan thus remains B [...] | 2006-07-03 02:48:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ECON PGOV EAID BM |
06RANGOON911 | SMOOTH TRANSITION OF POWER IN KACHIN STATE [...] (C) SUMMARY: Following the death of Kachin Independence Organization (KIO) Chairman Tu Jai, the Central Committee moved quickly to ensure a smooth leadership transition. Three rival Kachin factions participated in the funeral. Kachin sources expect the new leader, former Vice Chairman Lanyaw C [...] | 2006-07-03 06:20:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL BM |
06RANGOON918 | RENOWNED MANDALAY WRITER FRAIL BUT STILL VOCAL [...] (SBU) SUMMARY: Despite her age of 90, well known Mandalay author and political critic "Ludu" (People's) Daw Ahma remains outspoken, respected widely among the Burmese, and an irritant to the regime, as shown by a recent interview with the Democratic Voice of Burma (DVB). She points to thousan [...] | 2006-07-03 10:31:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | PGOV PHUM ECON PREL BM |
06RANGOON919 | ICRC DRAWS DOWN FURTHER [...] (C) SUMMARY: The Burma office of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) plans to reduce further its expatriate and local staff in light of continued restrictions on independent prison visits and access to vulnerable populations in conflict zones in border areas absent any indicat [...] | 2006-07-03 10:52:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM ECON PREL BM NGO |
06RANGOON924 | WORKERS STRIKE FOR HIGHER PAY [...] (SBU) Summary: Although Burmese law prohibits strikes, many worker successfully staged strikes for wage increases in 2005 and 2006. Lab and management peacefully resolved most strikes, and GOB officials intervened in some cases to press for resolution. As long as the strikes stay apolitical, [...] | 2006-07-05 06:46:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | ELAB ECON PGOV BM |
06RANGOON93 | HOME AFFAIRS MINISTER CUTS OFF NGOS [...] (C) Summary: The GOB's Ministry of Home Affairs, without explanation or advance warning, issued orders on January 20 to six international NGOs to cease their operations in northern Shan State. The six NGOs, who collaborate with UNODC on alternative income and harm reduction projects, are qui [...] | 2006-01-24 09:20:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL EAID BM |
06RANGOON94 | NO REWARD FOR OPPOSING FORCED LABOR IN BURMA [...] (C) SUMMARY: Labor advocate and pro-democracy activist Su Su Nway, jailed since October for her successful efforts to sue GOB officials on forced labor charges, recently spent time in a prison hospital for deteriorating health. Her lawyers have appealed her conviction and expect an initial ru [...] | 2006-01-24 10:04:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM ELAB PREL BM |
06RANGOON946 | NLD IN CENTRAL BURMA: TREADING WATER [...] (C) Summary: Facing repressive measures by regional authorities, the NLD struggles to maintain minimal activities in the key central divisions of Mandalay and Magwe. Elder party leaders shrugged off the effects of the SPDC's public campaign to coerce NLD resignations, but hope for "outside he [...] | 2006-07-06 04:55:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM ECON PREL BM NLD |
06RANGOON952 | LAMPOONING THE ECONOMY LANDS SHAN YOUTH IN JAIL [...] (C) Summary: Public lampooning of price hikes and the poor economy by youth during a recent festival in the Shan State landed eight, including a member of the regime,s mass-member organization Union Solidarity Development Association (USDA),in jail for presenting a security threat. While th [...] | 2006-07-06 08:38:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM ECON PREL BM |
06RANGOON963 | ILO PRESSURE LEADS TO LAWYER'S RELEASE [...] (SBU) On July 9, authorities released U Aye Myint from Bago prison. In June, International Labor Organization (ILO) members set Aye Myint's release by the end of July as one test of the GOB's willingness to address forced labor. Aye Myint credits the ILO pressure for his release. End Summary [...] | 2006-07-10 10:17:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | ELAB ECON PGOV BM |
06RANGOON964 | RELEASED POLITICAL PRISONER UNDER TIGHT WATCH [...] SUMMARY: The regime has increased its surveillance and harassment of prominent NLD Youth member Su Su New, released from prison a month ago. Security personnel will likely tightly monitor her to thwart her activities, but they will probably stop short of re-arresting her or restricting her m [...] | 2006-07-10 11:28:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM ECON PREL BM NLD |
06RANGOON970 | NLD RESIGNED ABOUT COERCED RESIGNATIONS [...] No summary [...] | 2006-07-11 11:51:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM ECON PREL BM NLD |
06RANGOON974 | US-ASEAN TIFA POINTS DELIVERED [...] No summary [...] | 2006-07-12 10:21:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | ETRD ECON PGOV BM |
06RANGOON975 | NAY PYI DAW UPDATE [...] (SBU) Summary: Construction of Burma's new capital city, Nay Pyi Taw, continues. Gradually foreigners are getting to see the under-construction city, but plans to invite all of the Ambassadors are still on hold pending further progress. The current impression is of a vast green empty space s [...] | 2006-07-12 11:05:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | PGOV PREL BM |
06RANGOON978 | NO DECISION YET ON UNGA DELEAGTION [...] No summary [...] | 2006-07-13 05:09:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | PREL OTRA OVIP UNGA BM |
06RANGOON981 | BURMESE REGIME REACTS TO POSSIBLE UNSC ACTION [...] (SBU) Summary: The government daily newspaper, the New Light of Myanmar (NLM),has recently intensified the quantity and degree of its rhetoric against its political opposition in an ongoing series of multi-page articles. The articles also attempt to counter charges that Burma represents a th [...] | 2006-07-13 07:20:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | PGOV PHUM ECON PREL BM |
07RANGOON100 | BURMA: ICRC CHIEF OUTLINES FUTURE STRATEGY [...] (C) Summary: Frustrated by lack of progress with the regime, ICRC might issue public denunciations of repeated GOB violations of international humanitarian law and approaching third countries to enlist extra assistance. In response to the GOB's continued refusal to allow the ICRC access to [...] | 2007-01-30 04:51:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL BM |
07RANGOON1001 | A SNAPSHOT OF POVERTY IN RANGOON [...] (SBU) Summary. Poverty levels in Burma continue to rise, as a result of higher prices and decreasing purchasing power. During visits to several of Rangoon's poorest areas, we observed this escalating abject poverty firsthand. In Hlainthaya and Shwepyitha Townships, many people do not have s [...] | 2007-10-10 01:03:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | ECON EFIN PREL BM |
07RANGOON1009 | BURMA: ACTIVISTS BEGIN TO TENTATIVELY REGROUP [...] (C) Summary. A veteran political activist told Poloff that a handful of pro-democracy activists have tried to reorganize in Burma since the crackdown but are still unwilling to stage protests or other public demonstrations due to fear of immediate regime reprisals. GOB raids against monaste [...] | 2007-10-10 10:07:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PHUM BM |
07RANGOON1012 | BURMESE GOVERNMENT PLAYING GAMES WITH INTERNET [...] (C) Summary. The Burmese Government on October 9 granted Myanmar Teleport and the Ministry of Post and Telecommunications (MPT),the two local internet providers, permission to reestablish internet connections at specific times during the day. We have observed that the internet is now avail [...] | 2007-10-11 09:44:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ECON ECPS PGOV PREL BM |
07RANGOON1013 | BURMA COUNTRY CLEARANCE FOR USAID DR. CLAUDIA [...] Embassy Rangoon grants country clearance and welcomes the visit of USAID Consultant Dr. Claudia Surjadjaja, to Burma October 21-25, 2007. Purpose of travel is to attend the 23rd meeting of the ASEAN Working Group on Technical Cooperation in Pharmaceuticals, to be held in Rangoon. 2. Your E [...] | 2007-10-11 09:48:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | OTRA BM |
07RANGOON1014 | BURMA: REGIME ATTEMPTS TO SHIFT FOCUS BACK TO [...] (C) Summary: Embassy Rangoon received a faxed letter from Acting PM Thein Sein addressed to Vice President Cheney, objecting to the UN PRST on Burma and declaring the regime intends to proceed with its seven step "roadmap to democracy." The regime's mass-member organization (USDA) continues [...] | 2007-10-11 09:54:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PHUM BM |
07RANGOON1015 | GOB CURFEW AND INTERNET BAN KILLING BUSINESS [...] (SBU) Summary. Although the GOB imposed a nightly curfew and banned outside internet access in order to derail political demonstrations, local businesses have also been derailed by the clampdown. Many companies, particularly those that traditionally do their best business at night, have be [...] | 2007-10-11 09:57:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | ECON PGOV ELAB BM |
07RANGOON1018 | ARRESTS CONTINUE IN BURMA [...] (C) Reports of ongoing arrests, torture, and deaths in custody continue to circulate although they are growing more difficult to confirm as more activists go into hiding and become increasingly nervous about meeting Embassy employees. The authorities have reportedly begun arresting relatives o [...] | 2007-10-12 09:44:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PHUM BM |
07RANGOON1019 | BURMA: REGIME GUTS PRO-DEMOCRACY MOVEMENT [...] (C) Summary: Prominent 88 Generation Students leader Htay Kywe was arrested October 13 along with four other pro-democracy activists. American Center students continue to be detained and arrested, and the leader of the Tuesday Prayer Campaign has been confined to her township for one year. [...] | 2007-10-15 10:05:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PHUM BM |
07RANGOON1025 | BURMA'S MONKS: PRAYING FOR THE REGIME TO FALL [...] (C) Summary: One of Burma's most senior monks told us the recent demonstrations of monks in Rangoon had grown from spontaneous outrage to the Pakkoku incident and in response to calls for a boycott broadcast on the Burmese language stations. Though he could not speak for all forty-seven of [...] | 2007-10-16 10:54:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PHUM BM |
07RANGOON1026 | BURMA: TRACK II PROCESS TRASHED [...] (C) SUMMARY: Advocates of engagement who looked to the unofficial European-led Track II process to reach key members of the GOB and offer concessions to promote further dialogue, were morose at the end of their October 2007 visit to Burma, which occurred shortly after the regime's latest brut [...] | 2007-10-16 11:40:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PHUM BM |
07RANGOON1027 | THE SECOND DEADLIEST DISEASE IN BURMA [...] (SBU) Summary. Tuberculosis is one of the deadliest diseases in Burma, second only to malaria. According to the World Health Organization (WHO),approximately 40 percent of Burma's population is infected with TB, although some NGOs argue that up to 60 percent of the population could be infec [...] | 2007-10-17 03:37:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | ECON TBIO EAID SOCI PGOV AMED BM |
07RANGOON1031 | BURMESE REGIME TALKS RESTRAINT BUT CONTINUES [...] (C) Summary. Embassy contacts confirmed authorities sentenced four NLD members to prison terms for their alleged roles in last month's protests, including an 85-year-old man. NLD sources reported three members of the NLD's youth wing were arrested in Mandalay on October 14. NLD Spokesman U [...] | 2007-10-17 10:00:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PHUM BM |
07RANGOON1035 | LIMITED PRODUCTION FROM BURMA,S ONSHORE GAS WELLS [...] (C) Summary. The GOB earned more than $2 billion in revenues last year from the oil and gas sector, although very little came from Burma's onshore fields. The Myanmar Oil and Gas Enterprise (MOGE) controls more than 70 percent of onshore fields, although the GOB has recently granted foreign [...] | 2007-10-19 08:37:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ECON ENRG PGOV EPET BM |
07RANGOON1036 | BURMESE GOVERNMENT IN DEBT FOR OIL AND GAS [...] (C) Summary. Despite more than $2 billion in revenues from oil and gas last year, the GOB owes three private companies more than $10 million for onshore oil production. GoldPetrol has outstanding invoices dating back to mid-2006, Focus Energy has not been paid in six months, and MPRL, a Burm [...] | 2007-10-19 08:47:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ECON ENRG PGOV EPET BM |
07RANGOON1037 | BURMA: REGIME FOCUS ON "ROADMAP" IGNORES ABUSES [...] (C) Summary. On October 18, the regime announced a new constitutional drafting commission amidst reports of ongoing arrests and convictions of pro-democracy activists. Embassy sources reported several family members of prominent monk U Gambira were arrested on October 16 and 17. NLD official [...] | 2007-10-19 09:59:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PHUM BM |
07RANGOON1041 | NEW AI OUTBREAK IN POULTRY IN BURMA'S BAGO DIVISION [...] (SBU) Burmese Livestock Breeding and Veterinary Department (LBVD) officials informed us on October 22 that between October 18-19, approximately 500 quail died on two private farms in Thanatpin Township, Bago Division (75 miles north of Rangoon). Bago Division LBVD Deputy Director and staff co [...] | 2007-10-22 10:32:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EAGR EAID AMED PGOV PREL CASC TBIO KFLU BM |
07RANGOON1042 | ILO SEEKS TO STRENGTHEN LABOR MECHANISM [...] (C) Summary. While the GOB has made some progress this year in addressing forced labor claims, it still drags its feet when investigating cases involving the military, ILO Liaison Officer Steve Marshall emphasized. Since signing the GOB-ILO Forced Labor Mechanism Agreement in February, the GO [...] | 2007-10-22 10:56:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ELAB PGOV PREL PHUM BM |
07RANGOON1043 | BURMA: CRITICISM OF "ROADMAP" [...] (C) Summary. A etnic Karen former National Convention delegate told us the September crackdown makes it highly unlikely the public will ever support the results of the regime's so-called "roadmap to democracy." He said several of his fellow delegates have privately voiced concern over the re [...] | 2007-10-23 07:41:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PHUM BM |
07RANGOON1048 | AIR BAGAN LAMENTS LASTEST SANCTIONS [...] (C) Summary. Air Bagan's Managing Director rejected claims that the company's profits were being used to prop up the Burmese regime during an October 23 meeting. Instead, he and his colleagues emphasized that the company's only mission was to develop Burma's deteriorating aviation sector. Th [...] | 2007-10-23 08:58:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ECON PGOV PREL EAIR BM |
07RANGOON105 | BURMA XXXXXXXXXXXX REPORT SENSITIVE SHIPMENT [...] (S) Summary: Embassy contacts XXXXXXXXXXXX shared with us on XXXXXXXXXXXX documents for 112 metric tons of "mixed ore" shipped on January 25 from Burma to China via Singapore. XXXXXXXXXXXX noticed that authorities treated the shipment as highly sensitive, and suspect it may have included uranium. O [...] | 2007-01-30 10:23:00 | Embassy Rangoon | SECRET | PARM PREL ETTC MNUC BM CH |
07RANGOON1052 | MANDALAY CRACKDOWN MILDER THAN RANGOON [...] (C) Summary. Poloff visited Mandalay to observe any changes in the city since the September uprising and to try to obtain details of the demonstrations and subsequent military crackdown there. According to contacts we met in Mandalay, the demonstrations here were not as political as they wer [...] | 2007-10-24 08:03:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PHUM BM |
07RANGOON1056 | FEMINIST WRITERS' GROUP EXPRESSES OPTIMISM FOR [...] (C) Summary. Writers for a local feminist magazine expressed optimism for the future of democracy in Burma. They noted that the demonstrations in September differed from the 1988 demonstrations because this time the international community was watching. They also felt that a new generation ha [...] | 2007-10-24 10:24:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PHUM BM |
07RANGOON1057 | MEMBER LACKS CONFIDENCE IN CONSTITUTION COMMISSION [...] (C) Summary. Tun Aung Chain, a member of the Commission for Drafting the State Constitution, told us he harbors little hope that the process will lead to meaningful democracy in Burma. He explained that while the commission consists of 54 members representing various ethnic groups and profes [...] | 2007-10-25 05:09:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PHUM BM |
07RANGOON1060 | AUNG SAN SUU KYI MEETS WITH REGIME LIAISON [...] (C) Summary: Aung San Suu Kyi met with newly appointed liaison Aung Kyi at the Government Guest House the afternoon of October 25. Burmese State Television announced Acting PM Thein Sein would be appointed Prime Minister and that Quarter Master General LT GEN Tin Aung Myint Oo would replace T [...] | 2007-10-25 10:50:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PHUM BM |
07RANGOON1064 | BURMA: SOME PRISONERS RELEASED; KEY LEADERS STILL [...] (SBU) Summary: On October 25 the regime released 87 people it had arrested during last month's demonstrations, including 50 NLD members. However, the regime continues to arrest and detain prominent NLD and 88 Generation Students leaders, and to deny them proper medical attention. The gover [...] | 2007-10-29 10:23:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PHUM BM |
07RANGOON1069 | FRENCH COMPANY TO CONTINUE OIL AND GAS OPERATIONS [...] (C) Summary. Although the European Union plans to impose new financial sanctions on the Burmese regime in light of the recent political turmoil, French-owned Total, which controls more than 31 percent of the Yadana gas fields, has no plans to pull out of Burma. Total's General Manager predic [...] | 2007-10-30 10:23:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ECON ENRG PGOV EPET BM |
07RANGOON1070 | BURMA: REPORTS OF RENEWED FIGHTING IN KAREN STATE [...] (C) Summary. A politically-active ethnic Karen relayed reports of renewed fighting in Karen State between KNU forces and the Burma Army-backed DKBA. The fighting reportedly began on October 28 when KNU forces attacked a Burma Army outpost in Kawkareik in southern Karen State. Our contact ci [...] | 2007-10-30 10:48:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PHUM BM |
07RANGOON1074 | BURMA: MONKS ON THE MARCH AGAIN [...] (C) Summary: Following a pro-regime rally in Pakokku that residents were forced to participate in, 200 monks marched through the city chanting and carrying the flag of the Buddhist clergy in a peaceful protest. A monk who participated told DVB the monks plan to continue the protests. He ur [...] | 2007-10-31 10:46:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PHUM BM |
07RANGOON1076 | BURMA SANCTIONS HITTING THE REGIME WHERE IT HURTS [...] (C) Summary. The Burmese regime, concerned about the latest U.S. economic sanctions, called several key businessmen to Nai Pyi Taw, including Tay Za and Steven Law, to discuss how best to deal with the sanctions. According to business contacts, the senior generals, unhappy with Tay Za for " [...] | 2007-10-31 11:22:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ECON FIN PGOV PREL BM |
07RANGOON1079 | BURMESE GOVERNMENT ONCE AGAIN CUTS OFF INTERNET [...] (C) Summary. Following the renewed march by 200 monks in Pakokku on October 31, Burma once again finds itself with no internet access. On November 1, the Ministry of Post and Telecommunications (MTC) and Myanmar Teleport, Burma's two internet service providers (ISPs),officially announced th [...] | 2007-11-01 09:05:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ECON ECPS PGOV BM |
07RANGOON1082 | BURMA: MANDALAY MONKS REPORTEDLY PREPARING TO [...] (C) Summary: According to an 88 Generation Students leader, monks in Mandalay are preparing to renew their peaceful protests. Although we have heard no reports of any new demonstrations today, the Australian Ambassador told the Charge 80 monks were dispersed by police yesterday when they at [...] | 2007-11-01 10:37:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PHUM BM |
07RANGOON1083 | BURMA PREPARES FOR THE NOVEMBER ILO GOVERNING BODY [...] (C) Summary: The ILO representative in Burma provided an update of labor issues in Burma. This included the progress he has been able to make working with the Minister for Relations (and now Minister of Labor),Aung Kyi. He warned Aung Kyi that the long prison sentences to labor activists [...] | 2007-11-02 05:39:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ELAB PGOV PREL PHUM BM |
07RANGOON1084 | BURMA: REGIME TO PNG UN COUNTRY CHIEF [...] (SBU) Summary: On the eve of Gambari's visit to Burma, the GOB announced that UN Resident Coordinator Charles Petrie was no longer welcome. Despite the UN's desire to maintain control of Gambari's schedule, Petrie was informed today the regime had its own schedule for Gambari and he should r [...] | 2007-11-02 11:10:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PHUM BM |
07RANGOON1088 | BURMA: REGIME HOLD GAMBARI IN NAY PYI TAW [...] (C) Summary: UN Special Envoy Gambari arrived in Rangoon November 3 and proceeded straight to Nay Pyi Taw where he was granted meetings with the Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Minister of Relations (liaison with Aung San Suu Kyi). A UN official told us Gambari described his meeting with [...] | 2007-11-05 10:50:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PHUM BM |
07RANGOON1089 | DEMARCHES ON PIRACY DELIVERED [...] No summary [...] | 2007-11-05 10:54:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | KCRM KCSY PHSA PBTS PGOV PREL EWWT UN UNSC |
07RANGOON1090 | BURMA: A TALE OF TWO CRONIES [...] (C) Summary. Despite being the senior generals' two favorite cronies, Steven Law and Tay Za could not be more different. Steven Law, the son of a known drug smuggler, keeps a low profile and conducts his business with little fanfare. Known as a consummate businessman, Law is lauded for his [...] | 2007-11-06 09:44:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ECON EFIN PREL PGOV BM |
07RANGOON1091 | BURMA: A TALE OF TWO CRONIES [...] (C) Summary. Despite being the senior generals' two favorite cronies, Steven Law and Tay Za could not be more different. Steven Law, the son of a known drug smuggler, keeps a low profile and conducts his business with little fanfare. Known as a consummate businessman, Law is lauded for his [...] | 2007-11-06 09:44:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ECON EFIN PREL PGOV BM |
07RANGOON1093 | TAY ZA'S FAMILY TELLS THEIR SIDE OF THE STORY [...] (C) Summary. In a November 6 meeting, Tay Za's older brother, Thiha, and Tay Za's eldest son, Pye Phyo Tay Za, responded to the latest U.S. sanctions and attempted to clarify the nature of Tay Za's relationship with the senior generals. Thiha questioned why the USG singled out Tay Za as a cr [...] | 2007-11-07 10:48:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ECON EFIN PREL PGOV BM |
07RANGOON1094 | BURMA: ASSK FINE; USG URGED TO KEEP PRESSURE ON [...] (C) Summary: Aung San Suu Kyi's personal doctor treated her last week for a minor infection in her hand. Her doctor told us she had a good first meeting with Minister of Relations Aung Kyi and that the two would meet on a weekly basis. According to the doctor, last week's meeting was cancel [...] | 2007-11-07 11:12:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PHUM BM |
07RANGOON1095 | AIR BAGAN LIVES IT UP WHILE CRYING POOR [...] (C) Summary. Regime crony Tay Za, celebrating Air Bagan's third anniversary on November 5, held a press conference where he emphasized Air Bagan's charity work in Burma, detailed the future of the airline, denounced close ties to the regime, and condemned U.S. sanctions. After the press co [...] | 2007-11-08 02:00:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ECON PREL PGOV EAIR BM |
07RANGOON1096 | GAMBARI ACHIEVES LITTLE IN BURMA [...] (C) Summary: We consider Gambari's most recent visit a failure, and most of the diplomatic and UN community based here agrees with us. He allowed himself to be held captive in the isolated capital, he only met with people the regime approved, and he obtained nothing but vague indications of [...] | 2007-11-08 11:06:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL BM |
07RANGOON1098 | BURMA'S INTERNATIONAL AVIATION INDUSTRY CRASHING [...] (C) Summary. Two of Burma's three international air carriers, Air Bagan and Myanmar Airways International (MAI),have begun to shut down their operations, although for very different reasons. Air Bagan, feeling the financial pinch of the latest round of U.S. sanctions, stopped its service to [...] | 2007-11-09 06:09:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ECON PREL PGOV EAIR BM |
07RANGOON1099 | TALES FROM INSEIN PRISON [...] (C) Summary. NLD Spokesman U Myint Thein, recently released from Insein prison, detailed for us his experiences during his 34-day detention. While he did not experience physical torture, he said that others did. The police often awoke him in the middle of the night to subject him to three-h [...] | 2007-11-09 10:22:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PHUM BM |
07RANGOON1100 | AUNG SAN SUU KYI MEETS NLD LEADERS AND AUNG KYI [...] (C) Summary: In a two hour meeting with her party's Central Executive Committee (CEC),Aung San Suu Kyi described Minister of Relations Aung Kyi as a good man with whom she could work. She also told them that she believed the regime had a "genuine will for national reconciliation" and dialog [...] | 2007-11-09 11:18:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PHUM BM |
07RANGOON1102 | BURMA'S DOMESTIC AVIATION INDUSTRY NOSEDIVES [...] (C) Summary. Burma, the aviation hub of Southeast Asia fifty years ago, now struggles to service its domestic market. With tourist levels down more than 60 percent, Burma's aviation industry is in a state of disarray. Four domestic airlines currently operate in Burma -- Air Bagan, Myanmar [...] | 2007-11-13 03:13:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ECON PREL PGOV EAIR BM |
07RANGOON1103 | BURMA: THE KNU,S RELUCTANT FIST [...] (S) Summary. KNU leaders said they believe tripartite dialogue offers the only path to real change, but they still have no faith in the regime to engage in genuine discussions. The KNU chairman said he would continue to work with other ethnic groups to apply political pressure on the governm [...] | 2007-11-13 07:56:00 | Embassy Rangoon | SECRET | PGOV PREL PHUM BM |
07RANGOON1104 | HOPE AND FEAR IN BURMA'S MON STATE [...] (C) Summary: Charge visited Mawlamyaing, Burma's third largest city and capital of Mon State, November 11 and 12. She met with NLD party members, who described themselves as hopeful that change would come soon, but still distrustful of the Burmese military. They indicated that they have regu [...] | 2007-11-14 10:25:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL ELAB BM |
07RANGOON1105 | BURMESE REGIME DESTROYS EDUCATION TO KEEP CONTROL [...] (C) Summary. Myat Ko Ko, a member of the Embassy-funded Cosmopolitan Library Club, explained how the regime consolidates its power by destroying Burma's education system. While the children of the generals can afford to attend foreign universities, over 300,000 university students in Burma m [...] | 2007-11-14 11:05:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PHUM BM |
07RANGOON1107 | ZAW ZAW: A CRONY ON THE RISE [...] (C) While Tay Za and Steven Law remain the regime's favorite cronies, Zaw Zaw, Managing Director of construction company Max Myanmar and Chairman of the Myanmar Football Federation, is an up and coming crony. Zaw Zaw actively seeks favor with the senior generals, and competes with Tay Za fo [...] | 2007-11-15 05:09:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ECON EFIN PREL PGOV BM |
07RANGOON1108 | BURMA: WHERE HAVE ALL THE TOURISTS GONE? [...] (C) Summary. Burma continues to feel the economic impact of the regime's violent crackdown in September. The tourism industry, which employs an estimated 500,000 people, continues to flounder as tourists cancel trips to Burma. In October, Burma only received 7,221 tourists, a 228 percent [...] | 2007-11-15 08:14:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ECON PREL PGOV BM |
07RANGOON1109 | BURMA: INCSR II MONEY LAUNDERING AND FINANCIAL CRIMES [...] This report responds to reftel request for the INCSR II Money Laundering and Financial Crimes Report update. 2. Burma, a major drug-producing country, has taken steps to strengthen its anti-money laundering regulatory regime in 2006 and 2007. The country's economy remains dominated by state [...] | 2007-11-15 08:37:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | EFIN KCRM KTFN SNAR BM |
07RANGOON1111 | PINHEIRO RETURNS TO BURMA [...] (C) Summary: Pinheiro told the dip corps that cooperation he had received from the GOB had been positive. He had been given access to everyone he asked to see and taken to all the places he requested to visit. He noted, however, that his trip was not a "fact finding" mission because he had n [...] | 2007-11-15 11:39:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PHUM BM |
07RANGOON1112 | TORTURED DETAINEE SURVIVES BURMESE PRISON [...] (C) Summary. The chairman of an NLD township branch discussed the torture he underwent at interrogation centers and at Insein prison. USDA thugs arrested him on September 26 and sent him to interrogation centers for several days of torture and questioning, before transferring him to Insein Pr [...] | 2007-11-16 02:58:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PHUM BM |
07RANGOON1113 | EDEN GROUP PROSPERING DUE TO REGIME CONNECTIONS [...] (C) Summary. Chit Khaing, owner and Managing Director of Eden Group and an up and coming crony, has parlayed his regime connections to amass great wealth, while most Burmese struggle to survive. A prominent construction company, Eden Group received a six-year contract to construct government [...] | 2007-11-16 05:31:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ECON EFIN PREL PGOV BM |
07RANGOON1117 | WIF GRANT PROPOSAL FOR WOMEN,S EMPOWERMENT IN [...] Embassy Rangoon recommends the following project for EAP/RSP Regional Women's Issues Fund Small Grants Program (SG) for Locally-based Organizations: A. Identifying Information: --------------------------- a) Name of project: Strengthening Women Capacity Empowerment in Kachin State: App [...] | 2007-11-19 08:02:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | EAID KWMN KPAO KCRM SOCI BM |
07RANGOON1118 | BUILDING CIVIL SOCIETY IN BURMA [...] (C) SUMMARY. Since 2005 Embassy Rangoon has funded 23 Burmese groups and NGOs to conduct grassroots civil society and capacity building projects throughout the country. To date, we have provided a total of USD 232,536 to these groups to support capacity building, vocational and educational [...] | 2007-11-19 09:55:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PHUM BM |
07RANGOON1119 | BURMA: FOUR STEPS BACKWARD, TWO STEPS FORWARD [...] (C) Summary: In his first public address since the September protests and regime crackdown, Senior General Than Shwe asserted the government would move forward with its "roadmap to democracy," and gave no indication he would alter the process to make it more inclusive. Than Shwe has sent hi [...] | 2007-11-19 10:27:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PHUM BM |
07RANGOON1120 | FIGHTING MULTIPLE DRUG RESISTANT TB IN BURMA [...] (C) Summary. Although the World Health Organization (WHO) estimated in 2003 that Burma's rate of new cases of multiple drug resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) was 4.4 percent, health NGOs working in Burma today believe the current rate to be as high as six percent. Independent studies conduct [...] | 2007-11-19 10:43:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ECON TBIO EAID SOCI PGOV AMED BM |
07RANGOON1122 | THAI PETROLEUM COMPANY TO INCREASE INVESTMENT IN [...] (C) Summary. Thai-owned PTTEP, one of the largest foreign investors in Burma's oil and gas sectors, plans to invest an additional $1 billion over the next three years to develop offshore block M9. PTTEP, which found substantial natural gas reserves in late 2006, intends to drill four addit [...] | 2007-11-20 11:42:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ECON ENRG PGOV EPET BM |
07RANGOON1127 | BURMA: INCSR I DRUGS AND CHEMICAL CONTROL [...] No summary [...] | 2007-11-21 09:56:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | SNAR PGOV PREL BM |
07RANGOON1129 | BURMA: WHAT DIALOGUE? JUST ARRESTS [...] (C) Summary. According to an NLD spokesman, the regime has not responded to Aung San Suu Kyi's request for her to have additional, regular meetings with NLD officials. On November 20, authorities detained six more pro-democracy activists, four of whom remain in custody. One of the released [...] | 2007-11-21 10:06:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PHUM BM |
07RANGOON1130 | BURMA: INCSR I DRUGS AND CHEMICAL CONTROL [...] No summary [...] | 2007-11-21 10:31:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | SNAR PGOV PREL BM |
07RANGOON1131 | CHINESE NOT ASKING MUCH OF BURMA [...] (C) Summary: China's Ambassador to Burma expressed satisfaction that the Than Shwe regime was making political progress, and urged the U.S. to be more patient and less critical. He did not offer any specific details on the November 14-16 visit of Vice Foreign Minister Wang Yi to Burma, whom [...] | 2007-11-21 10:55:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL BM |
07RANGOON1133 | NEW AI OUTBREAK IN BURMA'S EASTERN SHAN STATE [...] Burmese Livestock Breeding and Veterinary Department (LBVD) officials informed us on November 23 that from November 4-18, approximately 1,858 chickens and 200 ducks had died in Katpa village tract, Naung Neing Village, located 5 miles from Kyaing Tone Township in Eastern Shan State. The Regi [...] | 2007-11-23 09:02:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EAGR EAID AMED PGOV PREL CASC TBIO KFLU BM |
07RANGOON1136 | BURMA: ASSK WANTS ETHNIC LEADERS IN THE DIALOGUE [...] (C) Summary: Ethnic pro-democracy activists U Ohn Tin and Khun Tu have been released, while the president of the Zomi National Congress and an MP-elect remain detained. During his detention, the authorities questioned U Ohn Tin regarding a statement ethnic leaders had made in support of Aung [...] | 2007-11-23 11:26:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PHUM BM |
07RANGOON1139 | WORKING TO FEED BURMA,S HUNGRY [...] (SBU) Summary. According to international NGOs, malnutrition rates are increasing in Northern Rakhine State (NRS). In the past year, humanitarian organizations have seen a 380 percent increase in severely malnourished patients seeking treatment due to drought, flood, and inflation. Action C [...] | 2007-11-26 07:13:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | EAID PHUM PGOV ECON BM |
07RANGOON114 | BURMA: HOW THE WELL-CONNECTED MAKE MONEY [...] (SBU) Summary: Aik Htun acknowledged that his position stems from his comfortable relations with major government and business players built on 30 years of experience working deals through the regime. He denied the widespread allegations connecting him to narcotics trafficking and money laund [...] | 2007-02-01 08:10:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | ECON PGOV SNAR BM |
07RANGOON1140 | BURMESE GENERALS PRIZE ORDER OVER LAW [...] (C) Summary. Kyaw Zaw Naing, head of the Global Green Group, which received a small grant in 2007 from Embassy Rangoon, described his efforts to promote legal knowledge with free law clinics throughout the country. Basic legal knowledge, he explained, will empower citizens to protect themsel [...] | 2007-11-26 07:15:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PHUM BM |
07RANGOON1143 | BURMA: UNICEF AND ILO ON CHILD SOLDIERS [...] (C) Summary. UNICEF and ILO representatives in Burma told Poloff they believed the use of child soldiers to be an ongoing problem, but had no way to accurately measure its scope. Current estimates were based almost entirely on anecdotal evidence, so could be misleading, they said. UNICEF de [...] | 2007-11-26 10:02:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PHUM BM |
07RANGOON1145 | PROMOTING DEMOCRACY IN BURMA [...] (SBU) Summary. Rangoon-based Western missions met on November 21 to discuss the U.S., UK, Australian, and German small grants programs. Grants programs among the embassies focus either on infrastructure development or capacity building. The French Cultural Counselor said that he hoped to lo [...] | 2007-11-27 02:46:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | PGOV PREL PHUM BM |
07RANGOON1146 | BURMA: MORE ARRESTS RAISE TENSIONS, HIGHLIGHT LIES [...] (C) Summary. KIO officials confirmed that on November 22, the Burma Army arrested eight of the group's members, six of whom were released the next day. The KIO is negotiating for the release of the remaining two, believed to be senior regional leaders of the cease-fire group. While there we [...] | 2007-11-27 11:06:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PHUM BM |
07RANGOON1148 | BURMA: THE DIALOGUE IS DEAD [...] (C) Summary: PM Thein Sein told an Embassy contact that Than Shwe had dispatched him to ASEAN with two objectives: to cancel Gambari's briefing during the Summit, and to undermine support for U.S. sanctions on Burma. Thein Sein said Than Shwe had ordered him to walk out of the Summit if ASEA [...] | 2007-11-28 09:00:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PHUM BM |
07RANGOON1151 | NEW AI OUTBREAK IN EASTERN SHAN STATE [...] (SBU) The Burmese Livestock Breeding and Veterinary Department (LBVD) informed us on November 29 that they discovered two dead chickens in Wam Kaung Quarter in the town of Tachileik (Eastern Shan State) on November 26. The township veterinary officer sent samples to Kyaing Tone Quarantine La [...] | 2007-11-29 11:29:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EAGR EAID AMED PGOV PREL CASC TBIO KFLU BM |
07RANGOON1153 | HARDSHIP AND HEARTACHE IN BURMA [...] (SBU) Summary. The end of November brought nothing but more hardship to the Burmese people and their beleaguered pro-democracy movement. Authorities obstructed a peaceful procession, closed an important monastery, and prevented a political prisoner from visiting his dying mother. They did [...] | 2007-11-30 10:58:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PHUM BM |
07RANGOON1155 | BURMA: WFP STRUGGLES TO REACH THE STARVING [...] (SBU) Summary. Burma's ruling military regime places significant restrictions on the movements of World Food Program (WFP) officials, as well as its cooperating partners and donor organizations. Attendees at a November 29 meeting on WFP issues complained that, with only a few exceptions, it [...] | 2007-11-30 11:42:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | PGOV PREL PHUM BM |
07RANGOON1164 | BURMA: THE WORLD ACCORDING TO THAN SHWE [...] (SBU) Summary. At a December 3 news conference for the diplomatic corps and members of the press, Minister of Information Brig Gen Kyaw Hsan, Director General of Police Khin Yi, and Minister of Labor (and Aung San Suu Kyi liaison) Aung Kyi showcased the inaugural session of the constitutiona [...] | 2007-12-06 02:36:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PHUM BM |
07RANGOON1165 | BURMA: AUNG SAN SUU KYI'S VIEWS [...] (C) Summary: Charge met with Dr. Tin Myo Win, aka Douglas, on December 6 to discuss his recent meetings with Aung San Suu Kyi (ASSK). ASSK appears less optimistic now than previous statements by NLD members have indicated about the quality of the dialogue to date, according to Douglas. Janu [...] | 2007-12-06 09:00:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL BM |
07RANGOON1168 | BURMA: INCREASED ACTIVITY IN KAREN STATE [...] (C) Summary. Karen National Union contacts told us the Burma Army has been increasing its presence and activities in Karen State. A recent announcement that the KNU will close a portion of a major road between Karen and Mon States was not approved by KNU headquarters and likely came from loc [...] | 2007-12-07 09:17:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PHUM BM |
07RANGOON1170 | BURMA: WHO,S WHO IN THE REGIME [...] (SBU) Summary. Despite persistent rumors of divisions within the Burmese military, we have not seen any evidence of exploitable schisms in the Than Shwe regime. While personality conflicts likely exist and some may be more moderate than others, so far no one has stepped up to challenge Than [...] | 2007-12-07 11:55:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PHUM BM |
07RANGOON1175 | BURMA: ACTIVISTS DOWN BUT NOT OUT [...] (C) Summary. Contrary to warnings by the authorities, human rights activist Myint Aye and his supporters held a ceremony commemorating the 59th anniversary of the UN's Universal Declaration of Human Rights in Rangoon on December 10. Poloffs observed a heavy plain-clothes police presence ou [...] | 2007-12-10 10:42:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PHUM BM |
07RANGOON1177 | BURMA: NO NEWS IS BAD NEWS [...] (C) Summary. Activist and DVB stringer Aye Myin Soe is in hiding and informed us there is no one left in Burma to research and file stories for the Norwegian-based broadcaster. Authorities have held his three colleagues - Ko Myat San, Win Maw, and Aung Gyi - in Insein Prison since their arr [...] | 2007-12-12 10:06:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PHUM BM |
07RANGOON1178 | BURMESE AIDS ACTIVIST PHYU PHYU THIN TIRED OF [...] No summary [...] | 2007-12-14 06:40:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PHUM SOCI BM |
07RANGOON1180 | BURMA: FIRST HUMAN AI CASE CONFIRMED [...] (U) On December 14, the World Health Organization (WHO) and Burmese Ministry of Health (MOH) confirmed Burma's first case of human infection with the H5N1 avian influenza virus. The case involved a seven-year-old girl infected with the virus during a poultry outbreak in Kyaing Tone (Kangtung) [...] | 2007-12-17 09:19:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EAGR EAID AMED PGOV PREL CASC TBIO KFLU BM |
07RANGOON1181 | BURMESE REGIME NOT TALKING [...] (C) Summary. Aung San Suu Kyi's personal physician, Dr. Tin Myo Win (Douglas),said that no meetings between Aung San Suu Kyi and Minister of Relations Aung Kyi have taken place since November 19. Rather than create a real dialogue, the government has preoccupied itself with the visa ban and [...] | 2007-12-17 09:23:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PHUM BM |
07RANGOON1185 | JUSTICE WAITS ANOTHER DAY IN BURMA [...] (C) Summary. Pro-democracy activist Htin Kyaw's trial was postponed until December 26 and will now be held in Insein Prison rather than a courthouse in Rangoon. His health continued to decline due to his hunger strike and family and supporters were worried for his well being. Labor activis [...] | 2007-12-18 09:31:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PHUM BM |
07RANGOON1191 | BURMA: HELPING PHYU PHYU THIN [...] (C) Summary: HIV/AIDS activist and NLD youth member Phyu Phyu Thin does not want to come out of hiding, contrary to Ref A. She believes she would be quickly arrested and unable to assist her patients. Phyu Phyu Thin's patients are in desperate need of quick funding in order to continue their [...] | 2007-12-19 10:09:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PHUM BM KHIV EAID SOCI |
07RANGOON1200 | BURMA: THAI MFA DIRECTOR ON THE DIALOGUE [...] (C) Summary: Thai MFA Director Kallayana described the behind-the-scenes maneuvering at the November ASEAN Summit that led to the cancellation of Gambari's briefing at the event. At the Summit, Thai PM Surayud had urged Burmese PM Thein Sein to upgrade the dialogue with Aung San Suu Kyi by s [...] | 2007-12-21 11:35:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PHUM BM |
07RANGOON1202 | EMBASSY RANGOON POC FOR MDB LOAN REVIEW [...] No summary [...] | 2007-12-26 06:42:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | EFIN EAID ECON EINV PREL BM |
07RANGOON1203 | WIN AUNG - A RISING CRONY WITH CONNECTIONS [...] (C) Summary. Win Aung, owner of Dagon International Construction Company and Dagon Timber Ltd., and his family continue to use their close connections with the Burmese regime to amass great wealth. Although Dagon International specializes in the construction of luxury housing projects, it [...] | 2007-12-26 08:39:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ECON EFIN PREL PGOV BM |
07RANGOON1207 | BURMA'S PRO-DEMOCRACY MOVEMENT STILL ALIVE [...] (C) Summary: Burma's famous comedian and political activist, Zarganar, is organizing monks, students, factory workers, and others to participate in follow-up demonstrations to the September marches. He recently received a letter from Aung San Suu Kyi thanking him for his role in organizing t [...] | 2007-12-27 10:19:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL PHUM BM |
07RANGOON121 | WFP BURMA APPEALS FOR INCREASED DONOR SUPPORT [...] SUMMARY: The World Food Program (WFP) seeks over $45 million in additional support from current and new donors to support its new Protracted Relief and Recovery Operations in Burma. The program will benefit 1.6 million vulnerable Burmese and will cost $ 51.7 million for the three-year project [...] | 2007-02-02 10:42:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | EAGR EAID PGOV BM |
07RANGOON1210 | SUSPECTED AI OUTBREAK IN POULTRY IN EASTERN SHAN [...] (SBU) Burmese Livestock Breeding and Veterinary Department (LBVD) officials informed us on December 28 that from December 23-24, approximately 6 chickens died on one farm in Yang Kham village, Mong Hpayak Township in Eastern Shan State. Mong Hpayak Township is located 50 miles from Kyaing To [...] | 2007-12-28 08:02:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EAGR EAID AMED PGOV PREL CASC TBIO KFLU BM |
07RANGOON1211 | DROPPING THE HAMMER ON CRONY STEVEN LAW [...] (C) Summary. Tun Myint Naing, a.k.a. Steven Law, is known among Burma's business circles as the regime's top crony. He is known to be close with both Senior General Than Shwe and Vice Senior General Maung Aye. In addition to owning Asia World Co. Ltd., one of Burma's most successful constr [...] | 2007-12-28 08:14:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | ECON EFIN PREL PGOV BM |
07RANGOON122 | BURMA: MORE INSURGENT GROUPS EMERGE [...] (C) SUMMARY: Post recently received information about two small insurgent groups, each with about 200 armed soldiers, that continue to resist the SPDC. The Hanthawady Restoration Army in Mon State engages in armed conflict against the Burmese Army, while the Chin ethnic Zomi Revolutionary Army [...] | 2007-02-05 08:53:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PINS PREL BM |
07RANGOON129 | BURMA: IMPLEMENTATION OF UNSC 1737 [...] No summary [...] | 2007-02-06 09:49:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | EFIN KNNP IR BM |
07RANGOON134 | BURMA'S TB PROGRAM: SOME PROGRESS, LOOMING PROBLEMS [...] (U) Members of a World Health Organization (WHO) monitoring mission reported that, though progress has been made, serious problems loom in Burma's ability to identify and treat TB patients. Of primary concern are: the rising funding gap, impending drug shortage, increasing rate of HIV-infecte [...] | 2007-02-08 09:20:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY | PGOV SOCI TBIO BM |
07RANGOON135 | INDIA'S RELATIONS WITH BURMA'S MILITARY REGIME [...] (C) Summary: In the interest of national security and economic growth, India has taken what it views as a practical and realistic approach in its relations with Burma's military regime. Number 2 General Maung Aye is their main interlocutor, although he has expressed frustration with the slow [...] | 2007-02-08 10:30:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL BM PINR CH IN KS |
07RANGOON136 | BURMA SAYS, "NO MORE CHILD SOLDIERS...TRUST US" [...] (C) SUMMARY: The Burmese regime brought out its big guns on February 6 to persuade Rangoon-based diplomats that Burmese armed forces no longer recruit child soldiers. SPDC Secretary-1 Lt. Gen. Thein Sein and Foreign Minister Nyan Win SIPDIS both told diplomats that the regime has taken all [...] | 2007-02-08 11:34:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PREL KOCI BM |
07RANGOON144 | BURMA: NOMINATION FOR APRIL 2-13 FSN POLITICAL [...] SUMMARY: Embassy Rangoon enthusiastically nominates Mr. Arthur Aye, Political/Economic Specialist, to attend the April 2-13 Political Training Course for FSNs at FSI. In a country that is on the frontline of transformational diplomacy, where our FSNs work in an extremely oppressive environmen [...] | 2007-02-09 11:38:00 | Embassy Rangoon | UNCLASSIFIED | AFSI AFSN AMGT PGOV PREL BM |
07RANGOON156 | BURMA'S ETHNIC MON STRADDLE THE FENCE [...] (C) SUMMARY: A New Mon State Party (NMSP) leader recently told us relations with the regime are not good, but the NMSP prefers to play along than to break its 20-year cease-fire and return to fighting. The NMSP recently traveled to three Mon districts to explain to the public why it downgrade [...] | 2007-02-15 03:38:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PHUM PINS PREL SNAR BM |
07RANGOON166 | PREPARING FOR CHANGE IN BURMA [...] (C) Summary: China's Ambassador to Burma provided a readout of Gen. Thura Shwe Mann's recent visit to China as well as senior military plans to move forward on its Seven Point Roadmap. He said Burma's number three general was most interested in ideas to get the Burmese economy moving. The C [...] | 2007-02-20 06:22:00 | Embassy Rangoon | CONFIDENTIAL | PGOV PREL BM CH |