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BurmaDoc entries 30 May to 3 June 1
Subject: BurmaDoc entries 30 May to 3 June 1997
Burma Issues, a Bangkok-based organization, maintains a documentation
center that archives a wide variety of materials (newspaper clippings,
reports, statements, press releases, books, videos, etc.) related to
Burma. We currently have over 12,000 sources in our archives. Every week
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list has been used within the organization to keep our volunteers and
friends up-to-date on current developments. Each article is followed by an
abbreviation that corresponds to the source of the document, a date and a
code that corresponds to our internal indexing system used to retrieve
copies of the original document. Other bibliographic information is
available, but has been dropped to shorten the document. For people who
are interested in a document contained in the list, feel free to request a
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Recent News Items & Other BurmaDoc Entries:
30 May to 3 June 1997
Themes: trade; non-Asean regional trade groupings; financial assistance;
the Yadana gas pipeline; students; prostitution, including child
prostitution; Asean's decision to grant membership status to Burma, Laos
and Cambodia; responses to Asean's invitation to Burma; other Asean news;
sanctions from New York City; Thai-Burma relations; refugees; a likely
error in TN; illegal drugs; politics, political parties, Aung San Suu Kyi
& the crackdown against the NLD; insurgents and the civil war; and health
and medicine.
-- Trade:
In an attempt to boost border and regional trade, the Commerce Ministry
will host a trade seminar featuring representatives from 9 Southeast Asia.
The participants will be officer from customs and finance authorities
overseeing border trade activities, commercial counselors, provincial
trade officers and representatives from the private sector. Customs
procedures and regulations, smuggling and political issues hamper trade.
The ministry is holding talks with the NSC in the hope of opening up more
border trade points with Burma. TN 970530 OA/4AF/008
-- Non-Asean regional trade groupings:
Burma is considering whether it will attend the launch of a new regional
economic grouping as an observer or as a co-founder. If Rangoon approves
Bistec's draft, it will join BA, India, SL, and Thailand at the
inaguration. If Burma joins, the name will be changed from Bistek to the
Bay of Bengal Economic Cooperation (BBEC). Kobsak Chutikul, director
general of the FM's Economic Affairs Department said that Burma's
cooperation is essential because it will provide the geographical link
between Thailand and SA. Burma declined to join the grouping when
approached two years ago, but expressed interest last week. The BBEC aims
to accelerate economic growth and social progress by collaborating on
technical, economic and social fields. TN 970603 OA/9CA/069
-- Financial assistance:
The Slorc is pressuring foreign corporations doing business in Burma to
act as guarantors for loans from foreign banks. Mitsui of Japan is in the
process of agreeing to become guarantor for a $150 million loan channeled
through the Bank of Tokyo. This is the first time since 1987 that
commercial loans to Burma have been guaranteed by private sources. It
indicates that Rangoon is facing an acute shortage of foreign exchange and
that official growth statistics have been inflated. Burma's Central Bank
issued a confidential report that indicated the growth rate has been
declining since 1995. FEER 970605 OP/4E/001
-- The Yadana gas pipeline:
Deputy permanent secretary of the Agriculture Ministry Pitipong Pungboonna
Ayudhaya said that the forest in the area of the PTT's pipeline is already
degraded and the land its on might lose its protected status, pending the
approval of the National Park Committee. However, the WFT has been
arguing that the land is not degraded yet. TN 970603 OA/4GH/020
According to the agriculture minister, the Petroleum Authority of Thailand
does not have permission to build the Yadana gas pipeline through forest
areas in Kanchanaburi. The ministry will have to consider if the project
will have adverse effects on the forest. The potential delay comes amid
warnings that Burma will impose a 40 million baht daily fine if the
pipeline isn't complete by July 1998. In addition to conservationists,
international Human rights activists also oppose the project. Thailand
will buy gas from Burma two years after the pipeline is complete. BP
970603 OA/4GH/021
-- Students:
An open letter to Chaiyapreuk Sawaengcharoen, commander of Ratchaburi's
safe area. The residents of men's dormitory 2 ask for their punishment to
be repealed and training courses at dormitory 2 to be halted. TN 970530
OA/6B/004
-- Prostitution including child prostitution:
An increasing number of Burmese women have been crossing into Thailand via
a Mae Sai checkpoint. According to World Vision's Bansit Thathorn, most
women come on a day-to-day basis to work in restaurants, bars, karaoke
clubs, massage parlors and brothels. More than 60% are under 18 years
old. According to the recently-passed anti-prostitution law, people
involved in procuring children under 18 years face prison terms and fines.
World Vision provides counseling and education to sex workers. BP 970602
OA/7BB/004
China and Japan welcomed Asean's invitation to Burma, Laos, and Cambodia
to become members in July, while the democratic opposition in Burma
received the news with shock. Western Countries have not yet made a
reply. Japan still encourages democratization in Burma and frowns on
repression. Tokyo will try to improve relations between the US and Asean.
In Kuala Lumpur, 9 activists were arrested after trying to deliver a
memorandum on Burma to Asean Foreign Ministers. TN 970601 OA/9CA/068
Clinton has imposed sanctions against Burma, and Slorc responded by
arresting more than 100 NLD members. The sanctions didn't affect the
Slorc, but they might affect Asean. Washington might also see the close
relationship between Thai and Burmese military officials. In view of the
current economic situation, the Chavalit government should take a neutral
policy it shouldn't support any repressive government. BP 970530
OA/9CA/067
-- Asean's decision to grant membership status to Burma, Laos and
Cambodia:
Despite US-led opposition to Burma, Asean members say the question is not
if but when Burma will be admitted. They indicate that Burma will receive
a December entry. Political tensions in Cambodia and financial strain in
Laos have raised concerns over the readiness of the countries, but Asean
is committed to achieving its vision of a Southeast Asian 10. BP 970530
OA/9CAA/097
Laos isn't complaining about its Asean delay and won't apply for separate
admission. Laos said it can wait it other countries aren't ready for
Asean this year. Asean's principle of non-interference and western
criticism complicate the admission of Burma, Cambodia and Laos. A
Thammasat University professor remarked that Asean must resist the US's
sanctions or be prepared to bend on other issues such as East Timor. Laos
was granted observer status at the same time as Viet Nam, but will
continue to wait. In comparison to Laos's implementation of programs and
preparation, Burma and Cambodia have done little. While Burma is the most
eligible, Burma's preparations have been limited ot a handful of
officials. Laos would like to join Asean primarily for economic benefits,
but some argue that Laos can't afford membership and Laos's industries
aren't strong enough to compete in Afta. In Cambodia where customs are an
important part of the economy, Afta is bad news. Burma seems to be the
only country in a hurry for Asean membership. Asean has given Burma
observer status and should demand Burma to hand over power to the people
before it receives membership. BP 970530 OA/9CAA/099
Asean Foreign Ministers will meet tomorrow to decide on Burma, Laos and
Cambodia's pending memberships. The international community has put a lot
of focus on Burma. Analysts have two theories regarding what the Foreign
Ministers might decide the informal meetings: 1) a weak recommendation
that the three be given membership by December or 2) July membership
provided the countries "tie up the loose ends". The ministers say they
will be looking at the countries' preparations and the technical report
prepared by the secretariat. The technical report focuses on the physical
capabilities of each country to handle Asean affairs and includes the
signing of five important agreements: Zone of Peace, Freedom and
Neutrality, Treaty of Amity and Co-operation, and three economic
agreements related to Afta. Next the countries must submit their product
lists for Afta (Cambodia has failed to do so). Cambodia seems the most
prone to suffer from technical hitches because Cambodia's parliament has
been reluctant to approve Afta agreements. If Asean fails to include all
10 in July, it won't be able to unveil its new Asean-10 logo at its 30th
anniversary celebrations in Aug. The logo has already been circulated to
companies and authorities who will use it for projects, commemorative
stamps and the celebrations. The Asean Economic Ministerial Meeting
decided to give Cambodia, Laos and Burma until 2008 to accede to Afta
deadlines if they join AEM before Jan 1. Asean would also lose face to
Western Countries if it delay Burma's membership. burmanet 970530
OL/9CAA/010
When Asean Foreign Ministers meet to finalize the admission of Burma, Laos
and Cambodia, they will find Burma's membership most problematic. Asean
is finding it more difficult to deal with an intransigent Burma and the
recent crackdown on the NLD is an embarrassment to Asean. Broadly written
US sanctions might prevent US investments in Asean-based projects that
work with Burma as a third party. Domestic opposition to Burma is also on
the rise within the Aseans. Thailand is concerned with border demarcation
issues and with Burma's indifference to the resettlement of thousands of
refugees. In Malaysia, Abim accused Slorc of harassing Muslim
communities. Acting Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim is Abim's founder and
has condemned Slorc over the destruction of more than 30 mosques. As
Burma's mismanaged economy lies on the verge of collapse, Slorc is acting
more irrationally. The NLD's dialogue overtures were met with increased
repression. However, the Slorc has agreed to let Rajsoomer Lallah visit
and has initiated talks with the ICRC. TN 970530 OA/9CAA/096
If Asean admits Burma, it's for long-term strategic reasons related to
Asean's interest in keeping China at bay and linking up with Indonesia.
The decision has little to do with economics or with giving Slorc
legitimacy. Asean companies can freely invest in Burma and a government's
legitimacy comes from the people. The UNDHR says "The will of the people
shall be the basis of the authority of government; this will shall be
expressed in periodic and genuine elections..." The Slorc will claim
Asean gives them legitimacy, but this is a false assumption. burmanet
970530 OL/9CAA/009
When Asean Foreign Ministers meet in Kuala Lumpur tomorrow, it will be
about a face-saving exercise to salvage its reputation. The Foreign
Ministers are expected to defer their decision to admit Laos, Cambodia and
Burma due to divergent views and Washington's sanctions. An
insurmountable issue is at stake: Asean will risk its relations with the
US if it admits Burma. US officials made it clear to senior Asean
officials that Madeleine Albright would have to reconsider the US's
participation in the AFR and post ministerial conference this July. These
were Washington's strongest words ever to Asean about Burma. This was the
first ARF meeting Burma attended and officials from the US, EU, Australia
and Canada questioned Burma over the national convention and national
reconciliation process. The questions were cut short due to time
constraints. The US expressed concern over the arrests of NLD members.
Washington's insistence that Burma's membership be delayed also gives
Asean some leeway. A July admission would have been detrimental due to
increased repression in Burma and the political crisis in Cambodia. Burma
best meets Asean's technical criteria, but the decision will, and always
will be, a politically motivated one. TN 970530 OA/9CAA/095
Aung San Suu Kyi released a video-taped message that urges Asean to delay
Burma's admission because it didn't come to power through the mandate of
the Burmese people and thus doesn't have their trust and confidence, nor
that of the international community. Slorc also won't benefit Asean and
will most likely become more repressive if it receives membership. Aung
San Suu Kyi also asked Asean to engage all groups in Burma, not just the
Slorc. The NLD doesn't oppose investment in Burma but rather investment
that benefits the Slorc and a privileged elite. Aung San Suu Kyi accused
the Slorc of mismanaging Burma's economy and reducing health and
educational budgets since 1988. Asean ministers will begin a two-day
meeting tonight. The Alternative Asean Network on Burma has also asked
Asean not to rush Burma's membership. TN 970530 OA/9CAA/094
Asean leaders indicated they would discuss the timing of Burma, Cambodia,
and Laos's entry bids, but declined to reveal any clear plans. Asean
meetings began with a dinner last night and will involve discussions about
the readiness of the applicants today. Other issues will include
restructuring the Asean Secretariat and proposing a new Asean flag and
logo. Thailand wants to admit Burma, Cambodia, and Laos at the same time,
but wants to hear Asean Foreign Ministers' views in light of "some recent
developments that Asean can't ignore". Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar
Ibrahim said that the latest date for admission will be Dec. when Asean
leaders commemorate the Asean's 30th anniversary. TN 970531 OA/9CAA/100
NSC Deputy Chief Kachadpai Burusapad said that Thailand will still have to
solve its problems with Burma, Laos and Cambodia bilaterally, but their
Asean membership will provide another forum for working out their
differences. For Thailand, Burma poses the biggest problem because the
2,400 km long border has given rise to numerous disputes. Kachadpai also
said the feud in Cambodia could complicate relations with Bangkok. But he
added that the direct contact at the leadership level (in Asean) should
improve bilateral relations. Most problems with Burma arose because
Burmese local authorities have no decision-making powers. Meanwhile, a
senior Burmese official in Kuala Lumpur remarked that the Slorc is
confident that Asean won't be swayed by outside interference. BP 970531
OA/9CAA/101
Laos, Cambodia and Burma must still sign 11 protocols and agreements
including commitments to Afta before they are admitted into Asean. Since
Viet Nam's membership, the conditions for membership have been made
stricter to ensure that new members can't avoid their responsibilities.
When admitted, each country will be able to select the products it would
like included or excluded in a tariff reduction scheme beginning Jan.
1998. Cambodia, Laos and Burma have until 2008 to achieve the Afta
target. According to the Asean secretariat, Burma is the strongest
candidate in terms of economic stability and human resources. Membership
will entitle the three countries to technical and financial aid from
donors, the UNDP and the Asian Development Bank. TN 970601 OA/9CAA/110
Asean decided to admit Burma, Cambodia and Laos yesterday. Asean
ministers hailed the decision to complete the grouping while critics said
repression in Burma is likely to increase. The decision is contrary to
the wishes of the US and democracy activists. The official ceremony will
occur when the Foreign Ministers officially convene on July 24. Asean
realizes Cambodia and Burma have political problems, but the Foreign
Ministers believe membership will help resolve these issues. Ali Alatas
lobbied for the July date on the grounds that there is no proof that
delaying admission will improve the political situations in Burma and
Cambodia. The Asean secretary- general assured Asean that its treaties
and agreements don't need to be ratified now, but sometime within the next
two or three years. US Vice President Al Gore sent letters to Malaysia
and The Philippines that voiced US opposition to an early admission, but
Asean didn't want to be seen as bowing to US pressure. TN 970601
OA/9CAA/108
Burma, Laos and Cambodia will get five extra years to adhere to the
liberalization commitments of a plan to create Afta by 2003. The three
under-developed nations will have 10 years from Jan. 1 1998 to integrate
into Afta. Experts regard the integration of Laos, Cambodia and Burma
into Afta as one of Asean's biggest challenges. By accepting the three
sooner, Asean will have more time to help the three prepare for Asean.
The three countries need assistance to initiate and implement economic
reforms and catch up with the other members. Lowering tariffs will make
Asean more attractive to investors and boost intra-regional trade. BP
970601 OA/4AD/009
Sources said the deteriorating political situation in Cambodia dominated
the informal Asean meetings in Kuala Lumpur while Burma occupied a
relatively small part of the talks. After the meetings, Malaysian Foreign
Minister Abdullah Badawi announced Asean's decision to grant membership to
Burma, Laos and Cambodia in July. The decision was made "for the good and
benefit of Asean". The three countries are entitled to take part in the
Asean Ministerial Meeting and the Post-Ministerial Conference with Asean's
dialogue partners. Badawi expressed confidence that Burma's membership
will improve regional security, the economy, and bring more improvements
to Burma. Asean is also reluctant to perform the formal duties of
welcoming new members during the informal summit in Dec. BP 970601
OA/9CAA/109
Asean Foreign Ministers defied appeals from Western Countries and Human
rights activists and approved Burma's bid for July membership. Analysts
say the move indicates that Asean has come of age and is capable of acting
in a unified and independent way. Other analysts believe that because the
US made its position so explicit, Asean governments felt that somehow they
had an obligation to reassert their own sovereignty. Malaysia and
Indonesia were especially keen on including Burma. TN 970602 OA/9CAA/113
Asean agreed to admit Burma, Laos and Cambodia into the regional grouping
this July. They acknowledged there were concerns about Burma's Human
rights record, but Asean will have more influence over Burma once Burma is
a member. Burma hailed the decision and vowed to work closely with Asean.
Human rights activists say conditions in Burma are deteriorating despite
closer ties to Asean. However, none of the applicants were given a
"dialogue partner" for the post ministerial conferences between individual
Asean members and key powers such as the US, Japan, China, Australia and
the EU. AWSJ 970602 OA/9CAA/111
-- Responses to Asean's invitation to Burma.
Editorial: By embracing Burma, Asean has become a pariah organization.
The decision to include Burma will have repercussions beyond whatever
Asean leaders may envisage. It has damaged the organizations integrity
and setback three decades of achievement. Burma, Cambodia and Laos should
be judged separately on an individual basis. To accept Burma w/o andy
conditions is to ignore the aspirations of the Burmese people. Burma
wants Asean to help fight off Western criticism and Burma will exploit
Asean's strengths and weaknesses. The Asean leaders' decision yesterday
was a triumph of evil over humanity. However, Laos's and Cambodia's
memberships are welcome. The decision shouldn't come as much of a
surprise because most Asean leaders have a lot in common with the Slorc:
one-party rule in Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Viet Nam and vote-buying
in Thailand. What matters most now is the desire of Asean peoples for
Human rights and democracy. TN 970601 OA/9CAA/103
The Thai house committee for foreign affairs voiced opposition to Asean's
decision to admit Burma to the organization in July. Members of the
committee believe that Asean should have set minimum requirements for
membership. The committee also expressed the need to speak to Burma
frankly about border issues and the influx in refugees and foreign
workers. The flood of foreign workers has caused social problems in
Thailand. TN 970602 OA/9CAA/114
Editorial: This past weekend, Asean welcomed the region's most brutal,
its most unstable and its poorest countries. Many wonder if Asean is
putting itself at risk. Asean ministers reduced the question of
membership to absurd simplicity: there are 10 Southeast Asian nations so
Asean must include all of them. 30 years the Asean 10 seemed a lofty goal
and its original 5 founders deserve much credit for pressed for the
formation of the group. But will the weekend decision help achieve
Asean's 30 year vision. Asean is diverse, but Burma stands out as a
particular problem. Many Asean citizens resent being part of a grouping
that includes Slorc. Viet Nam suppresses dissent, there is serious
corruption in Thailand and The Philippines, Singapore and Malaysia are
dominated by ruling parties, but no current members routinely detain,
torture and jail citizens by the hundreds or finance economic development
with narcotics trafficking. Asean will face practical problems from
international partners who refuse to trade with Slorc and political
problems related to the question of whether Asean has any ethics. BP
970602 OA/9CAA/106
Thai Foreign Minister Prachuab's unusual analogy helps to explain why
Asean has decided to accept Burma: "Even a playboy can become a good
husband after his marriage, with the family's help." By using this
analogy, he is implicitly acknowledging that Burma's regime is guilty of
gross Human rights violations. The decision was greeted by outrage from
Western media. Pro-democracy advocates claim that constructive engagement
practiced by Asean hasn't worked, but isolating Burma isn't the answer.
TN 970603 OA/9CAA/112
Commentary: 30 years ago the Asean founders had a vision of 10 Southeast
Asian nations living together in peace. For decades wars raged in Viet
Nam and Cambodia. Asean Foreign Ministers have long understood that
membership alone doesn't make the Asean vision come true. The established
seven will have to accommodate the needs of new members and the new
members must adjust to a new situation. Asean's decision to admit
Cambodia and Laos, despite evident obstacles, is welcomed and
praiseworthy. While the Cambodian government has conflicts, it's
important to remember that it is legitimate. Laos is hindered by a lack
of human resources, but its people and leaders are united in the belief
that the country needs to develop. But Burma is entirely different. The
Slorc is not legitimate but seeks legitimacy through Asean. How can
constructive engagement work through membership? For years constructive
engagement has failed to produce results and now Burma has obtained a key
objective. BP 970602 OA/9CAA/107
The ABSDF expressed annoyance over Asean's decision to grant Burma
membership in July. ABSDF believes Burma's membership will tarnish Asean
and result in increased repression in Burma. ABSDF would like Asean to
put democratic conditions on Burma's membership. BP 970602 OA/9CAA/104
Japanese Prime Minister Ryutaro Hashimoto stressed that while he supports
Asean's policy of not isolating Burma, Burma's upcoming Asean membership
should not be seen as a pardon. The Japanese press issued warnings that
Burma's membership will pose an economic strain on Asean that should not
have been ignored. Asean will have to increase political and economic
assistance to Burma, Laos and Cambodia. Friction between Western
Countries and Asean is likely to increase. Indonesia announced that
Burma's membership is a strategic move for regional security. Slorc
appeared elated at the decision and stepped up anti-NLD propaganda in the
New Light of Myanmar. BP 970602 OA/9CAA/105
Students in exile and rebels denounced Asean's weekend decision to extend
membership to Burma this July. The NLD has not yet commented because none
of their members can be reached. The US State Dept. said it regretted
Asean's decision, but was counting on Asean members to urge Slorc to enter
into dialogue with local democratic forces. The KNU remarked that the
decision could derail efforts for a peace settlement in Burma. ABSDF and
NCUB also condemned the decision. BP 970603 OA/6B/005
In The Philippines, the press slammed its government for backing Burma's
entry into Asean saying it debased Manila's democracy. BP 970603
OA/6B/005
Commentary: This July, the foreign minister of pariah Burma will sit
shoulder-to-shoulder with Asean counterparts. Two days later he will join
his colleagues in face-to-face talks with dialogue partners, notably from
the EU and US. Will the friendly and amicable atmosphere which normally
characterizes such meetings prevail? The move to accept Burma might have
been good for Asean who wants to keep the West from meddling in its
internal affairs, but for those who aspire for democracy, freedom of
expression and the Burmese people, the decision is a big letdown. The
decision wasn't based on the best interests of the Burmese people, but
rather the interests of more developed countries. Burma is endowed with
rich natural resources that can't be ignored. However, Asean has now lost
all leverage on Burma; constructive engagement was a deception. Burma
hasn't been assimilated into Asean, but rather Asean has been assimilated
into Slorc. BP 970603 OA/9CAA/115
Asean's decision to include Burma disillusioned many political observers
because they had speculated that Asean would delay the admission. Against
many odds, Asean will welcome Burma in July and the west will have to
accept this reality. Asean's decision looks like a tragic irony if it is
viewed from its "constructive engagement" standpoint, as this hasn't been
successful in persuading Burma to respect Human rights. The matter is
complicated, and Asean finally made a deliberate decision: that for Asean
members, the greatest sin in this region is to win a democratic election.
Some Asean countries have yet to respect the values of democracy. TN
970603 OA/9KC/003
-- Other Asean news:
Asean officials will call on the five nuclear powers to accede to the
nuclear-weapon free zone treaty when they meet in Kuala Lumpur. Asean
will finalize the Treaty of Southeast Asia Nuclear-Weapon Free Zone
(Seanwfz). The seven Asean members, Laos, Cambodia and Burma have already
signed the treaty. The nuclear countries objected to the treaty covering
continental shelves of economic zones because the US Navy operates in the
economic zones and China has territorial disputes with Viet Nam, The
Philippines, Brunei and Malaysia. However, Asean officials are determined
to retain the treaty's original form without any dilution. TN 970530
OA/12C/003
Do Muoi's visit to Burma represented a great leap forward in the economic
cooperation between Burma and Viet Nam. Agreements regarding agriculture,
forestry, tourism and civil aviation were signed during the visit. In the
medium to long term, Burma could emerge a one of Viet Nam's major economic
competitors. BP 970530 OA/9CAA/098
-- Sanctions from New York City
On Friday, NYC became the eleventh US city to impose selective purchasing
legislation against Burma. The Burma law takes effect in 30 days and
passed without dissent. Because NYC is the US's financial capital and the
seat of the UN the law represents a major symbolic victory. Meanwhile,
disgruntled shareholders, union leaders and Human rights activists
announced on Friday they will protest Unocal's Burmese holdings next week
at the company offices in Brea, California. They will ask Unocal to
investigate connections between MOGE and the heroin trade. TN 970601
OA/9CB/064
NYC Mayor Rudolph Giuliani signed legislation barring companies doing
business in Burma from doing business with NYC. The measure, Bill #647A,
was passed by unanimous 50-0 vote of the NYC Council and will take effect
within 30 days of the Mayor's signature. The Mayor challenged opponents
in the business community to support open economies and free governments
around the world. NYC has the fourth largest governmental budget in the
US after the federal government and the states of California and NY. One
council member hopes the actions of NYC will push the federal government
to take a tougher stance with Burma. Unocal has mounted a major lobbying
campaign against Burma sanctions and are represented by the firm of
Davidoff and Malito. Unocal and Texaco are the targets of consumer
boycotts while other companies have divested. burmanet 970530 OL/9CB/012
-- Thai-Burma relations:
Chavalit made a deal with Rangoon that the Moei River could be dredged in
return for the opening of the "friendship" bridge. The military standoff
near the dredging point occurred because military officers were not
informed of Chavalit's deal. The Thai military asked Burma to suspend
dredging until the technical terms (such as the location of the dredging)
are laid out. The two sides will need to examine aerial surveys and study
the 1896 border agreement. In a protest at the site, Thai villagers
criticized Chavalit and Chettha for giving their land to Burma. BP 970530
OA/9J/031
Burmese and Thai troops withdrew from Khok Chang Puek island in the Moei
River, paving the way for technical negotiations. The Burmese also
stopped dredging the river. Villagers will take care of the abandoned
dredging equipment. Tensions eased after a series of long meetings
between Thai and Burmese officials. TN 970530 OA/9J/030
Chettha remarked that border disputes with Burma could be avoided if Burma
and Thailand agreed to consult each other over border issues. Conflict
over the recent dredging resulted from poor communications. Thailand and
Burma decided to suspend dredging until a technical team can fix the
dredging area. BP 970601 OA/9J/032
Burma is intent in restoring its Moei River border that was altered during
a flood two years ago. Rangoon moved heavy equipment to dredge a disputed
area while the Royal Thai Survey Department and the Dept. of Treaties and
Legal Affairs are preparing aerial maps. Khin Nyunt ordered Burmese
officials to speed up the case because rainy season floods could interfere
with the dredging. BP 970603 OA/9J/033
On May 17 this year, a Thai delegation led by Chavalit visited Burma, but
no detailed purposes of the visit were disclosed. After the trip
newspapers reported that a drug suspect wanted by the US was brought back
to Thailand. But what has Thailand gained? During the visit, the subject
of Human rights wasn't touched on nor were border security issues. While
Human rights organizations condemn Burma, the Chavalit-led cabinet chooses
to ignore border infractions and strengthen ties to Burma. Prior to the
visit, the Slorc announced that Thai reporters couldn't approach ASSK's
home. In so doing, they closed the eyes, ears and mouths of all Thai
journalists accompanying the delegation. Ironically there was no
reaction from the Thai government. On May 23 two Thai journalists were
detained by Burmese soldiers and were only released after the Border
Patrol Police got involved. Still the Thai government ignores the junta's
attitude and continues to act contrary to the feelings of most Thais. We
need to plan for the future and support people working for democracy. BP
970601 OA/9KC/002
-- Refugees:
Officials repatriated 430 Shan refugees because fighting in their villages
had ended. They were repatriated after officials reported that there was
no more fighting in their villages. They were mostly elderly women and
children. An estimated 50,000 to 60,000 Shans have entered Thailand in
the past 5 months. Officials said it was necessary to repatriate the
refugees and that more repatriations can be expected. BP 970530
OA/10GA/013 & TN 970530 OA/9J/030
-- This article was printed in TN, but has not been confirmed and is
believed to be an error:
About 100 DKBA intruders attacked Baan Huay Kaloke and Huay Bong camps
last night at 12.15 am. 2,500 homes, a mosque and two churches were
burned down leaving about 8,000 homeless in Huay Kaloke. In Huay Bong,
633 houses were burned and more than 3,000 people are homeless. This is
the second time these two camps have been attacked by the DKBA. A Karen
refugee and Thai man were killed in the most recent attacks. The
intruders stole refugees' belongings and five motorcycles. Mae Sot
District Chief Somchai Hathaitanti and Pol Col Noppon Chatiwong rushed to
Huay Kalok after hearing about the attack. A team from the 345th Border
Patrol Police unit rushed to Huay Bong but the fires couldn't be
extinguished. The January raids prompted the Army to send reinforcements
to protect the camps. Yesterday's attacks occurred one day after Thailand
and Burma withdrew forces from a disputed islet in the Moei River. TN
970531 OA/10GC/012
-- Illegal drugs:
Amphetamine trafficking has been rampant along Thailand's northern
borders, and hundreds of drug suspects have been caught during the past
five months. Police have stepped up security along the border
checkpoints. amphetamine production plants are mostly located along the
Thai-BUese and Thai-Laotian borders. It war reported that an alarming
number of amphetamines pouring into Thailand were produced by the Red Wa
(UWSA) and former associates of Khun Sa. Both Thai and Burmese traders
are involved in the drug trade. According to police information,
amphetamine trading in rampant at the Tachilek market in Burma where pills
cost one-fifth the market price in the central provinces. BP 970531
OA/10J/059
Article about the extradition of Li Yun-chung who has the potential to
implicate Thai officials in his recent escape to Burma. The Burmese who
handed Li over have also come into scrutiny for their role in the affair.
At first, Rangoon denied that Li was in Burma. When he was arrested in
Burma, officials stated that Li had been hiding in Northern Thailand and
had only crossed the border three days earlier. This contradicts all
other intelligence reports from the area that say Li entered Burma quickly
after his escape and moved around in Burma trying to link up with Khun Sa.
Analysts say Li's handover was a political move to make Chavalit's trip to
Burma better and to divert attention from US sanctions. FEER 970605
OP/10J/005
-- Politics, political parties, Aung San Suu Kyi & the crackdown against
the NLD
In a smuggled videotape, Aung San Suu Kyi appealed to Asean to begin
talking with the NLD. She indicated that part of constructive engagement
involves engaging both sides in Burma. She also added the Burma's
membership would be a risk to Asean's stability and reputation. Asean
membership will also make the Slorc more repressive -- the day after Slorc
gained observer status, they gave several NLD members long prison
sentences. In the past, Asean officials have not responded positively to
ASSK's letters. The Slorc maintained control of the area around ASSK's
compound although the NLD congress was scheduled to have ended two days
ago. BP 970530 OA/9FA/025
Resolution from the Inter-Parliamentary Council's 160th session (Seoul, 15
April 1997) that condemns the National Convention, arrests of NLD MPs,
further harassment of the NLD and its supporters, and the Slorc's
unwillingness to cooperate with international Human rights agencies.
burmanet 970531 OL/16B/002
The Slorc is barring entry to ASSK's home and the NLD's headquarters until
the a crucial Asean meeting this weekend is finished. The Slorc said it
wants to avoid clashes with the NLD who doesn't want Slorc to receive
membership. By confining Aung San Suu Kyi, the Slorc hopes to avoid
having to use force on the eve of the Asean meetings. The NLD stated that
it is planning to release a resolution before the Asean meetings are
finished. The Slorc continues to deny that it arrested NLD supporters who
planned to attend the NLD congress last week. TN 970531 OA/11I/004
Slorc deployed armed riot police to stifle an opposition party gathering
led by Aung San Suu Kyi and detained more than 300 NLD members. It
appears that Burmese entry to Asean will be delayed until the end of the
year. BP 970601 OA/11I/005
Aung San Suu Kyi has written a new book titled "The Voice of Hope:
Conversations with Alan Clements". It contains a wide-ranging series of
conversations with writer, social activist and former Buddhist monk Alan
Clements. Aung San Suu Kyi, U Tin Oo and U Kyi Maung reveal the roots of
ASSK's passion for justice and her refusal to hate her adversaries. Aung
San Suu Kyi explores her feelings as a mother, the moral dilemmas of
economic inequality, the relationship between politics and religion, and
the dishonesty of Slorc. TN 970601 OA/15F/001
Burma's military junta arrested more than 100 pro-democracy activists in
an attempt to derail the NLD's plans to celebrate the anniversary of its
1990 electorial win. The military has refused to allow Aung San Suu Kyi
and the NLD to govern. Since 1989 Aung San Suu Kyi has been kept under
virtual house arrest. Time 970602 ON/11BB/001
The Slorc has ended its latest clamp down against pro-democracy activists
and began releasing those detained over the past two weeks. Restrictions
on the NLD were also lifted. The NLD said up to 316 of its supporters had
been detained or confined to their homes. BP 970603 OA/11BB/008
The Slorc arrested at least 316 senior NLD members to prevent the group
from holding a congress on May 27. Riot police blocked roads and used
barbed wire to seal off the NLD office amid its planned celebration of its
unrecognized landslide victory in 1990 polls. FEER 970605 OP/11BB/001
-- Insurgents and the civil war:
More than 300 Mons surrendered to the Burmese military near the Thai
border of Prachuab Khiri Khan and handed over some 1,700 pieces of
weaponry. The surrendering ceremony was held at Chong Chee, the last Mon
stronghold. The rebels are now under the complete control of Burma's 2nt
Tactical Command. The people surrendered after they broke away from the
NMSP. There are about 17,200 Mon refugees in Thailand. BP 970603
OA/12FF/006
-- Health and medicine:
The Public Health Ministry's latest report shows that Burmese laborers
were the largest group of foreigners who received medical treatment from
Thai hospitals during the fourth quarter of last year. 77% of 6,449
foreigners were Burmese laborers. Of the 6,449, 45% were treated for
malaria, 15% for severe diarrhea, 6% for elephantiasis and sexually
transmitted diseases and 4% for tuberculosis. Since the government has
allowed more foreign workers to enter Thailand, there has been an increase
in previously rare diseases including severe diarrhea, polio, leprosy and
rabies. TN 970603 OA/14C/010