YANGON: "A Russian company has won exploration rights for gold and other minerals in Myanmar, the official media reported, in the latest business deal between the Southeast Asian nation?s junta and one of its few international friends. The Geological Survey and Mineral Exploration Department of Myanmar and the Victorious Glory International of Russia signed a deal Friday for exploration for "gold and associated minerals" in the mineral-rich country, the New Light of Myanmar newspaper reported Saturday. The agreement covers an area along the Uru River in northern Myanmar, between Phakant in Kachin State and Homalin in Sagaing Division, the newspaper said, with no further details. Phakant is in a region known as the "Land of Jade," while the Homalin area is known for deposits of gold, which reached a record high level of $936.50 an ounce in early February..."