Asia today is enjoying a relatively calm and stable political environment. There have been no major conflicts and armed struggles in our region for over a decade. The growing cooperation of the countries in Asia and the major powers have contributed to significant improvements in the regional security situation. In this regard, we are happy to observe that the overall regional security in the Asia-Pacific region remains peaceful and stable notwithstanding the fact that there still remain some issues of concern.

Countries in Asia are continuing to engage themselves bilaterally and multilaterally in sub-regional, regional and international contexts. They are also endeavouring to find peaceful solutions to long standing problems through constructive dialogue among the parties concerned. Furthermore, meetings and consultations on political and security issues of common interest and concern have been carried out more and more extensively. Moreover, the process of confidence-building among nations has reached a new phase with the continued efforts of the countries involved.

It is significant that no major cross border armed conflicts have taken place in the region since the beginning of the new millennium. Remarkably, countries in the region are on economic well-being to their peoples and are working closely towards the integration of regional markets. There have been significant developments in the economic performances of the countries in Asia. In this regard, China’s accomplishments are outstanding.

In spite of the positive trends, challenges remain and attention must be accorded to finding adequate ways to address the needs of the changing world. Developments in Korean Peninsula, the situation in the Middle East, the situation in the South China Sea, terrorism and non-traditional security issues must continue to command our undivided attention.

In the circumstances I believe that a new international order that is based on multilateralism to address the threats and challenges of the new millennium is needed.

While taking into account the changing global situation, we should work together for a stable environment. Restructuring the United Nations system and expanding its role in solving the multiple challenges of the world would be a good start.

We live in times of change and transformation. Globalization has brought benefits as well as challenges to the countries in Asia and the rest of the world.

The growing economies of countries like China and India have resulted in significant increase in trade and investment in the manufacturing and service industries in the region. This trend is expected to expand further in the coming years. Myanmar, a neighbour and a close friend of both countries, is encouraged to witness the economic development in the region, particularly the social developments of China and India. We welcome the increased economic activities of these two countries. Their success will encourage other developing countries.

While we witness many successful stories, it is incumbent upon each country to have its own path to development. It is equally important that like-minded countries in the region cooperate in bringing about sustainable economic development. Moreover, less developed countries in Asia must be given opportunities to allow them to integrate into the world economy.

We are pleased to witness that the economic growth of the People’s Republic of China has averaged 8 per cent or more a year since 1978. That the Chinese economy grew 9.7 per cent in the first half of this year is indeed remarkable. The nation-wide programme that the Chinese Government has implemented in uplifting the social status of its people has set an example for the emerging economies of the world.

Moreover, the all round development in the People’s Republic of China has contributed to the sustainable growth of economies of other Asian countries. As an immediate neighbour of China, Myanmar enjoys mutually beneficial economic relations with China.

It is evident that progress and prosperity in the region contributes to peace and stability of our nations and the world. Let us work together to achieve our goal of a peaceful and prosperous world.

I would like to take the opportunity to apprise you of the recent political developments in Myanmar.

Myanmar at present is in transition to a multi-party democratic nation. In order to transform Myanmar into a united, peaceful and modern democratic state, a peaceful political climate is essential.

On 30 August 2003, the Prime Minister of the Union of Myanmar, General Khin Nyunt announced a seven-step programme for democratization. The programme includes reconvening of the National Convention to draft a new constitution which could culminate in holding a free and fair elections and the election of state leaders and the formation of a government.

The National Convention was reconvened on 17 May 2004. Representatives of the National Convention are working tirelessly on the basic principles for drafting the new constitution.

Myanmar is a Union made up of over 100 national races. There can not be a lasting peace and stability in the country without national unity. Hence upholding and maintaining the national unity is the basis of all political endeavours for future of Myanmar.

Another important aspect in the political development of Myanmar is the role of Tatmadaw, the Myanmar Armed Forces. Since the days of struggle for independence, Tatmadaw has played a leading role in national politics. Whenever the country faced crisis, Tatmadaw stood hand-in-hand with the people to protect the nation and the interest of its people. Notwithstanding the threats and challenges, Tatmadaw continues to play its vital role in the nation building.

Another noteworthy feature is that Myanmar is the only country that shares common borders with the two most populous countries in the world, namely the People’s Republic of China and the Republic of India. Myanmar’s unique geographic position also serves as a land bridge between South and Southeast Asia. Therefore, stability, peace and tranquillity in Myanmar are important not only to the people of Myanmar but also to the entire region.

The democratic system that is envisaged is one that would be in accord with the objective conditions of the country as well as the aspiration of the people. The multi-party democratic system being built in Myanmar may not be identical to those of other countries given the unique situation and special geopolitical environment of the countries.

Myanmar will continue to work relentlessly and stride the path that it has set towards the realization of modern and democratic nation. In this regard, we welcome the support and cooperation of the people involved in the democratic process in Myanmar and the nations in the world.