ON 15 December 2025, U Aung Lin Dwe, Executive Chief of the National Defence and Security Council Office, arrived in Sittway by military aircraft yesterday afternoon to attend the 51st Anniversary of Rakhine State Day ceremony, accompanied by Union ministers and members of the Central Advisory Body of the National Defence and Security Council.
They were warmly welcomed by Rakhine State Chief Minister U Htein Lin, Commander of the Western Command Maj-Gen Kyaw Swa Oo, state ministers and relevant departmental officials.
Following their arrival, U Aung Lin Dwe and his delegation met with members of the Rakhine State government and state-level departmental officials in the government office’s meeting hall to discuss regional development matters.
First, the Chief Minister of Rakhine State reported on measures taken to ensure the smooth flow of goods and price stability, support provided to departmental staff, retired personnel and residents who have relocated, agricultural and livestock activities undertaken, electricity generation through solar systems, and other efforts for regional development. He also presented Quick Win projects directly benefiting local communities, initiatives to advance education, health and sports sectors, preparations to ensure the successful conduct of the multiparty democracy general elections, and arrangements for the celebration of Sittway’s 200th anniversary.
Subsequently, Union ministers presented updates on initiatives undertaken by their respective ministries to support the development of Rakhine State and outlined plans for continued collaborative efforts.
In response to these briefings, the Executive Chief highlighted that the Rakhine and Bamar peoples share the same language and physical appearance, and noted that the state’s current stability is challenged by those seeking political gain who spread division through provocative speeches and armed violence. These disturbances have slowed the implementation of development projects in the region.
He also emphasized that Rakhine nationals reside not only across Myanmar but around the world, and that many outstanding Rakhine nationals have emerged. He stressed that if all parties work together, there is significant potential for the development of Rakhine State. He expressed appreciation for the departments collaborating with the state government and called for continued joint efforts to ensure peace, stability and development in Rakhine.
After the meeting, the Executive Chief and party visited the multipurpose port in Sittway to inspect the transportation of rice, essential foodstuffs, consumer goods and construction materials from Yangon, jointly overseen by the Yangon Region and Rakhine State governments.
During the inspection, the Chief Minister and the head of the state port authority reported on the arrival of ships at the port, the loading and unloading of cargo, and the depth of the port waters. Based on this information, the Executive Chief offered guidance on necessary measures and conducted an on-site inspection along the port area.
The Executive Chief and party then visited the venue of the 51st Anniversary of Rakhine State Day celebrations to observe the music performances and the offering of charity feast, interacting warmly with local residents and offering words of encouragement.
He paid homage to the Atulamarazein Pyilonchantha Pagoda, donated funds for the renovation of the pagoda, and met with pilgrims in a cordial and friendly manner. — MNA/ KZL
