The Irrawaddy
Friday, July 16, 2010
Today's Newsletter
Burmese Block Imports at Three Thai Border Crossings
By LAWI WENG
Burmese authorities have blocked the import of most goods from Thailand across three major border crossings, according to local sources.
Registered Parties Only at Martyrs' Day Event
By KYAW THEIN KHA
Only the representatives of 21 registered political parties can attend Monday's Martyrs' Day ceremony in Rangoon.
NEWS ANALYSIS
Freedom of Association in Burma: Sunlight or False Dawn?
By SIMON ROUGHNEEN
Most observers agree that the junta in Burma has resisted cracking down on public gatherings in recent months. But is this just an election ploy?
USDA 'Abolished': Official
By BA KAUNG
The regime-sponsored civic organization Union Solidarity and Development Association starts the process of "abolishing" itself after transferring all its property to its political proxy, the Union Solidarity and Development Party.
Burma and North Korea Top Clinton's Agenda in Vietnam
By LALIT K JHA
The growing relationship between Burma and North Korea tops the agenda of US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton next week when she will attend an Asean meeting in Vietnam.
Business
Burma Has Record Bean and Pulse Sales
By ZIN MIN MAUNG
Burma earns a record income from exports of beans and pulses for the 2009-2010 fiscal year, earning nearly US $1 billion.
Regional
China and Vietnam Brace for Typhoon Conson Landfall
By CHI-CHI ZHANG / AP WRITER
The storm will continue its northwest path inland over the weekend, heading toward southwest China and northern Vietnam.
Singapore PM: We Need More Foreign Workers
By ALEX KENNEDY / AP WRITER
Singapore must bring in more workers from abroad to help keep inflation low, Lee Hsien Loong told Singapore media during a trip this week to the US.
Opinion
EDITORIAL
Are 'Smart' Sanctions Making Burmese Dumber?
The Burmese regime is notorious for neglecting the education of the country's citizens. Are the children of the elite becoming the latest victims of the junta's policies?
COMMENTARY
Who Dares Wins?
By HTET AUNG
Political parties hoping to succeed in Burma's election must show courage and convince voters with clearly stated policy positions.