UNION Minister for Information U Maung Maung Ohn yester­day hosted a dinner at Horizon Lakeview resort in Nay Pyi Taw for ASEAN delegates attending the Workshop on Mastering Government Communication: Empowering Spokespersons for Effective Public Engagement, to be organized by the Media Development Department from 26 to 28 February.

The dinner was attended by Union Minister of the Ministry 2 at the Office of the Chairman of the State Administration Council U Ko Ko Hlaing, Nay Pyi Taw Council Chairman U Than Tun Oo, Deputy Minister U Ye Tint, Permanent Secretary U Win Kyaw Aung, departmental offi­cials, Myanmar Press Council Chairman Dr Tin Tun Oo and members, facilitators, represent­atives from ASEAN Secretary General Office, delegates from ASEAN countries, and observers from Japan.

The video clip “ASEAN In­formation Sector and Myanmar Media” was first played.

In his opening speech, Un­ion Minister U Maung Maung Ohn appreciated the opportunity to witness the convergence of minds from various corners of the ASEAN region, all united by a shared commitment to enhanc­ing the quality and effectiveness of government communication. The workshop aimed to serve as a bridge that connects gov­ernments with their citizens, ensuring transparency, foster­ing trust, and building stronger communities.

He added that effective systems for engaging with the public, managing crises, and conveying messages with clarity and impact must be explored at this workshop. The trainers and speakers will share their exper­tise, providing valuable insights and practical tools that can be applied within their respective roles as spokespersons.

Communication is not only about sharing information but also serves as a fundamental pillar for interactive dialogue, empathy, and mutual under­standing. Governments can strengthen their own ability to engage meaningfully with citi­zens by learning from one an­other, sharing experiences and fostering a spirit of cooperation.

Afterwards. the Union min­ister presented gifts to the train­ers, and ASEAN delegates and posed for documentary photos.

He had dinner together with the attendees enjoying the songs and dances depicting the cul­tures and customs of ASEAN countries performed by MRTV Band.

After the dinner, the Union minister and trainer Mr V Cyril Demitrius Pereira presented K2 million and bouquets to the singers of MRTV.

The ASEAN delegates vis­ited the Myanma Gems Muse­um in Nay Pyi Taw at noon and observed the displayed jade, jewellery, pearls, rare gems and jewellery shops at the museum. — MNA/KTZH