ENGLISH DEYEA NEWS

by Zarni | Chiang Mai – Burmese pro-democracy icon Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and Dr. Cynthia Maung of the Mae Taw clinic on the Thai-Burma border were awarded the 20th 'Catalonia International Prize' today by the government of Catalonia State, Spain.

The 'Catalonia International Prize' was awarded to them for their selfless sacrifice in promoting pro-democracy activities, freedom, and human rights in Burma.

"This is the first time the award has gone to Burmese ladies. The prize committee selected them for their sacrifices and devotion to the freedom of Burma, democratic struggle and social work," Ms. Teresa Salar, assistant secretary of the prize selection committee, told Mizzima.

The award is presented annually to persons who have made remarkable contribution to the development of cultural, scientific or human rights anywhere in the world.

Dr. Cynthia Maung will personally receive this award in Barcelona, capital city of Catalonia State at a prize giving ceremony. Spain based Burma Campaign coordinator Zoya Phan will receive the prize on behalf of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi at the same ceremony.

"This prize shows that the world has not forgotten and recognizes Daw Aung San Suu Kyi's efforts for the people of Burma. The whole world also shows its sympathy and support for the Burmese people and their sufferings. So I feel very happy", Zoya Phan told Mizzima.

The prize is the most prestigious award of Catalonia State in Spain and it will be awarded to the recipients by José Montill, President of the government of Catalonia.

The recipients of this prize will get sculpture titled La clau i la lletra (The key and the letter) by Antoni Tàpies and will share a cash prize of Euro 100,000.

This prize was first given in 1989 and has been awarded to many writers, scientists and historians around the world from France, Germany, US and Egypt, including Indian Nobel Laureate economist Amartya Sen.