This was the first Consultancy for the project TCP/MYA/8821 - Market Information System. The day of the arrival of the Consultant, 6 May 1999, has been taken as the start of project implementation, although several activities took place beforehand.
The office of the FAO Representative had made all necessary arrangements to make this mission a success. Mr. Francis Rinville provided a detailed briefing and followed the progress of the mission closely. He also attended a meeting with senior staff of the Ministry near the end of the mission.
The reception offered by the Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation (MOAI) was exceptionally cordial. An excellent and spacious office with air conditioning, telephone and computer was provided and maximum support was given for making appointments, arranging field trips, e-mail communication etc.
It is much appreciated that the National Staff assigned to the project undertook considerable preparations and made it possible to go ahead at full speed from the start of this mission. Work continued often well after office hours and visits to markets and villages were made during the weekends. The continuous interest and encouragement provided by Director General Dr. Mya Maung, Deputy D.G. Dr. Kyi Win and Director Dr. Tin Htut Oo is gratefully acknowledged.
