Thein Sein Quotes

Powerful Thein Sein for Daily Growth

About Thein Sein

Thein Sein (born on February 19, 1945) is a prominent political figure from Myanmar, serving as the country's President from March 30, 2011 to March 30, 2016. Born in Thayawaddy Township, Pegu Division (now Yangon Region), Thein Sein grew up during the British colonial rule and Burmese independence struggle. His early life experiences greatly influenced his political views, shaping him into a pragmatic leader with a focus on national unity and development. Thein Sein joined the Myanmar Armed Forces in 1962, during the military junta's rule. He rose through the ranks, eventually becoming the Chief of General Staff from 1997 to 2001. In 2003, he was appointed Prime Minister, serving under the State Peace and Development Council (SPDC). Thein Sein's presidency marked a significant shift in Myanmar's political landscape. He led the country towards a path of democracy, releasing political prisoners, opening up the economy, and improving relations with the international community. One of his most notable achievements was the signing of the Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement (NCA) in 2015, which aimed to end decades-long ethnic conflicts in Myanmar. In literature, Thein Sein has contributed to "The Way to Discipline and Happiness: A Manual for Army Officers," a book that reflects his military background and values. Despite being best known for his political career, Thein Sein's influence extends beyond politics, making him an essential figure in Myanmar's ongoing transformation.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"We must have a government that is for everyone and not just a few."

This quote by Thein Sein underscores the fundamental principle of democratic governance, emphasizing inclusivity and fairness in political leadership. It suggests a government should represent all citizens equally, ensuring no one group or individual holds undue influence over the decision-making process. By implication, it also signifies that policies and resources must be distributed fairly and not favor specific interests at the expense of others, thereby promoting social justice and unity within society.


"The way to peace, stability, and development is through dialogue and cooperation rather than confrontation."

This quote emphasizes the importance of diplomacy, conversation, and collaboration as a means for achieving peace, stability, and economic growth, instead of resorting to conflict or competition. It suggests that constructive dialogue and mutual understanding among parties can lead to resolutions, fostering an environment conducive to sustainable development. In essence, it advocates for peaceful negotiation as a powerful tool for problem-solving.


"A strong and stable democracy should be based on the rule of law and the protection of human rights."

The quote by Thein Sein emphasizes the importance of a robust and enduring democratic system, which is underpinned by two fundamental pillars: the rule of law and the safeguarding of human rights. The 'rule of law' means that all people, including those in power, are subject to laws that are just, clear, and consistently applied. This helps maintain order, promote justice, and protect citizens from arbitrary actions by authorities. 'Protection of human rights,' on the other hand, signifies the duty of a democratic government to ensure the well-being and freedom of its people, including their fundamental rights like freedom of speech, religion, and assembly, as well as their basic rights to life, liberty, and security. In essence, Thein Sein's quote underscores that democracy should be guided by fairness, equality, and respect for human dignity, ensuring that all citizens have an equal voice in shaping their society and enjoying the benefits of citizenship.


"We need to prioritize our efforts to improve education and healthcare for all citizens."

This quote emphasizes the importance of prioritizing two critical sectors: education and healthcare, for the betterment of all citizens. By focusing on improving these essential services, a society can ensure equal opportunities for growth, well-being, and overall progress, as both education and healthcare are foundational elements for a prosperous and just society.


"National reconciliation is essential for a peaceful, prosperous, and united Myanmar."

This quote by Thein Sein emphasizes the significance of national reconciliation for the long-term peace, prosperity, and unity of Myanmar (Burma). By national reconciliation, he is referring to a process whereby different ethnic, political, and social groups within the nation come together, find common ground, and work towards resolving conflicts in a peaceful manner. This unity, built upon mutual respect and understanding, fosters an environment conducive to economic growth, social stability, and national cohesion, thereby ensuring the well-being of all citizens in Myanmar.


To have internal peace and stability and economic development, it is important to have good relations with the political parties that we have in our country. That is why we have had engagement with Daw Aung San Suu Kyi.

- Thein Sein

Country, Internal, San, Relations

People would like to see peace and stability, and that is why we have had engagement with the ethnic armed groups. That's why our reform process is based on the wishes and the will of the people.

- Thein Sein

Process, Ethnic, Based, Stability

I myself am from a very poor background; I experienced firsthand poverty in this country, and that is not unrelated to my desire, from the moment I became president, to make a priority of poverty reduction in this country.

- Thein Sein

Country, Very, Became, Priority

One big difference between our situation in Myanmar and other situations around the world is that we're not just trying to achieve peace with one group but 11 groups - so it is incredibly complicated as well.

- Thein Sein

Big, Achieve, Other, Situations

As prime minister, I was able often to meet people, to try to understand their needs and the country's economic situation - but it wasn't as if I was planning or ever expected to become president, so I wasn't thinking back then of what I would do if I was in this position, I was just trying to understand the problems and challenges.

- Thein Sein

Challenges, Country, Back, Minister

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