BANGKOK -- Even as Myanmar's economy languishes, construction is underway on a massive Buddha statue in the capital, Naypyitaw, in an apparent bid by the junta to win the hearts and minds of the nation's religious majority.
Myanmar Crisis
Myanmar junta goes big on giant Buddha statue in midst of crisis
State media blitz over project suggests bid to win hearts and minds
Marble statues of Buddha sit in various stages of completion in marble-rich Mandalay. About 90% of Myanmar's population is Buddhist. © Reuters
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