Miss Universe 2013: Moe Set Wine will Represent Myanmar for First Time in 50 Years

Moe Set Wine is set to represent Myanmar for the first time in over 50 years at the Miss Universe 2013 pageant, which will take place in Moscow at Crocus City Hall on 9 November.

The 25-year-old, who studied business and marketing in California, beat 20 other contestants to win the crown.

"I still can't believe it, but I feel really happy because now I get the chance to represent my country," she said, adding: "I feel like now I am a part of history, I feel like a soldier that is doing something for my country and my people."

The beauty pageant was hosted by Burmese hip hop star Sai Sai and model Tin Moe Lwin and the participants competed in three rounds - traditional dress, swimwear and ball gowns.

"Now this is the first goal for Myanmar [Burma], we are ready to go to an international stage and we want to show our Myanmar heart and that we're really happy and very proud to be Myanmar," Lwin said.

The last Miss Burma contestant was Myint Myint Khin in 1961.

Meanwhile, American business magnate Donald J Trump, who owns the Miss Universe Organisation and all its pageants, including the Miss Universe, Miss USA, and Miss Teen USA beauty contests, said he "is thrilled that the contest will be staged in the magnificent city of Moscow".

"This will be one of the biggest and most beautiful Miss Universe events ever," Trump said. "It is only fitting that the world's most iconic and premier beauty contest will take place in Russia's most premier venue, Crocus City Hall."