Myanmar gov't, 8 armed groups agree to hold ethnic conference in late August

Myanmar government and eight ceasefire signatory armed groups agreed on Tuesday to hold the 21st Century Panlong Ethnic Conference in late August under equality and non-secession basis, said Presidential Spokesman U Zaw Htay.

The agreement was reached between State Counselor Aung San Suu Kyi and representatives from eight armed groups following a coordination meeting of the two sides.

The armed groups voiced support of of Suu Kyi's policy of holding the conference identical to that historically convened by her late father General Aung San.

The conference aims at achieving peace and national reconciliation aspired by Suu Kyi.

Panlong conference calls for building a federal union with unity and non-secession spirit, Suu Kyi explained to the armed groups at the meeting.

U Zaw Htay disclosed that the Panlong Conference Preparatory Committee is working hard to ensure that those remaining non-ceasefire signatory armed groups can take part in the gathering.

Peace Negotiator Dr. Tin Myo Win said, some remaining non-ceasefire signatory armed groups including the United Wa State Army (UWSA), the National Democratic Alliance Army(NDAA) , Arakan Army (AA) and Ta'ang National Liberation Army (TNLA), would talk with the state counselor.

Member of the National Reconciliation and Peace Center U Hla Maung Shwe also revealed that the Naga Group is also being invited for talks in Yangon for the participation in the Panlong Conference .

Myanmar former government and eight ethnic armed groups out of 15 signed the Nationwide Cease fire Accord (NCA) on Oct. 15, 2015.

(APD)