Burma rebel groups meet for talks on ceasefire

ETHNIC rebel group leaders began meeting yesterday in north-eastern Burma to discuss how to end the current fighting in the region and finalise a nationwide ceasefire agreement with the government.

The meeting was taking place in Panghsang, the stronghold of the militarily powerful ethnic Wa group. Meanwhile in a nearby region, fierce clashes between Kokang guerrillas and government troops have left hundreds killed.

At the same time, an alliance of more than a dozen ethnic minority groups has been holding talks with the government to end decades of fighting for autonomy.

The government’s continued clashes with the Kokang have caused the ethnic alliance to distrust the sincerity of president Thein Sein’s regime. Neither the Kokang nor their Wa hosts have been part of the government’s talks but both were taking part in yesterday consultations.

The government strongly opposed the participation of the Kokang but leaders of the United Wa State Army invited them “so that we can help discuss and negotiate a speedy cessation of fighting in Kokang region”, Wa spokesman Aung Myint said.

“We will discuss issues relating to peace and stability in ethnic regions. We want peace in the ethnic regions because development cannot be achieved without stability,” he added.

His viewpoint was endorsed by government peace negotiator Hla Maung Shwe, who said: “I believe that the Wa leaders will help find a way to end the conflict in its region, especially the ongoing conflict between the government and Kokang rebels.”

He was referring to the fighting between Kokang rebels and government troops in Laukkai region, which broke out in early February.