RCSS/SSA And Gov’t Work Out Differences
Friday, November 22, 2019
By Network Media Group
The Restoration Council of Shan State/Shan State Army (RCSS/SSA) and the government’s National Reconciliation and Peace Center (NRPC) overcame a serious deadlock blocking peace talks after meeting in the northern Thai city Chiang Mai.
RCSS/SSA Col Sai Nguen said it reopened the door for a Joint Implementation Coordination (JICM) meeting and 21st Panglong Conference planned after Armed Forces Day in late March. The colonel reaffirmed his group’s commitment to the Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement (NCA.)
Zaw Htay, spokesperson for the government’s Peace Commission (PC), told media that many positive outcomes were achieved during negotiations. “We discussed our differences frankly. I think we have a mutual understanding and will work together to avoid this kind of incident (in the future.)”
The Burma Army reportedly blocked RCSS Chairperson Gen Yawd Serk from attending the 4th anniversary of the NCA in Naypyitaw in late October. After news of the incident spread Yawd Serk told media the JICM and PPST (Peace Process Steering Team) meetings were canceled.
Representatives from the ethnic armed organisations must meet with the PPST next month before the JICM and 21st Century Panglong Conference can happen, Sai Nguen said. “I think the PPST meeting will be in the first week of December. After, the JICM will follow.”
Dr. Tin Myo Win, chairperson for PC, led the delegation from the government’s National Reconciliation and Peace Centre. He was accompanied by Khin Zaw Oo, Lt Gen. Min Naung, Lt Gen. Yar Pyae, Zaw Htay, Hla Maung Shwe, Moe Zaw Oo, and Kyaw Lin Oo.
RCSS/SSA representatives included Maj Gen Boung Khur, Col Sai Nguen, Sai Leng, Sai Harn, and Sai Nom Mueng.
