The four Northern Alliances—the KIO/KIA, the PSLF/TNLA, the ULA/AA, and the MNTJP met the NRPC formed with government negotiators at Amazing Kengtong Resort in Kengtung in eastern Shan State.

During the meeting the NPRC and the Northern Alliance agreed on the plan to continue discussing with Tatmadaw (defence services). The matters relating to relocation of troops and rules of engagement (ROE) will be on the agenda at the meeting.

The next meeting is scheduled on September 16 and 17. Both parties also agreed on the venue where to meet.

“We will agree in principle in the next bilateral talk, especially not to create further clashes. It is our objective. It is necessary to talk with Tatmadaw to stop the clashes in the future,” said Zaw Htay, Director-General of State Counsellor Office.

After signing bilateral ceasefire agreement, the matters relating to the NCA will go on discussions, the joint statement said.

“The aim of negotiation is to strengthen ceasefire. Agreed points are needed to strengthen ceasefire. The area designation of the troops and ROEs must be thoroughly discussed. Therefore, we are holding the meeting today. We have already agreed to discuss the processes roughly agreed. The EAO proposed that we are to seek an agreement with the Northern Alliance. At present we have proposed that ongoing clashes should be stopped. But they can’t decide it yet. They have told us that they will submit the matter to their leaders and then it will be informed,” said Zaw Htay.

The statement said that ongoing clashes breaking out recently in the country should be stopped immediately. Both parties must try for national reconciliation and Union peace.

“Today’s discussion is to go ahead and it is productive. It produces positivity. We hoped the best,” said Dr Nyo Tun Aung, Deputy Chief of Staff.

Translated and Edited by Win Htut