Agreement on Kachin talks encouraging

The Myanmar Government and the armed group Kachin Independence Organization (KIO) have agreed to continue talks with a view to finding a peaceful solution to the violent conflict in Kachin State. “This is encouraging news,” Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide commented.  

The parties to the conflict issued a joint statement following a meeting on 4 February in Ruili in China. 

Over the last year there have been very positive developments in Myanmar. Ceasefire agreements have been signed with ten of the major armed ethnic groups. We are seeing the start of a reconciliation process between the country’s various ethnic groups and the Myanmar Government. Norway has acknowledged this progress. 

Both parties to the Kachin conflict now have a responsibility to make courageous decisions and come to the negotiating table and commit themselves to engaging in genuine political dialogue. If a ceasefire is achieved in Kachin, this will be the first nationwide ceasefire since Myanmar gained independence. 

“It is essential that this historic opportunity to bring about lasting peace is grasped,” Mr Eide said. 

Norway also calls on the parties to allow humanitarian aid to reach the conflict-affected population. Norway is willing to provide aid of this kind.