Myanmar’s armed ethnic groups are to meet next week in Chiang Mai to consider the government’s offer of a “nationwide” ceasefire pact that would exclude three factions fighting in the Kokang region but with a promise of bilateral talks once they halt military operations.

The government’s proposal was reiterated by chief negotiator and minister U Aung Min in talks with political parties in Yangon on May 18. The Nationwide Ceasefire Coordination Team, representing 16 armed groups, including the three in question, has publicly rejected the offer, although there are signs that some would be open to a two-step process.

U Aung Min said he believed a nationwide ceasefire agreement could be signed in June.

bbabo.Net