Tuesday, January 12, 2016

Peace Talks To Continue In Myanmar



WSJ: Aung San Suu Kyi Claims Mandate to Secure Peace in Myanmar

Incoming leader says it is her ‘responsibility’ to work to end conflict between military and ethnic groups.

NAYPYITAW, Myanmar—Incoming leader Aung San Suu Kyi emerged as a new key player in Myanmar’s complex and fragile peace deal with several armed ethnic groups, saying she wanted to steer its course after her party’s election victory.

Ms. Suu Kyi appeared at a showcase peace conference on Tuesday alongside outgoing government and military leaders who brokered the deal to end decades of conflict, despite previously snubbing these discussions.

“I am ready to take responsibility for the peace process, according to the mandate given to us by the people,” said Ms. Suu Kyi, speaking at a grandiose ceremony in the capital of Naypyitaw with more than 700 in attendance, including military generals and ethnic groups, marking the opening of the five-day peace conference. “It could be difficult to change the political framework [of the peace process], but there should be flexibility.”

Update #1: Myanmar's Suu Kyi calls for all insurgents to take part in talks -- Reuters
Update #2: Myanmar's Suu Kyi Emphasizes Reconciliation at Peace Meeting (Bloomberg)

WNU Editor: It is going to take a long time for peace to become a permanent feature in Myanmar. But at least they are making the first steps to make this possible.

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