KIO calls for dialogue ahead of talks

The Kachin Independence Organization (KIO) has reiterated the group's long stated position that political problems must be solved through dialogue, according to a February 1 statement released by the KIO's central committee.

The KIO says it will therefore continue to seek a dialogue despite the fact that some fighting continues in Kachin state. The statement comes as the latest round of peace talks between the two sides are scheduled to take place on Monday.

In the statement the KIO rejected claims made by Burmese state media on January 18 regarding the previous round of peace talks held last October in which the KIO only sent mid-level representatives to speak with the government's chief negotiator Aung Min and senior military officials.

While the KIO's most senior officials declined to attend the meeting in China the group did send representatives. Burmese state media claimed however that the KIO “rejection of invitation from the government and failure to come to Shweli [also Ruili] negotiation had led to aforesaid fights [sic].” The KIO rejected the government's attempt to heap blame on the group for the failure of the peace talks.

The government also released a statement on February 1. The “GOM (government of Myanmar) remains committed to cooperating with those organizations facilitating the resumption of peace talks with KIO/KIA,” the statement said.

While the KIO statement reported that some clashes remain ongoing the government’s statement made no mention of this. Fighting has been significantly reduced near Laiza now that government forces effectively control key hill tops surrounding the KIO’s de facto capital.

 

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