Peace Process: NSPNC meets with political parties

A meeting between the National Solidarity and Peacemaking Negotiation Committee (NSPNC) and political parties was held in Nay Pyi Taw on Thursday morning. NSPNC Chairman Lt-Gen Yar Pyae attended the meeting and delivered a speech. The Chairman stated that 16 permanent members of Political Parties Working Group will be selected and called for the constructive participation of political parties in negotiation with the armed groups for returning to the legal fold. He also called for assistance of political parties for the return of NCA Signatory Ethnic Armed Organizations (EAOs) in the peace process, measures to restore conflict affected areas to normalcy, finding ways to restore peace in EAOs occupied areas, as well as the resettlement of internally displaced persons. Discussions were made on ongoing peace process, humanitarian assistance to places in need, better peace process framework based on past experiences and achievements, alinging with the current political situation, transition strategies and trust building measures. Moreover, the political parties representatives frankly exchanged views on conducting peace talks in regions and states, role of media, engagement of women and political parties in peace process, collaborative measures to restore stability, provisions of the 2008 constitution that may be amended and raising public awareness. The 2nd day of the meeting will be continued on September 18.