On January 24th, the commander-in-chief of Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army, the Kokang armed force, and Zhao Guo An, the vice-chairman of the United Wa State Party (UWSP) led their respective teams in a meeting held in Panghsang, the capital of the Wa region.
Pheung Daxun, the commander-in-chief of the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA), led a delegation of nine, which included the second commander-in-chief and general secretary.
"It’s true that MNDAA came to meet us, but just a typical Chinese New Year's Eve visit”,
U Nyi Rang, spokesperson and liaison officer UWSP told Mizzima.
"No notable discussions took place; our visit was simply to extend honor and greetings on the Chinese New Year Eve”, MNDAA spokesperson Lee Kyar Win also noted.
This marks the first meeting between Wa and Kokang leaders since MNDAA took full control over the entire Kokang Self-Administered Zone.
A faction that splintered from the Communist Party of Burma (CPB) in 1989 transformed into the United Wa State Party/United Wa State Army (UWSP/UWSA). Pheung Kya-shin, a former CPB leader, also parted ways with the party in March 1989, founding the MNDAA.
Lee told Mizzima that there has consistently been a positive relationship between MNDAA and UWSP/UWSA.
"We share a brotherly bond that has never wavered. Wa leaders, known for their neutrality, but have consistently offered us support. Our heartfelt appreciation extends to them for caring for the Kokang war-displaced people during the intense fighting," he acknowledged.
As a member of the Three Brotherhood Alliance, MNDAA played a crucial role in 'Operation 1027,' dealing significant blows to the Junta, and successfully capturing the Wa territories of Hopang and Panlong towns. On January 10th, MNDAA formally relinquished control of the two towns to UWSA.
In the course of 'Operation 1027,' initiated on October 27th, the Three Brotherhood Alliance seized control of 17 towns in northern Shan State. Moreover, MNDAA declared full control over the entire Kokang Special Region No. 1, declared as a Junta-free zone.
Since the beginning, UWSP/UWSA has steadfastly asserted its commitment to neutrality, categorically denying any involvement in 'Operation 1027'.
Meanwhile, pro-Junta Telegram channels have been emphasizing that the meeting between the Wa and Kokang leaders cannot be taken lightly and needs to be monitored seriously.
