One of the most fruitful points – to talk frankly in preparation for political dialogue – was already agreed by both parties before the recent meeting. Other points were even simpler: they will meet again and technical teams from both sides will prepare for this meeting at an undisclosed place and date.

“The agreement between the UNFC and government peace delegation is just like was stated in the joint-statement. Both sides found the meeting both friendly and transparent. But the meeting could not produce an outcome that both sides were satisfied with,” said Nai Soe Myint, executive member of Mon Democracy Party (MDP) and United Nationality Alliance (UNA) representative.

Several points that UNFC proposed are the roadmap established at the Ethnic Nationality Conference; a new constitution, and the re-positioning of government battalions to make room for a nationwide ceasefire agreement.

The Minister of the President’s Office of Myanmar and chief peace negotiator U Aung Min suggested that the next meeting to be held at Myanmar Peace Center in Rangoon so the country’s political issues can be discussed and solved on Burma’s soil. He hoped that every ethnic armed group will be present when a nationwide ceasefire is finally inked.

In addition to Aung Min from the government’s side, Immigration Minister U Khin Yi, U Hla Maung Shwe from Myanmar Peace Center and other members were present at the recent meeting. Nai Hongsa from New Mon State Party, Dr. Laja from Kachin Independent Organization, Naw Zipporah Sein from Karen National Union and other UNFC members were in attendance. The first Union level meeting between UWPC and UNFC also took place in Chiang Mai in February.