Wa and Mongla, as the NDAA is commonly known, have met the Burmese delegation 3 times since September. Each meeting resulted in a new set of agreement. According to the latest one, both Wa and Mongla will discuss further on participation in the state and lower house legislatures.

Exchanging signed third agreement with UWSA, 26 December 2011 (Photo: Kyemon)

Each had also agreed to cooperate “with one mind and one stomach” with the national defense forces for national security and defense.

Other points include:

• Implementation of the agreements signed in October
• Cooperation for the promotion of living standard and economic development of their respective territories
• Naypyitaw agrees to uplift the educational standards of both Wa and Mongla
• Naypyitaw agrees to boost the health standard of the people in both Wa and Mongla areas

Wa continues to be dubbed Special Region #2 and Mongla Special Region #4 by Naypyitaw.

Signing third agreement with NDAA, 27 December 2011 (Photo: Kyemon)

Concerning the participation in the newly set up legislatures, a Mongla official said although its claim to Hsaleu in Mongyang township and Nampan in Mongyawng township continues to be ignored by Naypyitaw, “it seems we will be allowed to prove ourselves by contesting the parliamentary seats in Hsaleu and Nampan.”

Wa, apart from Hopang, Markmang, Pangwai, Mongmai, Panhsang and Napharn, is also claiming Mongpawk, a sub-township in Mongyang township. The township seat is under the control of the Burma Army.

Shan State Army (SSA) South, meanwhile, has sent two delegates to Taunggyi for another pre-meeting before the actual meeting to be held some time this month.

The group is the 4th armed movements that have signed a ceasefire pact with Naypyitaw, following the UWSA, NDAA and Democratic Karen Buddhist Army (DKBA).