Thailand to help Burma talk to ethnic minorities
Posted on March 23, 2009
Filed Under Burma news | 1 Comment
Burma’s ruling military junta has asked Thailand to help negotiate with ethnic minorities ahead of elections planned for 2010.
Thai Foreign Minister Kasit Piromya wrapped up a two day visit to Burma today and is reported to have said Burma’s Prime Minister Thein Sein and Foreign Minister Nyan Win have asked him to talk with minority groups. “We are pleased to help,” he said.
The junta has signed ceasefire agreements with most of the 18 armed ethnic groups fighting for autonomy in Burma. However, the Karen National Union and Shan State Army, both based along the Thai-Burma border have refused to lay down their arms.
Recently, Karen military leaders in Mae Sot were told by Thai authorities to leave Thai territory (see: Thais put KNU under pressure).
Burma is trying to encourage opposition participation in the elections next year to give legitimacy to the polls.
The election is part of the junta’s so-called roadmap to democracy. However, many foreign observers have dismissed them as a sham intended to enshrine the military’s control of the country.
Kasit’s visit focused on the issue of Rohingya refugees, although the Bangkok Post reported he also planned to offer to negotiate with the Karen. “If there is peace in Burma, it will be good for Thailand,” he said.
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One Response to “Thailand to help Burma talk to ethnic minorities”
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Mae Sot weather
God bless KNU and RCSS,