Myanmar Government inks peace pact with 8 ethnic rebels groups

Myanmar government has signed a peace accord with eight of the 15 ethnic armed minorities groups especially belonging to Kayin and Chin groups to end decades of civil war.
The ceremony was held by President Thein Sein in Naypyidaw in the presence of six international witnesses including India, China, Japan, Thailand, UN and European Union (EU).
The agreement will remain open for the signature from the other armed groups with which the government of Myanmar is being involved in negotiations.
Indian delegation was represented by National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval along with PM’s special envoy for northeast R N Ravi and former Mizoram chief minister Zoramthanga.
The peace deal is considered as the fruit of more than two years of negotiations between Myanmar’s junta government and rebels as part of key reforms undertaken President Thein Sein ahead of November 2015 general elections.
Background

• Myanmar was engaged in armed conflict with various ethnic and other groups seeking greater autonomy since it became independent country from the British colonial rule in 1948.
• The armed conflict has left tens of thousands dead over the years and has displaced thousands more. Resolving the conflicts issues with these armed ethnic groups is seen as Myanmar Government’s attempts to reform after decades of military rule in the country.

Month: Current Affairs - October, 2015