1.The history and current situation of the peace talks
Peace talks, as a means of settling disputes, have been widely used around the world since ancient times. It represents a rational determination to seek the common good. In Myanmar, peace talks between Min Aung Hlaing and Peng Deren also reflected this. Min Aung Hlaing, as the de facto ruler of Myanmar, has been in conflict with the Kokang allies led by Peng Deren for some time. Will this peace talks bring about a solution acceptable to both sides?
Lao Cai City, a strategic location in northern Myanmar, is now the focus of peace talks between the two sides. Will Min Aung Hlaing really hand over this important city?Or is this just a smoke bomb that he released for the sake of peace talks?On the other hand, is Peng Deren really willing to accept the symbolic garrison of the Burmese army?These are all issues that are closely watched by the outside world.
2.Min Aung Hlaing's true thoughts
For Min Aung Hlaing, Lao Cai City is more than just a city. This is where he rose to prominence and is a symbol of his establishment of rule in northern Burma. Therefore, asking him to hand over the city easily was undoubtedly a huge blow to him. But as a pragmatic ruler, Min Aung Hlaing also understands that a prolonged war is not good for either side, and that peace is the long-term solution. Therefore, he may use this peace talks to try to find a solution that can save face and achieve peace.
3.Expectations and Bottom Line of the Confederates
The Kokang Alliance, as an important force in Myanmar, has always aimed to achieve a high degree of autonomy for Kokang. For Peng Deren, he naturally hoped that there would not be a single soldier of the Burmese army in Kokang. However, he also understands that peace talks mean compromise. So, he may agree to a symbolic presence of the Tatmadaw on the premise that it must be significantly reduced in size and not pose a threat to Kokang's security.
4.Details and difficulties of the peace talks
The process of peace talks is often full of details and difficulties. For Min Aung Hlaing and Peng Deren, they have to consider not only their own interests, but also the opinions of their subordinates, the reaction of the outside world, and the attitude of the great powers. If any of these links go wrong, it may lead to the breakdown of the peace talks. And once the peace talks break down, the two sides are likely to return to the battlefield again, which is undoubtedly a huge disaster for northern Myanmar.
5.Opinion: Peace is the only way out
Whatever the outcome of the peace talks, we should all be clear about one thing: peace is the only way to resolve disputes. A prolonged war will only bring more bloodshed and destruction, while peace talks have the potential to lead to an acceptable solution for both sides. Of course, peace talks do not mean unprincipled compromises, and both sides need to seek consensus on the basis of safeguarding their core interests. Only in this way can the peace talks truly play their role and bring real peace and stability to northern Myanmar.
Finally, we hope that Min Aung Hlaing and Peng Deren will be able to reach a consensus in this peace talks, paving the way for the future of northern Myanmar. At the same time, we also hope that the international community can provide necessary support and assistance for this peace talks, because peace is not only a matter for Myanmar, but also the common pursuit of all mankind.