US govt welcomes draft ceasefire deal

01 April 2015
US govt welcomes draft ceasefire deal
US ambassador to Myanmar Derek Mitchell. Photo: Hong Sar/Mizzima

The US government has responded positively to the news that the Myanmar government and ethnic armed groups have signed a joint declaration stating that they have finalized a draft nationwide ceasefire agreement, according to a press release issued by their Yangon embassy on March 31.
President U Thein Sein attended the ceremonial signing of a draft ceasefire accord between the government and ethnic rebel groups on March 31 at the Myanmar Peace Centre in Yangon, the culmination of seven sessions of negotiations held since 2013. The agreement is aimed at ending more than 65 years of armed conflict in the country.
Washington has welcomed the draft that waits to be ratified and put into action. Their press release reads:
We welcome news that the Union Government and ethnic armed groups have signed a joint declaration stating that they have finalized a draft nationwide ceasefire agreement. A nationwide ceasefire agreement would mark a potentially historic step towards achieving peace and national reconciliation, which has eluded the country for decades.
We commend all sides for their strong commitment to dialogue and spirit of compromise towards resolving long-standing differences. The apparent consensus reached in the agreement and trust established through the negotiations will be essential foundations for an inclusive, transparent, and meaningful political dialogue, which remains the core requirement for lasting peace.
Consistent with our objective of supporting democracy, justice, peace, and national reconciliation, the United States stands ready to provide continued support for the peace process going forward as welcomed by the people of this country.