Beijing said on Thursday (Dec 14) it had mediated a temporary ceasefire in fighting between the Myanmar junta and ethnic minority armed groups in the north of the country close to the Chinese border.
Recent talks between Myanmar’s military and the groups, facilitated by China, resulted in several agreements “including the temporary ceasefire and maintaining the momentum of dialogue”, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said in a statement.
Clashes have raged across Myanmar’s northern Shan state after the Arakan Army (AA), the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) and the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) launched an offensive in late October.
The groups have seized military positions and border hubs vital for trade with China in what analysts say is the biggest military challenge to the junta since it seized power in 2021.
AFP has contacted the AA and the MNDAA for comment, while the TNLA could not be reached immediately.
A spokesman for the Myanmar junta was also contacted for comment.
Beijing said on Monday that peace talks had been held and had yielded “positive results” but made no mention of a ceasefire.
“The conflict in northern Myanmar is undergoing a clear de-escalation,” Mao said in Thursday’s statement.
“This not only serves the interests of all parties concerned in Myanmar, but also helps to guarantee peace and tranquility on the Sino-Myanmar border,” she said.
