(Reuters) – An alliance of ethnic minority insurgent groups in Myanmar on Wednesday reaffirmed its commitment to defeat the country’s “dictatorship”, days after the ruling military said it held China-mediated talks with the rebels.
Fighting has intensified in the past six weeks in Myanmar, with the “Three Brotherhood Alliance” launching coordinated attacks on military targets near the northern border with China.
The assault has emboldened pro-democracy militias to do the same elsewhere, presenting the biggest battlefield challenge to the junta since a 2021 coup.
“Significant progress made, but achieving our complete goals needs more time and ongoing efforts,” the Three Brotherhood Alliance posted on X social media, without mentioning the talks.
“Our dedication remains strong with the entire Myanmar population.”
The military on Monday said it met with the rebels and other parties in the conflict, and another round of talks was due by the end of the month. No other details were provided.
The three groups in the alliance have not responded to repeated requests from Reuters for comment. China’s foreign ministry on Tuesday said it was happy to see parties to the Myanmar conflict hold peace talks and is willing to provide further support.
The insurgent groups and the junta could not immediately be reached for comment on Wednesday.
The fighting, largely in northern Shan state, has caused concern in China, with an estimated 300,000 people displaced since the rebel offensive started on Oct, 27, according to the United Nations, which says more than 2 million people have been forced from their homes since the coup.
(Reporting by Reuters Staff; Writing by Martin Petty; Editing by Kanupriya Kapoor)
