THE Peace Forum 2025, themed “Towards a new nation of peace and prosperity through the integration of peace, elections and development”, was held at the Mingala Thiri Hotel in Nay Pyi Taw yesterday.
It was attended by National Solidarity and Peacemaking Negotiation Committee Chairman Lt-Gen Yar Pyae and committee members, retired Tatmadaw officers, representatives of JMC, political parties, NCA-signatories and non-signatories, participants in peace processes, technicians, intellectuals, directors-general of ministries concerned and organizations, rectors of universities, representatives of international and local NGOs and other observers, totalling 259 participants.
Speaking at the event, State Administration Council Member Union Minister for Border Affairs Lt-Gen Yar Pyae, who is also Chairman of the National Solidarity and Peacemaking Negotiation Committee, said that recognizing the real situation of the nation, every citizen must participate in the nation-building process with unity and cooperation. Challenges encountered must be addressed through mutual discussion and coordination among the citizens, combining efforts on matters that are agreeable and negotiating solutions for those that differ. The national interest must be regarded as a common goal.
The participation of international friends who can offer valuable advice and assistance in the peace process is also a significant support for the process. To hold a free and fair election by the end of this year and to implement the national solidarity and peacemaking processes before and after the election, the forum will bring trust-building processes, practical strategies and positive suggestions.
He continued that the people-centred pathways should be created by reviewing the proper ways to strengthen the foundations for a united and developing Myanmar through free, fair and transparent elections as per the theme of the forum. He also mentioned the four objectives of the Peace Form-to enhance peace dialogues, to build trust and cooperation, to address humanitarian assistance and socio-economic challenges and to strengthen international collaboration for State stability and development.
Committee Secretary Lt- Gen Min Naing briefed on the intention and agenda of the forum.
Mr Deng Xijun, Special Envoy for Asian Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China, Mr Jaideep Mazumdar, Indian Ambassador (Retd), Mr Sihasak Phuangketkeo, Vice-Foreign Minister of Thailand (Retd) and Russian Professor Aleksandr Gelyevich Dugin made remarks.
The eight foreign guests discussed different topics: “Opportunities for Peacemaking during and after Elections” and “Processes for Addressing Post-Conflict Reconstruction and Natural Disaster Recovery”. — MNA/ KTZH
