Junta chief invites EAOs, PDFs to peace talks within 100 days

By Admin 21 Apr 2026

DMG Newsroom

21 April 2026, Nay Pyi Taw

Min Aung Hlaing, who assumed the presidency following a junta-organized election, announced that he intends to hold peace talks with Ethnic Armed Organizations and People’s Defence Forces within the next 100 days.

During a Union Government meeting held in Nay Pyi Taw on April 20, Min Aung Hlaing extended the invitation, proposing that the discussions take place between April 20 and July 31.

“We have urged resistance fighters to enter the legal fold for the sake of peace. Many are already doing so, particularly within the Central and Southern Commands. I invite PDFs to come forward for peace within these 100 days,” former military chief said.

He called on Ethnic Armed Organizations to engage in dialogue before the July 31 deadline, noting that the invitation extends to both signatories and non-signatories to the Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement.

“Regarding EAOs, there are two groups, those that have signed the NCA and those that have not. We invite both to peace talks. I especially urge non signatory groups to meet for discussions before July 31,” he added.

Priority has reportedly been given to the Karen National Union, Chin National Front, and All Burma Students’ Democratic Front, groups that signed the NCA but have been in active resistance since the coup.

Myanmar’s self-appointed president further mentioned that 43 points previously agreed upon in the NCA framework would be presented to parliament for implementation.

However, political analysts remain skeptical, suggesting the likelihood of successful dialogue is low as the invitation lacks substantive new offers for Ethnic Armed Organizations and People’s Defence Forces.

“While inviting for peace talks sounds positive, we must be cautious. The junta chief may be attempting to divert attention from crimes against humanity and mass casualty airstrikes while trying to legitimize his presidency,” a Myanmar political observer said.

The observer added, “He talks about peace while simultaneously conducting airstrikes. This fire in one hand, water in the other approach shows a clear disconnect between his words and actions.”

According to a report released on April 20 by the Myanmar Internet Project, the regime carried out a total of 423 airstrikes nationwide during the first three months of this year.

The report stated that these attacks resulted in the deaths of 782 civilians, including 107 women, 50 children, and 30 elderly persons.

Armed resistance has intensified across the country since the military coup on February 1, 2021, with heavy fighting continuing to this day.

Political analysts criticize the junta chief for orchestrating a calculated election to position himself as a civilian president while using the rhetoric of peace.