The following is a speech delivered by Mr Vikram Misri, the Deputy National Security Adviser to India on 8th anniversary of signing of Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement-NCA on 15 October 2023 in Nay Pyi Taw.
Hon’ble Chairman of the State Administration Council Senior General Min Aung Hlaing,
Distinguished Guests from Government of Myanmar,
Distinguished Representatives from Ethnic Armed Organizations,
Distinguished Representatives from the international community,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Today, we are gathered to commemorate a significant milestone in the history of Myanmar — the 8th anniversary of the Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement (NCA). As India, a witness country to the agreement, we reflect on the journey that our neighbouring nation has undertaken towards achieving peace and unity.
Eight years ago, on this very day, representatives from eight ethnic armed organizations and the government of Myanmar came together to sign the NCA. It was a moment filled with hope and a testament to the commitment of all parties involved to resolve conflicts through dialogue and cooperation.
The NCA, a product of rigorous negotiations and courageous decisions, marked a pivotal moment in Myanmar’s history. It signified the collective desire of Myanmar’s diverse ethnic groups to put aside their differences, lay down their arms, and embark on a path towards a more peaceful future. The NCA represents not just an agreement on paper but the aspirations of the Myanmar people for a nation where all citizens can coexist harmoniously, free from violence and conflict. It envisions a Myanmar where the rich tapestry of ethnic voices and cultures is not just respected but celebrated, where every individual has the opportunity to flourish.
It is this spirit of NCA which needs to be further nurtured and strengthened to resolve ethnic conflicts and differences amicably and peacefully for realization of the aspirations of the people of Myanmar. India, as a federal democratic country, supports this path for Myanmar and has always lent a helping hand whenever needed through its initiatives like promoting dialogue on constitutionalism and federalism.
However, we must acknowledge that the journey towards peace has been fraught with challenges. There have been setbacks along the way, and the path forward remains challenging in view of the evolving political landscape in Myanmar. The nation is in the midst of a political transition and the role of the NCA in this process can be useful, if all parties abide by their respective commitments; then the NCA framework can provide a platform for political reforms that reflect the aspirations of the Myanmar people for a democratic and federal republic. It can then become a cornerstone of the nation’s journey towards a more inclusive society.
The NCA is a symbol of hope and can illuminate the path towards peace amid the shadows of conflict. We call upon all stakeholders to strengthen this framework, abide by their commitments and initiate a serious dialogue to resolve the conflict politically to move towards the goal of a federal democratic republic where all its people live in peace, stability and prosperity. Thank you, and may peace and unity flourish in Myanmar and the entire region.
