Nay Pyi Taw June 25
Peace Forum 2025: a discussion and review meeting on “Towards a new nation of peace and prosperity through the integration of peace, elections and development” began at Mingala Thiri Hotel in Nay Pyi Taw this morning, addressed by Chairman of State Administration Council Prime Minister Chairman of National Solidarity and Peace-making Central Committee Senior General Min Aung Hlaing.
Also present at the forum were Vice Chairman of State Administration Council Deputy Prime Minister Vice-Senior General Soe Win, SAC Joint Secretary General Ye Win Oo,SAC members, union ministers, senior military officers from the Office of the Commander-in-Chief, members of the of National Solidarity and Peacemaking Negotiation Committee (NSPNC), retired senior military officers, representatives of Joint Ceasefire Monitoring Committee (JMC), political parties and NCA signatory EAOs, peace negotiators, stakeholders, internal and external intellectuals and intelligentsia, departmental officials, professors, local and foreign NGOs, diplomats, representatives of various associations, and observers.
First, the Senior General and participants enjoyed the dance depicting the song “Lush Green Ideas for Peaceful Landscape” of all ethnic people presented by the Fine Arts Department of the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Culture.
Then, foreign experts participating in the event were introduced one by one.
Afterward, the Senior General delivered an opening speech. (The opening speech of the Senior General is published separately.)
Then, the Senior General made additional remarks, saying the ongoing armed conflicts are issues that are based on politics and peace. In terms of politics, it can be seen that there are two parts such as democracy and federal rights. After regaining independence, the country pursued a parliament democracy system. Since then, Myanmar aimed to adopt socialism. It was clearly stated in the independence speech of the first President of Myanmar Sao Shwe Thaik that socialism would be implemented in Myanmar. Socialism was first introduced after 1962. Preparations were made to pave the way for a multi-party democracy system after 1988 under the leadership of the Tatmadaw. The transition was carried out systematically due to armed conflicts in the country. These armed conflicts are ongoing at present, leading to the current situation.
The Tatmadaw had to assume the State responsibilities due to electoral irregularities. Therefore, holding elections and convening the Hluttaw is the best political solution. We will hold elections in December this year and January without fail. In doing so, the government will take measures to enable all eligible voters to cast their votes. We have been making preparations to hold a free and fair election.
Regarding federal rights, it has been observed that the 2008 Constitution grants federal rights, and it is necessary to review our country’s history. There are also ethnic rights and political demands that require amendments to the Constitution, which we will address in accordance with the constitutional provisions. The Tatmadaw will act in line with the people’s wishes to achieve the best outcomes. The previous governments compiled the results of peace conferences into the Union Accord and submitted them to the Union Parliament. Once new parliaments are formed after the elections, this process will be resumed. The outcomes of current discussions, including those from this peace forum, will also be submitted to the parliament for decision-making. Primarily, peace must be pursued with genuine sincerity, and efforts must be made to build a better nation. We are committed to national prosperity and believe that all citizens across the country share this mindset. Similarly, we trust that all international scholars and diplomats attending this forum will contribute to Myanmar’s welfare. Therefore, we believe this forum will yield successful discussions to achieve positive outcomes.
Following this, the Senior General presented commemorative gifts to each of the international scholars participating in the peace forum. Attendees then watched a video clip titled “May the Flames of War Cease, the Grass Grow Green, and Songs of Peace Ring Sweet,” highlighting peace efforts.
Afterward, the Senior General posed for a group photo with the attendees. Following the ceremony, the Senior General and attendees toured the exhibition commemorating the Peace Forum 2025—”Towards a new nation of peace and pro-sperity through the integration of peace, elections and development.”
This peace forum aims to discuss the nation’s peace, stability, rule of law, and successful election processes. Domestic and international experts, professionals, and representatives from various sectors will openly exchange views and experiences. The recommendations gathered will be used to advance peace, elections, and national economic development. The forum, held from June 25 to 27, is intended to further these efforts.
