KNU ready to talk to Burmese brass

Published on Aug 13, 2002

Karen National Union commander General Bo Mya yesterday said he was ready to negotiate with Burma's military regime but would not disarm until a settlement was reached.

Speaking to troops and reporters at a KNU base camp opposite Tak's Phop Phra district, Bo Mya said he was waiting for Rangoon's reply on his proposal to hold talks.

A military campaign would continue until then, said the beefy general at yesterday's event, which commemorated the KNU's 52nd Martyrs Day anniversary.

He also urged Rangoon to enter into dialogue with pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi and the National League for Democracy, saying it would help improve the plight of Burma's minority groups.

The celebrations began with about 200 KNU soldiers marching in the parade field at the camp site. The drill was followed by traditional Karen dancing performed by young men and women.

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