During a press conference onMonday, Dr Nyo Twan Aung, vice commander-in-chief of the Arakan Army (AA)dismissed the claim of a ceasefire discussion between the AA and Myanmarmilitary junta. The interaction with reporters by Dr Aung was provided in a Burmese-languagevideo file for  an easier understanding.

Reporters: Could you, as AA vicecommander-in-chief, confirm the accuracy of the information circulating online?

 Dr Aung: Some of the informationis accurate, while some is incorrect. It's a mix of truths, inaccuracies, andpersonal desires. In some cases, as the originators of news, we're unsure ofthe motives behind the dissemination or where the information originates. Whatwe can assert confidently is what we've just stated. When contrasting it withthe information circulating online, we consistently revisit the terms of theHaigeng Agreement in every discussion. Following this, we actively work towardsstrengthening the ceasefire. This includes addressing issues along theChina-Myanmar border and combating online scams. Plans for border region exitsare also being considered, though specifics like percentages have yet to bediscussed. As for the remaining details, journalists and others should takesome time to assess the differences and gaps between my statements and theinformation circulating online. As for myself, I refrain from commenting on themeeting's decisions or the information presented during the discussion.However, I believe certain issues should be discussed, which is why I amexpressing this. I kindly request your understanding in this matter.

Reporters: Has the AA reached anyagreement during the discussion? Will there be a ceasefire with the AA?

 Dr Aung: Primarily, ourdiscussions focused on the situation in northern Shan State. In northern ShanState, there has been a ceasefire to some extent since 11 January. Therefore,at this moment, we can only equate the Haigeng Agreement with northern ShanState. We can say that the ceasefire agreement applies solely to northern ShanState. As of now, there is no ceasefire agreement with the AA.

Reporters: Can you tell us if theAA's offensive will continue in Rakhine?

Dr Aung: As you can see currently.

Reporters: Did the AA reach one ortwo agreements during the discussion? Or was there no agreement at all?

Dr Aung: Now we are discussing theHaigeng Agreement. The Haigeng Agreement solely applies to the AA in northernShan State. The AA in Rakhine State has not been included in the ceasefireagreement.

Reporters: We've heard  thatin Rakhine State, the military has agreed to the AA's demand for the soldiersto withdraw from all the townships captured by the AA and cease all militaryoperations. Is this correct?

Dr Aung: I don't have that topicon my mind right now.

Reporters: Can you share detailsabout the agreement between the military junta and the AA? It's a topic ofgreat interest. When can we expect to hear more about it?

Dr Aung: For now, I will maintaindiscussions with the Three Brotherhood Alliance. The questions raised today andthe topics we need to address will be discussed and answered over the course oftime. That's all for now.

Reporters: Happy Birthday!

Dr Aung: Thank you.