Myanmar, EU vow to work for peace in Myanmar

Myanmar and the European Union (EU) Saturday vowed here to cooperate closely in their joint efforts to build peace in Myanmar, saying that it is a historic moment to join hands for working for peace.

The pledge was made in a joint declaration signed by Myanmar Minister at the President's Office U Aung Min and visiting EU Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso at the Myanmar Peace Center (MPC) in Yangon.

The MPC, established by Presidential Decree, is to serve as a platform for inclusive and non-partisan dialogue among all involved in Myanmar's ethnic peace process including international and national, governmental and non-governmental groups, individuals and organizations at both regional and central levels, the declaration said.

Both sides expect as well as believe that the MPC will be a key element in achieving just and lasting peace in Myanmar.

In support of the MPC, EU said it will fund its start-up with 700,000 euros, to be followed by a sizable package later this year. In 2013, EU will continue to contribute a total of 30 million euros to Myanmar's ethnic peace process.

Earlier on Saturday, Myanmar President U Thein Sein met with Barroso in Nay Pyi Taw.

Barroso also met with speaker of the House of Representatives U Shwe Mann and opposition leader and parliamentarian Aung San Suu Kyi in the new capital.-The Philippine Star (November 04, 2012 9:00AM)