The gods presented (Pandora) with a box into which each had put something harmful, and forbade her even to open it. (But) Pandora, like all women, was possessed of a lively curiosity. One day she lifted the lid—and out flew plagues innumerable, sorrow and mischief for mankind. In terror Pandora clapped the lid down, but too late. One good thing, however, was there – Hope. It was the only good the casket had held among the many evils, and it remains to this day mankind’s sole comfort in misfortune.

Mythology, by Edith Hamilton

This was the longest (in terms of time) Burma trip I had made during the last 4 years. Like previous trips, it was both wonderfully informative and educative.

But unlike them, it coincided with what the UN Secretary General called a “historic occasion” – the Union Peace Conference (21st Century Panglong), 31 August-3 September. And my journal here has attempted to give a comprehensive overview of what took place each day – from my own perspective.

No doubt I must have overlooked what others saw. But at least readers interested in affairs of Burma may make something out of what’s written here, and decide on a course of action that will positively benefit the country’s struggle for peace.

Day One. Monday, 22 August 2016

We don’t negotiate with strangers.
Until you know the person, it is pointless to discuss matter of substance.

The Global Negotiator

Today the plane is full of passengers who are working in the country’s peace process. I seem to be the only busybody among them.

Chatrium Hotel Royal Lake Yangon (Photo: venue.eventnook.com)

From Mingladon airport (with a new international terminal) we are whisked to a hotel in town – Chatrium, said to be owned by a Thai bank.

I certainly don’t have any prejudice against it. Maybe staying and working in a 5 - star hotel will really bring us a 5 - star peace in the country. At least one well known activist thinks the idea is  a great one. “You can’t be worried about peace, if you are worried about poor food and an uncomfortable bed,” he says.

As usual, I have an informal meeting with friends in the evening. And as usual, I do most of the questioning and listening, while they do most of the talking – out of which comes the following:

If we are going to transfer some issues (like social, economic and land and natural resources management) to the CSOs, a TOR (Terms of Reference) should be drafted and approved, the sooner the better. Some of us are sure to argue that there are topics (like land and natural resources management) which not only concern the CSOs, but also those who will be discussing federalism.

The TORs for CSO Forums, as well as the national level political dialogues, should be approved right after the 21st Century Panglong, so that they can be launched as soon as possible, Then we will be ready for the next session of it which is due six months from now.