Representatives of two Shan ethnic armed organizations (EAOs) fighting each other in northern Shan State spoke by telephone on December 10.

Lt-Col Oum Khur, spokesperson for the Restoration Council of Shan State (RCSS), told SHAN the point of conversation with the Shan State Progress Party (SSPP/SSA) was not to make any decisions but an attempt to “create more understanding” between the Shan EAOs.

In a statement signed by Lt-Col Sai Su, secretary-2, that was released five days after the phone call with RCSS, SSPP asked not to be criticized for engaging in conflict resolution with RCSS and for people to stop posting misinformation and fake news on social media.

SSPP spokesperson Maj Sai Than Aung told SHAN that clashes between EAOs have occurred because of “varying opinions and actions” and to “build mutual trust” both sides need to stop being critical of the other.

SSPP fought RCSS on December 5 in Hsipaw Township. And on December 7 and December 10 in Namtu Township, alongside its ally Ta’ang National Liberation Army.