Mr. Larsen’s visit kicked off in Kyauk Kyi, Bago division, where the Initiative’s first pilot project is being implemented. The region is currently recovering from over 60 years of civil war. The State Secretary met with local villagers, representatives for internally displaced persons and armed political groups, as well as representatives from both local and central government.
In Yangon, Mr. Larsen met with the Peace Donor Support Group (PDSG) to discuss challenges ahead. He also had the opportunity to meet with Aung San Suu Kyi at her home in Yangon. They agreed on the significance of accommodating concerns from ethnic groups throughout the peace process.
Separate meetings were held in Yangon and Chiang Mai to inform representatives of NGOs and potential implementing partners of the Initiative, and to provide a platform to discuss concerns and clarify the process ahead.
The visit confirmed support from all stakeholders for the Norwegian led international Initiative.
Meeting in Kyauk Kyi. Photo: Svein Michelsen
Torgeir Larsen meets with Minister for Immigration and Population, Khin Yi. Photo: Arne Jan Flølo
Internally displaced persons receive new ID cards from the immigration authorities. Photo: Svein Michelsen
Internally displaced person shows the camera his new ID card. Photo: Svein Michelsen
Torgeir Larsen meeting with the authorities in Kyauk Kyi. Photo: Svein Michelsen
State Secretary Torgeir Larsen explores Kyauk Kyi, seen here crossing the Sitaung River. Photo: Svein Michelsen
Minister for Immigration and Population, Khin Yi, and Karen National Union's, Htoo Htoo Lei, pose with State Secretary Torgeir Larsen. Photo: Arne Jan Flølo
Torgeir Larsen visiting Aung San Suu Kyi in her home in Yangon. Photo: Svein Michelsen
Aung San Suu Kyi and Torgeir larsen discuss peace in Myanmar. Photo: Svein Michelsen
Visiting Aung San Suu Kyi. Photo: Svein Michelsen