Even though there is a ceasefire agreement between government’s peace-making team and the SSPP/SSA peace-making group, hostilities have been taking place sporadically in Shan State. Hence, the peace deal seems to be on paper only. Some analysts believe it would be of benefit to military-backed President Thein Sein government. Furthermore, the real aim of seeking brief ceasefire by the government seems to relieve economic sanctions, rather than genuine peace.

The Lashio meeting also did not discuss existing warfare in the Sino-Burmese oil and gas pipeline areas in northern Shan State. Neither did the two sides talk about Ta Hsarm Pu Crossing over the Pang river, where the Burma Army had demanded the SSA must withdraw its troops from.

“It means the fighting goes on,” said SSPP/SSA spokesman Major Sai La, according to S.H.A.N.

Referring another officer, Shan Herald Agency for News said that the SSA may need to deal with the regional commanders directly to talk about military issues. Even though some ceasefire deals are made between the rebel groups and the government, there has been little real progress on the frontlines.