It is recognized by the SDU, together with its allies and the democratic movement as a whole, that all the stakeholders must settle political problems and conflict politically.

The Nationalities are committed to dialogue and to rebuilding a true Union (Pyidaungzu) since the 1970s, and as also evident from a series of conferences and accords: the Manerplaw Declaration (1992), the Mae Tha Raw Hta Agreement (1997), the Thoo Mwe Klo Seminar (1998), the ENSCC's Law Khii La statement (2001), the Oslo New Panglong Initiative (2001), Copenhagen Declaration (2002) and the Law Khii La 2 Seminar and statement (2004).

That the ethnic Nationalities are firm, sincere, have been most positive and constructive is recognized by the world community, including Thai Government and the United Nations.

However, the SPDC, the military regime, seems not to be convinced, and has so far played the divide-and-rule game with the ethnic Nationalities - to wit, talking and making ad-hoc, unofficial deals and agreements with ethnic Nationalities armies and organizations separately, and refusing to deal with a united collectivity and officially.

This behavior betrays an inferior chauvinistic (Maha) mentality, which characterized, or mirror imaged, the attitude and behavior of white colonial masters.

The SDU calls on the Government of Burma, especially Prime Minister Khin Nyunt, and the council of generals to act like responsible leaders and to re-visit Panglong, a treaty to which the Union of Burma (Pyidaungzu) owes its existence.

U Aung San's words should be heeded and honored by the armed forces of the country and by military leaders, and put into practice.

Toward a peaceful, prosperous, democratic, federal Pyidaungzu.