RUSSIA offers Ukraine to resume direct talks on 15 May in Istanbul, Russian President Vladimir Putin said.
President Vladimir Putin is delivering a key statement, concluding four days of high-level talks with world leaders gathered in Moscow for the 80th anniversary of Nazi Germany’s defeat.
The Kremlin-confirmed address comes as international attention remains sharply focused on Russia’s geopolitical stance. “In this regard, despite everything, we propose that the Kiev authorities resume the talks they interrupted at the end of 2022, resume direct talks, and without any preconditions. We propose to begin without delay next Thursday, 15 May, in Istanbul, where they were held earlier and where they were interrupted,” Putin said in a statement following a series of international talks in the Kremlin.
Russia is ready for serious negotiations with Ukraine, the point is to eliminate the root causes of the conflict, Putin said. “We are ready for serious negotiations with Ukraine, their point is to eliminate the root causes of the conflict, to establish a long-term, lasting peace for the historical perspective,” the president told journalists.
Putin said that Russia’s proposal to resume negotiations with Ukraine was on the table. The Kremlin will announce who will lead the Russian delegation to the Istanbul talks on Ukraine, Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov said on Sunday. — SPUTNIK

Source: The Global New Light of Myanmar

Chairman of the State Administration Council Prime Minister Senior General Min Aung Hlaing who attended the military parade to mark the 80th Anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War 1941-1945 of the Russian Federation held a meeting with President of the People’s Republic of China Mr Xi Jinping at the Beijing Hall of Soluex Hotel Moscow yesterday evening.
At the meeting, President of the People’s Republic of China Mr Xi Jinping expressed his deep condolences to the government and people of Myanmar for the damage and losses caused by the recent major earthquake in Mandalay, Myanmar. He stated that he firmly believes the government and people of Myanmar will work hand in hand to carry out reconstruction and recovery efforts effectively. He also affirmed that China will provide necessary assistance as needed. He noted that this year marks the 75th anniversary of China-Myanmar relations and reaffirmed China’s consistent support for Myanmar’s development, sovereignty, and stability. Furthermore, he pledged continued Chinese assistance in Myanmar’s development and peace-building efforts.
In his response, the Senior General said that during this difficult time in Myanmar caused by the natural disaster of an earthquake, China has expressed its deep condolences and solidarity with the people of Myanmar. As a close friend, China offered heartfelt sympathy and best wishes for a swift recovery. Furthermore, recognizing the ‘Golden Hour’ – the most critical time for rescue efforts after an earthquake — Chinese rescue teams arrived in Myanmar just 18 hours after the quake and immediately began carrying out necessary relief operations. The Chinese government also provided emergency humanitarian assistance to Myanmar. The government and people of Myanmar remain deeply grateful for China’s continuous support. Since reconstruction is a long-term process, Myanmar earnestly hopes to continue offering support and assistance from China as needed in the days to come.
He continued to say that Myanmar expresses gratitude to China for its support of Myanmar’s stance on regional and international fronts regarding the country’s affairs. Myanmar is currently undertaking preparations to successfully hold a multiparty democratic general election by the end of this year and is also planning to invite international observation missions during the election period. Myanmar also supports China’s efforts to build a community with a shared future with its neighbouring countries and to establish new foundations for cooperation with neighbouring states. Today’s meeting has been very beneficial for enhancing bilateral relations and cooperation, and both countries will be able to continue working closely together in the future.
The Chinese President discussed that it is following the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence in international relations, continues to stand by Myanmar both regionally and internationally, and supports and encourages Myanmar’s preparations for the upcoming multiparty democratic general elections.

The Senior General and the Chinese President exchanged views on promoting bilateral relations, enhancing cooperation in all sectors, initiating a Pauk-Phaw relationship between Myanmar and China, shaping a society through thick and thin, and cooperating in regional stability and peace.
After the meeting, the Senior General and the Chinese President cordially greeted each other.
Also, present at the meeting were Council Joint Secretary General Ye Win Oo, Council members General Maung Maung Aye, Dr Ba Shwe and Khun San Lwin, Deputy Prime Minister and Union Minister for Foreign Affairs U Than Swe, senior Tatmadaw officers from the Office of the Commander-in-Chief, deputy ministers, the Myanmar Ambassador to the Russian Federation, and officials.
The President of PRC was accompanied member of the Standing Committee of the Politburo of the Central Committee of the Chinese Communist Party, member of the Secretariat of the Chinese Community Party, Head of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China Mr Cai Qi, member of the Politburo of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China Head of the Foreign Affairs Commission of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China, Minister for Foreign Affairs Mr Wang Yi, ministers and senior officers of China, the Chinese Ambassador to Russia and officials. — MNA/TTA

Source: The Global New Light of Myanmar

A Myanmar high-level delegation led by Chairman of the State Administration Council Prime Minister Senior General Min Aung Hlaing and his wife Daw Kyu Kyu Hla left Nay Pyi Taw Tatmadaw Airport by special aircraft yesterday morning to attend the parade to mark the 80th Anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War (1941-1945) to be held in the Russian Federation at the invitation of President of the Russian Federation Mr Valadimir Putin.
The Senior General and his wife and party were seen off at the airport by SAC Vice-Chairman Deputy Prime Minister Vice-Senior General Soe Win and his wife Daw Than Than Nwe, Council Secretary General Aung Lin Dwe and his wife, council members, Union ministers, the Nay Pyi Taw Council Chairman, senior Tatmadaw officers from the Office of the Commander-in-Chief and their wives, the commander of Nay Pyi Taw Command, officials from the Embassy of the Russian Federation to Myanmar and the Military Attache Office to Myanmar.
The Senior General and his wife were accompanied by Council Joint Secretary General Ye Win Oo and his wife, Deputy Prime Minister and Union Minister for Defence General Maung Maung Aye, Dr Ba Shwe and Khun San Lwin, Deputy Prime Minister and Union Minister for Foreign Affairs U Than Swe, Chief of the General Staff (Army, Navy and Air) General Kyaw Swa Lin and his wife, senior Tat-
madaw officers from the Office of the Commander-in-Chief, deputy ministers and military and civilian officials.
During the trip, the Senior General will attend the 80th Anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War (1941-1945) and related ceremonies, and hold separate meetings with attendees to the ceremonies. Moreover, the Senior General will carry out cementing strategic cooperation measures in friendly relations, economic and security sectors and other sectors between governments and people of both countries.
Daw Kyu Kyu Hla, the wife of the Senior General, will hold meetings with Speaker of the Federation Council Mrs Valentina Matvienko and Chairperson of the Russian Chapter of the BRICS Women’s Business Alliance Ms Anna Nesterova. The Myanmar high-level delegation led by the Senior General arrived at Vnukovo International Airport in Moscow in the afternoon and was welcomed by Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Mr Andre Rudenko and officials of the Russian Federation, Myanmar Ambassador to the Russian Federation U Thit Linn Ohn and Myanmar Military Attaché (Army, Navy and Air) Brig-Gen Kyaw Soe Oo.
At the welcome ceremony, the Senior General and party were flanked by the State Guard of Honour of the Russian Federation along the passage. — MNA/TTA

Source: The Global New Light of Myanmar

PEZESHKIAN cordially congratulated Putin and all Russian citizens on the 80th anniversary of Victory Day. Russian President Vladimir Putin and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian have discussed the development of bilateral cooperation based on the comprehensive strategic partnership agreement, the Kremlin said on Tuesday. The leaders have also discussed the progress of the Oman-mediated negotiations between Iran and the United States on the Iranian nuclear programme, the statement said, adding that Putin confirmed Russia’s readiness to promote dialogue to achieve a fair agreement on the Iranian nuclear programme.
Additionally, Putin expressed sincere condolences to Pezeshkian over deaths as a result of the explosion that happened on 26 April at the Shahid Rajaee port in southern Iran, while the Iranian leader thanked the Russian president for assistance in eliminating the consequences of the explosion. — SPUTNIK

Ref : The Global New Light of Myanmar

Photo: Euronews.com

“MAKE no mistake: A military solution is no solution,” UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said on the tensions between India and Pakistan, at a press encounter on Monday.
“Tensions between India and Pakistan are at their highest in years,” the UN chief said. “And so it pains me to see relations reaching a boiling point,” he added.
Guterres once again strongly condemned the terror attack in Pahalgam on 22 April, and extended his condolences to the families of the victims. “Targeting civilians is unacceptable — and those responsible must be brought to justice through credible and lawful means,” he said.
The UN chief stressed that it was essential, “especially at this critical hour, to avoid a military confrontation that could easily spin out of control,” and “now is the time for maximum restraint and stepping back from the brink.” “That has been my message in my ongoing outreach with both countries,” said Guterres.
The UN secretary-general once again offered his good offices to both India and Pakistan in the service of peace. “The United Nations stands ready to support any initiative that promotes de-escalation, diplomacy, and a renewed commitment to peace,” he said. Tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated following a deadly attack on tourists in Pahalgam in the Indian-controlled Kashmir on 22 April. — Xinhua

Source: The Global New Light of Myanmar

LEADERS of Germany’s conservative CDU/CSU and centre-left Social Democratic Party (SPD) signed a coalition agreement on Monday, paving the way for the formation of a new federal government.
Under the coalition pact finalized in April after weeks of negotiations, the parties pledged to enhance Germany’s economic competitiveness, strengthen national defence, and tighten migration policies.
The CDU/CSU, unofficially the Union parties or the Union, is a conservative political alliance of two political parties in Germany.
The Bundestag, Germany’s lower house of parliament, is scheduled to elect Friedrich Merz, leader of the CDU, as chancellor on Tuesday. Once Merz is elected, his government will take office, ending the current administration led by Chancellor Olaf Scholz, and SPD’s co-leader Lars Klingbeil will take the post of vice-chancellor.
According to SPD’s announcement of key positions in the new cabinet on Monday, Klingbeil will also take the helm of the Finance Ministry. Boris Pistorius will be retaining his post as defence minister. Baerbel Bas, former president of the Bundestag, has been nominated as minister of Labour and Social Affairs.
Other nominations include 35-year-old Reem Alabali-Radovan as minister for Economic Cooperation and Development. Speaking at a press conference before the signing, Merz said the coalition aims to advance Germany with reforms and investments. Highlighting the capabilities of the new government, Merz vowed to implement reform from day one, build essential infrastructure, and make a strong contribution to Europe.
“I am very confident that starting tomorrow, we will succeed in governing our country with strength, planning, and trust,” Merz said.
At the press conference, Klingbeil said the new government will start its work swiftly to stimulate growth in Germany and attract future-oriented industries to Germany.
During coalition negotiations, the two parties agreed to establish a 500-billion-euro (about US$567 billion) fund dedicated to infrastructure and climate-neutrality investments.
Klingbeil pledged to cut bureaucracy and streamline procedures to accelerate the realization of infrastructure projects. Though the new government plans to tighten migration policies, Klingbeil reaffirmed that Germany remains a country of immigration, stressing that the country will manage migration with clear rules. (1 euro = US$1.14) — Xinhua

Source: The Global New Light of Myanmar

Tensions continue to rise between India and Pakistan in the wake of last week's deadly attack in Kashmir. The United Nations is now calling for restraint.

Gunmen opened fire on a group of tourists in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir on April 22, leaving 26 people dead.

Indian police are investigating the incident as a terrorist attack, but it is not yet clear who was responsible. The Indian government insists Pakistan was behind it, and says it may conduct a retaliatory attack. Islamabad denies the claim.

Troops from the two countries have since been exchanging fire along the de-facto border. The countries have also taken diplomatic measures and closed their airspace to planes from the other side.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres held calls with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar on Tuesday. Guterres urged both sides to de-escalate, saying confrontation would lead to catastrophe for the world.

Ref : NHK World

THREE Nobel Peace prize-winning organizations, including a Japanese group of atomic bombing survivors, have urged US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin to reach an agreement towards ridding the world of nuclear weapons.
The International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons, the International Physicians for the Prevention of Nuclear War and Nihon Hidankyo made the call in a letter released for Monday’s start of a UN conference on nuclear nonproliferation in New York. “As Nobel Peace laureates, we urge you to meet with one another to reach an agreement on total nuclear disarmament,” the three organizations said in the letter addressed to Trump and Putin.
“The current climate surrounding nuclear weapons is the most volatile in decades,” they said, adding, “This is the moment to show the world the courageous and visionary leadership that is needed” and “All that’s required is political will.” — Kyodo

Source: The Global New Light of Myanmar

GREENLAND’S freshly elected prime minister begins his first official visit to Denmark on Sunday as US President Donald Trump eyes the Danish autonomous territory.
Jens-Frederik Nielsen leads Greenland’s new coalition government, after his centre-right Democrats party won a legislative election in March. It will be his first visit to Denmark since taking office.
It also follows a visit to the Arctic territory by Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen in early April, when she told the United States “you cannot annex another country”.
“First and foremost, I will resume discussions with the Prime Minister about the geopolitical situation and cooperation,” Nielsen said in a statement this week, referring to Frederiksen.
“It is important that we make plans for our future cooperation in these times,” he added.
Tensions between the United States and Denmark have soared after Trump repeatedly said he wanted to take control of the resource-rich Arctic island. — AFP

Source: The Global New Light of Myanmar

GREENLAND’S prime minister, Mute Egede, accused Washington on Monday of interfering in its political affairs by sending a US delegation to the Danish territory, which is coveted by US President Donald Trump.
Egede said US National Security Adviser Mike Waltz would visit Greenland this week, along with Usha Vance, the wife of US Vice-President JD Vance. Usha Vance was to attend a dogsled race with her son.
Greenlandic media reports said the delegation also included US Energy Secretary Chris Wright, a former mining executive. They showed images of two US Hercules planes on the tarmac at Nuuk airport as part of an advance security team despatched to the vast Arctic island.
Speaking to Greenlandic daily Sermitiaq, Egede said the “only purpose of the visit was a demonstration of power, and the signal should not be misunderstood”.
Since returning to power in January, Trump has insisted he wants the United States to take over Greenland for what he says are national security purposes.
He has refused to rule out the use of force to achieve that aim. Greenland — which is seeking to emancipate itself from Copenhagen — and Denmark itself have both repeatedly rebuffed Trump, insisting that only Greenlanders can decide their future. — AFP

Source: The Global New Light of Myanmar