An ethnic minority army, part of a formidable rebel alliance fighting Myanmar's ruling military, has expressed its readiness to engage in talks with the junta after a year-long conflict along the Myanmar-China border.

The Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) made its announcement late Monday, amidst increasing pressure from neighboring China, which has long viewed Myanmar’s military as a stabilizing force in the region.

Myanmar has been engulfed in turmoil since the military ousted an elected government led by Aung San Suu Kyi in 2021, triggering a resistance movement that escalated from peaceful protests to armed rebellion across the country. The TNLA, in a statement on its official Telegram channel, called for an end to air strikes in its region of northern Shan state. The group also expressed appreciation for China's mediation and its intent to pursue dialogue.

“Our civilians are suffering from air strikes and other difficulties. So, we need to find a way out,” said TNLA spokesperson Lway Yay Oo.

The TNLA is a key player in "Operation 1027," a coordinated offensive launched last year, named for its start date. The campaign has posed the most significant challenge to Myanmar’s military since the 2021 coup, leading to the loss of multiple towns and military posts. The alliance includes the Arakan Army and the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army, although these groups have not commented on the TNLA’s announcement.

China's foreign ministry, in response to developments, reiterated its opposition to warfare in Myanmar and urged all parties to resolve disputes through dialogue. "China will continue to actively promote peace talks and provide support and assistance to the best of its ability to the peace process in northern Myanmar," said ministry spokesperson Mao Ning during a regular briefing on Tuesday.

Earlier this year, a China-mediated ceasefire between the rebel alliance and Myanmar’s military fell apart in June, leading to renewed clashes.

A spokesperson for Myanmar’s junta did not respond to Reuters’ calls. Meanwhile, the National Unity Government (NUG), a parallel administration opposing the junta, urged China to align its efforts with the aspirations of Myanmar's populace.

"I want to encourage China not to conduct meetings which go against the will of Myanmar people as they will not be helpful to the country's peace," said NUG spokesperson Kyaw Zaw.

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