Clashes between Myanmar troops, ethnic army continue despite agreement to scale back fighting
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}An ethnic Kachin rebel group says it has clashed more than 20 times with Myanmar government troops since the two sides signed an agreement to de-escalate fighting last month.
For decades, Myanmar has faced rebellions from several ethnic groups seeking autonomy.
The Kachin Independence Army is the only major group that has not reached a cease-fire agreement with the government of President Thein Sein, who came to power in 2011 after almost five decades of harsh military rule.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}KIA spokesman La Nan said Sunday there have been at least 21 clashes since the signing of the agreement last month in the Kachin state capital, Myitkyina, to de-escalate fighting and continue a political dialogue.
There was no immediate response from the government.