A ceasefire agreement was signed between the government of Myanmar, and the ethnic Karen rebels on Thursday.
Speaking to Reuters, the deputy leader of the Karen National Union delegation, Saw David Htaw, said,
“We have never been more confident in our talks.”
“According to the changing situation everywhere, peace talks are unavoidable now; this is something we have to pass through without fail."
"The people have experienced the horrors of war a long time. I’m sure they’ll be very glad to hear this news. I hope they’ll be able to fully enjoy the sweet taste of peace this time.”
The rebels have been fighting for greater autonomy for over 60 years.
The country's majority ethnic Burman have maintained key positions in government and the civil service, as well as dominating the army, since Burma became independent from Britain in 1948.