Burma has announced a peace agreement with a splinter group of ethnic Karen rebels, who have been fighting Burmese rule for decades.
A government spokesman said Sunday the two sides held a peace ceremony in Htokawhto village in Kawkareik Kawkareik township Sunday. He said the ceremony was attended by a senior government minister and the head of the group, Htain Maung.
Maung said after the ceremony, only those who have fought bitter battles can appreciate peace. He added there can be no development without peace.
Maung and several hundred of his followers broke from the main movement, the Karen National Union, two weeks ago. The group claims to have about 10 000 rebel fighters and says the split will not affect its mission.
