Myanmar's government and ethnic Karen rebels signed a cease-fire on Thursday in an effort to end one of the world's longest-running insurgencies. This is part of the government's overall plan to resolve conflicts with separatist groups. The agreement includes 11 points and two broad agreements to end hostilities between the military and the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA) and begin political dialogue to resolve the 62-year conflict. This cease-fire could potentially lead to the lifting of sanctions imposed on Myanmar by the European Union and the United States. Despite previous failed peace talks, the deputy leader of the Karen National Union delegation stated that the changing climate in Myanmar under its new reform-minded government has made dialogue necessary. He expressed strong confidence in the ongoing talks, emphasizing that given the current global circumstances, peace negotiations have become imperative. He believes that the long-suffering people, who have endured the horrors of war, will be relieved to hear about these developments and finally experience the joys of peace. Since 1949, the KNU has been fighting for greater autonomy through its military wing, the KNLA, against successive governments in Myanmar. Saw David Htaw commended the government's peace negotiators for their honesty and sincerity. In addition to the issue of sanctions, achieving peace with the KNU is crucial for Myanmar's economic interests. The resurgence of conflict poses a security threat that could disrupt the construction of the $50 billion Dawei Special Industrial Zone, which is set to be Southeast Asia's largest industrial estate and a significant source of income for the country. Previous government offensives have forced hundreds of thousands of Karens from their villages, with many seeking refuge in camps in neighboring Thailand, which has struggled to accommodate the influx of refugees. Myanmar's military has been accused of mistreating the Karens and other ethnic minorities through various human rights violations such as rape, forced labor, torture, and murder. In response, the West has imposed strict sanctions. Agreements made in Pa-an in eastern Kayin State aim to resettle and rehabilitate those who have been displaced. Certain areas will allow arms, landmines will be cleared, and liaison offices will be established to promote communication. These discussions are part of ongoing talks between the government and rebel groups on Myanmar's borders with Thailand and China. An agreement has been made with the Shan State Army (South), however, discussions with the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) have been disrupted by ongoing fighting, despite a directive from President Thein Sein last month to halt military operations. U.S. officials have noted that the peace process could be the most challenging task for civilian leaders looking to transition the nation away from five decades of military rule. The rebels are wary of Thein Sein's government, which includes former members of the old military regime, but they generally support Aung San Suu Kyi's vision of federalism within Myanmar's republic, a concept advocated by her late father, Aung San.