Myanmar president calls for unity to overcome challenges

Myanmar President U Thein Sein on Monday called on the country's political forces to work together in unity to overcome the challenges facing the country.

In his message marking Myanmar's 68th anniversary of independence, U Thein Sein urged concerted efforts of national groups, the people and the armed forces to keep on the correct path to democratisation, Xinhua reported.

"The nation's independence, security and development can only be ensured through the combined efforts of the government, all political forces such as parliament, the political parties, the armed forces and the entire people," he said.

The president stressed the need to make efforts for rural development and poverty reduction, and all-round development of education, health culture, women's affairs and various other sectors to realise two aspirations shard by the people -- peace and tranquility, and socioeconomic development.

He also called for efforts to achieve nationwide ceasefire and enduring peace.

A ceremony to salute the state flag was held in Nay Pyi Taw on Monday to celebrate Myanmar's independence from the British on January 4, 1948.