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Myanmar Marks Independence Day


Myanmar's President Thein Sein, standing in an open vehicle, inspect officers and soldiers during a ceremony to mark the 67th anniversary of Independence Day in Naypyitaw, Jan. 4, 2015.
Myanmar's President Thein Sein, standing in an open vehicle, inspect officers and soldiers during a ceremony to mark the 67th anniversary of Independence Day in Naypyitaw, Jan. 4, 2015.

Myanmar has marked its 67th Independence Day with a military parade in the capital city of Naypyitaw.

The armed forces of the Southeast Asian nation - also known as Burma - showcased fighter jets, tanks and long-range artillery. It was attended by Myanmar President Thein Sein and representatives from various ministries and foreign guests.

In a statement, U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry congratulated the people of Myanmar on behalf of the President Barack Obama and the people of the United States. He said the day was an appropriate moment to reiterate America's commitment to supporting Myanmar as it continues "down the path of reform towards a modern, democratic, peaceful and economically vibrant nation."

Myanmar was granted its independence from Britain on January 4, 1948.

Some information for this report came from AP.

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