Burmese military leader General Than Shwe has accused world powers of trying to undermine Burma's national unity by turning the country's ethnic groups against each other.
Than Shwe made the comment today in a nationally televised speech marking Burma's annual Armed Forces Day.
He also accused what he called "powerful countries" of trying to weaken the Burmese armed forces.
General Than Shwe says one of his most important priorities is maintaining Burmese sovereignty.
The 74 year old general showed few signs of poor health as he reviewed a parade of 15,000 troops in the capital, Naypyidaw. Observers are watching his health closely after he spent time in Singapore in January for medical checks.
General Than Shwe has ruled Burma since 1992, but has not clearly designated a successor.
Information for this report is provided by AFP.