Burma's top general has highlighted the importance of the nation's military in a keynote speech, dashing hopes he would reveal more details of the junta's plans for democratic reforms.
Burmese leader Senior General Than Shwe had been expected to discuss the regime's so-called "road map" to democracy during Armed Forces Day celebrations today (Saturday).
However, his address to assembled troops stressed the need to maintain a strong and well-equipped military to defend the nation and guide its development.
Political commentators in Rangoon say the speech fell short of expectations and shed no further light on when the junta would begin the first step in the road map, a national convention to draft a new constitution.
Information for this report is provided by AFP.