video transcript

Shan state marks it 66th National Day, as its army leader calls for peace in Myanmar. Hundreds of members of the Shan State Army mark the day in a township near Thailand. The army is one of the largest ethnic rebel groups in Myanmar. It signed a cease fire agreement with the government in December 2011. While the government announced reforms that year conflicts continue. Lieutenant General Yawd Serk is calling for peace with all parties. (SOUNDBITE) (Thai) LIEUTENANT GENERAL YAWD SERK, LEADER OF SHAN STATE ARMY SAYING: "We do not agree with Myanmar government fighting with the Kachin. You can't have reconciliation just because you stop fighting with one group but continue fighting with another. If the government wants peace, they have to stop fighting with every group." The 17 year-old ceasefire between the Kachin Independence Army and Myanmar's government broke down in June 2011. Myanmar has several ethnic minorities which have been fighting for autonomy for more than 60 years.