Myanmar President U Thein Sein on Wednesday stressed the importance of national unity in building a nation on the country's 64th anniversary of the Independence Day which falls on Wednesday.

"Only if the nation is in peace with national unity, can democracy be practiced in earnest. Social-economy of the people will improve only through democratic practices and national development," Thein Sein said in his message.

Calling for public participation in strengthening economy, Thein Sein said the government is drawing foreign investment by setting up industrial zones and trying to accelerate agricultural development. The president added that Myanmar is marching towards a new modern, developed nation enlisting the strength of human resources such as intellectuals and intelligentsia.

He pointed out that to develop market economy, the nation needs a lot of intellectuals. Efforts should be made to develop education and health sectors so that human resources can be best employed for the future of the nation, he said, adding that an armed force of international standard is needed for national defense.

"Today, some powerful nations are attempting to influence weaker ones resorting to various ways and means," Thein Sein warned, calling on the people to joint hands in safeguarding and maintaining independence and sovereignty of their country.

"Only Myanmar people can bring peace, development and prosperity to the nation," he said, reiterating his call for safeguarding the essence of independence with political outlook in nation building.

On Wednesday morning, a state flag hoisting and saluting ceremony was held in the new capital of Nay Pyi Taw. Vice President Sai Mauk Kham attended the ceremony.

Myanmar gained independence from British rule on Jan. 4, 1948.