Myanmar's military chief has warned that internal and external opposition elements and some organizations are resorting to various ways to reduce the military role, calling for precautions against their possible attempt to break up the military, the Office of the Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services reported.

Senior General Min Aung Hlaing made the remark at the Passing out Parade of the 20th Intake of Defence Services Technological Academy-DSTA held at the parade ground of DSTA in PyinOoLwin on December 12.

"Objectively looking  at the military role, our military has been actively participating in the fields of state socio-economic development, international relations, perpetuation of national sovereignty, elimination of internal insurgency, security and rule of law and building of a modern military. Meantime, internal and external opposition elements and some organizations are resorting to various ways to reduce the military role. They are even attempting to break up the military, and this must be wearied of," said the military chief.

Recounting some incidents in the international community he pointed out that a military breakup always leads to political, economic and social failures, thereby contributing to insecurities in public lives and property as well as national sovereignty and territorial integrity.

According to the country’s geographical conditions, current wars and prospects of future wars, the military had set an aim to become a modern one capable of preventing internal and external dangers that may befall the country, and efforts are being made to make the military a standard army. In this context, emphasis is on development of human resources because capable and qualified soldiers are required, he added.

He stressed the need for the military to be armed with modern weapons and equipment to be able catch up with the international community. Thus, efforts are being exerted to build a standard army as human resource is crucial for building a modern and efficient military, he commented.  

He also pointed out the military's efforts to safeguard Myanmar with the Union Spirit, which is true patriotism, while establishing a mighty defence force with the three capabilities to partake in the political leadership role.