Burma marks fiftieth anniversary

Burma is marking the fiftieth anniversary of its independence from Britain today with a round of official ceremonies.

Reports say festivities are being kept to a minimum, reflecting the current mood in Burma, which has been badly affected by the heavy economic downturn throughout east Asia.

The opposition has used the anniversary to appeal for a return to democracy.

Aung San Suu Kyi, leader of the National League for Democracy, said in a statement she believed civil rights would return to the country in the not too distant future.

She's expected to address followers in Rangoon today.

The military, which has held power since 1962, is to hold a banquet in the evening.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service