Nay Pyi Taw, Feb 12 (IANS): Myanmar President U Thein Sein on Friday called for cooperation among all stakeholders to transform the nation into a modern, developed and democratic one.

U Thein Sein made the call in his message delivered on the occasion of the country's 69th anniversary of the Union Day, Xinhua reported.

"Work is under way to hand over administrative duties to the next government to shape the country's future," he said.

He stressed cementing national unity as being of utmost importance.

Leaders of the government, parliament, armed forces and eight ethnic armed organisations signed the nationwide ceasefire agreement, which made history in the country's move toward peace on October 15 last year, he said.

Under the terms of the agreement, a political dialogue framework was drawn up on December 15, followed by the Union Peace Conference on January 12 last.

He pointed out that the door was open for the remaining groups that did not ink the ceasefire deal to join the peace process.

U Thein Sein said people's participation was imperative for the future of Myanmar while building a disciplined, flourishing, modern, developed and democratic nation.

On February 12, 1947, all Myanmar nationalities led by General Aung San held the Panglong Conference in Shan state and signed the Panglong Agreement proclaiming the independence of the country.

That day was designated as Myanmar's Union Day.