Washington DC, Jan. 4 -- The United States on Saturday (local time) expressed deep concern over the ongoing political and humanitarian crisis in Myanmar (Burma) and urged the military regime to end violence, as the country marked the 78th anniversary of its independence.

"The United States is deeply concerned about the ongoing crisis in Burma. We urge the military regime to cease violence, ensure unhindered access to humanitarian assistance, release those unjustly detained, and engage in dialogue to pursue a peaceful and long-term end to the crisis," the US Department of State said in a statement issued on the occasion of Burma's Independence Day.

The State Department said Washington continues to stand with the people of Myanmar, also k...