Myanmar's military says it has agreed with an alliance of ethnic armed groups to a temporary ceasefire under the mediation of China.

A spokesperson made the announcement on Friday.

Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning also told reporters that a ceasefire has officially been agreed.

She said, "The two sides promised not to undermine the safety of Chinese people living in the border area and Chinese projects and personnel in Myanmar."

In late October, the alliance of ethnic militant groups launched coordinated attacks against Myanmar's military in the eastern state of Shan, bordering China.

The fighting continued even after Beijing announced in December that both sides had agreed to a ceasefire.

The alliance said last week that it has taken control of an area of Shan, adding that more than 2,300 military personnel had surrendered.