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ON THE ROAD TO DEMOCRACY

March 26 is the Independence and National Day of the People's Republic of Bangladesh. Our leader, the Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, proclaimed the country's independence in the early hours of this day in 1971. We achieved independence following a prolonged struggle for self-rule under the unparalleled leadership of the Father of the Nation; the self-sacrifice of 30 lakhs of martyrs; the untold agony of two lakhs of mothers and sisters; and the profound sacrifice of the people in the War of Liberation. I recall with deep respect and gratitude all the contributions made by every one in the achievement of our nation's independence. I also recall with gratitude the contributions of all the friendly countries, institutions and individuals who extended co- operation during our struggle for independence and the War of Liberation. On this covetous day, I convey my best wishes and hearty felicitations to all members of the Bengali nation living at home and abroad, including the valiant f reedom fighters.

Independence is the greatest achievement in the history of the Bengali nation, having initiated a far- reaching and tremendous change in the imagination of the people of the country. In getting rid of thousands of years of subjugation and colonial rule, the nation has been crowned with its own identity and self-respectin the global forum. Besides political, economic and intellectual emancipation, the great desire to attain equity and democracy has brightened the national outlook. Bangladesh is now a country of illuminant potential and one marching onwards along the road to democracy. Immense human and natural resources promise golden days for the people of the country. Competition for economic investment in Bangladesh is now a global phenomena.

We have been striving hard since we attained responsibility for running the government through the free and fair election held under a neutral caretaker government on June 12, 1996. We have been gradually implementing programmes to establish the spirit of independence and to fulfil our election pledges. Establishing the rule of law has been strengthened as a result of the historic verdict in the Bangabandhu murder case. We have been continuing our efforts to ensure people's participation in governing the country by building up a powerful local government structure. We are committed to building Senor Bangla (the Golden Bengal) free from poverty, hunger and illiteracy in fulfilment of the dream of the Father of the Nation. I seek the co-operation of all my countrymen in these efforts.

Let the conscience of the Independence and National Day be victorious.

Joi Bangla, Joi Bangabandhu May Bangladesh Live Forever SHEIKH HASINA Prime Minister

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