Independence is our greatest achievement as a nation: President

President Md Sahabuddin has extended heartfelt greetings and congratulations to all Bangladeshis living at home and abroad on the occasion of the Great Independence and National Day.

In a message issued on Wednesday, March 25, ahead of Independence Day on Thursday, March 26, he called for building a happy, prosperous and justice-based Bangladesh while upholding the independence achieved through the sacrifices of the martyrs.

In his message, the President said, "Independence is our greatest achievement as a nation. On this day, I recall with deep reverence and gratitude the heroic martyrs who dedicated themselves to the great Liberation War, in exchange for whose supreme sacrifice we achieved independence. I recall with humble respect Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman Bir Uttam and all the valiant freedom fighters, the oppressed mothers and sisters, the national leaders of the Liberation War, organisers and people from all walks of life, who made extraordinary and significant contributions to the war of independence."

He said, "The extraordinary sacrifices of the valiant freedom fighters inspire us to move forward with resolute steps towards building a discrimination-free, justice-based and democratic modern Bangladesh. The goal of independence was political and economic freedom, establishing an exploitation-free society and human dignity, and consolidating the empowerment of people from all walks of life. We must fulfil the unfinished dreams of independence by ensuring equality, good governance, transparency and accountability in all spheres of state and society. It is our sacred duty to build a safe, happy and prosperous humane Bangladesh for the new generation."

Referring to the adverse effects of prolonged misrule, the global economic situation and the energy crisis, the President said, "The government is moving forward with utmost sincerity and efficiency to overcome these situations and establish a self-reliant and dynamic Bangladesh. At this time, strong national unity, empathy and patriotism are very important."

In the concluding part of his message, the President called upon everyone, regardless of party, opinion or creed, to work together to build a justice-based and work-oriented Bangladesh for the present and future generations of the country. He also wished success for all programmes marking Independence Day.