Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Wednesday issued a message to the nation on the eve of the Independence and National Day, calling for united efforts for consistently advancing the country.

The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) published the message on its official facebook page.

The full text is as follows:

On the occasion of the great Independence and National Day, 26 March, I extend my heartfelt greetings and congratulations to the people of Bangladesh at all levels, as well as to all Bangladeshis living abroad.

The 26th of March is a glorious and historic day in our national life. On this day, I remember with profound respect the nation's finest sons, whose sacrifices enabled us to achieve an independent and sovereign Bangladesh. At the same time, I recall with deep gratitude the brave freedom fighters who took part in the Liberation War, the mothers, sisters who suffered oppression and all those who devoted themselves to the struggle for independence. I pray for the eternal peace of the departed souls of all the martyrs.

The Great Independence Day inspires us anew with the spirit of courage, sacrifice and patriotism. The fundamental goal of independence was to establish a Bangladesh that is free from discriminations, and to be democratic, peaceful and prosperous.

Keeping that goal before us, we must work together and continue to move the country forward.

To further accelerate the progress and development of our beloved motherland, we must uphold in our hearts the spirit of national unity, mutual tolerance and patriotism.

Let us draw inspiration from the significance of the Great Independence and National Day and dedicate ourselves, from our respective positions, to the welfare of the country. Together, let us work to build a developed, prosperous and dignified Bangladesh.

I wish every success to all programmes organised on the occasion of the Great Independence and National Day.