"We should bring qualitative change in politics as it is above everything in the modern state mechanism," she said while inaugurating the 9th National Convention of Bangladesh Political Science Association (BPSA) at Hotel Sonargaon here yesterday.

Presided over by President of BPSA and former vice chancellor of Dhaka University Professor Emajuddin Ahmed, the function was also addressed by DU VC Dr SMA Faiz, General Secretary of BPSA Dr M Ataur Rahman and the newly appointed VC of National University Dr Aftab Ahmed.

Ministers, MPs and a large number of former students of political science attended the inaugural session of the two-day programme which will particularly focus on "political leadership and governance".

"I call upon all political parties to uphold the interest of the people and consolidate the democratic system together through political farsightedness and acumen," the prime minister said.

Terming politics as the driving force behind all efforts to secure a place in the present world order, she hoped political scientists would be able to provide necessary guidelines to bring about quality in leadership and state governing system.

Khaleda Zia referred to her recent address in parliament where she termed the present changing and unstable global situation a "transitory period".

"We have lost our familiar world order forever and a new world will emerge soon where we have to secure a good place," she asserted.

She reminded her audience that Bangladeshis have opted for a democratic system of governance and said, "For this, political leadership must be able, efficient, honest, talented and dedicated."

"Political principles, ideals and programmes must be modern, positive, constructive and farsighted," she said expressing her belief that political scientists of the country would be able to guide its political leadership towards a positive change.

Khaleda Zia said the present BNP-led four-party alliance government has taken strong measures to reduce undesirable political influence, curb corruption, ensure human rights and build awareness about public security.

"We are pledge-bound to ensure the rule of law through strict application of laws irrespective of party or group," she said. Khaleda Zia added that there was no alternative to building up a welfare-oriented politics and patriotic politicians to rescue the nation from backwardness and the curse of poverty.

In his address, Prof Emajuddin Ahmed said today's Bangladesh is stronger than it was 15 years ago. "That's not for its population or natural resources, but for its geo-political situation."

Speaking on the occasion, Dr M Ataur Rahman said the main challenge for the current political leadership is managing the country's parliamentary system of government.

He said the success of parliamentary system hinges on the skill, character and far-sightedness of the prime minister, the leader of the opposition and MPs.

The BPSA leaders later presented the prime minister a crest of their organisation.