Addressing a Victory Day rally of children and adolescents at the National Stadium in the capital, she said no one, not even by carrying out bomb terrorism, can halt the forward march of the nation that has earned its independence through a war, restored its democracy through struggle, and is always making efforts to improve its lot through labour.

A misguided group, who have indulged in intrigues taking advantage of democratic atmosphere in the country, are out to destroy all achievements of the nation by resorting to bomb terrorism and acts of sabotage, she said, adding,

"We wasted a lot of time after earning independence. Now we have to go ahead."

Recalling the contributions of the martyrs of the Liberation War, the PM expressed her gratitude to the freedom fighters who had liberated the country. She also paid tribute to shaheed president Ziaur Rahman, who proclaimed the independence of the country.

Khaleda Zia said a nation's future depends on how efficiently the children are groomed.

She advised the children and juveniles to develop themselves as patriotic, disciplined, active, able and worthy citizens of the country.

The prime minister said her government is making relentless efforts to safeguard country's independence both for the present and the future. She urged the countrymen to contribute from their respective positions to safeguard the independence and make it meaningful.

She recalled the contributions of national leaders, political and cultural activists, and others who contributed in different ways during the Liberation War and worked at the preparatory stage. She also recalled the foreign friends who extended their support and cooperation directly or indirectly in accelerating the victory.

The independence was earned through lots of sacrifices and shedding of bloods, but its benefits are yet to reach every citizens of the country, the prime minister said, adding that the nation had to struggle for establishing democracy and rights of the people and face multifarious ill-activities against peace, stability and progress even after the independence.

The programme began with the prime minister releasing a number of colourful balloons and 34 pair of pigeons in the sky amidst thunderous applause from the jubilant spectators.

Khaleda Zia witnessed the impressive march-past and acrobatics display presented by children and juveniles from different educational institutions, and socio-cultural organisations from across the country that was broadcast live by Bangladesh Television and Bangladesh Betar along with the PM's speech.

Noted vocalists performed songs on the occasion.

Ministers, MPs, high civil and military officials, socio-cultural organisations and the elite were present among thousands of viewers in the stadium.