No alternative to national solidarity, says Azam Khan 

Liberation War Affairs Minister Ahmed Azam Khan has called upon people from all walks of life, irrespective of political affiliations, to work together to strengthen democracy, maintain national stability and resist anti-state conspiracies.

He made the call while addressing a discussion meeting marking the National Revolution and Solidarity Day on Saturday at the Liberation War Museum in Agargaon, Dhaka. The Ministry of Liberation War Affairs organised the programme to observe November 7, a day of historical significance in Bangladesh's political history.

Acting Secretary of the ministry Md Abul Hasanat Humayun Kabir chaired the meeting while Dhaka-6 lawmaker and former State Minister for Liberation War Affairs Ishraq Hossain, Daily Jugantor Editor Abdul Hai Sikder, Bangladesh Jatiyatabadi Muktijoddha Dal President Ishtiaq Aziz Ulphat, and Daily Times of Bangladesh Adviser Editor and former National Press Club General Secretary Elias Khan also spoke.

The minister said Ziaur Rahman had made significant contributions not only to safeguarding the country's independence but also to reviving the democratic system, rebuilding the economy, developing state institutions and laying the foundations of modern Bangladesh.

He said the present democratic government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, was moving the country towards development, progress and prosperity by upholding Ziaur Rahman's vision of the state, patriotism and national unity.

The minister further stressed the need to resist activities that create divisions and confusion in national life, saying democratic values, the spirit of independence and national interests must be protected. 

"There is no alternative to mutual respect, tolerance and national solidarity in building a prosperous, stable and democratic Bangladesh," he said.

He urged political parties, social organisations and citizens to play responsible roles from their respective positions to achieve these goals.

Earlier, representatives of the Ministry of Liberation War Affairs paid tribute to Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman by placing wreaths at his mausoleum.