DHAKA: Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Wednesday sought cooperation of all to make the country free from militant acts saying the people want peace, not destruction.

The premier made the remarks while handing over the Independence Award-2015, the highest state award, to seven eminent personalities in recognition of their glorious and outstanding contributions to their respective fields.

She formally handed over the awards at a function in the city’s Osmany Memorial Auditorium this morning.

Sheikh Hasina said, “We want development and peace, not destruction and militant acts. We want Bangladesh be built with the spirit of the War of Liberation and it would advance as a peaceful nation in South Asia. We want Bangladesh and its people be installed on dignified position on the world stage.”

“But it won't be acceptable that Bangladesh would be affected, its image would be tainted and would move with begging kindness of others due to a few number of people or few number of quarters and parties. So I seek cooperation of all to free the nation and country from militant acts,” she added.

BDST: 1607 HRS, MAR 25, 2015