Dhaka, Mar. 5 : President Pranab Mukherjee, who was conferred Bangladesh ''Liberation War Honour'' here on Tuesday said that he has very deep attachment with this land, and added that he sees in this award a strong message of enduring friendship and brotherhood between India and Bangladesh.

"I, personally, have a deep attachment with this land. My wife has family roots here, as she spent a very early and happy part of her childhood here. I am touched by your warm gesture. I see in this award, a strong message of enduring friendship and brotherhood between India and Bangladesh. I fully reciprocate this sentiment as I accept this honour bestowed on me with the deepest gratitude," President Mukherjee in his acceptance and banquet speech on receipt of Bangladesh ''Liberation War Honour''.

"With these words, once again I thank Your Excellency President Zillur Rahman, Her Excellency, the Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the people of Bangladesh who have received me and my wife and members of my delegation with a warmth and affection that has touched us deeply," he added.

President Mukherjee said he wishes to see India-Bangladesh bilateral relations prosper in all spheres for the progress and prosperity of both our peoples.

The Indian President thanked the Government of Bangladesh for its gracious gesture in conferring on him the Bangladesh Liberation War Honour.

"I thank you for remembering, in this manner, the contribution of the Indian brothers and sisters who were by your side, who stood shoulder to shoulder with you and even sacrificed their lives for your liberation. The number of proud Indian citizens that have been honoured and accorded your hospitality in the last year is a tribute to our close friendship. I thank you on their behalf and on behalf of India," he said.

Speaking on the occasion, President Mukherjee also paid his tribute to the innocent men, women and children who gave their lives for the freedom of the future generations.

"They showed us how even the weakest can triumph when the cause is righteous. Your Government has redeemed its pledge with history. Today, the children of the muktijoddhas are proud in the knowledge that the blood of their forefathers was not spilled in vain," he said. (ANI)