Zambia is marking its 45th year of independence from Britain with its leader calling on all Zambians to "secure the peace and unity", local newspaper the Times of Zambia reported on Saturday.

Zambian President Rupiah Banda on Friday delivered pre-independence remarks on state radio and television, saying securing peace and unity was cardinal if the country was to continue enjoying political stability and development.

Banda said Zambians should use the independence celebration to remember the country's founding fathers who worked together in unity to secure the country's freedom.

"I call on each and everyone of you to rededicate yourselves to jealously guard our political stability and emergent economic gains," Banda said.

Acknowledging that there would be difference of opinions, the Zambian leader said there was need for constructive dialogue to establish "common ground" and reach amicable solutions to differences.

He said his administration would continue to be receptive to constructive criticism and suggestions while remaining accountable to the public. He commended civil society organizations for the role they had played in supplementing government's efforts in providing social and economic services.

The theme for this year's independence celebration which falls on Saturday is "Reconciliation and Good Neighborliness". Banda said the theme must remind Zambians that they need each other to forge ahead.

2009-10-24 .xinhuanet.com