'Returned home with sole purpose of putting smiles on people's faces'

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today reiterated that she returned to Bangladesh with only one goal: to put smiles back on the faces of people.

"...Because it was my father's dream," she said.

The premier made the remark while speaking at the meeting of National Economic Council (NEC) at NEC auditorium in Dhaka's Sher-E-Banglanagar, coinciding with her homecoming day.

She joined the function virtually from her official residence Gono Bhaban.

Recalling the day of her return home from forced exile – on May 17, 1981, Sheikh Hasina said, "When I landed at the (Dhaka) airport, I didn't have my nearest ones (relatives) but was received with the love of millions, and that was my only strength. I've moved forward with this strength."

She also mentioned her visit to every corner of the country, facing barriers, after returning to Bangladesh.

She said, "I have confidence, love and trust of the people of Bangladesh."