Afghan National Army soldiers march during the Independence Day celebrations in Kabul, capital of Afghanistan, Aug. 19, 2006. Afghanistan, which regained its independence from Britain in 1919, celebrated its 87th anniversary of Independence Day on Saturday. (Xinhua Photo) Photo Gallery >>>

    KABUL, Aug. 19 (Xinhua) -- The war-weary people of Afghanistan celebrated the 87th anniversary of their country's independence from Britain amid tight security on Saturday.

    After fighting three wars with the erstwhile British Empire, the Afghans defeated the British troops and forced the royal Kingdom to recognize Afghanistan's independence on Aug. 19, 1919.

    At an impressive ceremony held in Kabul's sport stadium Saturday, President Hamid Karzai called on Afghan boys and girls to get knowledge in order to ensure the country's independence and progress.

    "The bravery and knowledge are the two factors of defending independence and ensuring prosperity of a nation. In order to guarantee our independence and prosperity we have to obtain necessary knowledge parallel to bravery," Karzai said in his speech to the nation.

    He added that Afghans are brave but are not equipped with the essential science to stand on their feet.

    Following his speech, smart formations of national army troops, police, students, war-disabled men, women, horse riders and groups of artisans from different tribes and clans presenting their abilities passed the president in a parade to mark the day.

    In the stadium, Elias, 18, said, "I am very excited to join theparade."

    The boy, who arrived in Kabul from the northern city of Mazarif Sharif three days ago for a rehearsal, said he was born in Iran, and stayed there for 15 years before returning homeland.

    He said he hopes Afghanistan would always enjoy peace and security.

    Earlier on Friday night, a large number of people gathered at a hilltop of Kabul known as TV Mountain to watch fireworks, the first in nearly 30 years in the country.

    On account of Independence Day, the Aug. 19 is a public holiday in Afghanistan and everywhere war-weary but happy Afghans, particularly the youths, are seen going to the parks and picnics enjoying the life. Enditem

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