The theme chosen for this year's three-month drive emphasises the plantation of medicinal trees side by side with fruit-bearing and timber trees.

President Iajuddin Ahmed and Prime Minister Khaleda Zia gave separate message on the occasion.

Prime Minister Khaleda Zia will inaugurate the campaign along with a fortnight-long 'Tree Fair 2003' by planting a sapling at the National Parade Squad at 4:30pm.

She will also distribute National Award 2002 for tree plantation at the function.

Environment and Forest Minister Shajahan Siraj said this at a press conference yesterday. He said this year's tree plantation drive begins 15 days ahead due to climatic change.

He called upon all to take part in the countrywide campaign to make it a success.

As part of the National Tree Plantation Drive, Shajahan Siraj has undertaken various programmes at divisional, district and upazila levels.