"Refrain from partisanship in the country's cultural arena, particularly in the government institutions," she said while addressing a function marking the inauguration of the National Theatre, National Art Gallery and National Music and Dance Centre at Shilpakala Academy in the capital.

The prime minister said the cultural workers and organisers, like their role in the War of Indepen-dence, can make a significant contribution to instilling the spirit of patriotism and hard work in the people for progress and prosperity of the country.

The National Theatre, that includes a 750-seat main hall and a 300-seat experimental theatre hall, has been built at a cost of over Tk 38 crore. The first phase of the National Art Gallery project with special lighting facilities in an area of 70,000 square feet will cost over Tk24.72crore.

The second phase of the art gallery, including a display area of 85,000 square feet and a 300-seat auditorium along with stage and cafeteria, has been estimated to cost Tk29.21crore.

Three art galleries in an area of 65,000 square feet will be built in the third phase at a cost of Tk20.03crore.

The National Music and Dance Center, to be built in two phases, will cost Tk 34.06 crore. The first phase of the centre that includes infrastructure up to the third floor has been completed at a cost of Tk14.84crore.

Earlier, the prime minister unveiled the plaques separately of the three units on the academy premises in Segun Bagicha area.

Presided over by State Minister for Cultural Affairs Selima Rahman, the inaugural function was also

addressed by Minister for Housing and Public Works Mirza Abbas, Secretary for Cultural Affairs Kazi Abul Kashem and Director General of Shilpakala Academy Ahmed Nazir.

Ministers and a large number of cultural leaders and workers were present on the occasion.

The Prime Minister was also presented with a crest at the function. She also witnessed a brief cultural programme of dance and drama staged in the newly built main hall of the National Theatre.