Honduras celebrates 197 years of independence with parties, marches

TEGUCIGALPA, Sept. 15 (Xinhua) -- A series of huge marches took place across Honduras on Saturday, with thousands taking part to mark 197 years of Honduran independence.

Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernandez watched the capital's celebrations in front of the headquarters of the Central American Bank for Economic Integration (BCIE).

"Today we have a clear route toward economic development and social justice, particularly for those compatriots who live in extreme poverty," said Hernandez in his speech.

Honduras gained its independence from Spain in 1821, however, the Central American country has always been plagued by social and political instability.