“Also, your personal commitment to our bilateral relations is very clear,” he said adding that "Mujib Chirantar" - Bangabandhu's message is eternal. “And it’s in this spirit only that we honor his legacy too.”

Prime Minister Modi said this in his opening remarks during a virtual Summit with his Bangladesh counterpart Sheikh Hasina.

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He said it is a matter of pride for him that he got an opportunity to release a stamp in honor of Bangabandhu, and inaugurate a digital exhibition on Bapu and Bangabandhu with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

Modi hoped that the exhibition on Bapu and Bangabandhu will inspire two countries’ youths, wherein a special section has also been dedicated to Kasturba Gandhi and revered Bongmata.

Following the Victory Day, Modi said, their meeting was of even more special significance. “It’s a matter of pride for us to celebrate the historic victory of Bangladesh over anti-liberation forces as the Victory Day with you.”

He paid homage to the martyrs of both the countries who sacrificed their lives when Bangladesh is celebrating forty-nine years of its independence.

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“On the occasion of Victory Day, I paid tributes at the National War Memorial in India and lighted a 'Golden Victory Torch'. These four 'Victory Torches' will tour all over India and will be taken to all the villages of our martyrs,” Modi said.

He said, “Since 16 December, we’re celebrating the 'Golden Victory Year', during which many events will be organized across India.”

The Indian Prime Minister congratulated his Bangladesh counterpart on behalf of all the Indians on the occasion of ‘Mujib Borsho’.

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“Thank you for the invitation to visit Bangladesh next year. It would be a matter of pride for me to pay tribute to Bangabandhu with you,” Modi said.

He said Bangladesh is a major pillar of India’s 'Neighborhood First' policy. “From the very first day, strengthening and development of relations with Bangladesh has been a special priority for me.”

Modi said it is a fact that this year has been challenging due to the global pandemic but it is a matter of gratification that India and Bangladesh had good cooperation in this difficult time.

“Whether it be medicines or medical equipment, or working with health professionals. We’re also having good cooperation in the field of vaccine. We’ll also take special care of your needs in this regard,” said the Indian Prime Minister.

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He thanked Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina for the contribution of Bangladesh under the Saarc framework. “Other than health, this year our special partnership has been steadily advancing in other areas as well.”

“We reduced hurdles in land border trade, expanded connectivity between the two countries, and added new means. All this reflects our intentions to further strengthen our relationship,” said the Indian Prime Minister.

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