Algerian Ambassador to Bangladesh Abdelouahab Saidani on Saturday paid tribute to the victims of the October 17, 1961 Paris massacre, highlighting its significance in Algeria’s struggle for independence and calling for the preservation of historical memory in the pursuit of justice and human rights.
Commemorating the Paris massacre of October 17, 1961, offers a poignant reflection on the shared struggles and profound solidarity uniting the brotherly peoples of Algeria and Bangladesh through their historic fights for freedom and human dignity, he said.
“Both nations confronted severe colonial and systematic oppression, propelled by an unyielding commitment to justice and independence. This interwoven history establishes a lasting affinity and mutual esteem between the two friendly countries,” said the Ambassador.
He paid tribute to the victims of the massacre and expressing hope that their legacy would continue to inspire both countries towards a peaceful and prosperous future.
Speaking at a commemoration at the Embassy marking the 65th anniversary of the massacre, the Ambassador said the day is observed in Algeria as National Emigration Day to honour the martyrs and recognise the sacrifices of Algerians living abroad during the country’s liberation struggle.
He said Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune instituted the annual observance in 2021, including a minute of silence across Algeria and at the country’s diplomatic missions abroad to pay tribute to the victims.
This year’s commemorative slogan, “From Deep Memory to Future Horizons,” reflects the importance of transforming historical trauma into a foundation for justice, dignity and human rights, Saidani said.
On October 17, 1961, French police violently suppressed peaceful demonstrations by Algerians protesting a discriminatory curfew imposed specifically on the Algerian population in Paris.
The crackdown left numerous people dead and thousands injured, with some victims reportedly tortured or drowned in the River Seine, according to the ambassador’s speech.
Reflecting on the pursuit of historical justice, Saidani said sustained efforts by activists, historians and human rights organisations had helped bring greater international attention to the massacre and pushed France towards acknowledging the gravity of the events.
He described October 17, 1961, as a defining moment in Algeria’s national consciousness, representing resilience, sacrifice and dignity.
The Ambassador also highlighted the continuing contribution of the Algerian diaspora to national development, pointing to the establishment of the High Council of the National Scientific Community Abroad as a mechanism to mobilise the expertise of Algerians living overseas.