Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain on Tuesday said Bangladesh and Russia need to continue the legacy of bonhomie, work together to address regional and global challenges, and ensure that the bonds between Bangladesh and Russia remain as strong as ever.

"May the next 50 years be filled with even greater success, collaboration, and shared achievements. May our two countries work together to achieve a brighter, more harmonious future for both our nations and the world at large," he said.

Adviser Hossain was speaking at an event “50 Years of The Russian House in Dhaka: A Legacy of Friendship and Cultural Exchange” at the Russian House in the evening.

Alexander Khozin, Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Bangladesh,
Dr. Syed Jamil Ahmed, Director General, Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, Yevgeny Primakov, Head of Rossotrudnichestvo, and Pavel Dvoychenkov, Director, Russian House, were also present.

The Foreign Adviser hoped that the Russian House in Dhaka, formerly the Russian Cultural Centre, will continue to inspire and foster a deeper connection between the two peoples for many more years to come.

Indeed, today, the House has been a home for those seeking knowledge, and a deeper connection to the Russian heritage, fostering a deep sense of camaraderie and mutual appreciation, Hossain said.

This House has also been a beacon of cultural diplomacy, a place where the thinkers, intellectuals, artists and professionals of two countries can come together to celebrate and understand each other’s culture, he said.

Many Bangladeshis have also had the privilege to learn the Russian language, explore Russian literature, and witness firsthand the beauty of Russian customs and traditions.

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"From the enchanting performances of Russian ballet to the captivating exhibitions of literature and visual arts, we have witnessed a flourishing exchange that transcends borders and enhances our mutual understanding," said the Adviser.

He said they have also seen how this Russian House has been enriching Bangladesh’s cultural landscape and providing our citizens with a unique window into the rich cultural heritage of Russia.

"Through this way, our own cultural heritage has found a valuable space to be shared with our Russian friends," he said.

On the other hand, a significant number of Bangladeshi students have benefited from the educational opportunities offered by the Russian institutions.

And today, many of them have gone on to become leaders in their respective fields.

"This exchange of knowledge and expertise has not only enriched our individual lives but has also contributed to the progress of our societies as a whole," Hossain said.

The Bangladesh-Russia historic ties, born in the 1970s, continue to evolve and flourish today. In addition to education and culture, and collaboration spans a wide range of fields, encompassing trade and commerce, science and technology, defence and security.

"As we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Russian House in Dhaka, let us also look ahead to the future. Indeed, the celebration of this significant milestone is not only a reflection of the past but also a renewed commitment to building an even stronger, more vibrant partnership in the years to come," Hossain said.

Bearing this in mind, he said, they need to continue to build on the foundations laid by the Russian House, embracing new opportunities for cultural exchange, enhancing people-to-people ties, and further deepening the partnership.