Bangladesh Ambassador to the United States M Shahidul Islam has urged the United States to lead the international community to find a durable solution to the long-standing Rohingya crisis before it becomes a security threat for the entire Indo-Pacific Region.

He expressed deep appreciation for the sustained humanitarian assistance and political support of the United States to the persecuted Rohingya population of Myanmar.

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The Ambassador was addressing a function celebrating the 50th Anniversary of Independence and National Day of Bangladesh.

The Embassy of Bangladesh in Washington DC celebrated the 50th Anniversary of Independence and National Day of Bangladesh with due respect and enthusiasm.

At the beginning of the day's programme, Bangladesh Ambassador to the United States M Shahidul Islam, along with the guest of honour, State Department's Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for South and Central Asian Affairs, Ervin Massinga, officially hoisted the national flag of Bangladesh.

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Later, the Ambassador and the guest of honour placed a floral wreath at the bust of the Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.

After playing of the national anthems of Bangladesh and the United States, a video message by the Prime Minister Shaikh Hasina was screened.

Ambassador Shahidul Islam paid deep homage to the architect of independent Bangladesh, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and to the valiant freedom fighters who laid down their lives for the cause of Independence.

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Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary, Ervin Massinga extended greeting to the government and the people of Bangladesh.

He said the USA sees Bangladesh as an important economic and security partner in the Indo Pacific.

“Bangladesh has established itself as a leading voice on how climate change solutions must protect the most vulnerable. This leadership will contribute to a successful COP26," Ervin Massinga said.

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In the second part of the programme, the messages from President Abdul Hamid, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen, and State Minister for Foreign Affairs Md Shahriar Alam were read out.

The day’s programme ended with a pleasant cultural program participated by the members of the Embassy family.

On this auspicious occasion, the US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken issued a press statement congratulating the people of Bangladesh.

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“As we work together towards a safe and secure region and a healthy and prosperous future, we recognise the remarkable contributions Bangladesh has made to global development,” Blinken said in the statement. 

Earlier, US President Joe Biden sent a congratulatory message to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

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Biden said that Bangladesh’s hosting of one million Rohingyas is an example to the world of humanity and generosity.

He also said the United States would continue to be a steadfast partner in finding a durable solution to the crisis.

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