Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Minister Md. Tazul Islam has recalled the beginning of the Bangladesh-Russia friendly relations, specifically clearing the Chittagong Port of mines and sunken ships by the Soviet Navy in 1972-1974. He also recalled Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s visit to the USSR in 1972. “Our bilateral relations have become stronger and the two countries are now engaged in a broader area," the Minister noted while speaking as the chief guest at a reception Thursday evening. Chinese Communist Party leader Sun Haiyan meets Speaker Shirin Sharmin The Embassy of Russia hosted the reception on the occasion of the 52nd anniversary of the Russian-Bangladeshi diplomatic relations. The cultural program of the event showcased the signature examples of vocal and dance art of both countries. The artistic team of the Youth Bangla Cultural Foundation presented widely known songs “Chumki is Walking Alone on the Road” and “Scents from my Dearest’s Garden”, as well as traditional dances on the songs “Let the Boat Sail” and “I Beat the Drums of Bangladesh”. India to work together with Bangladesh to prevent wildlife trafficking: Environment Minister The creative team of the Embassy and the Embassy School performed vocal-dance pieces “Slavic folk dance”, “Quadrille” and “Kalinka-Malinka”. Timir Nandi, a renowned Bangladeshi singer who received higher music education in the USSR, sang several popular Soviet songs. Ambassador of Russia to Bangladesh Alexander Mantytskiy reviewed the recent milestones of Russia-Bangladesh bilateral relations. “The strong historic legacy and mutual affection between our countries’ people serve as a solid basis for new accomplishments and shared dreams”, Ambassador said. Process of inking cooperation deal on judiciary with Saudi Arabia begins: Law Minister The event was attended by Cabinet members, Members of Parliament, high-ranking representatives of the government agencies and the military command of Bangladesh, business community, think tanks, universities, media, members of the Soviet/Russian Alumni Assosiation, Bangladesh, as well as heads of diplomatic missions accredited in Dhaka. The guests praised the creative teams’ performing skills.