Foreign-Affairs
Bangladesh’s Independence Day celebrated in Netherlands
The Embassy of Bangladesh in the Netherlands celebrated the 53rd anniversary of the independence of Bangladesh with due dignity in a festive atmosphere (26 March 2024, the Hague).
The celebration started with hoisting the national flag at the Embassy premises in the early morning.
In the evening, the Embassy hosted a reception at the prestigious Marriott Hotel in the heart of the Hague. Bangladesh Ambassador M Riaz Hamidullah, his spouse Sazia Ahmed, officials of the Embassy welcomed the guests at the reception.
The former Dutch Prime minister and the present Minister of State, Jan Peter Balkenende graced the reception as the guest of honour. Dutch politicians, academics, entrepreneurs, NGO representatives, business persons, high government officials, ambassadors of different countries, expatriate Bangladeshi professionals joined the event.
The programme started with the national anthems of Bangladesh and the Netherlands. Bangladesh Ambassador recalled the contribution of the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the architect of our independence. He said that in the five decades since, defying many odds, Bangladesh made notable strides. Today, Bangladesh stands as the second-largest economy in South Asia, and 35th largest globally. Much of that is credited to political and social stability aside sustained and equitable economic growth thanks to the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. In positioning Bangladesh with her value-driven policies, we firmly hold on to democracy, pluralism and secularism. He further said that Bangladesh – Netherlands ties as also a vision of global well-being premised on shared prosperity - be it sustainable development, tackling climate change or advancing circularity.
The former prime minister of the Netherlands Jan Peter Balkenende apprised Bangladesh’s remarkable development. He acclaimed how Bangladesh is getting prosperous under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
A microcosm of Bangladesh was presented through traditional decorations including miniature of traditional boats of Bangladesh which attracted many guests. Audio-visuals on Bangladesh’s history, culture, tourism, tradition, development and potential were screened. Two prominent, contemporary dancers from Bangladesh Alif and Maati, showcased traditional Bangladeshi dance through their rendition. The guests were served authentic Bangladeshi cuisine during the dinner.
UAE buildings decorated with Bangladesh flag
United Arab Emirates (UAE) has celebrated Bangladesh's Independence Day by decorating its landmarks buildings with Bangladesh flag.
On the occasion of Bangladesh's Independence Day 2024, iconic landmarks in the United Arab Emirates, including the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world in Dubai and the ADNOC headquarters in Abu Dhabi, were adorned in the vibrant red and green shades of the Bangladeshi national flag on March 26, 2024 (Tuesday).
This symbolic gesture of solidarity serves to foster bilateral harmony and commemorate significant moments with Bangladesh.
UAE Ambassador to Bangladesh, Abdulla Ali AlHmoudi emphasized the enduring friendship between the two nations and expressed optimism about further expanding their excellent relations across various dimensions in the future.
With more than a million Bangladeshi expatriates residing in the UAE, it stands as the second-largest community of non-resident Bangladeshis worldwide.
Bangladeshis represent the third-largest expatriate group in the UAE. Among these expatriates are workers, along with professionals such as doctors, engineers, professors, accountants, and IT experts.
Moreover, the UAE currently ranks as the top source of remittances to Bangladesh.
Professor Yunus launches partnership with Milano Cortina Winter Olympic 2026
Nobel laureate Professor Yunus has visited Venice and Milan to finalise the partnership between Milan Cortina Winter Olympic and Yunus Sports Hub.
During his visit to Venice on March 18, Prof Yunus was the honorary host of the launch event of Impact 2026, the social procurement programme delivered as a partnership between Fondazione Milano Cortina 2026 (organizer of the 2026 winter Olympic and Paralympic Games), Yunus Sports Hub and Fondazione Giacomo Brodolini.
The aim of the programme is to make sure that social businesses benefit from the economic opportunities of the 2026 Games.
He opened the event with a keynote speech promoting the concept of social business and the world of three zeros in sports.
Australian Assistant Defence Minister expresses willingness to continue to work with Bangladesh govt
The event was hosted by the Ca’Foscari University of Venice, the Veneto region and the City of Venice, said a press release.
The Ca’Foscari University of Venice established a Yunus Social Business Centre five years back during Professor Yunus's visit to the university at the invitaion of the university, dedicating the Centre for implementation of social business in the academic curriculum.
The Faculty members of several other Yunus Social Business Centres in different parts of Italy also arrived in Venice to participate in the launching ceremony and meet Professor Yunus.
On March 19, Prof Yunus addressed the students of the university of Bocconi , the topmost Italian management school.
Prof Yunus expounded his vision about a world of three zeros, social business, and its link with sports . The event was organized within the framework of the launch of the Executive Master in Events, launched in partnership between University of Bocconi and Fondazione Milano Cortina 2026.
During his visit to Milan Professor Yunus received the Italian rapper, singer, songwriter, social media personality and businessman, superstar Fedez.
Bangladesh’s Independence Day celebrated in Mexico
Fedez expressed his interest in partnering with him in the movement towards building a World of Three Zeros.
When Fedze expressed his desire to create a social business in Europe jointly with Professor Yunus, he accepted the offer and invited him to visit Bangladesh to finalise the partnership.
Australian Assistant Defence Minister expresses willingness to continue to work with Bangladesh govt
Australian Assistant Defence Minister Matt Thistlethwaite has congratulated the Bangladesh government for conducting a successful national election and expressed his country’s willingness to continue to work with the government of Bangladesh.
Thistlethwaite said this at the 53rd Independence and National Day reception organised by the Bangladesh High commission in Canberra on March 26.
The assistant defence minister highlighted that Bangladesh and Australia enjoy excellent bilateral relations rooted in Australia’s recognition of Bangladesh on January 31, 1972.
He added that the relations were further strengthened by the visit of the then Labour Prime Minister Gough Whitlam to Bangladesh in 1975. He commended the Bangladesh diaspora in Australia for their contribution to Australian society.
In his statement, High Commissioner M Allama Siddiki expressed optimism that the Bangladesh-Australia bilateral partnership would be strengthened and widened in the coming days.
He conveyed his gratitude to the government and people of Australia for the cause of the Liberation War.
Offering tribute to the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the High Commissioner recalled Bangabandhu’s unflinching leadership and contribution of the valiant freedom fighters in achieving the independence of Bangladesh.
He also highlighted economic success along with communal harmony and liberal culture in Bangladesh in his remarks.
More than 250 guests including Assistant Defence Minister Matt Thistlethwaite MP, Chair of Australia-India Parliamentary Group Andrew Charlton MP, ACT Shadow Minister for Multicultural Affairs Peter Cain MLA, Chief of Protocol, Deputy Secretary of South and South East Asia Group and other senior representatives from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Department of Home Affairs, Department of Defence, Department of Agriculture, ambassadors and other members of the diplomatic community, members of the business community, representatives from media and distinguished members of Bangladesh community attended the reception.
Members of the Band of the Royal Military College of Australia performed the instrumental national anthems of Bangladesh and Australia at the reception.
Documentaries on Bangladesh's rich culture, history, heritage and economic success and business opportunities were screened.
Earlier on the March 26 morning, the national flag was hoisted at the Chancery premises. The messages of the President, Prime Minister, and Foreign Minister were read out.
A special munajat was also offered for the salvation of the departed souls of the Father of the Nation and his family members, martyrs of the Liberation War, as well as for a peaceful, inclusive, and prosperous Bangladesh.
Bangladesh’s story is one of extraordinary strength, perseverance and determination: UNGA President
President of the UN General Assembly, Ambassador Dennis Francis, has said with a well-educated workforce and a dynamic youth population, modern Bangladesh has overcome remarkable odds to become an economic powerhouse in South Asia.
Francis made the comment while delivering remarks as the chief guest at a reception hosted by the Permanent Mission of Bangladesh to the United Nations in New York to celebrate Independence and National Day of Bangladesh.
The President of the UN General Assembly mentioned that Bangladesh’s story is one of extraordinary strength, perseverance and determination in the most trying of times.
He also stated that in addressing the United Nations, Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman eloquently ushered in fresh ideas for building a world free from economic inequalities, social injustice, and the threats of nuclear war.
At the reception, the Permanent Representative of Bangladesh, Ambassador Muhammad Abdul Muhith delivered welcome remarks and mentioned that even after the Liberation War that caused unprecedented destruction, Bangladesh was able to demonstrate remarkable resilience and achieve tremendous success in its development trajectory.
Especially over the last decade, under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Bangladesh has emerged as a role model for development.
Bangladesh’s Independence Day celebrated in Mexico
Ambassador Muhith paid rich tributes to the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, three million martyrs, two hundred thousand women who were victims of sexual violence and all heroic freedom fighters who made supreme sacrifice for Bangladesh’s independence. He also expressed most sincere gratitude to the friendly nations who accelerated Bangladesh’s victory by extending all possible support – both at the battlefield and at the diplomatic front.
Both President of the General Assembly and the Permanent Representative of Bangladesh referred to the 50th anniversary of Bangladesh’s membership to the United Nations.
Ambassador Muhith further mentioned that guided by the famous dictum of the Father of the Nation: “Friendship to all, malice towards none”, Bangladesh joined the UN family 50 years ago and made multilateralism an absolute priority.
He also reiterated Bangladesh’s commitment to make value-driven contribution to all important UN discourses.
Bangladesh Embassy in Seoul celebrates Independence Day
The event was attended by around 150 Permanent Representatives, high officials of the UN Secretariat, international media personalities, think tank and other dignitaries.
The event started with hoisting of national flag and playing the national anthem.
Bangladesh’s Independence Day celebrated in Mexico
The Embassy of Bangladesh in Mexico City has celebrated Bangladesh's Independence and National Day with due solemnity at the Chancery.
Due to the Holy month of Ramadan, the reception including cultural presentation to commemorate the day will be held on April 25, said the Embassy.
The day commenced with the hoisting of the National Flag accompanied by the national anthem, followed by laying a floral wreath at the bust of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman by Ambassador Abida Islam, in the presence of all embassy officials.
Messages from the President, Prime Minister, and Foreign Minister were conveyed.
Bhutanese King, Queen join Bangabhaban reception on Independence Day
A documentary titled "Smart Bangladesh" from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs was screened, followed by a special prayer for the martyrs' salvation and peace and progress of Bangladesh.
During an open discussion, embassy officials emphasized the significance of the day, expressing hopes for peace and prosperity for the people of Bangladesh and beyond.
They paid deep respect to the undaunted leader, Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
In her address, Ambassador Abida Islam paid rich tribute to the Founding Father, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and all the martyrs.
The envoy highlighted the ongoing socio-economic development of the country under the dynamic and visionary leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
Bangladesh marks Independence Day with due respect to martyrs
She also reflected on Bangladesh-Mexico relations, including the Embassy's efforts in promoting trade, commerce, cultural exchanges, and enhancing people-to-people contact.
The envoy reiterated the commitment to working together to realize Bangabandhu's dream of building a prosperous Bangladesh and contributing to peace worldwide.
Bangladesh, Canada ties will expand, strengthen across all domains: Envoy
Bangladesh High Commissioner to Canada Dr Khalilur Rahman has expressed optimism that the bilateral relationship between Bangladesh and Canada will expand and strengthen in the future across all domains, including trade and investment.
He acknowledged the wholehearted support of the government and people of Canada during Bangladesh's Liberation War.
Speaking at the Independence Day programme, the envoy noted the historically friendly bilateral relations between Bangladesh and Canada since the establishment of diplomatic relations on 14 February 1972, especially in the areas of mutual interests, including human rights, development, counter-extremism, women's empowerment and combating climate change.
Bangladesh marks Independence Day with due respect to martyrs
The Bangladesh High Commission in Ottawa observed Independence and National Day with dignity and fervour.
Khalilur Rahman hoisted the national flag with the playing of national anthem at Bangladesh House in Ottawa in presence of all officers and officials of the High Commission.
A special prayer was offered to honour the souls of the Father of the Nation and the architect of independence, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and the 3 million martyrs of the Liberation War.
In the second segment of the programme, a special discussion meeting, chaired by the High Commissioner, was convened in the High Commission's auditorium during the afternoon.
Valiant Freedom Fighters and members from the Bangladeshi community in Canada participated in this discussion meeting.
Bhutanese King, Queen join Bangabhaban reception on Independence Day
The program commenced with the placing of floral wreaths at the portrait of the Father of the Nation by the High Commissioner.
Following this, messages from the President, Prime Minister and Foreign Minister on this occasion were read out by the High Commission officers.
This was followed by the screening of a documentary in commemoration of Independence and National Day.
The High Commissioner especially invited the valiant freedom fighters present in the discussion meeting to speak.
They hailed Bangladesh's independence as the nation's greatest achievement.
They pledged to work collectively to instill the spirit of the Liberation War and patriotism among the second and third generations of Bangladeshis residing in Canada.
The High Commissioner also posed for photographs with the valiant freedom fighters.
In his address, Khalilur Rahman highlighted the pivotal role of the Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, in leading the nation towards independence.
He recalled Bangabandhu's call for independence on 7 March 1971, in his famous speech at the then Racecourse, and the subsequent declaration of independence by him in the early hours of 26 March 1971, urging all to join the war.
The High Commissioner paid homage to the sacrifices of the 3 million martyrs and the two hundred thousand mothers and sisters who were violated and endured profound suffering during the liberation war. He emphasized the importance of embodying the non-communal spirit of the Liberation War in both societal and political lives.
He lauded Bangladesh's remarkable economic progress, especially in the last one and a half decades under the leadership of Bangabandhu’s able daughter, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
The envoy called upon all Bangladeshis living at home and abroad to contribute to building a developed and prosperous 'Smart Bangladesh' by 2041 under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
Bhutanese King to visit Padma Bridge, Special Economic Zone in Araihazar today
Bhutanese King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck will visit the Padma Bridge today, an infrastructural feat constructed entirely through self-financing efforts of the Bangladesh government.
This remarkable infrastructure project stands as a testament to Bangladesh’s commitment to advancing connectivity and fostering economic growth.
After visiting the Padma Bridge, King Jigme will visit a Special Economic Zone in Araihazar, Narayanganj, in the afternoon to witness firsthand the infrastructure and facilities there.
Bhutanese King at PMO to hold meeting with PM Hasina
He is scheduled to arrive at Araihazar, Narayanganj, at 12:30 pm today.
Japanese Ambassador to Bangladesh Iwama Kiminori and Executive Chairman of BEZA Shaikh Yusuf Harun will receive the King.
After a video presentation and brief discussion there, he will visit the Singer Bangladesh Limited construction site there.
On Thursday afternoon, the King will visit Kurigram Special Economic Zone.
Dhaka rolls out red carpet to welcome Bhutanese king
Bhutan has already conveyed its appreciation to Bangladesh for offering the Special Economic Zone in Kurigram, which is 190 km from the southern city of Gelephu, Bhutan.
An MoU has been signed in this regard by the authorities of Bhutan and Bangladesh.
The Economic Zone will add a "new horizon" in the area of bilateral trade and investment between the two countries and also for achieving greater prosperity in the South Asia region, the two South Asian countries hope.
After visiting the Economic Zone in Kurigram, the King will go to Sonahat Land Port, where he will be given guard of honour by Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB).
The Bhutanese King is scheduled to leave Bangladesh territory at 3:30 pm on Thursday for Golakganj, Assam via Sonahat Land Port.
State Minister for Shipping Khalid Mahmud Chowdhury will see him off there.
The state visit of the King to Bangladesh has further strengthened the traditional ties of friendship, cooperation, and goodwill between the two countries, according to a joint statement.
Both sides expressed happiness that Bhutan and Bangladesh signed the Agreement on the Movement of Traffic-in-Transit and its Protocol in March 2023, which will usher in new horizons for bilateral trade and connectivity.
The Agreement and its Protocol will not only be phenomenal for bilateral trade but will also work as a platform for paving the way for an interconnected South Asia.
Both countries expressed satisfaction on the recent initiatives between the two for facilitating trade such as Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) — the first of its kind for the two countries — and Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for seamless use of the inland waterways of Bangladesh.
The power and energy sector provides an important area for cooperation between Bhutan and Bangladesh.
In this regard, both sides underscored the importance of strengthening subregional cooperation in the energy sector among Bhutan, Bangladesh and India.
The King of Bhutan extended invitations to President Mohammed Shahabuddin and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to visit Bhutan.
Bangladesh Embassy in Spain marks Genocide Day
Bangladesh Embassy in Lisbon observed the Genocide Day with due honour and solemnity on Monday reminiscing the brutal and cowardly attacks by the Pakistani occupation forces on the unarmed Bangalees.
In profound remembrance of the victims of Bangladesh genocide, a seminar, a photo exhibition and a candlelight vigil were organised on the Embassy premises.
A seminar titled "Bangladesh at 52: Looking back on the Freedom Struggle and Genocide” was held at the Embassy.
University teachers, students from different Portuguese University, scholars, academics, members of expatriate Bangladeshi community and officials of the Embassy attended the seminar.
Bhutanese King, Queen join Bangabhaban reception on Independence Day
The seminar began with observance of one-minute silence in honour of martyrs of Bangladesh Liberation War.
In her opening remarks, Ambassador of Bangladesh Rezina Ahmed paid rich tribute to the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and all the martyrs and Biranganas of the liberation war.
She narrated the massacre that took place on the 25th night which continued throughout nine months of War of Liberation.
She urged the members of the civil society of Portugal and members of international community to support the campaign for the recognition of the Genocide Day 1971.
The audience was emotionally attached by her remarks.
In the panel discussion, Dr Manas Sutradhar, Professor at the Faculty of Engineering, Universidade Lusόfona presented the keynote speech.
Manas elaborated the aspects of dehumanisation, extermination and denial of Bangladesh genocide and remarked that Pakistan should formally apologise to Bangladesh for what they did in 1971.
He urged the international community, particularly the United Nations to recognise Bangladesh genocide immediately.
US proud to partner with Bangladesh on many of today’s most pressing issues: Blinken
Pedro Anastácio, former Member of the Parliament and City Councilor in his speech paid tribute and respect to all the victims and survivors who suffered on this day.
He quoted a Spanish saying that “those who are remembered live forever.”
He also expressed solidarity with Bangladesh and other countries that had to face the international crime of genocide.
A young Bangladeshi expatriate Sajin Ahmed Koushik also spoke on the occasion.
In his remarks, Koushik paid homage to the victims of the black night and martyrs of the liberation war.
He remarked that recognising the genocide involving 1971 is not solely about historical precision, it is a moral obligation, urging all to unite in support of the victims and survivors, advocating for justice, and striving to prevent such atrocities from occurring again.
A video documentary containing genocidal incidents of 25th March of 1971, war-time footage of genocide captured by international media and case for recognition of Bangladesh genocide were screened during the seminar.
After the discussion session, the attractive part of the programme “question and answer session” took place where the participating students asked the panellists different question on the genocide of Bangladesh and regarding recognition of the genocide by the international community.
After the discussion session, all guests walked in a procession of a candlelight vigil on the premises of the Chancery and placed candles before the portraits of victims of Bangladesh genocide that were displayed as part of the photographic exhibition titled “1971 Genocide”. The visitors were appalled to witness the horrors of the atrocities perpetrated by Pakistani military and local collaborators.
India congratulates Bangladesh, its people
India, which stood beside Bangladesh during the War of Liberation in 1971, has congratulated the people of Bangladesh on the occasion of its Independence Day.
President of India Droupadi Murmu, in a letter addressed to President of Bangladesh Mohammad Shahabuddin, conveyed on her behalf and on behalf of government and the people of India, warmest greetings to the people of Bangladesh on the occasion of the National Day of Bangladesh.
She highlighted the qualitative transformation in the India-Bangladesh relations in the last decade with remarkable growth in diverse areas.
Bhutanese King, Queen join Bangabhaban reception on Independence Day
The Indian President expressed confidence that the leadership of the two countries will continue to endeavour towards further strengthening of people-to-people links between the two countries.
Independence Day: President, PM and Bhutanese King pay tributes to the martyrs of the Liberation War