Bangladesh High Commission celebrated the Glorious 52nd Victory Day with due solemnity and fervour today at the Chancery premises. The celebration commenced in the morning with the ceremonial hoisting of the National Flag by High Commissioner Tareq Md Ariful Islam. It was followed by observing a one-minute silence, placing a floral wreath at the portrait of the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, offering special prayers, reading out the messages of the President, Prime Minister, Foreign Minister and State Minister for Foreign Affairs, screening documentary and an open discussion session.
Among the community members, the Country Director of WFP Abdur Rahim Siddique and the Director General of SACEP Rokeya Khatun took part in the discussion. They recalled with gratitude the supreme sacrifice of the martyrs of the liberation war and highlighted the development journey of Bangladesh. High Commissioner Tareq Md Ariful Islam in his remarks paid homage to the martyrs, valiant freedom fighters, war heroines and all others who contributed to the war of liberation. He also paid rich tribute to the Father of the Nation and reflected on his life and works. He spoke about the development strides of Bangladesh under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. He called upon all to take a fresh vow to work for the betterment of the country and imbue the younger generation with the spirit of independence.
The highlight of the evening was a cultural programme that featured patriotic songs, dance, and recitation of poems performed by family members of the High Commission officials and members of the Bangladesh community. The programme ended with a cutting of cake and a dinner where traditional Bangladesh cuisine was served.
The Victory Day celebration was attended by Bangladesh expatriate community members and mission officials and their families and several Sri Lankan and foreign dignitaries and media personalities.