RIYADH — Bangladesh Embassy commemorated the Victory Day of Bangladesh on December 16 at the chancery premises in a befitting manner. The day's program included recitation of a few verses from the Qur'an, ceremonial hoisting of the national flag by Ambassador of Bangladesh to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Md. Shahidul Islam, who also reading out of messages of the president, prime minister, foreign minister and state minister for foreign affairs of Bangladesh followed by a discussion meeting. All officers and members of the staff of the mission, more than 300 Bangladesh nationals living in Riyadh and nearby areas, teachers and students of Bangladesh International Schools in Riyadh attended the ceremony. On this glorious occasion of the 43rd Victory Day of Bangladesh, the discussion meeting on the significance of the day. Many members of the expatriate Bangladesh community took part where they recalled with gratitude the contribution of the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in achieving the independence of Bangladesh in 1971. They highlighted the rare leadership qualities and political magnanimity of Bangabandhu who led the Liberation War of Bangladesh. They also praised the statesmanship of Bangabandhu for his dedication for the development and well-being of the country and its people. Bangladesh achieved her independence due to the supreme sacrifice of the people under the leadership of the Father of the Nation after a nine-month long struggle, the speakers commented. In his speech, the ambassador paid sincere tribute to the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu whose unparallel leadership inspired the people to fight for the independence of Bangladesh. Remembering Bangabandhu's contribution to the creation of Bangladesh, he mentioned that Bangabandhu united the whole country and prepared it for 1971. “We got Bangladesh and a Flag in 1971 due to the charismatic leadership of Bangabandhu.” Bangabandhu showed his magnanimity and courage to govern the war-ravaged country for three years and eight months only toward further progress. He also underlined the need for renewing the commitment to remain united and make concerted efforts for the socio-economic development of Bangladesh. Mentioning the existing excellent bilateral relations between Bangladesh and Saudi Arabia, the ambassador urged upon the community to uphold the image of the country and to obey the rules and regulations of the country. While highlighting the progress of the existing government in different sectors, the ambassador mentioned that the days are not too far when Bangladesh will occupy important positions in international arena and it will become a “Golden Bengal” as envisioned by the Father of the Nation. At the end of the program, a special prayer was held seeking salvation of the departed souls of the valiant freedom fighters of Bangladesh for their supreme sacrifices during the war of independence and continued peace, progress and prosperity of Bangladesh. — SG
