FOR all nations, the commemoration of Independence Day is significant and a reminder of the country's history, and in most cases, the struggle endured by its people who helped achieve the country's freedom. Bangladesh, the then eastern flank of Pakistan, declared its independence on March 26, 1971. Looking forward to their national day, Bangladeshi expats reflect on the struggle and sacrifices of their countrymen. Rafiq Uz Zaman, a Bangladeshi national and CEO, HMR Systems, said the national day gives him joy and pride to be part of a country that has “established itself internationally as a nation with values and culture. We are the only nation that has fought for the right of language in order to preserve our culture,” he said. “However,” Zaman said, “we cannot forget the many innocent lives that were sacrificed for our nation.” He said he was grateful to the Saudi government which “allows us to observe our national day functions freely here.” Bangladesh, with its unique communal harmony, has a population of about 140 million making it one of the most densely populated countries of the world. “Bangladesh has a long history spanning thousands of years. Today, we should remember our freedom fighters and our father of the nation Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, who proclaimed the country's sovereignty in 1971,” said Usuf Mahmood Farazi, a Bangladeshi expat. Abul Quasem M. Saleh, another Bangladeshi national working in Juffali A. Com, hoped that his country becomes a stronger and more stable democracy. “For this, the ruling and the opposition parties should have consensus on fundamental issues,” he said. “We are indebted to the government of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah Bin Abdul Aziz and the people of Saudi Arabia for their support and cooperation with Bangladeshi expats living in the Kingdom,” Saleh said. Mohammed Akkas Miah, a corporate finance manager in NESMA Holding Company Ltd., advised Bangladeshi nationals working in the Kingdom to respect the country's rules and regulations. Anwar Hossain Mintum, a freedom fighter, recalled Bangladesh's pre-independence days. “I was a student then and had the opportunity to join the war of liberation. With hope and aspiration that an independent Bangladesh would fulfill our dream, I did not want to miss the chance. I hope Prime Minister Sk. Hasina, the daughter of our father of the nation, is able to further the cause of this dream,” he said.
