New Delhi: The Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi marked the belated celebration of the 54th Anniversary of Bangladesh Independence on Thursday evening at the Taj Palace Hotel in the Indian capital. The celebration, typically held on March 26 to commemorate Bangladesh's Independence Day, was postponed due to several factors, including the arrival and credential presentation of the new High Commissioner to India, as well as the observance of Ramadan during that period.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the event was graced by Indian Minister of State for External Affairs Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh, who attended as the guest of honour. In his address, Singh emphasized the enduring strength of India-Bangladesh ties, describing them as 'forged through shared experiences and sacrifices' and as a 'foundation for a partnership that is both resilient and forward-looking.' He elaborated on the scope and imperative for envisioning wider ties within bilateral and regional contexts, spanning trade, connectivity, energy, and cultural exchanges. Singh affirmed India's commitment to fostering greater inter-linkages and connectivity with Bangladesh across all spheres, while also looking forward to enhancing people-to-people ties, which he described as the bedrock of the partnership.
Bangladesh High Commissioner to India M Riaz Hamidullah highlighted the importance of developing a forward-looking agenda for cooperation and collaboration between the two nations. "We celebrate not just to remember the past, but to reflect on the future-as neighbors and partners in progress," he stated. Hamidullah cited the recent transmission of 40 MW of Nepalese hydropower to Bangladesh via India as an example of sub-regional synergy. As the current chair of BIMSTEC, Bangladesh remains committed to revitalizing regional cooperation.
The celebration also featured a cultural showcase of traditional Bangladeshi Jamdani sarees and a specially curated menu by chefs flown in from Dhaka's renowned Fakhruddin catering, which included the iconic Dhakaiya Kacchi Biriyani. The event drew hundreds of guests, including diplomats, officials, scholars, civil society members, and media professionals.