Bangladesh Embassy in Rome celebrates 52nd Anniversary of Independence and National Day
Oru Leonard
The 52nd Anniversary of Independence and National Day of Bangladesh has been celebrated at the Embassy of Bangladesh in Rome, Italy on (26 March 2023), with due festivity and enthusiasm.
Mr. Md. Shameem Ahsan, Ambassador of Bangladesh to Italy, Serbia and Montenegro, hoisted the national flag ceremonially at 10.00 am with the presence of the officers and officials of the Embassy.
This was followed by a one-minute silence and placing a floral wreath on the portrait of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
The second part of the programme was held at the auditorium of the Mission with the presence of community members, journalists and officials of the Mission. The programme included, among others, recitations from the Holy Scriptures and reading out of the messages of the President, Prime Minister, Foreign Minister and State Minister for Foreign Affairs and discussion-meeting.
During the discussion segment, speakers from the community, while paying deep tribute to Bangabandhu and all martyrs, reiterated their commitment to work for the materialization of the dream of Bangabandhu and the martyrs.In his welcome remarks, Ambassador Mr. Md. Shameem Ahsan paid glowing tribute to the greatest Bangalee of all times, Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, whose charismatic leadership was the driving force behind the country’s independence. He said that Bangabandhu fought throughout his life for a Sonar Bangla (Golden Bengal).
He opined that the charismatic leadership and magnificent personality of Bangabandhu united the whole Bangalee nation to one thread that helped achieve the long cherished independence of Bangladesh in only nine months. The Ambassador further mentioned that Bangladesh, under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, has been able to obtain global recognition as a “role model” for its stunning successes in many areas. At this joyous occasion of the glorious independence and national day, the Ambassador called for unity among Bangladeshi expatriates in Italy and sought sincere support and suggestions in extending the desired level of services by the Mission.
Due to the Holy month of Ramadan, the National and Independence Day Reception was held on 20 March 2023 at ‘Parco dei Principi’ hotel in Rome. Approximately 200 guests including dignitaries from the host country, members of the diplomatic corps, representatives from UN Agencies, international organizations and civil society, academics, business and chamber leaders and opinion leaders, among others, were present.
Secretary General of the Italian Ministry of Health Mr. Dr. Giovanni Leonardi joined as the Chief Guest. Stellar performances by Italian & Bangladeshi artists in Bangla added colour to the event and kept the enlightened audience captivated.On the sideline of the main event, documentaries on tourism, cultural heritage and investment and economic potentials of the country were screened.
The Bangladesh Corner tastefully decorated with traditional artifacts and motifs, showcased the exportables and handicrafts and bilingual publications were on display which drew a huge crowd. Guests received a copy of the bilingual publication “Opportunita Bangladesh” of the Embassy. Traditional Bangladeshi cuisine in addition to Italian delicacy was served which received wide appreciation.
