President Abdul Hamid has urged everyone to exercise their franchise in the forthcoming general election to continue the trend of development in the country.
The president called for this while exchanging greetings with members of the Christian community at Bangabhaban, at noon, marking Christmas Day on Tuesday.
President Hamid said: “Bangladesh is a place of peace and prosperity. The relentless labour and continuous efforts, of everyone regardless of religion and caste, are behind it. The positive contribution of communal harmony to our development and progress is undeniable."
He continued, "The 11th parliamentary elections will be held in four days. I hope all the people, irrespective of their religion and caste, will take forward the trend of development in the country by exercising their franchise."
He also called upon all to play an effective role, from their respective positions, in upholding the country's glorious tradition of communal harmony; and developing it further.
Mentioning that the people of all religions here are tied together with mutual love and affection, the president urged all to work together to build a happy, prosperous and non-communal Bangladesh.
The president also hoped that Christmas Day will bring joy to all, including followers of Christianity, and wished for the unlimited joy, happiness and prosperity.
President Hamid and his wife, Rashida Khanam, hosted the reception at the presidential palace where a candle-lit Christmas tree was set up.
Cardinal of Bangladesh Patrick D'Rozario, ambassadors, and representatives of different foreign missions, distinguished persons of the Christian community, religious leaders and professionals joined the reception.