Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina congratulated the newly elected British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, expressing her eagerness to collaborate with the new Labour government.
In a letter sent through the Bangladesh High Commission in London, Sheikh Hasina highlighted the importance of strengthening the long-standing political, economic, climate, and strategic partnerships between the two nations under Starmer’s leadership.
The letter emphasized the significant role of the Bangladeshi-British diaspora in fostering the bilateral relationship.
“Most importantly, together we would continue to harness the invaluable contributions of more than 700,000 vibrant and enterprising Bangladeshi-British diaspora to the common good of our two nations,” PM Hasina wrote.
Sheikh Hasina extended her heartiest congratulations on Starmer’s historic victory in the July 4 elections and his assumption of office as the prime minister of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
“This unequivocal mandate clearly testifies to the trust and confidence of the British people in your leadership to take your country to newer heights of progress and prosperity and promote peace globally,” she said.
Reflecting on the historical ties, Sheikh Hasina reminisced about the enduring friendship between Bangladesh’s founding father, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and the Labour Party’s iconic leaders like Sir Harold Wilson, Thomas Williams KC, and Lord Peter Shore.
She acknowledged their support during Bangladesh’s 1971 Liberation War, which laid the foundation for the strong relationship between Bangladesh and the UK, built on common values of democracy, secularism, and inclusive and progressive aspirations.
In her letter, Sheikh Hasina also conveyed her best wishes for Starmer’s health, happiness, and success in his new role, and for the peace, progress, and prosperity of the British people.