The Embassy of the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria in Dhaka celebrated the 64th National Independence Day of Algeria with a solemn and dignified ceremony, highlighting Algeria’s historic struggle for freedom, its revolutionary legacy, and the growing friendship between Algeria and Bangladesh.
The event was hosted by HE Dr Abdelouahab SAIDANI, Ambassador of Algeria to Bangladesh. Honourable Chief Guest Mr Zahir Uddin Swapan, MP, minister for Information and Broadcasting, attended the program, along with senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, representatives of prestigious Bangladeshi institutions, members of the Bangladesh-Algeria Business Forum, journalists, civil society representatives, cultural personalities, war veterans, spiritual leaders, senior military and civil officials, Algerian compatriots, and distinguished guests.
In his welcome speech, Ambassador SAIDANI said that July 5 marks a historic milestone for Algeria, as the country gained independence in 1962 after 132 years of colonial rule. He noted that the day is also observed as Youth Day in Algeria, in recognition of the young men and women who played a central role in the National Liberation Front and the broader struggle for sovereignty.
Referring to this year’s theme, “The Legacy of Generations,” the ambassador said the occasion honours the sacrifices of Algeria’s ancestors while inspiring today’s youth to build a prosperous, sovereign, and forward-looking nation. He described Algeria’s independence struggle as a global symbol of resilience, dignity, justice, and the enduring quest for freedom.
Ambassador SAIDANI also highlighted Algeria’s historic role in supporting liberation movements around the world, noting that the Algerian Revolution inspired anti-colonial movements across Africa and beyond. He said Algeria’s foreign policy remains rooted in the principles of self-determination, non-alignment, anti-colonialism, respect for sovereignty, peaceful resolution of conflicts, and support for just causes, including Palestine and Western Sahara.
The ambassador further underlined Algeria’s strategic importance as a bridge between the Mediterranean and the Sahel, and as a key contributor to regional and international stability. He also mentioned Algeria’s role in global energy security, stating that the country supplies a significant share of Europe’s gas imports.
Speaking on Algeria’s economic progress, Ambassador SAIDANI said the country is increasingly positioning itself as an attractive destination for foreign direct investment. He invited Bangladeshi businesses to explore opportunities in Algeria, particularly in pharmaceuticals, agriculture, energy, information technology, and other emerging sectors. He also appreciated the role of the Bangladesh-Algeria Business Forum in strengthening bilateral trade and investment through business delegations, networking initiatives, and trade fair participation.
The ambassador emphasized the historical bond between Algeria and Bangladesh, noting that both nations share a deep legacy of sacrifice for independence and sovereignty. He recalled that Algeria was the first Arab nation to officially recognize independent Bangladesh in 1971 and said the two countries continue to build on their historic friendship and expanding economic cooperation.
In his remarks as Chief Guest, Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan said Algeria and Bangladesh share strong similarities in their struggles for independence. He paid tribute to the martyrs of both countries and said the sacrifices of Algeria’s freedom fighters and Bangladesh’s liberation heroes remain a source of inspiration for future generations.
The minister praised Algeria’s strategic and economic importance, particularly its energy resources and its contribution to European energy security. He also described Algiers as one of the world’s beautiful white cities beside the Mediterranean Sea and expressed hope for deeper people-to-people contact between the two countries.
Mr Swapan appreciated the Bangladesh-Algeria Business Forum for promoting bilateral economic engagement and called for intensified discussions between Dhaka and Algiers to expand cooperation in business, finance, culture, and diplomacy. He said both countries believe in peaceful coexistence and have many opportunities to move forward together.
The ceremony concluded with renewed calls to strengthen Algeria-Bangladesh friendship, deepen bilateral cooperation, and honour the shared sacrifices of the martyrs of both nations.
