The Bangladesh Embassy in Kathmandu observed National Revolution and Solidarity Day on Saturday, marking the historic November 7, 1975, and its significance in the country's political history.
The programme began with the hoisting of the national flag of Bangladesh on the embassy premises in the presence of members of the Bangladeshi community.
This was followed by an event at the embassy auditorium, where the national anthems of Bangladesh and Nepal were played. Speakers delivered remarks, while special prayers were offered for the salvation of the martyrs and the continued peace and prosperity of Bangladesh.
Messages from the president and the prime minister of Bangladesh marking the day were also read out. Two documentaries highlighting the historical background and significance of November 7 were screened.
During a discussion, speakers reflected on the day's place in Bangladesh's nation-building process and political history. They recalled the role of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman in restoring multiparty democracy, freedom of expression and press freedom, and highlighted his contribution to safeguarding national unity, sovereignty and independence.
In his closing remarks, Ambassador Shafiqur Rahman underscored the importance of November 7, 1975, in the country's national life, describing it as a turning point in Bangladesh's political history.
He recalled that Ziaur Rahman, the proclaimer of independence, was freed from captivity by fellow soldiers and members of the public on that day and was later entrusted with the responsibility of steering the country through a profound crisis.
The ambassador said Ziaur Rahman's emergence as a national leader contributed to the restoration and protection of Bangladesh's independence and sovereignty and the establishment of the rule of law.
He also highlighted Ziaur Rahman's legacy in promoting production-oriented politics, moving away from rhetoric-driven politics, and advancing the “Bangladesh First” policy through the incorporation of Bangladeshi nationalism into policymaking and the projection of national issues on the international stage.
Calling for national unity, solidarity and patriotism, Shafiqur Rahman urged expatriate Bangladeshis to support the government's efforts to strengthen national institutions, develop infrastructure, improve connectivity and contribute to national development.
The event was attended by former Nepali ambassadors to Bangladesh, University of Dhaka faculty members, prominent members of the Nepali business community, representatives of SAARC, ICIMOD and other organisations, and members of the Bangladeshi community living in Nepal.
