The Embassy of Bangladesh in the Netherlands celebrated the 53rd anniversary of the independence of Bangladesh with due dignity in a festive atmosphere (26 March 2024, the Hague). The celebration started with hoisting the national flag at the Embassy premises in the early morning.
In the evening, the Embassy hosted a reception at the prestigious Marriott Hotel in the heart of the Hague. Bangladesh Ambassador M Riaz Hamidullah, his spouse Sazia Ahmed, and officials of the Embassy welcomed the guests at the reception. The former Dutch Prime minister and the present Minister of State, Jan Peter Balkenende graced the reception as the guest of honour. Dutch politicians, academics, entrepreneurs, NGO representatives, business persons, high government officials, ambassadors of different countries, and expatriate Bangladeshi professionals joined the event.
The programme started with the national anthems of Bangladesh and the Netherlands. Bangladesh Ambassador recalled the contribution of the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the architect of our independence. He said that in the five decades since, defying many odds, Bangladesh made notable strides. Today, Bangladesh stands as the second-largest economy in South Asia and 35th largest globally. Much of that is credited to political and social stability aside from sustained and equitable economic growth thanks to the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. In positioning Bangladesh with her value-driven policies, we firmly hold on to democracy, pluralism and secularism. He further said that Bangladesh – Netherlands ties as also a vision of global well-being premised on shared prosperity – be it sustainable development, tackling climate change or advancing circularity.
The former prime minister of the Netherlands Jan Peter Balkenende apprised Bangladesh’s remarkable development. He acclaimed how Bangladesh is getting prosperous under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
A microcosm of Bangladesh was presented through traditional decorations including a miniature of traditional boats of Bangladesh which attracted many guests. Audio-visuals on Bangladesh’s history, culture, tourism, tradition, development and potential were screened. Two prominent, contemporary dancers from Bangladesh Alif and Maati, showcased traditional Bangladeshi dance through their rendition. The guests were served authentic Bangladeshi cuisine during the dinner.