On the occasion of Bangladesh’s National Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his greetings to the neighbouring country through his letter addressed to the interim government’s Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus. In March 2021, PM Modi designated this date as India-Bangladesh Friendship Day (Moitree Diwas).
On March 26 every year, the nation observes Bangladesh National Day to commemorate the country’s 1971 declaration of independence from Pakistan. Back then, India was the second nation, after Bhutan, to recognise Bangladesh as a sovereign and independent state on December 6, 1971.
‘Mutual Sensitivity’: PM Modi To Yunus
Highlighting the historical significance of the 1971 Liberation War, PM Modi reiterated the strong bilateral ties between the two nations. While the prime minister in his letter asserted that India remained ‘committed’ to strengthening the ties even further, he also mentioned the significance of ‘mutual sensitivity’ in this relationship.
“I extend my felicitations to you and the people of Bangladesh on the occasion of the National Day of Bangladesh. This day stands as a testament to our shared history and sacrifices, which have laid the foundation of our bilateral partnership. The spirit of the Liberation War of Bangladesh continues to remain a guiding light for our relationship, which has flourished across multiple domains, bringing tangible benefits to our people,” PM Modi said, as per a report by India Today.
“We remain committed to advancing this partnership, driven by our common aspirations for peace, stability and prosperity, and based on mutual sensitivity to each other’s interests and concerns,” he added.
President Murmu Extends Greetings
President Droupadi Murmu also extended her greetings to her Bangladesh counterpart, Mohammed Shahabuddin, and reiterated New India’s support for a democratic and progressive Bangladesh.
“On behalf of the government, the people of India and my own behalf, I extend warm greetings and felicitations to Your Excellency and to the friendly people of Bangladesh on the occasion of your National Day,” Murmu said.
“India-Bangladesh relations are multi-faceted, with our cooperation encompassing diverse areas such as trade, multimodal connectivity, development partnership, power and energy, education, capacity building, cultural cooperation and people-to-people exchanges. India reiterates its support for a democratic, stable, inclusive, peaceful and progressive Bangladesh,” she added.
