Vice President Faisal Naseem on Sunday extended appreciation to the government of Bangladesh for its numerous contributions to the Maldives' national development and assured of the administration's continued commitment to remain a time-tested friend of Bangladesh. He made these remarks while addressing a function held in Hotel Jen to mark the Independence and National Day of the People's Republic of Bangladesh. The High Commission of the People's Republic of Bangladesh in the Maldives organised the event.
Speaking about the strong bonds between the two countries, the Vice President emphasised the contributions of Bangladeshi expatriate workers to the socioeconomic development of the Maldives. The administration "remains steadfast in protecting the rights of Bangladeshi workers in the Maldives," he added.
The Vice President also highlighted the rich history and culture of Bangladesh. He added that the peoples of the two countries shared a close bond based on shared customs and cultures, goodwill, and interests in trade and maritime affairs, even before the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries in 1978 and before the two attained independence.
Speaking about the history and founding of Bangladesh, the Vice President highlighted the enormous sacrifices made for Bangladesh's liberation and independence by Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. He added that the establishment of Bangladesh in 1971 resulted from Bangabandhu's inspiring leadership and unflinching dedication to justice.
The Vice President also noted that Bangabandhu's momentous speech from March 7, 1971, in which he asked for "every house to turn into a fortress" in the struggle for independence, had been included in the UNESCO "Memory of the World Register." The Maldives and Bangladesh established diplomatic relations on September 22, 1978.
