Russian House in Dhaka celebrates 50 years of Dhaka-Moscow ties

ZOOMBANGLA DESK: Russian House in Dhaka, together with Liberation War Academy Trust, on Saturday organized a solemn program and photographs exhibition to mark the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Bangladesh and Russia.

Director of Russian House Maxim Dobrokhotov in his welcome speech congratulated the Bengali Nation on the occasion of the 50th friendship anniversary and discussed the important role of people’s diplomacy in improving mutual understanding.

Minister-Counselor of the Russian Embassy in Bangladesh Ms. Ekaterina A. Semenova in her speech confirmed the intention of the Russian Federation to develop and strengthen bilateral cooperation in all directions.

Addressing the programme as chief guest Science and Technology Minister Yeafesh Osman said that the USSR was an absolute friend in the history of our Liberation War, without whose contribution Bangladesh’s victory was unimaginable.

He also said that Soviet people not only contributed to the liberation war, but also rebuilt war-torn Bangladesh, demining the country’s two main ports, setting up power plants, providing food and medical care. Russia is still cooperating as a true friend in the ongoing development of Bangladesh.

Yeafesh Osman called upon all to highlight the contribution of friendly Russia to the new generation. On behalf of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, the Minister conveyed his sincere gratitude and best wishes to the Russian people and government on the occasion of the glorious 50 years of relations.

Soviet graduate Ghulam Mustafa, Chairman of Dhaka WASA Board. said that at the request of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujubur Rahman the then Soviet government provided scholarships to many Bangladeshi students so that they could play a pivotal role in the reconstruction of post-war Bangladesh.

He reminded that for 2022-2023 academic years Russia provided 70 scholarships for Bangladeshi students under its government quota.

Former Chief Information Commissioner Azizur Rahman Aziz, former additional secretary Sheikh Rafaz Ahmed and Abul Kalam Azad, Chairman of Liberation War Academy Trust, were also present.