Reception held in The Hague marking Bangladesh’s Independence Day
Published: 03 April 2026, 2:56:39
The Embassy of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh in The Hague hosted a reception on 31 March at The Hague Marriott Hotel to celebrate the 55th anniversary of Independence and National Day of Bangladesh.
The event was attended by members of the diplomatic corps, representatives of international organisations, government officials, members of the business community, academics, researchers, media, and NGO professionals, according to the Embassy of Bangladesh in The Hague.
Mayor of The Hague Jan van Zanen attended the event as the guest of honour.
The ceremony commenced with the national anthems of Bangladesh and the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
In his address, Md Hasan Abdullah Towhid, chargé d’affaires of Bangladesh in The Hague, paid tribute to the sacrifices of the martyrs of the Liberation War and highlighted Bangladesh’s progress since independence, including achievements in economic growth, poverty reduction, women’s empowerment, education, and climate resilience.
He emphasised the strong and growing partnership between Bangladesh and the Netherlands, particularly in areas such as water management, climate adaptation, agriculture, trade, and investment.
He also underscored Bangladesh’s constructive engagement with international institutions based in The Hague, including cooperation in advancing peace, justice, accountability, and sustainable development.
Referring to global humanitarian challenges, Towhid reiterated Bangladesh’s commitment to multilateralism and called for continued international support for the safe and sustainable repatriation of forcibly displaced Rohingya people.
He also sought the support of the international community for Bangladesh’s candidature for the presidency of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly.
Mayor Zanen delivered remarks highlighting the long-standing friendship between Bangladesh and the Netherlands.
He recalled the early recognition of Bangladesh by the Netherlands in 1972 and noted the shared geographical realities of both delta nations.
The mayor emphasised cooperation in water management, climate resilience, and sustainable development, and commended Bangladesh’s remarkable socio-economic progress.
He expressed confidence that bilateral relations would continue to deepen based on shared values of peace, freedom, and justice.
Following the formal addresses, three young Bangladeshi children presented musical instrument performances, which were warmly appreciated by the audience.
The evening concluded with a reception dinner featuring traditional Bangladeshi cuisine and sweets, providing an opportunity for guests to interact and celebrate the enduring friendship between Bangladesh and the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
The event was marked by a spirit of goodwill and reaffirmed Bangladesh’s commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation and multilateral engagement from The Hague, the International City of Peace and Justice.
