Ashraf Siddiqui
Doha
The enduring partnership between Qatar and Bangladesh is grounded in mutual respect, cooperation, and trade, with a thriving Bangladeshi expatriate community forming an integral part of Qatari society, Ambassador of Bangladesh to Qatar HE Nazrul Islam has said.
The ambassador was speaking recently at a reception hosted to mark the Armed Forces Day of Bangladesh coinciding with 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Qatar and Bangladesh.
Present on the occasion were Major-General Fayez Faleh Al Shammari, head of the Human Resources Authority at the Qatari Armed Forces; Brigadier-General Mohammed Khairuddin, defence attache of Bangladesh; members of the diplomatic Corp, members of the Qatari Armed forces, Defence and Military Attaches’ from friendly countries, members of the Bangladesh community, members of media, and guests.
The ambassador said, “While we are marking our Armed Forces Day, we must not forget those who are suffering in places like Palestine and Lebanon, where innocent lives are being lost due to the ongoing conflicts.” He reaffirmed his country’s firm stand in condemnation of the illegal occupation by Israeli forces and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and Lebanon.
“It is essential that we remain vocal in the face of injustice and uphold our moral responsibility,” the envoy said.
Ambassador Islam paid tributes to the members of the armed forces of his country on their crucial role in nation-building, providing disaster relief during floods, cyclones, and earthquakes, and contributing to vital infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, and more. He applauded Bangladesh Armed Forces role in times of national crisis, in restoring stability and safeguarding public safety, and on global level their active participation in UN peacekeeping missions.
Bangladesh Defence Attache to Qatar Brigadier-General Mohammed Khairuddiin thanked the guests for their presence, stressing that it signifies their respect on the dedication and sacrifices of servicemen and women.
He paid tributes to those who laid down their lives or got injured during the independence struggle of Bangladesh as well as during the July-August mass movements led by the students to inspire the quest for a brighter, more prosperous future.
Bangladesh Armed Forces, he noted, has crucial role in the development of the country as well as during the natural disasters like of earthquakes, cyclones, floods. “We are committed to global peace, actively participating in United Nations peacekeeping missions where it has demonstrated professionalism, courage, and dedication in conflict zones worldwide, making valuable contributions to global stability and humanitarian efforts.”
A documentary showcasing the inspiring and courageous role of the Bangladesh Armed forces in various aspects was screened, followed by serving of traditional Bangladeshi cuisine.
