Bangladesh and Australia have pledged to strengthen bonds of friendship on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two friendly countries.
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison have issued separate goodwill messages on Monday highlighting the existing strong bonds of friendship and for directions for the relationship between the two friendly countries.
Australian High Commission here hosted a reception on Monday night marking the occasion at the Hotel Purbani which was the inaugural location of Australia’s diplomatic mission in 1972.
During the reception, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Md Shahriar Alam and Australian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Jeremy Bruer highlighted respective government’s commitment to further foster bilateral engagement.
They reiterated the two countries cooperation on COVID-19 recovery, trade and investment, education, technology and innovation and meaningful partnership to face regional and global challenges such as climate change, forced displacement and regional security.
Alam expressed gratitude for the Australia’s bipartisan support for the cause of Bangladesh’s independence in 1971.
He paid deep respect to the Dutch-Australian Mr. William A S Ouderland, who valiantly fought beside freedom fighters in Bangladesh’s war of independence and was the lone foreign national decorated with gallantry award.
– Bir Protik.
He also recalled the contributions of Australians like Dr. Geofrey Davis, Herbert Feith and Anthony Clifton to the War of Liberation in 1971.
