International Mother Language Day observed at B'desh high commission

Bangladesh High Commission observed International Mother Language Day by paying homage to the martyrs of the 1952 Language Movement in the national Capital.

The day's programmes on February 21 started with lowering the national flag at half-mast by Deputy High Commissioner Salahuddin Noman Chowdhury in chancery premises. 'Ekushey' messages from President Abdul Hamid, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Foreign Minister Abul Hasan Mahmood Ali, MP and State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shahriar Alam MP were read out at the gathering of officers, officials and their spouses.

A discussion meeting and a cultural programme were held to wrap up the day's programmes in the evening.

High Commissioner to India Syed Muazzem Ali, in his welcome speech at the well-attended function at Maitree Hall, paid glowing tributes to the language martyrs. He recalled Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina special move to get the UNESCO approve a Dhaka-led resolution to declare February 21 as the International Mother Language Day in 1999.

Visiting State Minister for Post and Telecommunications Tarana Halim MP and UNESCO representative in India Shigeru Aoyagi also spoke at the function.

Tarana Halim said the youths should be imbibed with the spirit of 'Ekushey' and patriotism.

In his speech Shigeru said, "it was because of the language heroes of Bangladesh the world today is observing International Mother Language Day highlighting the importance of diversity in language and culture".

The discussion on the history and significance of Amar Ekushey was participated by Dr. Sushmita Dasgupta, Joint Chief Economist at the Steel Ministry of India and Joyanta Roy Chowdhury. It was moderated by Farid Hossain, minister (press) at the high commission.

The musical event was presented by Ohang Artiste Troupe.