By Roy Lie Atjam
The Embassy of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh in The Hague hosted a reception on 31 March 2026 at The Hague Marriott Hotel to celebrate the 55th Anniversary of the Independence and National Day of Bangladesh. The event was attended by members of the diplomatic corps, representatives of international organizations, government officials, members of the business community, academics, researchers, media, and NGO professionals.
Mr. Jan van Zanen, Hon’ble Mayor of The Hague, 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, Mr. Md Hasan Abdullah Towhid, Chargé d’Affaires of Bangladesh, 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.
The Chargé d’Affaires emphasized 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, he 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.
Mr. Jan van Zanen, Hon’ble Mayor of The Hague, as the Guest of Honour, delivered remarks highlighting the longstanding 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 emphasized 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.
The 55th anniversary of Bangladesh’s independence was celebrated in an atmosphere of joy and pride. The evening concluded on a high note with a delectable Bangladeshi buffet, bringing people together in appreciation of Bangladesh’s rich heritage and vibrant culture.
