The 52nd  Anniversary of Independence and National Day of Bangladesh has been
celebrated at the Embassy of Bangladesh in Rome, Italy today (26 March 2023) in a befitting
manner. Mr. Md. Shameem Ahsan, Ambassador of Bangladesh to Italy, Serbia and Montenegro,
hoisted the national flag ceremonially at 10.00 am with the presence of the officers and officials
of the Embassy. This was followed by a one-minute silence and placing a floral wreath on the
portrait of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
The second part of the programme was held at the auditorium of the Mission with the
presence of community members, journalists and officials of the Mission. The programme
included, among others, recitations from the Holy Scriptures and reading out of the messages of
the President, Prime Minister, Foreign Minister and State Minister for Foreign Affairs and
discussion-meeting. During the discussion segment, speakers from the community, while paying
deep tribute to Bangabandhu and all martyrs, reiterated their commitment to work for the
materialization of the dream of Bangabandhu and the martyrs.
In his welcome remarks, Ambassador Mr. Md. Shameem Ahsan paid glowing tribute to
the greatest Bangalee of all times, Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman,
whose charismatic leadership was the driving force behind the country’s independence. He said
that Bangabandhu fought throughout his life for a Sonar Bangla (Golden Bengal). He opined
that the charismatic leadership and magnificent personality of Bangabandhu united the whole
Bangalee nation to one thread that helped achieve the long cherished independence of
Bangladesh in only nine months. The Ambassador further mentioned that Bangladesh, under
the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, has been able to obtain global
recognition as a "role model" for its stunning successes in many areas. At this joyous occasion of
the glorious independence and national day, the Ambassador called for unity among
Bangladeshi expatriates in Italy and sought sincere support and suggestions in extending the
desired level of services by the Mission.
Due to the Holy month of Ramadan, the National and Independence Day Reception was
held on 20 March 2023 at ‘Parco dei Principi’ hotel in Rome.  Approximately 200 guests
including dignitaries from the host country, members of the diplomatic corps, representatives
from UN Agencies, international organizations and civil society, academics, business and

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chamber leaders and opinion leaders, among others, were present. Secretary General of the
Italian Ministry of Health Mr. Dr. Giovanni Leonardi joined as the Chief Guest. Stellar
performances by Italian & Bangladeshi artists in Bangla added colour to the event and kept the
enlightened audience captivated.
On the sideline of the main event, documentaries on tourism, cultural heritage and
investment and economic potentials of the country were screened. The Bangladesh Corner
tastefully decorated with traditional artifacts and motifs, showcased the exportables and
handicrafts and bilingual publications were on display which drew a huge crowd. Guests
received a copy of the bilingual publication “Opportunita Bangladesh” of the Embassy.
Traditional Bangladeshi cuisine in addition to Italian delicacy was served which received wide
appreciation.