On the auspicious occasion of the 44th anniversary of our Independence and National Day, I wish to convey my sincere greetings and felicitations to the brotherly people and the government of Saudi Arabia, to our all friends, well-wishers and Bangladeshi expatriates living in the Kingdom.

On this great day, I recall with profound respect our Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, who steered us in achieving our long cherished independence.

I pay deep tribute to the memories of the martyrs of the War of Liberation as well as to our valiant freedom fighters, whose supreme sacrifices made us free as a nation.

The independent Bangladesh represents the nation’s aspiration for economic and political emancipation, freedom from all sorts of exploitation, and establishment of a just and fair society.

Today, under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Bangladesh has made remarkable progress toward democracy, rule of law, good governance and inclusive economic growth.

Bangladesh is now a role model for fighting poverty and extremism, empowering women, disaster management and in coping with the challenges posed by global climate change.

Over the years, we have played a responsible and contributory role as a member of the committee of nations in various areas of international cooperation, including the UN Peacekeeping operations.

This year marks the 40th year of Bangladesh’s diplomatic presence in Saudi Arabia.

As one of the largest Muslim-majority countries, Bangladesh enjoys special brotherly relations with Saudi Arabia based on common Islamic values, traditions, faith, culture and mutual respect.

We are thankful to the government of Saudi Arabia for the generous hosting of a significant number of Bangladeshi expatriates.

I also would like to express my deep appreciation to the government of Saudi Arabia for providing highly commendable support, facilities and services to our Haj and Umrah pilgrims.

On this memorable day, I take the opportunity to extend our sincere thanks and gratitude to Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman for reopening the Saudi labor market to Bangladeshi workers and professionals.

We are thankful to Crown Prince Muqrin and the entire royal family for their continued support to Bangladesh.

Also, we recall with great respect the late King Abdullah.

May Allah the Almighty grant him eternal peace.

I wish to acknowledge the valuable contribution of the Bangladeshi expatriate community in the development and growth of both Saudi Arabia and Bangladesh as well as in the consolidation of relations between the two brotherly countries.

I wish them all continued peace, prosperity and happiness.

A. K. M. Shahidul Karim, Consul General of Bangladesh