ZCZC
BSS-41
EKUSHEY-NIGERIA
Int’l Mother Language Day observed in Nigeria
DHAKA, Feb 22, 2020 (BSS) – Bangladesh High Commission in Abuja, Nigeria has observed Shaheed Dibas (Martyrs’ Day) and International Mother Language Day in a befitting manner.
A discussion-cum colourful multi-lingual cultural event was organized at 7 pm on February 21 at the auditorium of the High Commission, said a press release received here today.
At the outset of the discussion, one-minute silence was observed as a respect to the martyrs.
A documentary on “International Mother Language Day” was screened.
Speaking on the occasion, Md Shameem Ahsan, High Commissioner of Bangladesh to Nigeria said International Mother Language Day (IMLD) has now become a day of celebration of linguistic diversity around the world.
In this context, he recalled the leadership role of the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman as well as the language martyrs in the historic language movement.
He also underlined the significance of the language movement in the evolution of the national history culminating into the independence of Bangladesh.
Yao Ydo, Regional Director and Representative of the UNESCO Regional Office, Abuja was present as the special guest.
While discussing on the IMLD, he highlighted the sacrifices of the Bangladeshis during the language movement in 1952 and also mentioned the global significance of UNESCO’s Declaration of the day as International Mother Language Day.
Abhay Thakur, High Commissioner of India to Nigeria, warmly congratulated Bangladesh for the recognition of the day by the UNESCO following rare sacrifices made by the sons of the country.
Otunba Olesegun Runsewe, Director General of National Council for Arts and Culture, Nigeria also took part in the discussion.
Runsewe touched on the potential role it can play in bringing peace and harmony among various language groups and creating better understanding.
The discussion was rounded off with a colorful multi-lingual cultural programme.
The stellar performances by the artists from Bangladesh, China, Colombia, India (Hindi & Tamil), Indonesia, South Korea, Malaysia, Nepal, Nigeria (representing African Yoruba), Sri Lanka, Ukraine, High Commission family along with Bangladesh and West Bengal community enthralled the audience and manifested a unique harmony of the nations for the protection of linguistic diversity.
Nigerian government officials, ambassadors or high commissioners of India, Iran, the Philippines, Syria, Malaysia, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Syria, Venezuela, Charge d’ Affaires of Ukraine and the UAE, diplomats, Honorary Consul General of Colombia, civil society members, journalists, representatives from social and cultural organizations, a large number of the expatriate members of West Bengal and Bangladesh Diaspora attended along with their families.
Performance by the Indonesia Ambassador and other diplomats added colour to the event.
The guests were served with traditional Bangladeshi cuisine.
Earlier, the programme of the day commenced by placing of floral wreath at the newly-built Shaheed Minar at the High Commission by the Bangladesh high commissioner, officials and community members and their families.
The national flag was hoisted at a half-mast in the morning of February 21, 2020 in the premises of the High Commission.
Messages from President, Prime Minister, Foreign Minister and State Minister for Foreign Affairs were read out.
A special prayer was offered for the salvation of the departed souls of those who laid down their lives during the language movement in 1952 and War of liberation in 1971 and also seeking divine blessings for the continued peace, progress and prosperity of the country.
BSS/PR/MKD/MMA/2303hrs