During his welcome speech Ambassador René Holenstein highlighted that Switzerland has been a committed and longstanding partner of Bangladesh introducing innovative ideas and solutions over the years and thanked the guests for sharing this joyful moment together. The Hon’ble Minister for Foreign Affairs of Bangladesh in his address highlighted the strong relations between the two countries which are based on mutual respect and trust.
Main attractions of the event were video and on-stage presentations of young people of Bangladesh and Switzerland sharing their aspirations for the future. Eminent Bangladeshi personalities responded and confirmed many aspirations in this intergenerational exchange.
Culture has been an important element for Switzerland and Bangladesh during the 45 years of relationship. On this occasion the Hon’ble Minister for Cultural Affairs, together with Ambassador René Holenstein, launched a photography book “Focus on Culture” published by the Swiss Embassy in close cooperation with young Bangladeshi artists. While launching the photobook, the Hon’ble Minister said it is his strong conviction that a diverse and vibrant cultural sector contributes to the development and the promotion of peace in society and brings people and nations closer together.
During the event, Ambassador René Holenstein handed over a copy of a historic document dated 13 March 1972 to the Hon’ble Minister for Foreign Affairs, which laid the foundation of the relations between Switzerland and Bangladesh. The historic document is a copy of the letter from the Swiss Confederation sent on 13 April 1972 to the Government of Bangladesh informing the decision of the Swiss Government to recognize Bangladesh as an independent country.
The event was widely attended by senior government officials, international and development partners, business community, members of the civil society, Bangladeshi artists and cultural actors. The guests enjoyed Bangladeshi folklore dance performed by Rupantar, while the popular Bangladeshi band Chirkut enthralled the audience with their tunes.
The event was organized in cooperation with the private sector, including LafargeHolcim Bangladesh Ltd, ABB Ltd, Nestlé Bangladesh Ltd, Novartis Bangladesh Ltd and Aamra Resources Ltd.