The revolution of 2024 has opened the door to building a more developed Bangladesh, stated Foreign Secretary Md Jasim Uddin.
Speaking as the chief guest at an event marking Martyrs' Day and International Mother Language Day at the Foreign Service Academy in Dhaka on Friday (February 21), he emphasized the significance of recent historical events.
Md Jasim Uddin highlighted that the July-August 2024 revolution, along with the ultimate sacrifices made by the youth, created a unique opportunity to establish equality, justice, and the elimination of all forms of discrimination, including cultural exploitation.
He paid tribute to those who contributed to this transformative moment, underscoring their role in paving the way for a developed Bangladesh.
He further stated that the current interim government, under the leadership of the Chief Adviser, is dedicated to upholding these ideals by promoting national unity, ensuring equal opportunities, and respecting all linguistic and cultural identities.
The government is actively fostering multilingualism, preserving endangered languages, and ensuring an inclusive linguistic environment.
The Foreign Secretary remarked that this day serves as a moment of reflection for people across the globe. It is an occasion to honor both known and unknown individuals who, through countless contributions and sacrifices, have fought to preserve and promote their cultural heritage.
He emphasized that, as members of a diverse global community, people of all nations should remain indebted to these unsung heroes for the culturally rich world we live in today.
As a special guest, the Moroccan Ambassador to Dhaka and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, Majid Halim, highlighted the global significance of International Mother Language Day.
He paid tribute to those who sacrificed their lives for the preservation of language, stressing that language is a unifying force that must be safeguarded.
UNESCO's Country Director, Sujan Weiss, acknowledged Bangladesh's leadership in protecting mother languages, recognizing the country as a global champion in this regard.
He emphasized the importance of all languages, including Bengali, and expressed hopes for their continued growth and preservation.
The event also featured a welcome speech by Foreign Service Academy Director General, Iqbal Ahmed.
Earlier in the day, diplomats from home and abroad, led by the Foreign Secretary, paid their respects by laying flowers at the Shaheed Minar and participating in a commemorative procession.
