Foreign Minister Dr. Hasan Mahmud. Photo : Collected
In a heartfelt tribute to the heroes of the 1952 Language Movement, Foreign Minister Dr. Hasan Mahmud on Wednesday (21 February) articulated Bangladesh's aspiration to accord Bangla the status of an official language of the United Nations.
Speaking at a commemorative event for National Martyrs Day and International Mother Language Day at the Foreign Service Academy, Mahmud acknowledged the challenges ahead but emphasized the national dream.
The ceremony saw participation from Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen, alongside various foreign missions in Dhaka. Among the attendees were Mashfee Binte Shams, Rector of the Foreign Service Academy, diplomats, senior ministry officials, and their families.
Mahmud paid homage to Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and the martyrs of the 1971 War of Liberation, highlighting Bangabandhu's pivotal role in the 1952 Language Movement as a young leader.
He also praised Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's efforts in propelling Bangladesh towards new developmental heights, citing accolades received at the Munich Security Conference 2024 for her leadership.
The observance of International Mother Language Day, endorsed by UNESCO and the UN General Assembly, celebrates linguistic diversity and promotes inclusion towards achieving Sustainable Development Goals.
The 2024 theme, "Multilingual education – a pillar of learning and intergenerational learning," advocates for education that begins in one's mother tongue, easing the transition to multilingual learning and preserving indigenous languages.
Bangladesh's solemn commemoration of 'Amar Ekushey' pays respect to the Language Movement martyrs, asserting the nation's commitment to cultural and linguistic preservation.
President Mohammed Shahabuddin and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's participation in laying wreaths at the Central Shaheed Minar signifies a national moment of unity and remembrance, echoing the timeless anthem Amar Bhai-er Rakte Rangano Ekushey February.
Messenger/Disha
