Dhaka, Feb 21 (UNB): Japanese Ambassador to Bangladesh Ito Naoki on Sunday hoped that cultural and people-to-people interactions between Dhaka and Tokyo will continue to grow in the years to come.He said the two countries will continue to work together to further develop the partnership and friendship in the years to come.
The Ambassador made the remarks in a video message marking the International Mother Language Day.
He said this year will mark the 50th anniversary of Bangladesh’s independence, and the next year will mark the 50th anniversary of the establishment of our diplomatic relations.
Ambassador Naoki said he is glad to observe the International Mother Language Day from Bangladesh, where this celebration has its origin.
Since the Language Movement eventually led to the independence of Bangladesh, it is very special to share the celebration this year, the 50th anniversary of the independence of Bangladesh, he said.
“On behalf of people of Japan, I’d like to pay my heartfelt tribute to the brave men and women who sacrificed their lives almost 60 years ago, to preserve their own language, Bengali,” said the Japanese envoy.
On this day, the Ambassador said, they should be made aware of the fundamental importance of preserving tradition and languages which will help us promote multilingualism.
He said it is important not only to appreciate own mother languages, but also to respect other languages and people who have their own identities.
“In that sense, I believe observing this special day has significant meaning for mutual understanding and promoting peace in both global and local context,” said the Ambassador.
