Diplomatic Correspondent

The Embassy of Russia in Bangladesh hosted a reception on the occasion of Russia Day on Wednesday (12 June).

The highlight of the evening was the concert "Power of Love, Power of Light" organised by “AtomStroyExport” company, Engineering Division of the Rosatom State Corporation.

The Western Military District Ensemble of Song and Dance performed Russian patriotic songs and classical dances.

In his welcoming speech, Alexander Mantytskiy, Ambassador of Russia to Bangladesh, explained to the audience the meaning of the holiday and outlined Russia's foreign policy principles.

"The recent decades have revealed Russia’s genuine friends in the Global South and exposed hypocritical nature of the Western foreign policy that is full of double standards, non-compliance with obligations, deterrence and even blatant arm-twisting. Despite artificial obstacles imposed by the West to hinder mutually beneficial relations with friendly states, Russia is determined to continue being a reliable partner to its allies, including Bangladesh", added the Ambassador.

Anisul Huq, Minister of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs of Bangladesh, attended the function as the chief guest.

In his address, he remembered the time when the foundations of relations between Russia and Bangladesh were laid down, expressed gratitude to the Russian Federation and its people for exteding a helping hand during 1971 Liberation War and in the post-indepence period.

"In the last five decades, we have forged a robust partnership that encompasses many areas of bilateral cooperation, including science and technology, economy, trade, education and culture. We would like to see Russia as a reliable partner of Bangladesh on its development journey", said the minister.

The embassy also hosted an exhibition titled "Russia-UNESCO: 70 years of cooperation". The selection of documentary photographs demonstrated the contribution Russia has made to the development of international cooperation in education, science and culture.

The program also included an awards ceremony for the Bangladeshi winners of the Andrei Stenin International Press Photo Contest 2023. H.E. Mr Alexander Mantytskiy presented to Ziaul Huque and Abdul Momin certificates for the second and third places respectively.

Among the guests of the evening were members of the diplomatic corps, Bangladesh Parliament, military top brass, government officials, businessmen, cultural figures, politicians, media people and Russian compatriots.