Muhammad Ali Bukhari, CNMNG News

Toronto, March 18: Today, the Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in a video message said the independent and democratic Bangladesh was built based on Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s love for his people. He categorically said, “Something we are able to celebrate [50 years of independence] today because of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s vision for an independent and democratic country, one which was built on his love for its people.”

His video message was played during the grand ceremony at the National Parade Square in Bangladesh capital Dhaka joined by President Abdul Hamid, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina along with visiting Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih in person while marking the birth centenary of Bangabandhu and the 50th anniversary of the country’s independence.

Bangabandhu’s vision became a reality because the founding father of Bangladesh put his people first. “My friends, today is a time for reflection and celebration. We reflect upon the legacy of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman – 100 years after his birth – and celebrate 50 years of independence,” he said.

Mentioning that Bangabandhu reminded of the power that individuals bring to create lasting change, Trudeau said. “As we face some of the greatest challenges of our lifetime; we leaders and citizens must do the same. Together, we can build a more resilient and better world for generations to come.”

“I want to thank Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina for the invitation and the opportunity to help mark the 100th anniversary of the birth of her father Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. I also want to congratulate everyone on 50 years of independent Bangladesh,” he said.

He said it is still great to be celebrating the event virtually since the COVID-19 pandemic has changed the plan for this event

Still recalling his first visit to Bangladesh as a child in 1983 with his father (Pierre Trudeau), who was prime minister of Canada then, he said, “That time my father and Sheikh Mujibur Rahman had already forged a strong relationship; one that was rooted in Canada’s early support for an independent Bangladesh.”

The Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau wished a successful celebration of the centenary and golden jubilee events saying, “On behalf of the people of Canada, I wish you all a good centenary event and golden jubilee independence celebration.”