The High Commission of Bangladesh in the Maldives celebrated the Great Independence and National Day on April 8 at JEN Maldives Male. Photo: Collected

DHAKA, April 9, 2026 (BSS) - The Bangladesh High Commission in the Maldives 
marked Independence and National Day 2026 with a grand diplomatic reception, 
highlighting Dhaka's development strides and deepening bilateral ties with 
Male.

The High Commission of Bangladesh in the Maldives celebrated the Great 
Independence and National Day with due solemnity and enthusiasm through a 
diplomatic reception held on April 8 at JEN Maldives Male‚ by Shangri-La, 
according to a message received here today.

Maldives Foreign Minister Dr Abdulla Khaleel attended the event as chief 
guest, alongside ministers, members of parliament, senior government 
officials, ambassadors and high commissioners, members of the diplomatic 
corps, and distinguished guests, including members of the Bangladeshi 
community.

The event began with recitation from the Holy Quran, followed by the national 
anthems of Bangladesh and the Maldives.

In his welcome remarks, Bangladesh High Commissioner to the Maldives Dr Md 
Nazmul Islam paid tribute to the martyrs and freedom fighters of the 1971 
Liberation War and recalled the proclamation of independence.

Highlighting Bangladesh's progress, he said the government, formed following 
the July-August 2024 mass uprising and the February 12 election, is working 
to fulfill people's aspirations through justice, good governance and the rule 
of law under the "Bangladesh First" vision.

He also underscored Bangladesh's growing global role, particularly its 
contributions to United Nations peacekeeping, and referred to the country's 
candidature for the presidency of the 81st session of the UN General 
Assembly.

Emphasising bilateral ties, the High Commissioner said Bangladesh and the 
Maldives enjoy deep-rooted relations based on mutual respect, shared values 
and strong people-to-people connections, with expanding cooperation in trade, 
education, health, human resource development and connectivity.

He also expressed appreciation to Maldives President Dr Mohamed Muizzu and 
Foreign Minister Dr Abdulla Khaleel for their recent visit to Bangladesh, 
describing it as a milestone in bilateral relations.

In his remarks, the Maldivians foreign minister praised Bangladesh's 
development achievements and reaffirmed the Maldives' commitment to further 
strengthening bilateral cooperation.

The event featured a documentary on Bangladesh-Maldives friendship and video 
presentations showcasing Bangladesh's cultural heritage, economic progress 
and tourism potential.

A ceremonial cake-cutting, photo session and raffle draw added a festive 
dimension, while the reception concluded with a dinner marked by warm 
hospitality and cordial interactions.