FS vows to help build terror-free world, pays tribute to Holey Artisan victims

Paying deep tribute to the victims of the 2016 Holey Artisan Bakery terrorist attack, Foreign Secretary Asad Alam Siam today (1 July) said Bangladesh continues to pursue a 'zero tolerance policy' against terrorism and violent extremism in all its forms and remains 'steadfast' in strengthening its cooperation with all the international partners.

"As we honour the memory of the victims, their unfortunate sacrifices have emboldened our resolve and we are determined to create a world free from terrorism," he said while speaking at a commemoration event at the residence of Antonio Alessandro, the ambassador of Italy to Bangladesh.

Director General for Italian Citizens Abroad and Migration Policies, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Luigi Vignali and the Italian ambassador spoke at the event.

Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Pranay Verma, Japanese Ambassador to Bangladesh Saida Shinichi, Chargé d'affaires at the US Embassy in Dhaka Ambassador Tracey Ann Jacobson, representatives of Dhaka Metropolitan Police and the families of the victim also paid tribute to the victims of Holey Artisan attack through the deposition of floral wreaths.

On this day (1 July) nine years ago in 2016, the quiet serenity of the Holey Artisan Bakery in Gulshan was shattered by an 'act of brutality'.

"Today, we stand united not only in remembrance of that tragic event, but also in reaffirming our unwavering commitment to our collective fight against the global scourge of terrorism and violent extremism," said the foreign secretary.

He said today, once again, they renew their pledge to deepen mutual understanding, foster dialogue and uphold the values of compassion, dignity and respect for all.

"May the souls of those we lost rest in eternal peace. May their memory continue to guide us toward a brighter, peaceful and secure future," said Foreign Secretary Siam, adding that, "With heavy hearts and solemn resolve, we gather here today to commemorate a day forever inscribed in the collective memory of our nation - 1st of July."

The foreign secretary said the Holey Artisan attack was a cruel affront to their shared humanity and it was an 'audacious attempt' to spread fear and division at the very heart of their 'vibrant, tolerant and inclusive' society.

"With profound sorrow, we pay rich tribute to the innocent lives lost that night - our own beloved citizens as well as dear friends from India, Italy, Japan and the United States," he said, offering their heartfelt condolences to their families and friends, as their pain is deeply felt by the people of Bangladesh.

In the face of that horrific night, Foreign Secretary Siam said, Bangladesh displayed remarkable resilience.

"Our security forces responded with courage and clarity of purpose," he said, adding that two of them died in confronting the terrorists.

"United in grief, our people stood shoulder to shoulder, demonstrating our collective resolve against those who sought to divide the peace-loving ethos of our people," said the foreign secretary.

Since that tragic day, Siam said they have come a long way as a nation and Bangladesh has taken decisive steps to combat extremism and strengthen counterterrorism capabilities.

He said Bangladesh has expanded community engagement programmes to counter extremist ideas through religious leaders, educators and civil societies; shared information with friendly countries, and strengthened our relevant legislation.

"And importantly, we have brought the perpetrators to justice through a special anti-terrorism tribunal," said the foreign secretary.

He expressed his heartfelt appreciation to the Italian Mission for taking this thoughtful initiative to organize this commemoration.

On that tragic day in 2016, the appalling terrorist attack took away the individual lives of nine Italian, seven Japanese, two Bangladeshis, one US-Bangladeshi, and one Indian citizen and injured many others.

They also solemnly remembered the Bangladeshi law enforcement officials, who were killed or injured responding to this despicable terrorist attack.