Ambassador Saidani honours martyrs of 17 October 1961 in Dhaka

The Embassy of Algeria in Bangladesh has commemorated the 64th anniversary of the 17 October 1961 massacres under the theme "Cohesion and Commitment."

The date, recognised since 2021 as National Emigration Day in Algeria, honours the courage and sacrifice of Algerians who resisted colonial oppression.

The ceremony opened with the hoisting of the national flag and a minute's silence for the martyrs. Ambassador Abdelouahab Saidani delivered the keynote, recalling how more than 30,000 Algerians—men, women and children—peacefully marched in Paris against a discriminatory curfew and for Algeria's independence, only to face brutal police repression, with many killed and bodies thrown into the River Seine.

"This massacre is one of the most brutal acts of French colonial repression," Ambassador Saidani said. "The state met peace with violence, humanity with hatred. Yet the courage of the Algerian people did not perish that night—it lit the path to Algeria's independence."

Drawing parallels with Bangladesh's own struggle for freedom, the Ambassador underlined the shared histories of resistance and a common commitment to justice and human dignity. A documentary film depicting the events and resilience of the Algerian people was screened for attendees.

In closing, Ambassador Saidani called for continued cooperation and solidarity between Algeria and Bangladesh, urging a future grounded in justice, peace and shared prosperity.

The Embassy reaffirmed its commitment to preserving the memory of 17 October 1961 and honouring the martyrs who sacrificed their lives in the fight for justice and dignity.