Bangladesh mission in Rome observes 26 March with due honour
The Embassy of Bangladesh in Rome marked Independence and National Day 2026 with due dignity, highlighting the nation's heritage and the contributions of the expatriate community.
Ambassador Rakibul Haque inaugurated the day's programme by hoisting the national flag at the embassy to the national anthem.
A discussion was held at the embassy, opening with a one-minute silence in memory of those who gave their lives in the 1971 Liberation War. Messages from the President, Prime Minister, Foreign Minister, and State Minister for Foreign Affairs were read out, followed by the screening of a ministry documentary for the occasion.
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Speakers underscored the significance of Independence Day and reflected on the history of the Liberation War.
In the evening, a diplomatic reception was held at a Rome hotel, attended by prominent Italian personalities, foreign diplomats, senior UN officials based in Rome, and expatriate Bangladeshis. Ambassador Alessandra Schiavo, Director General for Asia and Oceania at Italy's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, attended as special guest.
The event opened with Bangladeshi children and teenagers performing the national anthems of Bangladesh and Italy. A message from the mayor of Rome, read on the occasion, highlighted the contributions of expatriate Bangladeshis to the city's economy and pledged ongoing support for their integration into Italian society.
In his address, the ambassador paid tribute to the martyrs of the Liberation War and reflected on the significance of Independence Day. He highlighted Bangladesh's achievements and capabilities, and referenced new opportunities under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's leadership following the 2026 national election. He called on all to contribute to building a prosperous Bangladesh.
He also discussed the ongoing development of Bangladesh–Italy relations and thanked Bangladeshi expatriates for their contributions to both economies.
Special guest Ambassador Alessandra Schiavo highlighted the strong ties between Bangladesh and Italy, expressing Italy's commitment to deepening cooperation with the current government. She emphasised collaboration in trade, education, disaster management, and defence, as well as facilitating legal migration of skilled workers from Bangladesh to Italy.
A Bangladesh corner at the reception showcased traditional saris and local handicrafts, reflecting the country's cultural diversity. Guests were served Bangladeshi and Italian cuisine at dinner.
