KUWAIT CITY, Dec 18: “The relationship and bond between Kuwait and Bangladesh are inseparable and have been linked historically,” said the Bangladesh Ambassador to Kuwait HE Major-General Syed Tareq Hussain. He was speaking at a reception organized by the Bangladesh Embassy in Kuwait, to mark the Armed Forces Day of Bangladesh. In his speech, he highlighted the deep historical ties between the two nations and expressed his gratitude to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and the government of Kuwait for their continued efforts to strengthen the relationship between the two nations. He also paid tribute to the contributions of the soldiers, both men and women, who fought in the War of Liberation for Bangladesh. The Ambassador reiterated his commitment to further enhancing the already strong ties between Kuwait and Bangladesh.

The reception began with a welcome address by Brigadier General Rakibul Karim Chowdhury, ndc, afwc, psc, Defence Attache of Bangladesh in Kuwait. In his speech, he expressed gratitude to Major General Ahmad Rashed Al-Shanfa for attending and thanked all the distinguished guests. Brigadier General Chowdhury emphasized the significance of Armed Forces Day, which is celebrated on 21st November in Bangladesh, noting that it represents the values of comradeship, unity, and collective strength in the face of adversity. He also paid tribute to the war heroes and martyrs of Bangladesh and highlighted the importance of the day in inspiring the Armed Forces to renew their commitment to protecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Bangladesh. Further reflecting on the development of the Bangladesh Armed Forces, Brigadier General Chowdhury spoke about the ongoing modernization efforts under the “Forces Goal-2030” initiative.

He proudly noted that Bangladesh is among the top contributors to UN peacekeeping missions. He also acknowledged the longstanding partnership between the Bangladesh Military Contingent and the Kuwait Armed Forces, which has been in place since 1991. This collaboration has seen Bangladesh’s forces actively engaged in supporting Kuwait’s development efforts. Brigadier General Chowdhury praised the Bangladesh Armed Forces for their vital role in nation-building, disaster management, and internal security, all of which are highly appreciated by the people of Bangladesh. The Guest of Honor, Major General Ahmad Rashed Al-Shanfa, commended the Bangladesh Military Contingent’s contributions to Kuwait and extended his best wishes for the continued success of Bangladesh’s Armed Forces.

The celebration concluded with a heartfelt expression of hope for the enduring friendship between Kuwait and Bangladesh, with attendees wishing for the lasting prosperity of this special relationship. The event was attended by a wide range of dignitaries, including Major General Ahmad Rashed Al-Shanfa, President of National Military Service, Kuwait Armed Forces, who graced the occasion as the Guest of Honor and representative of the Chief of General Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces. The reception also saw the participation of ambassadors, members of the diplomatic corps, civil society representatives, defense attaches, officers from the Bangladesh Military Contingent in Kuwait, and members of the Bangladesh community.

By Paulo Francisco X. Fernandes
 Arab Times/Al-Seyassah Staff