India President Droupadi Murmu emphasized the importance of India's friendship with Bangladesh and expressed her commitment to "realizing its full potential." 

She made the remarks when a 100- member youth delegation from Bangladesh called on her at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi on Tuesday.

The delegation, which included government officials, doctors, teachers, artists, singers, journalists, and students, discussed various topics with the President, including collaboration in the areas of education, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

India and Bangladesh, Murmu said, share a unique bond, founded on their history, culture, and sacrifices and India is proud to have been a friend and partner in the Liberation War of Bangladesh and continues to share the development journey with Bangladesh.

“We must preserve and nurture this spirit which inspires the unique bond between our two countries,” a statement issued by the Rashtrapati Bhavan quoted her as saying.

The President said, “The relationship between India and Bangladesh is a relationship of the heart and soul. We have a deep cultural link, and a common love for art, music, cricket, and food. Our national anthems, both penned by Tagore, are a source of pride. We share love for ‘Baul’ music and the works of Kazi Nazrul Islam. Our unity and diversity are celebrated in our shared heritage.”

The President was happy to note that India and Bangladesh are home to a large and energetic youth population, with unlimited potential to shape the world and urged all to harness this potential. 

“As the leaders of tomorrow, it is the responsibility of youth to steer us towards a green, sustainable and peaceful world,” she added.

The President urged members of the youth delegation from Bangladesh to use the opportunity to experience various aspects of India and its diversity and the developments in the fields of science, technology, and arts. She said that as they work towards building a Sonar Bangla, they should also strive to strengthen the bonds of peace, prosperity, and friendship between India and Bangladesh.

The President said she was happy to interact with a group of young and talented minds from Bangladesh.

She noted that delegates have been selected from all over Bangladesh and it is inclusive with over 50 percent women, and participants from all walks of life.

Murmu said the delegation’s “presence in New Delhi is not just a visit; it is a bridge being built between our nations, and proof of the enduring spirit of cooperation and friendship that defines the India-Bangladesh relationship.”

The Bangladesh youth delegation programme was started in 2012 as a joint initiative by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs and the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.

The main objective of this youth programme is to foster goodwill and understanding of each other’s countries and promote an exchange of ideas and understanding of values and culture among the youth.

BDST: 0858 HRS, FEB 28, 2024
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