H.E. Mozammel Haque,

Hon’ble Minister, Ministry of Liberation War Affairs,

Md. Rashidul Alam, President, Bangladesh-Bharat Maitri Samiti,

Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen:

1. It is with a sense of profound respect and solidarity that I stand before you for this event to mark the National Mourning Day of Bangladesh. On behalf of the Government and the people of India, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the people of Bangladesh as we remember and honour the memory of the Father of the Nation of Bangladesh, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and the valiant souls who fell victim to the assassin's bullets that tragic night of August 15, 1975.

2. The National Mourning Day holds a significant place in the history and hearts of the Bangladeshi people. It is a day of reflection, remembrance, and recommitment to the values and ideals that Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman espoused – democracy, human rights, and social justice.  His indomitable spirit, visionary leadership, and unwavering dedication to the welfare of his people continue to inspire generations not just within the borders of Bangladesh, but far beyond.

3. Bangabandhu championed friendship between India and Bangladesh. Today, as we come together to honour his legacy, it is natural that we reaffirm the strong bonds of friendship and cooperation between India and Bangladesh, built upon our shared historical, geographical and cultural closeness that has endured the test of time.  Our shared struggles and the sacrifices of our peoples during the Liberation War of 1971 have forged an unbreakable bond of camaraderie and mutual respect that will continue to live on.

4. Today, Bangladesh is on a path of progress and development. India stands with the people of Bangladesh as a steadfast partner, committed to supporting their aspirations for a peaceful, prosperous, and inclusive future, and realizing Bangabandhu’s vision of a stable, progressive and prosperous Bangladesh.  Our collaborative efforts in areas such as trade, connectivity, security, and people-to-people ties continue to flourish, cementing our place as two nations united by common goals and shared values.

5. As we commemorate this day, let us not only remember the past but also reflect on the present and envisage a future filled with hope and possibilities. Let us stand together against extremism, intolerance, and violence, and work towards a world where the ideals of justice, equality, and human dignity prevail.  As we honour the memory of Bangabandhu and his sacrifices, we remain committed to working together with Bangladesh in preserving and promoting the legacy and spirit of 1971 that remains the foundation of India-Bangladesh friendship.  That will be the best tribute that we can ever pay to Bangabandhu and his legacy.

6. May the memory of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman continue to guide us as we march forward on the path of progress and prosperity.

7. I thank Bangladesh-Bharat Maitri Samiti for giving me this opportunity to share my thoughts with you.

Thank you very much.

Jai Hind, Joi Bangla, Long Live India Bangladesh Friendship!