Shawdesh Desk:

Bangladesh and Singapore commemorated the Golden Jubilee of diplomatic relations that was established on 16 February 1972.

Singapore was among the first few countries that accorded recognition to an Independent Bangladesh early into her independence.

The Presidents of the two friendly countries exchanged messages of felicitations and greetings on the auspicious occasion of 50 years of bilateral relations.

In their messages, President Md. Abdul Hamid and President Mdm Halimah Yacob expressed deep satisfaction at the strong bilateral relations that exists between the two friendly nations.

Both the leaders committed to further strengthen and consolidate the bilateral relations in the next fifty years and beyond.

Following is the text of the message of President Md Abdul Hamid sent to President Mdm Halimah on the occasion:

“Excellency,

It is my profound happiness to convey, on behalf of the People of Bangladesh, and on my personal behalf, our warmest felicitations and best wishes to you, and to the friendly people of Singapore, on the historic occasion of the Golden Jubilee of the establishment of diplomatic relations between our two countries.

We recall with immense gratitude that Singapore was one of those first few countries who recognized an independent Bangladesh in 1972. Since then, relations between our two friendly countries have flourished based on mutual trust, respect, and cooperation. Our two nations are fortunate to have visionary leaders like Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and Lee KuanYew. Guided by their ideals and vision, our two nations have collaborated on regional and global peace, security and prosperity.

Being imbued with the spirit of our great War of Liberation and the dream of the Father of Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the resilient people of Bangladesh attained phenomenal socio-economic success, which has rightly been feted as developmental miracle by the international community. Bangladesh’s graduation from an LDC to a developing nation is a resounding recognition of this indomitable struggle for progress by our people.

I am pleased to note that Singapore remained a steadfast friend and partner in our march towards development and progress. Our time-tested friendship is underpinned by common interests and close cooperation across a broad spectrum of areas including people-to-people ties, trade, investment, business, health, tourism, etc. In various global and regional forums, we often share common positions and join hands for the sake of humanity. I firmly believe that the last fifty years provided a solid foundation for our partnership in the next fifty years and beyond.

I wish continued good health, peace, prosperity and happiness for your Excellency and for the friendly people of Singapore.”

In her message to President Md. Abdul Hamid, President Mdm Halimah Yacob said:

On behalf of the people of the Republic of Singapore, I extend best wishes to you and the people of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh on the joyous occasion of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between our two countries. ​

Singapore was the first Southeast Asian country to establish diplomatic relations with Bangladesh in 1972. Since then, our bilateral ties have continued to grow and prosper in a meaningful and mutually beneficial manner.

Despite the challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, Singapore and Bangladesh have continued to keep up with our exchanges and strengthened our cooperation. Singapore remains one of the top investors in Bangladesh, and continues to be upbeat about Bangladesh’s economic potential. Singapore also appreciates the important contributions of the Bangladeshi community in Singapore, including towards our country’s development.

I am confident that we will be able to take the bilateral ties between our two countries to greater heights in the years ahead.”