Ambassador of Bangladesh to Việt Nam, Lutfor Rahman, writes to Việt Nam News to mark the 55th Independence and National Day of Bangladesh (March 26)

On March 26 this year, Bangladesh commemorates 55 years of independence, a momentous occasion that fills our hearts with pride and gratitude. On this auspicious day, I extend warm congratulations to all the people of my beloved country, Bangladesh, as well as to our friends in Việt Nam who join us in celebrating this significant milestone.

I pay my deep homage to the organisers, millions of martyrs and thousands of mothers and sisters who were violated by the occupation forces during the ninth-month liberation war in 1971. I respectfully remember our heroes who fought for a poverty-free, happy and prosperous Bangladesh.

Thanks to prudent policies and timely reforms since gaining independence, Bangladesh has made remarkable progress across all sectors of the economy. With significant GDP growth over more than three decades, per capita income has surged to US$2,820 this year.

Bangladesh's two-wheeler industry is expected to grow toward a US$2.5-3.0 billion market by 2029, with assembly and parts exports emerging. In 2024-25 Bangladesh exported almost US$4.23 million in motorcycles. The demand for Bangladeshi bicycles are rapidly increasing globally with greater presence in European market. Photos Courtesy of the embassy

Bangladesh's agricultural sector has achieved notable success, globally ranking second in jute production, third in rice, vegetable and onion production, and seventh in potato and mango production. In the manufacturing sector, Bangladesh boasts a vibrant pharmaceutical industry.

Today, it exports pharmaceutical products to 157 countries after meeting local demand. Anyone seeking high-quality pharmaceuticals and medical products at competitive prices will find Bangladesh an ideal destination, with state-of-the-art facilities and expertise in research and development.

The textile and garment industry continues to thrive as the second-largest exporter of ready-made garments globally. Leather, jute, electronics and light engineering are other growing industries.

The country has emerged as a preferred destination for foreign direct investment (FDI) due to its strategic location, large domestic market and investment-friendly policies. Special Economic Zones (SEZs) and High-Tech Parks offer attractive incentives for investors.

Recent large-scale investments in energy, telecommunications and manufacturing further underscore Bangladesh's growing appeal to international investors.

Following the successful holding of the 13th National Election on 12 February 2026, a newly elected Government has assumed office in Bangladesh and is working relentlessly towards building a more inclusive and prosperous nation.

In this context, I also extend warm congratulations to Việt Nam on the successful conclusion of the 14th National Congress of the Communist Party of Việt Nam recently. We look forward to further strengthening the bilateral partnership between Bangladesh and Việt Nam in the years ahead.

Beyond national borders, Bangladesh is committed to strengthening relations with neighbouring countries and nations across the globe to promote peace, cooperation and sustainable development. As the largest contributor of troops and police to UN Peacekeeping Missions, more than 7,500 Bangladeshi peacekeepers are currently serving with professionalism and dedication in challenging environments worldwide.

In line with this commitment to multilateralism, Bangladesh has presented its candidature for the Presidency of the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly, with the election scheduled for June 2026 at the United Nations Headquarters. Bangladesh seeks the support of the international community and, if elected, will strive to contribute meaningfully to strengthening global peace, cooperation and sustainable development.

Bangladesh’s pharmaceutical industry offers high-quality products at globally competitive prices.

On this momentous occasion, we express our sincere gratitude to the friendly people and the Government of Việt Nam for their unwavering friendship and cooperation with Bangladesh.

The burgeoning bilateral relations between Bangladesh and Việt Nam, spanning economics, culture, science, education, national security and defence, serve as a testament to the enduring bond between our nations. Both countries are working to increase people-to-people contacts, exchange business delegations and promote the tourism sector. Bilateral trade has witnessed remarkable growth, nearing almost US$1 billion and is expected to increase further in 2026-2027.

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the Government of Việt Nam for its support of the Bangladeshi diaspora living across the country. Looking ahead, we assure our full cooperation towards strengthening the bonds of friendship between Bangladesh and Việt Nam in the years to come.

Long live Bangladesh-Việt Nam friendship!

Happy Independence and National Day of Bangladesh. VNS