Bangladesh's Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman attended the Maldives' 61st Independence Day Parade in Malé as a special guest, reinforcing the close ties between the two South Asian nations. The event, held at Republic Square, featured a ceremonial march-past and displays by different branches of the Maldives National Defence Force, celebrating the country's discipline, heritage, and national pride.
Upon arrival, Dr Rahman was received by Maldivian Foreign Minister Iruthisham Adam. The day included a cultural programme showcasing the Maldives' rich traditions and concluded with a fireworks display.
Earlier, Dr Rahman participated in a tree-planting ceremony at Lonuziyaarai Park, part of the 'Five Million Trees Project' launched by Maldivian President Dr Mohamed Muizzu. He commended the initiative and highlighted Bangladesh's own afforestation programme, aiming to plant 250 million trees over the next five years.
Dr Rahman's visit, at the invitation of the Maldivian government, underscores the shared commitment of Bangladesh and the Maldives to environmental sustainability, climate action, and safeguarding the planet for future generations.
The foreign minister recalled Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman's initiative to plant large groves of Azadirachta indica trees in Saudi Arabia, known as 'Zia Trees', further illustrating the shared values and historical ties between the two nations.