India, people of Bangladesh fought together and defeated oppressive forces: PM in greeting on 50th Victory Day
New Delhi, Dec 16: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said the presence of President Ram Nath Kovind in Dhaka to attend the country’s 50th Victory Day celebrations as Guest of Honour is of special significance to every Indian, and recalled the great valour and sacrifice by the Muktijoddhas and the bravehearts of the Indian armed forces in the liberation of Bangladesh in 1971.
“On the 50th Vijay Diwas, I recall the great valour and sacrifice by the Muktijoddhas, Biranganas and bravehearts of the Indian Armed Forces.
“Together, we fought and defeated oppressive forces.
“Rashtrapati Ji’s presence in Dhaka is of special significance to every Indian,” the PM said in a tweet.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar too tweeted congratulations to his Bangladeshi counterpart Dr AK Abdul Momen and the people of Bangladesh on the occasion, and said the valiant fight of the people of Bangladesh led by Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman against oppression and genocide will always inspire the people of both countries.
He said the visit of President Kovind reflects the deep friendship between both countries and the special bonds forged through their shared sacrifices.
“Extend warmest congratulations to FM Dr. AK Abdul Momen and the Government and people of Bangladesh on the 50th Victory Day celebrations.
“The valiant fight of people of Bangladesh led by Bangabandhu against oppression & genocide will always inspire us.
“Visit of Rashtrapati ji reflects our deep friendship and special bonds forged through our shared sacrifices,” he posted.
Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla said earlier: “India stood shoulder to shoulder with the people of Bangladesh during their struggle. Millions of Bangladeshis found shelter and refuge in India. We recognise Bangladesh as an independent country, the second in the world to do so, before it became freed from the oppression that was there. It was an article of faith for us and a statement of our support for the righteousness of Bangladesh’s cause. Indian armed forces joined Bangladeshi’s in their struggle and 1,660 of our gallant men in uniform paid the ultimate price for the freedom of Bangladesh.”
