Bangladesh’s Victory Day was observed in Ottawa on Tuesday with a call for the Bangladeshi diaspora to play a stronger role in nation-building beyond remittance, linking the spirit of the Liberation War with civic responsibility and democratic participation.
According to a press release, the day-long programme was organised by the Bangladesh High Commission in Canada, bringing together members of the Bangladeshi community, students and invited guests.
The observance began in the morning at Bangladesh House, where Bangladesh High Commission High Commissioner Md Jashim Uddin hoisted the national flag as the national anthem was played.
Special prayers were offered for the martyrs of the Liberation War of 1971, with officers and staff of the High Commission in attendance.
In the afternoon, a discussion programme was held at the High Commission auditorium to mark Victory Day 2025.
The event opened with a minute of silence in memory of the martyrs of the 1971 Liberation War and the July uprising, reflecting Bangladesh’s continued struggle for justice, dignity and democratic values.
Messages from the President, the Chief Adviser and the Foreign Adviser were read out at the programme.
This was followed by the screening of a documentary produced by the Ministry of Cultural Affairs, highlighting the history, sacrifices and spirit of the Liberation War.
Community members and guests welcomed the emphasis on deeper engagement of expatriate Bangladeshis in the country’s democratic and development journey.
In his closing remarks, Bangladesh High Commission High Commissioner Md Jashim Uddin said the diaspora had long played a laudable role by sending remittance, which remains a major pillar of Bangladesh’s economy.
He said the time had come to expand that role further by redefining diaspora engagement as a core part of nation-building through skill transfer, innovation, advocacy and strengthening Bangladesh’s image abroad.
The high commissioner said such engagement was essential to fulfil the aspirations of the Liberation War and the values for which Bangladesh achieved independence.
Emphasising civic responsibility, he urged eligible expatriate Bangladeshis to register for postal voting, noting that political participation is a fundamental expression of the democratic ideals born out of the country’s independence struggle.
