United by enveloping jovial spirits, Ambassadors, government officials, members of the diplomatic and consular corps of the Philippines, top executives and businessmen, Bangladeshi nationals and friends of the embassy gathered at Makati Shangri-la Hotel last March 18 for a night feting honor, friendship and affiliation.
 
 
This auspicious occasion of the 45th National Day of Bangladesh was hosted by Ambassador John Gomes.
 
 
Addressing the crowd, Ambassador Gomes commemorated the historic milestone of Bangladesh and the freedom of its people by remembering the sacrifices of their freedom fighters.
 
 
“I have the privilege of announcing two Senior Generals from the Bangladesh army who fought war in 1971, and they were both awarded with the Guarantee Award for Acts of Bravery and Courage,” the Ambassador said.
 
 
“Both these Generals came from Bangladesh and it’s my privilege that they’re here with us for the celebration of the 45th anniversary of Bangladesh in Manila,” Ambassador Gomes beamed as he shared the stage with Retired Major General M. Azizur Rahman and Retired Major General Jamil D. Ahsan.
 
 
The Philippines and Bangladesh established formal diplomatic relations in 1972. With respect as the foundation of the strong ties between the two countries, the continuous strengthening of opportunities in the areas of trade and investment, peace and security, education, and tourism are hallmarks of the bilateral relationship. Both countries maintain a strong relationship based on the shared values and core principles, which the Ambassador described as an “emotional relationship.”
 
 
“[Bangladesh] has an emotional relation with the Philippines. In 1971, Philippines was one of the first countries to recognize Bangladesh; and then in the UN General Assembly, the Philippines stood up and voiced out to recognize the three million people of Bangladesh who fought in the war,” Ambassador Gomes added.
 
 
To Ambassador Gomes, the Embassy of Bangladesh and all Bangladeshi nationals, we here at Expat raise our glasses to your 45th National Day!