Italian Embassy Celebrates 80th Anniversary of the Italian Republic in Dhaka, Reaffirming Strong Bangladesh-Italy Partnership

Photo: CNI

Diplomatic Correspondent: The Embassy of Italy in Bangladesh hosted a grand reception in Dhaka to celebrate the 80th Anniversary of the Italian Republic, bringing together government leaders, diplomats, business representatives, members of parliament, civil society leaders, media representatives, and senior military and civil officials.

The event was graced by Honorable Minister of Commerce Mr. Khandakar Abdul Muktadir as the Chief Guest. Heads of Mission from various embassies and high commissions in Bangladesh, distinguished guests from the diplomatic corps, business community, and members of the Italian and Bangladeshi communities were also present.

In his keynote address, Antonio Alessandro, Ambassador of Italy to Bangladesh, reflected on Italy's journey since the historic referendum of June 2, 1946, when Italians chose democracy and established the Republic following the devastation of World War II.

"From a war-ravaged nation with limited resources and a painful legacy of fascism, Italy transformed itself into one of the world's most advanced economies. The Italian experience demonstrates the importance of democratic governance in achieving progress and development," Ambassador Alessandro said.

The Ambassador praised Bangladesh's recent progress and reiterated Italy's commitment to supporting the country's modernization and economic growth. He highlighted key areas of bilateral cooperation, including trade, investment, migration, aviation, defense industry collaboration, satellite technology, emergency preparedness, cultural exchange, and people-to-people connectivity.

A major announcement during the celebration was the launch of the Bangladeshi Italy Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BICCI), a new platform established by Italian and Bangladeshi small and medium-sized enterprises under the patronage of the Italian Embassy. The initiative aims to strengthen commercial relations and further expand bilateral trade between the two countries.

Ambassador Alessandro thanked Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir for his support and valuable guidance regarding the newly formed chamber, inviting businesses from both countries to join the initiative.

To mark the anniversary celebrations, the Embassy brought the acclaimed Italian a cappella musical group Mezzotono to Dhaka, which recently performed before enthusiastic audiences. The Ambassador also highlighted several upcoming cultural events and noted that Bangladeshi contemporary art will be showcased in Vatican City in July through an exhibition organized by leading Bangladeshi artists.

Speaking about people-to-people ties, Ambassador Alessandro noted the vibrant Bangladeshi diaspora in Italy and congratulated Bangladesh's national football team on its recent victory over San Marino, a match that attracted thousands of Bangladeshi supporters from across Italy.

The Ambassador further emphasized the shared commitment of Bangladesh and Italy to free trade, effective multilateralism, and safe, legal, and orderly migration. He also congratulated Bangladesh's Foreign Minister on his election as the next President of the United Nations General Assembly and reaffirmed Italy's support for strengthening cooperation on global issues.

The evening concluded with a showcase of authentic Italian cuisine prepared by renowned Italian chef Cristiano Varrozo, offering guests a taste of Italy's rich culinary heritage.

The celebration underscored the enduring friendship between Bangladesh and Italy and highlighted the growing partnership between the two nations across economic, cultural, and diplomatic spheres.