Spain Celebrates National Day in Bangladesh, Vows to Strengthen Bilateral Ties

Photo: CNI

Diplomatic Correspondent: The Embassy of Spain in Bangladesh celebrated Spain’s National Day on Monday, bringing together members of the Cabinet, Members of Parliament, heads of diplomatic missions, diplomats, political figures, civil society representatives, celebrities, journalists and other distinguished guests.

‎The celebration highlighted the longstanding friendship between Bangladesh and Spain, expanding trade and investment opportunities, cultural exchanges, climate cooperation and the contribution of the Bangladeshi community in Spain.
‎
‎Addressing the gathering, Spanish Ambassador to Bangladesh H.E. Gabriel María Sistiaga Ochoa de Chinchetru reaffirmed Spain’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation beyond the traditional garment trade.
‎The ambassador noted that Bangladesh and Spain have maintained friendly relations throughout their history, without significant bilateral conflicts. He emphasized that economic cooperation, particularly in the ready-made garment sector, has been a cornerstone of the relationship, with Spain serving as an important destination for Bangladeshi exports.
‎
‎He expressed confidence that Spain’s Asia-Pacific Strategy for 2026–2029 would help deepen cooperation in politics, trade, culture, aviation and climate change.
‎
‎Congratulating Biman Bangladesh Airlines and Airbus on their recently announced agreement for the acquisition of 10 aircraft, the ambassador described the deal as a significant development for Biman, Airbus and the European aviation industry, with potential to create further opportunities for collaboration.
‎
‎Highlighting cultural relations, Ambassador Sistiaga Ochoa de Chinchetru acknowledged the contribution of the Inditex Chair at the University of Dhaka to Spanish-language education in Bangladesh. He also referred to the embassy’s cultural initiatives, including a concert by Cantoria in April and a scheduled performance by Spanish pianist Álvaro Gandonga on 13 October. Further cultural programmes are planned, including activities marking Spain’s Constitution Day in December.
‎
‎The ambassador also referred to Bangladesh’s February 2026 general election and the public endorsement of the July National Charter. He expressed Spain’s support for Bangladesh’s democratic aspirations and said the country could count on Spain and its European Union partners during this important period.
‎
‎He concluded by thanking the embassy’s staff and the corporate sponsors whose contributions helped make the National Day celebration possible.
‎
‎Bangladesh Highlights Trade, Migration and Climate Cooperation
‎
‎Speaking as the chief guest, H.E. Abdul Awal Mintoo, Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, said Bangladesh and Spain had enjoyed warm and friendly relations since establishing diplomatic ties in 1972.
‎
‎He emphasized that the partnership was founded on mutual respect and a shared commitment to peace, multilateralism and sustainable development.
‎
‎Referring to Bangladesh’s February 2026 election, the minister said the government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, was working to strengthen democratic institutions, accountable governance and the rule of law while developing an inclusive economy.
‎
‎He expressed appreciation for Spain’s friendship and cooperation, as well as the support of European partners in advancing Bangladesh’s development priorities.
‎
‎The minister described the Bangladeshi community in Spain as an important bridge between the two countries, noting its contribution to Spanish society and its continuing links with Bangladesh. He welcomed Spain’s migration reform initiative, which aims to regularize the status of a significant number of migrants, and said approximately 20,000 Bangladeshis were expected to benefit from the measure.
‎
‎On economic relations, the minister highlighted Spain’s importance as an export destination for Bangladesh. He said Bangladeshi exports to Spain had reached nearly US$3.8 billion in the previous fiscal year, underscoring the potential for further commercial cooperation.
‎
‎He called for broader engagement in renewable energy, infrastructure, agro-processing, pharmaceuticals, information technology and environmentally responsible manufacturing. He also welcomed Spanish investment and stressed the government's commitment to creating a predictable, investment-friendly environment.
‎
‎Climate Action and Cultural Exchanges in Focus
‎
‎As Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Abdul Awal Mintoo identified significant opportunities for Bangladesh and Spain to cooperate on clean energy, water management, climate-smart agriculture, biodiversity conservation and the circular economy.
‎
‎He highlighted Bangladesh’s priorities in pollution control, tree planting, forest conservation and climate resilience, expressing interest in practical cooperation that could support sustainable development in both countries.
‎
‎The minister also praised Spain’s global contributions to art, literature, architecture and music, while highlighting the popularity of Spanish football among young Bangladeshis. He noted that the widespread enthusiasm for La Liga and clubs such as Real Madrid and FC Barcelona had created an additional connection between the two peoples.
‎
‎The planned Spanish piano concert on 13 October was expected to further strengthen cultural exchanges and people-to-people relations.
‎
‎Both speakers emphasized the importance of expanding cooperation beyond traditional trade and strengthening ties in aviation, technology, renewable energy, culture and sustainable development.
‎
‎The National Day celebration concluded with a renewed emphasis on deepening Bangladesh-Spain friendship and promoting greater cooperation between the two countries' governments, businesses and people.
‎
‎Long live the friendship between Bangladesh and Spain.