President accords reception

People of all walks of life thronged Bangabhaban on Tuesday when President Md Abdul Hamid accorded a reception to them marking the Victory Day.

The guests included injured freedom fighters, politicians, civil and military officials, foreign diplomats, business leaders and journalists.

Patriotic and folk songs sung by eminent singers and performances of child artistes and armed forces’ orchestra enthralled them.

President Hamid and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina exchanged pleasantries with the guests at the reception.

The president arrived at the programme held at the Bangabhaban ground at around 4:45pm along with his wife Rashida Khanam. Hasina reached there before them.

The president and prime minister enquired about the state of the freedom fighters injured during the Liberation War and assured them of extending ‘all out’ assistance.

They also exchanged pleasantries with the members of National Cadet Corps of India, Sri Lanka and the Maldives.

Seventeen Indians who fought for Bangladesh during the Liberation War also attended the programme. Retired Lt Gen Ananda Swarup led the Indian team.

The president and prime minister cut the Victory Day cake at the ceremony.