Pope Francis on Wednesday said that Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman left behind the legacies of a modern Bangladesh that strives to join unity of languages and culture with respect for the different traditions and communities within it.
“This is one of the legacies which Sheikh Mujibur Rahman left behind for all Bangladeshis,” Pope said while speaking on occasion of the celebration of the birth centenary of Father of the Nation and 50 years of independence of Bangladesh in a video message shown at the National Parade Ground event.
“He (Bangabandhu) promoted a culture of encounter and dialogue, marked by wisdom, insight and breadth of vision. He knew that it is only such a pluralistic and inclusive society, in which every person could live in freedom that a more just and fraternal world can be built,” Pope said.
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her Bhutan counterpart Dr. Lotay Tshering were present at the event.
Pope offered his “heartfelt greetings” and “best wishes” to the President, Prime Minister and the people of Bangladesh to give him the opportunity to speak on the occasion.
“I join all of you in thanking God for the many blessings bestowed upon Bangladesh over these years. Bangladesh Golden Bengal is a country of unique natural beauty and a modern nation that strives to join unity of languages and culture with respect for the different traditions and communities within it,” he said.
The Pope said Bangladesh is a young state and it has always had a special place in the heart of Popes who from the start have expressed solidarity with its people, sought to accompany them in overcoming initial adversities, and supported them in the demanding task of nation building and development.
“It is my hope that the good relations between the Holy See and Bangladesh will continue to flourish. So too, I trust that the growing climate of interreligious encounter and dialogue which I witnessed during my visit will continue to enable believers to express freely their deepest convictions about the meaning and purposes of life and thus contribute to promoting the spiritual values that are the sure basis for a peaceful and just society,” he said, referring to his visit to Bangladesh in 2017.
He also encouraged the young generation to work for peace and prosperity.
“As a friend of Bangladesh, I encourage all of you particularly the younger generations to devote yourselves anew to working for peace and prosperity for the noble nation that you represent. And I ask all of you to continue in your work of generosity and humanitarian outreach to the refugees, the poor, the underprivileged and those who have no voice,” he said.
