Marking 50 Years of Friendship: Bangladesh and Bahrain Unite in Cultural Festivities

TDT | Manama
Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

In a grand celebration commemorating 50 years of diplomatic ties between Bangladesh and Bahrain, the Bangladesh Embassy inaugurated the Bangladesh Festival 2025 at Dana Mall on January 9. The festival, held in collaboration with LuLu Hypermarket and Dana Mall, was a highlight of Bangladesh’s nationwide “Festival of Youth” initiative, offering a dynamic showcase of the country’s rich cultural heritage and diversity.

The three-day event, which wrapped up on January 11, saw an impressive gathering of high-ranking Bahraini government officials, heads of international organizations, ambassadors, and senior diplomats, all in attendance to mark this milestone in bilateral relations.

A Celebration of Culture and Heritage

The festival offered a vibrant display of Bangladesh's traditions and cultural richness. Key highlights of the event included:

• Photography Book: Featuring stunning landscapes and cultural landmarks of Bangladesh, providing visitors with a visual tour of the country.
• Cultural Performances: Traditional music and dance captivated the audience, bringing the essence of Bangladesh to life.
• Photography Exhibition: Showcasing the beauty and diversity of Bangladesh through captivating imagery.
• Bangladeshi Cuisine: A treat for the senses, with a variety of traditional dishes and live cooking demonstrations, including sweet delicacies.
• Stalls and Exhibits: Displaying handcrafted items, textiles, food products, and other unique Bangladeshi offerings.
• Multimedia Presentations: Videos highlighting Bangladesh’s scenic beauty and development, offering guests an immersive experience.

Strengthening Bilateral Ties

During the opening ceremony, Mr. A.K.M. Mohiuddin Kayes, Chargé d’Affaires a.i. of the Bangladesh Embassy, expressed his gratitude to LuLu Hypermarket and the Embassy team for their contributions to the success of the event. He also emphasized the festival’s significance in celebrating the vibrant youth and culture of Bangladesh while further enhancing the friendship between Bangladesh and Bahrain.

“This festival is not just a celebration of our rich culture but also a step toward fostering deeper understanding and strengthening the bonds between our two nations,” said Mr. Kayes.

The event also saw the presence of key dignitaries, including H.E. Shaikh Abdulla bin Ali Al Khalifa, Acting Undersecretary for Political Affairs & Director General of Bilateral Relations at Bahrain’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, who served as the guest of honor. Other notable attendees included H.E. Shaikh Hamad bin Salman Al Khalifa, Assistant Undersecretary for Domestic & Foreign Trade at the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, and H.E. Mr. Nibras Mohammed Talib, Chief Executive Officer of Bahrain’s Labour Market Regulatory Authority.

A Testament to Friendship

The Bangladesh Festival 2025 not only marked a significant milestone in the diplomatic relationship between Bangladesh and Bahrain but also provided a unique opportunity for Bahraini residents to experience the cultural richness of Bangladesh. As the festival concluded, it left visitors with a deeper appreciation for the achievements, culture, and heritage of Bangladesh, strengthening the enduring friendship between the two nations.