50yrs of Independence: Queen Elizabeth sends felicitations

Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom has sent a message of felicitation to President M Abdul Hamid on the occasion of Bangladesh's 50 years of independence.

In the message sent on Sunday, the Queen conveyed her warmest congratulations to the president and best wishes for the people of Bangladesh.

She also hoped for further progress and prosperity of the country, according to a statement issued by the Bangladesh High Commission in London yesterday.

"On the special occasion of your 50th Independence Day, I am delighted to convey to Your Excellency my congratulations, together with my best wishes to the people of Bangladesh," the Queen said.

She said the UK and Bangladesh share ties of friendship and affection, which remain the foundation of the partnership and are as important today as 50 years ago.

"After what has been a difficult year, I hope we may look forward to overcoming global health challenges and to better times in the future."

Bangladesh is now holding 10-day celebrations on the occasion of Mujib Borsho and the golden jubilee of independence. The celebrations began on March 17 at the capital's National Parade Square.