Martyrs’ Language Day observed in Cairo

The Embassy of Bangladesh in Cairo observed Martyrs’ Day and International Mother Language Day with due solemnity, commemorating the sacrifices of the language martyrs and reaffirming its commitment to linguistic rights and democratic values.

The programme began in the early hours of 21 February with the national flag hoisted at half-mast by Bangladesh Ambassador to Egypt Samina Naz in the presence of embassy officials and staff, according to a handout issued on Saturday.

A recitation from the Holy Qur’an was followed by a special prayer at the embassy’s conference centre, seeking eternal peace for the souls of the language martyrs.

Messages issued by the President, the Prime Minister, the Foreign Minister and the State Minister for Foreign Affairs were read out on the occasion. A discussion meeting was subsequently held, and a video message from the President of the UNESCO General Conference was screened to mark the day.

Addressing the gathering, Ambassador Samina Naz recalled the supreme sacrifices of the language martyrs who led the 1952 movement to uphold the dignity of the Bangla language.

Highlighting the historical significance of the day, she said 21 February symbolises not only the struggle to establish Bangla in its rightful status but also the beginning of a self-aware and enlightened national awakening.

She noted that Martyrs’ Day gained international recognition after UNESCO declared 21 February as International Mother Language Day, reflecting global acknowledgement of the importance of preserving mother tongues.

The ambassador said the spirit of Ekushey was rooted in the establishment of people’s rights and equality, adding that a democratic government has now been established in the country in line with that spirit.

She paid tribute to all martyrs and honoured those injured during the Language Movement of 1952, the Liberation War of 1971 and the Mass Uprising of 2024.

Emphasising the responsibility of the present generation, she said practising Bangla in its pure form and promoting it globally remain key national duties.

The event was attended by Bangladeshi teachers working at Egyptian universities, officials serving in international organisations, prominent business leaders, students, professionals, media representatives, and embassy officials and staff.