The government of Maldives remains committed to stand as a time-tested friend of Bangladesh, says Vice President Faisal Naseem.

The vice president said this while speaking at a function held to mark the Independence and National Day of the People's Republic of Bangladesh at Hotel Jen on Sunday.

Taking the podium at the event, VP Naseem extended heartfelt gratitude to the government of Bangladesh for its several contributions to the national development of Maldives.

He went on to assure that the incumbent administration of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih remains committed to remain a time-tested friend of Bangladesh.

Shedding light on the strong bonds between the two countries, VP Naseem touched upon the contributions of Bangladeshi expatriate workers in the Maldives, to the country’s socioeconomic development.

He added that the administration remains steadfast in protecting the rights of the communities of Bangladeshi workers in the Maldives.

Further going on to touch upon the rich history and culture of Bangladesh, VP Naseem stated that the people of the two countries share a close bond based on shared customs and cultures, goodwill, and interests in trade and maritime affairs, even before the establishment of diplomatic relations and even before the two countries achieved independence.

Maldives and Bangladesh established diplomatic relations on 22 September 1978.

VP Naseem also spoke regarding the history and founding of Bangladesh and highlighted the massive sacrifices made for Bangladesh's liberation and independence by Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.

As such, he noted that the establishment of Bangladesh in 1971 resulted from Bangabandhu's inspiring leadership and unflinching dedication to justice.

During Sunday’s function the vice president also noted that Bangabandhu's momentous speech from 7 March 1971 in which he asked for "every house to turn into a fortress" in the struggle for independence, had been included in the UNESCO "Memory of the World Register."

Sunday’s function was organized by the High Commission of the People's Republic of Bangladesh in the Maldives.