India, Pakistan greet PM

India and Pakistan have greeted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on the occasion of the Padma Bridge’s inauguration.

“On the inauguration of the Padma Bridge by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, the government and people of India convey greetings and felicitations to the government and people of Bangladesh on the successful completion of this landmark project,” a statement issued by the Indian High Commission in Dhaka said on Friday.

It said the completion of this long-awaited project was a testimony to the courageous decisions and far-sighted leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

“This success vindicated the Prime Minister’s decisions and also our conviction in this regard, as expressed through our steadfast support when Bangladesh decided to proceed with the project alone,” read the statement.

It said the Padma Bridge would not only help improve intra-Bangladesh connectivity but would also provide much-needed impetus to logistics and businesses connecting India and the shared sub-region. This bridge would play an important role in fostering greater bilateral and sub-regional connectivity, it further said.

“The people of India once again congratulate the fraternal people of Bangladesh on the momentous occasion of inauguration of Padma Bridge, in the 50th anniversary of Bangladesh’s liberation,” it added.

Greetings from Pakistan

Prime Minister of Pakistan Shahbaz Sharif also congratulated his Bangladeshi counterpart on Friday.

“I wish to extend our sincere felicitations to Your Excellency and the people of Bangladesh on the completion of the Padma Multipurpose Bridge Project,” he said in a letter addressed to Hasina.

He said the inauguration of the bridge was an important landmark in the development journey of Bangladesh.

Sharif added, “The Padma Bridge is also a testament to Sheikh Hasina’s strong resolve to carry forward Bangladesh into a phase of inclusive and sustained growth.” He also wished Bangladesh continued success and prosperity.