Sweden is holding a Lucia reception to mark 50 years of bilateral ties with Bangladesh
The Swedish Embassy in Dhaka held a traditional Lucia reception on Tuesday to celebrate 50 years of bilateral relations between Sweden and Bangladesh.
Minister of State for External Affairs Md Shahriar Alam MP attended as the chief guest, a press release said.
Ambassador Alexandra Berg von Linde said that the celebration of 50 years of bilateral relations has been a milestone, and also mentioned that Sweden was one of the first European countries to recognize Bangladesh as an independent and sovereign state.
“During the past decades, Sweden is proud to have both witnessed Bangladesh’s impressive development journey and to some extent also contributed to it. Our partnership is changing. Today, we are happy to also see an increased focus on expanding our trade and commercial relations, with a focus on sustainability, where Sweden and Swedish companies have a lot to offer,” says the Swedish ambassador to Bangladesh.
During the event at Bay’s Gallery, the Embassy of Sweden also displayed an exhibition entitled “50 years through 50 voices” which featured a series of stories that capture the broad, deep and rich history of the two countries.
“In this exhibition you will read stories that are interesting, exciting, poignant and sometimes dramatic and personal. All this has contributed to the furtherance of our relations. This is by no means the whole of our shared history — these voices are joined by so many more. Because we look forward to continuing to strengthen our relations for many years to come,” the Swedish ambassador also said.
The reception also included a cultural program, as December 13 is the day to celebrate Lucia Day, one of the most famous and beloved Swedish traditions.
Santa Lucia is usually seen as the “bearer of light and hope” in the dark and cold Swedish winters.
Tradition says that Lucia leads a procession wearing a full white dress and candles in her hair, followed by her handmaidens who also carry candles and men and boys carrying stars.
All while singing classic Christmas carols.
“For many of us, I dare say that Lucia brings a message of peace and hope. A message that the light will prevail and that after dark nights come the dawn of brighter times. Which in today’s world is certainly reason enough to celebrate,” added the Swedish ambassador before welcoming a traditional Swedish lucia train on stage.