<div><span style="font-size: 1rem;"><b>President of China Xi Jinping and Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin  congratulated President Mohammed Shahabuddin and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina respectively on the occasion of Independence Day 26 March. </b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Xi Jinping noted that over the past 53 years, Bangladesh has steadfastly upheld its independence, strived to develop its economy and improve people's livelihood, and made remarkable achievements, laying a solid foundation for realizing the dream of “Sonar Bangla”.</div><div><br></div><div>Chinese President pointed out that China and Bangladesh are traditional friendly neighbors, and the friendship between the two countries has grown from strength to strength. In recent years, our two countries have enjoyed solid and profound political trust, and fruitful practical cooperation in various fields, bringing tangible benefits to the two peoples.</div><div><br></div><div>Xi Jinping emphasized that he attaches great importance to the development of China-Bangladesh relations and stands ready to work together to further advance high-quality Belt and Road Cooperation and deepen China-Bangladesh Strategic Partnership of Cooperation.</div><div><br></div><div>On the same day, Chinese Premier of the State Council Li Qiang and Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi sent messages of congratulations separately to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and Foreign Minister Dr. Hasan Mahmud respectively.</div><div><br></div><div>Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin in his letter to Sheikh Hasina said, 'On behalf of the Government of the Russian Federation and on my own behalf, please accept congratulations on the occasion of the national holiday of the People's Republic of Bangladesh - the Independence Day.'</div><div><br></div><div>He observed with satisfaction that the Russia-Bangladesh relations have been developing in the spirit of friendship and mutual respect and that trade and economic cooperation is gradually advancing, and perspective joint projects are being realised. </div><div><br></div><div>'I am convinced that active work between the governments will contribute to strengthening the entire gamut of practical interaction. This fully corresponds with the interests of the Russian Federation and the People's Republic of Bangladesh' said the premier.</div><div><br></div><div>The Russian PM wished Sheikh Hasina, sound health, well-being and new achievements in her responsible work and to the friendly Bangladeshi people - happiness and prosperity.</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/r/fas</div><div><br></div>