The iconic Tower Bridge was illuminated in the colours of the Bangladeshi flag in partnership with the City of London to highlight Bangladesh’s 50th “Victory Day” celebration.
“Victory Day” is celebrated on December 16 every year. The occasion commemorates the victory of the Bangladesh forces over Pakistani forces in the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971.
Rushanara Begum MP addressed visitors, “On this Golden Jubilee, we remember all those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom in the War of Independence. We are forever indebted to them.”
Councilman Monsur Ali said, “It was a pleasure and honour for me to light up Tower Bridge red and green, and I extend my heartiest greetings and congratulations to the countrymen on the occasion of Bangladesh 50th Victory day.”
While lighting up Tower Bridge, Tower Hamlets Speaker Cllr Ahbab Hussain added, “I am delighted to illuminate one of the most historic buildings in our history.”
Earlier on 26 March, the iconic London Eye was lit up, also marking the golden jubilee of Bangladesh’s Independence. The Canary Wharf Group’s headquarters lit up in red and green, marking the 50th anniversary of Bangladesh’s independence.
The Bangladesh flag was raised at Altab Ali Park in Whitechapel. Also lit up in red and green were iconic buildings around the UK and beyond, including Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce, Birmingham Central Library, Manchester Central Library, St George’s town hall, Northampton University, Cardiff Castle and City Hall, Toronto.