Indian President Droupadi Murmu congratulated Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir after he took the oath as Bangladesh’s 23rd president at Bangabhaban on Friday, August 21. In a message published on the verified Facebook page of the Indian High Commission in Dhaka, Murmu said she was interested in working with Bangladesh’s new president to further advance relations between the two countries.

Murmu said Fakhrul’s long political career and leadership experience would, she hoped, begin a successful chapter for the welfare of Bangladesh’s people. She described India-Bangladesh ties as being founded on a shared history of sacrifice, close cultural links and mutual friendship.

The Indian president said bilateral cooperation has expanded over time in areas including energy, technology, connectivity, youth development, health and education. She expressed willingness to work jointly with Fakhrul to strengthen the partnership between the two neighbouring countries. Murmu also wished him good health and happiness, success in carrying out his presidential duties, and continued progress and prosperity for Bangladesh’s people. Fakhrul assumed the presidency after taking the oath before acting parliamentary speaker Kaysar Kamal.