Bangladesh reaffirms zero tolerance against terrorism, extremism.
Sate Minister for foreign affairs Shama Obaed Islam today renewed Bangladesh’s unwavering commitment to combating terrorism and violent extremism as the government and foreign diplomats commemorated the 10th anniversary of the Holey Artisan Bakery attack, vowing to uphold peace, tolerance and humanity.
Honouring the memory of the victims of the July 1, 2016 terrorist attack, Shama said terrorism can never be justified on political, religious, ideological or any other grounds.
"Our government remains steadfast in its determination to confront terrorism and violent extremism at all spheres," she said, adding that such forces have no place in Bangladesh and will never be allowed to undermine the country's peace and stability.
The state minister reaffirmed Bangladesh's unwavering commitment to combating terrorism and violent extremism with zero tolerance in all its forms and manifestations.
The government of Bangladesh, together with diplomats from India, Japan, Italy and the United States, paid tribute to the victims of the Holey Artisan Bakery attack in Gulshan, where 24 people, including nine Italian nationals, were killed.
They recalled the government's sustained efforts to combat terrorism and highlighted Bangladesh's achievements in countering violent extremism over the past decade.
On July 1, 2016, terrorists stormed the Holey Artisan Bakery in Dhaka's Gulshan diplomatic enclave, killing 24 people, including 20 hostages and two police officers, during a 12-hour siege that remains one of the deadliest terrorist attacks in the country's history. Six attackers were also killed.
Italian Ambassador to Bangladesh Antonio Alessandro hosted the commemoration ceremony at his residence this afternoon to mark the 10th anniversary of the tragedy.
"Let us not forget ... never again," the ambassador said, reaffirming Italy's commitment to combating terrorism in all its forms in coordination with the international community.
He said upholding the principles of civilisation requires a firm response to terrorism to build societies that are safe, open and united in solidarity.
Head of Consular Chancery at the Italian Embassy Laura Schella introduced the commemorative event and read out the names of all the victims before floral wreaths were laid in their honour.
Dean of the Diplomatic Corps and Palestine Ambassador to Bangladesh Yousef S.Y. Ramadan, Italian Ambassador Antonio Alessandro, Japanese Ambassador Shinichi Saida, Indian High Commissioner Dinesh Trivedi, Acting Deputy Chief of Mission of the US Embassy Albert Cea, and a representative of Bangladesh Police placed floral wreaths.
The gathering also observed a minute of silence in memory of the victims.
Speaking as the chief guest, the state minister Shama, alongside members of the diplomatic community, renewed their resolve to build a safer and more peaceful world free from terrorism and violent extremism.
"We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of those who perished. May the souls of the departed rest in eternal peace. May their memories remain a beacon against hatred and conflict. May we continue to uphold the values of compassion, tolerance, and humanity for which they stand as a lasting testament," she said.
Government representatives and diplomats attended the ceremony with heavy hearts in remembrance of the victims.
"Ten years have passed, yet the wounds of that night have not faded from our national conscience. The shadows of July 1, 2016, the tragic terrorist attack at the Holey Artisan Bakery, still linger in our memories, reminding us of one of the darkest chapters in our nation's history," Shama Obaed said.
She said the attack sought to silence hope, humanity and the shared values of people from different nations.
"Innocent lives were cruelly taken from us - our fellow citizens and our friends from India, Italy, Japan, and the United States. Today, we pay solemn tribute to the victims. We honour not only their memory, but also their courage, resilience, and solidarity," she said.
Describing the Holey Artisan attack as a brutal assault on common humanity, the State Minister said, "It was a calculated attempt to sow fear, hatred, and division within our vibrant, tolerant, and inclusive society. Yet, in the face of this horrific tragedy, Bangladesh demonstrated extraordinary resilience."
She said the tragedy continues to underscore the importance of national unity, social cohesion and collective vigilance in safeguarding shared values.
"The painful events of that day continue to remind us of the importance of national unity, social cohesion, and collective vigilance in safeguarding our shared values," she said, adding that Bangladesh has made significant progress since then.
The State Minister said Bangladesh has adopted a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach involving government institutions, law enforcement agencies, intelligence services, civil society, religious leaders, educational institutions, women and youth, the private sector and international partners to counter terrorism and violent extremism.
"Most importantly, we have ensured accountability by bringing the perpetrators to justice through the appropriate legal process. Also, Bangladesh continues to contribute to global counter-terrorism efforts while promoting peace, security, and sustainable development," said Shama Obaed.
