A MEMORABLE  EVENT: Mubashir Ahmed Khan (2E)

I received invitation from Her Excellency Abida Islam, the High Commissioner of Bangladesh to United Kingdom for attending the 55th Independence and National Day celebrations of Bangladesh to be held on the 4th of April,2025. The venue was Copthorne Tara Hotel, Scarsdale Place, Kinsington, London, W8 5SY.

When I arrived at the Hotel at 6 pm, I found the Honourable High Commissioner receiving guests herself at the entrance of the Hotel banquet hall. She was clad in colourful traditional Bangladeshi sari with a smiling face. Next to her was standing Mr. Hazrat Ali Khan, the Deputy High Commissioner. A few photographers were busy taking pictures of guests along with Her Excellency.

The main speaker was Abida Islam Sahiba. She elaborately discussed the present situation of Bangladesh and the present/future progress of the country. At the end, food was served which was extremely delicious. I got the impression that the event organisers had done their homework properly and therefore all the arrangements of the event were excellent. The catering staff were nice, courteous and helpful. All the guests were well dressed and sophisticated. Indeed, it was a memorable function. I spent about two hours at the function and enjoyed every minute of it.

BD mariner Mr. ABM Shameem is serving with the Bangladesh High Commission, London as Counsellor, Maritime Affairs. In this capacity, he looks after the IMO (International Maritime Organisation) affairs related to Bangladesh. He was asked by the High Commission to send invitations to ten BD mariners. I was pleased to receive the invitation by email. In addition to myself and ABM Shameem, six BD mariners attended the function. Their names are Furqanul Quader, Zillur Rahman, Masood Karim, Captain Zakir, Captain Mahboob Alam and Doctor Fazle Rabbi. Personally, I felt happy to meet a good number of BD mariners. Another prominent guest was no other than Mr. Arsenio Dominguez, the Secretary General of IMO. He spoke to me briefly but very courteously.

In the end, I wish to thank the Bangladesh High Commission for inviting me to participate in such grand and memorable event.

Mubashir Ahmed; London 07.05.2025
Email. mubashira2050@gmail.com