What happened on Day 1 of PM Modi's historic visit to Bangladesh

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday started his two-day visit to Bangladesh to mark the golden jubilee of the nation's independence and the birth centenary of Bangladesh's Father of the Nation Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. Take a look at what happened today at this historic event. 


 

As Modi landed in Dhaka's international airport, he was received by Bangladeshi PM Sheikh Hasina. 

The Indian prime minister also received a guard of honour at the airport. 

After his arrival, the Indian PM visited the National Martyr's memorial at Savar where he paid tributes to those who died in Bangladesh's War of Independence in 1971. 

He planted a sapling of the Arjuna tree in the memorial. 

"I pay my heartfelt tribute to the patriotic martyrs of Bangladesh whose glorious sacrifices enabled the birth of this great Nation. May every visitor to this revered ground honour the sacred memory of the millions who were slain but not silenced. Their valour will continue to inspire future generations to fight injustice and defend the cause of righteousness," the Indian PM wrote in the visitor's book at the memorial.

Modi also met the political and the community leaders, including representatives of minorities and 'Mukhtijoddhas', the fighters of the Bangladesh Liberation War.

Modi on Friday conferred the Gandhi Peace Prize 2020 upon Sheikh Mujibur Rahman which was handed over to his daughter Sheikh Rehana and the younger sister of PM Sheikh Hasina.

"This is one of the most memorable days of my life. I am grateful that Bangladesh has included me in this event. I am grateful that Bangladesh has invited India to take part in this function," Modi said at the National Parade Square. 

"Both our nations possess the power of democracy, with a clear vision to move forward. That India and Bangladesh move forward together, is equally important for the development of this entire region," he said.