DHAKA, July 10, 2023 (BSS) - The 22nd death anniversary of former speaker of Jatiya Sangsad Humayun Rashid Chowdhury will be observed tomorrow. 
 
On the eve of the day, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina paid deep respect to the memory of veteran freedom fighter and noted diplomat Humayun Rashid Chowdhury and also issued a message recalling his outstanding contribution to the country's independence. 
 
"Responding to the call of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in March 1971, Humayun Rashid Chowdhury had taken mental preparation for diplomatic war by sacrificing his life when he was employed at the Pakistan Embassy in Delhi, India", said the PM in the message.
 
After the liberation war began, he [Chowdhury] started working to save the lives of Bangalee people, who were engaged in the embassy during the time, the Prime Minister said, adding "He also made a strong appeal through the foreign media for the country's independence and the release of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman from Pakistani jail.
 
Due to his diplomatic proficiency, a total of 34 countries had recognized Bangladesh in a short span of time, said the PM.
 
He was elected as a member of the National Parliament in 1996 from the Awami League and later he was elected as Speaker of the Parliament. 
 
He was awarded with the prestigious 'Swadinata Award' (Posthumous) in 2018 for his outstanding contribution to the Liberation War.