NEW DELHI, Feb 27, 2024 (BSS) - President of India Droupadi Murmu today said that India attaches the highest priority to its friendship with Bangladesh and committed to realizing its full potential.

India and Bangladesh share a unique bond, founded on their history, culture, and sacrifices, she said, adding that India is proud to have been a friend and partner in the Liberation War of Bangladesh, and continues to share the development journey with the neighbouring state.

"We must preserve and nurture this spirit, which inspires the unique bond between our two countries," she said when a 100-member Bangladesh youth delegation called on her at Rastrapati Bhaban here.

The President said relationship between India and Bangladesh is a relationship of the heart and soul as the two countries have a deep cultural link and a common love for art, music, cricket, and food.

In this connection, she said the national anthems of the two countries both penned by Tagore, are a source of pride. "We share love for 'Baul' music and the works of Kazi Nazrul Islam. Our unity and diversity are celebrated in our shared heritage".

The President noted that India and Bangladesh are home to a large and energetic youth population, with unlimited potential to shape the world.

She urged all to harness this potential, saying as the leaders of tomorrow, it is the responsibility of youth to steer us towards a green, sustainable and peaceful world.

She pointed out that delegates have been selected from all over Bangladesh, and it is inclusive, with over 50 percent women, and participants from all walks of life.

About the visit, the president said that their presence here is not just a visit; it is a bridge being built between the two nations, and proof of the enduring spirit of cooperation and friendship that defines the India-Bangladesh relationship.

The President urged members of the youth delegation to use the opportunity to experience various aspects of India and its diversity and the developments in the fields of science, technology, and arts.

She said that as they work towards building a "Sonar Bangla" (Golden Bengal), they should also strive to strengthen the bonds of peace, prosperity, and friendship between India and Bangladesh.

The Bangladesh Youth Delegation programme was started in 2012 as a joint initiative by the ministry of external affairs and ministry of youth and sports with the objective of fostering goodwill and understanding of each other's countries, promote exchange of ideas and understanding of values and culture among the youth.