The celebration started with hoisting the national flag at the Embassy premises in early morning.
In the evening, the Ambassador hosted a Reception at Hague Marriott Hotel. The former Dutch Prime Minister (presently Minister of State) HE Jan Peter Balkenende graced the Reception as the guest of honour.
Dutch politicians, academics, entrepreneurs, NGO representatives, government officials, ambassadors, expat Bangladeshi professionals joined the event. The programme comemnced with Bangladesh and Netherlands national anthems.
A microcosm of Bangladesh was presented through traditional decorations, particularly handmade miniature of traditional boats from Bangladesh which attracted many guests. Audio-visuals on Bangladesh’s history, culture, tourism, tradition, development and potential were screened.
Two prominent contemporary dancers from Bangladesh, Alif and Maati Siddiqui, enthralled the audience with their traditional Bangladeshi dance performances. The guests enjoyed authentic Bangladeshi cuisine and sweets afterwards.