The Embassy of Bangladesh in Mexico observed International Mother Language Day on Friday with deep respect.

The day kicked off with a discussion session, jointly organised by the embassy and IBERO AMERICANO University emphasising the importance of linguistic diversity and cultural heritage.

In his welcome speech, Bangladesh Ambassador to Mexico M Mushfiqul Fazal Ansarey said, “Language is not just a medium of communication; it is the reflection of our nation’s identity, culture, and heritage.”

Paying tribute to the martyrs of the Language Movement, he said, “Bangladesh is the only country where people sacrificed their lives for their mother tongue. Language is the foundation of our history, culture, and independence.”

He expressed concern over the rapid extinction of languages worldwide, saying the death of a language is the death of history. He called for urgent global efforts to preserve linguistic diversity and resist cultural erosion.

Moderated by Professor @AribelContreras of @IBERO_mx, the event featured distinguished speakers, including Ambassador Ly D'jerou Robert Dean of the Diplomatic Corps of Côte d’Ivoire, Ambassador Beryl Rose Sisulu of South Africa, Ambassador Jamal Sharfuddin Johan of Malaysia.

They shared insights from their respective countries, underscoring the collective responsibility to safeguard linguistic and cultural diversity. Besides, former Mexican and presidential candidate Senator Xochitl Galvez, distinguished scholar Dr Juan Manuel Gonzalez from @IBERO_mx, and Francisco Mosquda, a representative from the Mexican foreign ministry, delivered speeches.

The event commenced with a documentary screening on the significance of International Mother Language Day.

Ambassador of the Philippines Lilybeth R Deapera, Indian charge ‘d affairs Deepti Ganji, and diplomat from Palestine Fakhry Taha, alongside officials from various Mexican government departments, university students, and members of the Bangladeshi community, actively participated in the programme.

Ambassador Ansarey paid homage at the Shaheed Minar located at Sor Juanma de la Cruz Cultural Center in Napantla.

Expressed gratitude to the local authorities for organising the event, he highlighted the strong cultural linkage between Mexico and Bangladesh.

Several prominent local figures, including Fatima Orquidea, undersecretary of culture and tourism, Hugo Loaiza Almaraz, director of cultural services, and Abelardo Rodriguez, constitutional president of Tapetlixpa, also paid their respects.