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Paying tribute to the victims of the 2016 Holey Artisan Bakery terrorist attack, Italian Ambassador to Bangladesh Antonio Alessandro on Wednesday said remembering those who lost their lives also means recognising the vital role young people can play in building a better and more inclusive society.
Speaking at a reception marking the 10th anniversary of the tragedy at his residence in Gulshan, the ambassador said most of the victims were young people with promising futures whose lives were cut short by terrorism.
“The victims came from different backgrounds. Most of them were young, bright and had great dreams for their future. Paying homage to them means recalling the role of youth in building a better society, both in Bangladesh and across the world,” he said.
Alessandro said honouring the victims also serves as a tribute to the expatriate community in Bangladesh, whose expertise and entrepreneurial spirit have helped strengthen the country’s globally recognised textile and garment industry.
He also paid special tribute to the Japanese victims, noting that they were affiliated with the Japan International Cooperation Agency and were contributing to Bangladesh’s development.
“Every time we travel on the metro line in Dhaka, we acknowledge their contribution because they were working on that project,” he said, referring to the country’s mass rapid transit system.
The ambassador also remembered the police officers who responded to the attack, praising their courage and dedication.
“My heartfelt thoughts also go to the police officers who responded bravely during the attack. They remind us how crucial a sense of duty can be when the protection of others and the security of our nation are at stake,” he said.
Describing the annual commemoration as deeply significant for the Italian Embassy, Alessandro said the event honours victims of every nationality, religion and background.
“This is a very important event for the Embassy of Italy. We want it to be as inclusive as possible. All victims are remembered, and everyone wishing to pay homage to them is welcome,” he said.
He added that the Italian community in Dhaka had been profoundly affected by the tragedy, as the Italian victims were members of the expatriate business community.
Concluding his remarks, the Ambassador urged people never to forget the lessons of the attack.
“Why do some people kill innocent individuals simply because they represent a foreign culture and a different religion? It is a question that continues to deserve reflection.
Let us not forget, never again. May friendship, respect and inclusivity always prevail,” he said.
