Welcome Ceremony in Bangladesh at Dhaka International Airport

Visit to the National Martyrs' Memorial of Savar

Homage to the “Father of the Nation” and signing of the Book of Honour at the Bangabandhu Memorial Museum

Welcome Ceremony in Bangladesh at Dhaka International Airport

The aircraft carrying the Holy Father landed at 15.00 local time (10.00 in Rome) at Dhaka International Airport.

Upon arrival the Pope was welcomed by the President of the Republic of Bangladesh, Mr. Abdul Hamid. Two children in traditional dress then offered flowers and an earthen vase, which the Holy Father blessed. The ceremony was attended by political and civil authorities, ten bishops from Bangladesh, a group of faithful and forty children who performed traditional dances.

After military honours and the performance of the national anthems, the presentation of the respective delegations took place.

The Holy Father Francis left as traditional dances were performed, and then transferred by car to the National Martyrs' Memorial of Savar.

Visit to the National Martyrs' Memorial di Savar

At 16.00 local time (11.00 in Rome) the Holy Father Francis visited the National Martyrs' Memorial of Savar. Upon arrival he was received by various civil leaders who accompanied him to the monument, where the Guard of Honour were present, and where the Pope placed a floral wreath. Then, during the return journey, the Holy Father signed the Book of Honour and planted a tree in the “Garden of Peace”. Finally, transferred by car to the Bangabandhu Memorial Museum to pay homage to the “Father of the Nation”, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.

Homage to the “Father of the Nation” and signing of the Book of Honour at the Bangabandhu Memorial Museum

At 16.45 local time (11.45 in Rome), the Holy Father Francis paid homage to the “Father of the Nation”, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, in the Bangabandhu Memorial Museum.

Upon arrival he was welcomed by some family members of the “Father of the Nation”. Then, after leaving a floral homage, the Pope prayed in silence, and finally, signed the Book of Honour. He then transferred by car to the Presidential Palace for the courtesy visit to the President of the Republic of Bangladesh.