Maitri Diwas 2021 was recently commemorated

Why in news?

• Maitri Diwas 2021 was recently commemorated on December 6 to mark the day on which India recognised newly-formed Bangladesh in 1971.

About Maitri Diwas

• On December 6, 1971, India was one of the first countries to establish bilateral diplomatic ties with Bangladesh.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Bangladesh in March 2021 to attend the National Day of Bangladesh and there it was decided to observe December 6 as Maitri Diwas or Friendship Day.

In how many countries, Maitri Diwas is being observed?

• It is being observed in 18 countries across the world apart from Dhaka and Delhi. These countries are Belgium, Canada, Egypt, Indonesia, Russia, Qatar, Singapore, UK, Australia, France, Japan, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Switzerland, Thailand, UAE and USA.

Significance of the day

• The celebration of the day is a reflection of the deep and abiding friendship between India and Bangladesh people that has been forged in blood and shared sacrifices.