Primary and Mass Education Adviser Professor Dr Bidhan Ranjan Roy Poddar today spoke at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre in Dhaka. Photo : PID

DHAKA, Sept 9, 2025 (BSS) - Primary and Mass Education Adviser Professor Dr Bidhan Ranjan Roy Poddar today said the principle of harmony and compassion inspires people to speak out against oppression and injustice.

“That is why we are condemning the inhumane acts committed in the Palestinian territories regardless of race, color or religion,” he said while addressing the ‘Inter-religious Dialogue and Harmony Conference’ at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre here.

The Vatican Embassy in Dhaka organised the event.

“We will continue to support the rights of marginalized people,” the adviser said, referring to the implementation of the ‘two-state solution’ as the only effective path to lasting peace in Palestine.

He also highly appreciated the Vatican’s continued support for the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people.

He said, “The Holy See (the Vatican Government) is an important partner in building peace around the world, promoting interreligious understanding and protecting the rights of people of all religions. We are also very proud of our growing relationship with the Holy See.”

Bidhan said, “We are grateful for the valuable contribution of the Catholic community to Bangladesh, especially in the areas of education, healthcare and social services. We look forward to deepening our partnership with the Holy See in the future.”

Archbishop Vijay N. D'Cruz chaired the event while Cardinal George Jacob Kovokad, head of the Vatican's Department for Interreligious Dialogue, delivered the keynote address.