DHAKA, July 20, 2021 (BSS) - President M Abdul Hamid today expressed profound shock and sorrow at the death of journalist Simon Dring, a famous British foreign correspondent, television producer and presenter.

In a condolence message, the President recalled with respect the very positive role he (Simon Dring) played during the Bangladesh War of Liberation in 1971.

Seventy-six-year old Dring, revered as a “true friend” of Bangladesh, also rose to fame for covering wars and revolutions around the world.

He was among about 50 foreign journalists confined to their hotel, the Intercontinental, here on Mar 25, 1971.

“Simon Dring played a positive role in informing the world about the genocide in Bangladesh, various news and events of the Liberation War in the world media,” the President mentioned in his message.

Abdul Hamid said Dring helped spread the news globally subsequently hastened country’s victory in the Great War of Independence

“At his death, Bangladesh lost a well-wisher and tested friend indeed,” the head of state added.

Dring was undergoing routine surgery for a hernia in Romania on Friday when he had a heart attack, said Chris Barlas, a cousin.

This world famous media personality left behind his partner Fiona McPherson, three daughters, relatives and well-wishers to mourn his death.

 The President prayed for the eternal peace of the departed soul and conveyed the deepest sympathy to the bereaved family.