DHAKA, June 26, 2022 (BSS) - Five South Asian countries have congratulated Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the people of Bangladesh on the successful completion and inauguration of the Padma Multipurpose Bridge.
 
 Pakistan, Maldives, Sri Lanka, Nepal and Bhutan are the South Asian nations who joined with others to convey their warm felicitations as the Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina inaugurated the much-cherished bridge on June 25 constructed with own financing defying all obstacles, according to a message of Prime Minister Press Wing.
 
 Pakistani Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, in a message to Sheikh Hasina, extended his own and his country's sincere felicitations to the Prime Minister and the people of Bangladesh on the completion of the Padma Multipurpose Bridge Project. 
 
 Mentioning that the inauguration of the bridge is an important landmark in the development journey of "fraternal" Bangladesh, he said, "It is also a testament to your strong resolve to carry forward Bangladesh into a phase of inclusive and sustained growth." 
 
 He also wrote: "I would like to take this opportunity to convey my personal best wishes for your good health and happiness and forever increasing progress and prosperity of the brotherly people of Bangladesh."
 
 In another letter, Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih conveyed warm felicitations and sincere good wishes to the Prime Minister and people of Bangladesh on the inauguration of the Padma Multipurpose Bridge on behalf of him and people of Maldives. 
 
 He noted that the Padma Bridge, by extending the connectivity between Dhaka and the Southern region of Bangladesh and beyond, will no doubt bring great economic and social benefits to the people of Bangladesh. 
 
 Ibrahim Mohamed Solih continued that this milestone represents another stepping stone for Bangladesh, as the nation moves forward in changing the course of its development history, to embrace Middle Income Country status and enhance the quality of life for all Bangladeshi people. 
 
 He mentioned that "the accomplishment of the long-awaited completion of the Padma Bridge is a testament to your dynamic leadership, dedication and commitment to the development of Bangladesh." 
 
 Besides, Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa also conveyed his best wishes and warm congratulations on the successful opening of the Padma Multipurpose Bridge Project on 25th June, which is a landmark infrastructure project for Bangladesh and its people.
 
 He opined that this achievement will positively enhance connectivity and inclusivity in Bangladesh enhancing its economic and industrial progress. 
 
 Mentioning that Sri Lanka and Bangladesh share warm and friendly relations with strong people-to-people ties over a long period of time, Gotabaya Rajapaksa said, "We look forward to further strengthening our relations in mutually beneficial areas." 
 
 He also wished good health, happiness and personal well-being and for the continued peace, progress and prosperity of the people of Bangladesh.
 
 On the other hand, Nepalese Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba extended his heartfelt felicitations to Sheikh Hasina, the government and the people of Bangladesh on the completion of the Padma Bridge project. 
 
 He wrote that the inauguration of the Padma Multipurpose Bridge that connects southwestern districts of Bangladesh through roads and railways with the capital and other areas of Bangladesh will unleash new opportunities for the socioeconomic development of Bangladesh and enhance connectivity in the region. 
 
 "Completion of this new mega project reflects the enormous confidence that Bangladesh has achieved under your able leadership," said Sher Bahadur Deuba, adding: "I avail myself of this opportunity to convey my best wishes for Your Excellency's good health and happiness and continued peace, progress, and prosperity of the friendly people of Bangladesh."
 
 Moreover, Bhutanese Prime Minister Dr Lotay Tshering has congratulated Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the people of Bangladesh for the successful completion of Padma Multipurpose Bridge, a remarkable feat in the country's construction history. 
 
 "As you have inaugurated the 6.15 kilometer multipurpose road - rail project that becomes the longest bridge in Bangladesh today, we are inspired by your commitment to undertake such a venture," he wrote.
 
 "As anticipated, the iconic structure will go a long way in intensifying the economic activities of your country and beyond," he said, adding: "I have no doubt that Bangladesh is bound for more such landmark projects under your passionate and dynamic leadership."
 
 On this special occasion, Dr Lotay Tshering wished Bangladesh everlasting peace and prosperity.