Photo: Embassy of Russia in Bangladesh

DHAKA, April 25, 2026 (BSS) - Russian House in Dhaka has organised a "Garden of Memory" tree-planting ceremony at Dhanmondi Lake, combining remembrance with environmental responsibility.

The "Garden of Memory" is an international memorial initiative originating in Russia to honour those who lost their lives during the Great Patriotic War (1941-1945), said a press release issued by the Russian Embassy here today.  

Under the programme, trees are planted annually across Russia and other countries, symbolising one tree for every life lost while promoting environmental sustainability.

The ceremony, held on Friday, was attended by Minister-Counsellor of the Embassy of Russia in Bangladesh Vyacheslav Sentyurin, Administrator of Dhaka South City Corporation Md Abdus Salam, Director of the Russian House in Dhaka Alexandra Khlevnoy and General Secretary of the Soviet Alumni Association Bangladesh (SAAB) Sirajul Islam. 

In her opening remarks, Khlevnoy stressed the importance of preserving historical memory and strengthening humanitarian ties through initiatives connecting people across countries and generations.

Speaking on the occasion, Sentyurin highlighted the significance of May 9, 1945, saying the Soviet Union's victory in the Great Patriotic War came at an immense human cost of around 27 million lives.

Addressing the gathering, Abdus Salam appreciated the initiative and reiterated Bangladesh's commitment to environmental sustainability.

He said the government plans to plant 250 million trees over the next five years to combat climate change and build a greener future.

The DSCC administrator also said the city corporation plans to plant 300,000 trees between 2026 and 2030 to expand urban green coverage.

Speakers said the "Garden of Memory" serves not only as a tribute to the fallen heroes of World War II but also as a symbol of friendship between the peoples of Bangladesh and Russia and a reminder of shared responsibility for environmental protection.

The central attraction of the event was the ceremonial planting of saplings by distinguished guests at Dhanmondi Lake, contributing to the global "Garden of Memory" movement.