Dhaka, 2 March 2024 –On the occasion of the 54^th Independence Day, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bangladesh proudly announces the launching of the “1^st Independence Diplomatic Cup” Tennis Tournament-2024 with diplomats from 13 Embassies and International Organizations stationed in Dhaka as well as teams from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to promote diplomatic kinship through the spirit of sportsmanship. The participating teams are – Australia, Denmark, Germany, Netherlands, Pakistan, Russia, Spain, Sweden, UK, USA, ADB, UN and Padma, Meghna, Jamuna – namely three from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Ambassador Masud Bin Momen, Foreign Secretary inaugurated the event at 1800 hrs (local time). Mr. Tuomo Poutiainen, Country Director of ILO in Bangladesh and Rear Admiral (Retd.) Md. Khurshed Alam, Secretary (MAU) were present during the opening ceremony. The tournament is scheduled to run from 2 March 2024 to 10 March 2024 at the Diplomats’ Tennis Court of State Guest House-Meghna during 1600-2100 hrs.

The tournament will feature only doubles matches to showcase the athletic abilities and sportsmanship of diplomats representing their respective countries and organizations. Participants will not only compete on the tennis court but will also engage in cultural exchanges, diplomatic discussions and experiencing delicious Bangladeshi cuisines creating an environment conducive to building connections.

The Final match and the Prize Giving Ceremony will be held on 10 March in the afternoon. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs warmly welcomes diplomats stationed in Bangladesh to support the teams and participate in this celebration of festivity and unity.