Dhaka, Feb 15 (V7N) — The Foreign Ministry of Bangladesh has invited the foreign ministers of the SAARC countries to attend the swearing-in ceremony of the new Members of Parliament and the cabinet, according to Legal Advisor Asif Nazrul.

Speaking to journalists at the Secretariat on Sunday afternoon, he confirmed that the oath-taking of MPs will be held at 10:00 am on Tuesday, likely administered by the Chief Election Commissioner. The head of the parliamentary party is expected to be elected between 11:30 am and 12:00 noon. The oath-taking ceremony for ministers will take place at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban around 4:00 pm, to be administered by the President.

South Plaza Venue Significance

Asif Nazrul emphasized the historical importance of the South Plaza for the BNP, noting its association with significant political events and ceremonies, including the July Declaration, the July Charter, and funerals of notable leaders such as Begum Khaleda Zia and martyr Osman Hadi. He said, “This parliament is a little different from all other parliaments… we are organizing the ceremony here considering its historical significance.”

Indian Representation

When asked about the participation of the Indian Prime Minister, Asif Nazrul stated that he had no information, clarifying that only the SAARC foreign ministers had been officially invited by the Foreign Ministry.

The BNP has expressed its preference for the South Plaza as the venue, highlighting its symbolic and historical significance for the party and the nation.

END/SMA/AJ