Dacca
Manuscrit, non publié à l’époque. Seul le prononcé fait foi. Les notes de travail ont été retirées.
Discours prononcé en anglais. Texte original, non traduit.
Excellencies,
Ladies and gentlemen,
“Shobai-ke onek shu-ge-dsch-tscha dschanai.”
It is a great pleasure for me to be here at the Dhaka Art Summit today.
I wanted to visit the Dhaka Art Summit for two reasons: first of all to acquaint myself with the vibrant Bangladeshi art scene, and secondly to meet young Bangladeshi artists taking part in this prestigious platform.
Art and culture are important elements in society, bringing people and nations closer.
A diverse cultural scene contributes to social cohesion and the development of peace in society.
In the current global context, closer cultural and artistic exchanges within and between nations can reduce divisions and dispel misconceptions.
In this spirit, I would like to congratulate the organisers of the Dhaka Art Summit for showcasing the art scene of Bangladesh and South Asia to others.
Art and culture are fundamental both for Bangladesh and Switzerland. Both countries are proud of their culture and heritage.
Last year Switzerland and Bangladesh celebrated 45 years of friendship and cooperation. Culture was an underlying theme of that celebration.
The two countries are collaborating closely in a number of interesting cultural initiatives in the areas of art, architecture and film through both public and private engagements.
For instance, the Swiss Architecture Museum, in collaboration with the Bengal Foundation, is currently organising and hosting an exhibition on Bangladeshi architecture in Basel.
Artistic expression is often closely related to free expression. It is important for all societies to support and enhance artists’ creative freedom. I have met talented Bangladeshi artists here who are eager to make a difference through their art and represent their country. I wish them every success.
I am confident that more frequent cultural exchanges between our two countries will deepen our understanding about each other and bring us even closer!