Extending greetings to all on the occasion of Pahela Baishakh, Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus yesterday said people of all faiths and communities in Bangladesh are members of one family.

"Tomorrow [Monday], the first day of Baishakh, is one of the symbols of this harmony. Everyone will celebrate in their own way, according to their customs, and take part in the festivities," he said while laying the foundation stone of "Sampriti Bhaban" at the Dhaka International Buddhist Monastery.

Yunus said despite differences in beliefs, religions, and customs, the Hindus, Muslims, Buddhists, Christians, and other communities living in the mountains and plains of the country are united by a shared diversity of language, culture, and tradition.

The International Buddhist Monastery, he said, is one of the symbols of communal harmony in Bangladesh. Since its inception, it has played a significant role in issues of national interest, including those related to the Buddhist community.

Referring to Gautam Buddha's message of non-violence and equality, Prof Yunus said the monastery has been engaged in various public welfare programmes, such as preserving the religious, social, and cultural heritage of the Buddhist community and providing technical education.

He expressed hope that the "Sampriti Bhaban" will play a notable role both nationally and internationally by reflecting the values of harmony and humanity upheld in Bangladesh.

Religious Affairs Adviser Dr AFM Khalid Hossain, Chattogram Hill Tracts Affairs Adviser Supradip Chakma, Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman, Religious Affairs Secretary AKM Aftab Hossain Pramanik, Bangladesh Buddhist Federation Advisory Council Acting Chairman Prof Sukomal Barua, and International Buddhist Monastery Deputy Chief Ven Bhikkhu Sunandapriya also spoke at the event.