Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Monday congratulated Bangladesh Olympic Association (BOA) Secretary General Syed Shahed Reza on his receiving the Olympic Council of Asian (OCA) Merit Award for his outstanding contribution to the country’s sports.
The Premier in her message lauded his efforts and said Bangladesh is proud of his achievement.
Earlier on Saturday evening, Philippines vice president Jejomar “Jojo” Binay handed over the rare honour to the five sport personalities of the 45 countries of Asia for their outstanding contribution to sports and Shahed Reza was one of them.
The decision of giving awards was taken during the OCA 32nd general meeting held on January 16-18 in the Filipino capital Manila.
Information Minister Hasanul Haq Inu in a separate message also congratulated Shahed Reza and said, “We are proud of your achievement of earning such a rare honour to keep our nation’s flag fluttering high with the world’s leading countries.”
Dr Gowher Rizvi, adviser to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, in his message said, “Heartiest Congratulations. The Merit OCA has honoured you and the nation. Today we all stand taller.”
Cultural Affairs Minister Asaduzzaman Noor in his message Said, ” It is indeed a great feat as you are one of the five persons selected from Asia for this coveted achievement.”
Army Chief General Iqbal Karim Bhuiyan and President of Bangladesh Olympic Association in his message said, ” We all in BOA are proud of your feat. I am sure your achievement will inspire all of us for more international laurels.”
Talking to BSS, Shahed Reza said, ” I am very happy to be nominated for this coveted award. You will be at top of the world when you would see your nation’s flag fluttering with other successful nations…this award will inspire me to work with great vigor and strength.”
