Dhaka: Mentioning that Bangladesh is a unique example of communal harmony, President Abdul Hamid on Friday urged all to play an effective role in further consolidating the existing communal harmony.

‘Since time immemorial, the country’s people have been tied with love and harmony. All will have to play an effective role in further strengthening the tradition of this existing harmony,’ he said.

Abdul Hamid was talking to the media while exchanging greetings with members of the Christian community at Bangabhaban on the occasion of Christmas Day. President's wife Rashida Khanom was present.

The President called upon all to work together with a view to building Bangladesh as a happy, prosperous and secular country.

He said the role of Christian community in the development of society, education and serving humanity, is praiseworthy in Bangladesh.

Archbishop of Bangladesh Patrick D Rozario, ambassadors and representatives from different foreign missions, distinguished persons of the Christian community, religious leaders and professionals joined the reception.

A group of singers performed the Christmas carol at the reception. Later, President Abdul Hamid cut a Christmas cake with members of the Christian community.

Religious Affairs Minister Principal Motiur Rahman and State Minister for Social Welfare Promode Mankin were present on the occasion.