US Secretary of State John Kerry, on behalf of President Barack Obama and the American people, has wished a happy and prosperous Bangla New Year to Bengalis everywhere.

‘We rejoice along with all those from Bangladesh, India, and around the world who gather today to celebrate the arrival of the New Year,’ he said in a press statement.

Secretary Kerry said Pahela Baishakh is a time of renewal and reconciliation, according to a message received here from US Department of State on Thursday.

‘It’s a time for families and friends to celebrate their heritage and culture, to reflect on the past year, and to look forward to the year ahead,’ he said.

For Americans, Kerry said, this day is an opportunity to recognise the contributions of hundreds of thousands of Bengali Americans, who have made their mark in so many ways, including in science, business, public service, law, medicine.

‘May we begin this new year with a sense of hope and optimism. Shubho Noboborsho!,’ he said.