(BSS) - President Mohammed Shahabuddin and his wife Dr. Rebeka Sultana today hosted a reception at Bangabhaban on the occasion of the country`s 54th Victory Day.

President of East Timor José Ramos-Horta, who is on an official visit to Bangladesh at the invitation of the Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus, joined the reception on the lush green lawn of the Bangabhaban this afternoon.

Several thousand guests, including Chief Justice Syed Refaat Hassan, council of advisers, ambassadors, high commissioners of different countries attended the function from 3:28 pm to 4:40 pm today.

Besides, Supreme Court judges, chiefs of the three services, senior political leaders, academics, business community leaders, artistes, valiant freedom fighters and families of Birshreshtha gallantry award recipients, Indian war veteran and distinguished citizens attended the reception.

Newspaper editors and journalist leaders also attended the festive gathering alongside top civil and military officials.

President Shahabuddin along with his visiting counterpart of East Timor José Ramos-Horta cut a cake at the VVIP Enclosure on the occasion.

The President later exchanged greetings with the injured freedom fighters, students representatives, dignitaries and guests at the function.