US President Barack Obama today sent his greetings to Bangladeshi people on the occasion of Pahela Baishakh, the first day of Bangla New Year.

John Kerry, US Secretary of State, conveyed the greetings on behalf of Obama and the American people, said a statement of US embassy in Dhaka.

“On behalf of President Obama and the American people, I am delighted to wish a happy and prosperous 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,” the statement quotes Kerry as saying.

Pahela Baishakh is a time of renewal and reconciliation. It is 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, it said.

For Americans, 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, the statement read.

“May we begin this new year with a sense of hope and optimism. Shubho Noboborsho!”