December 17, 1972

NO CHANGE IN PORTFOLIOS OF MINISTERS

The ministers of Prime Minister Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's cabinet, who are sworn in today under the constitution, would retain the same portfolios as they were holding before.

This cabinet would function till a new government takes over after the general elections scheduled to be held on March 7, 1973.

The swearing-in ceremony of Bangabandhu and 21 members of his cabinet is held at the Banga Bhaban in the presence of foreign diplomats, former MCAs, political leaders and high officials of the armed forces.

President Justice Abu Sayeed Chowdhury administers the oath of office to the prime minister and his cabinet colleagues.

BRANDT GREETS BANGABANDHU

West German Chancellor Willy Brandt has congratulated Bangabandhu and the people of Bangladesh on their having passed a constitution reflecting the wishes and aspirations of the Bangalee people.

"May the constitution of your country continue in all fields successfully under your leadership and may the people of Bangladesh enjoy a prosperous development and a happy future," wishes the Chancellor.

SOVIET HELP TO BANGLADESH REASSURED

The President of the Soviet Union N Podgorny has expressed the confidence that the friendship and fruitful cooperation between Bangladesh and the Soviet Union would develop and strengthen to the benefit of both. In a message to President Abu Sayeed Chowdhury on the occasion of national Victory Day, the Soviet President has assured his country's friendly support to Bangladesh in its struggle for independent development and social progress.

Source: December 18, 1972 issues of Dainik Bangla and Ittefaq

Sources: December 18, 1972 issues of Dainik Bangla, Ittefaq and The Daily Observer.