Bangladesh–Russia friendship expedition celebrates historic Elbrus summit

The successful completion of the Bangladesh–Russia Friendship Expedition to Mount Elbrus was celebrated at Russian House in Dhaka on Thursday through a special press conference, flag handover ceremony and photo exhibition, highlighting a remarkable achievement in Bangladesh’s mountaineering history and the enduring friendship between the two countries.

Titled “Ashes & Ice: The Dormant Giant Expedition 2026,” the expedition saw Bangladeshi mountaineer Ikramul Hasan Shakil successfully reach the summit of Mount Elbrus on September 26, 2026. Standing at 5,642 metres, Mount Elbrus is the highest mountain in Russia and Europe.

The press conference was led by Enam Ul Haque, founder of the Bangla Mountaineering and Trekking Club (BMTC), and brought together distinguished guests and representatives of the organisations involved in organising and supporting the expedition.

Sharing his experiences, Shakil delivered a presentation accompanied by a special video documenting the expedition. He recounted the physical and psychological challenges of the demanding climb, including heavy snowfall, freezing winds and severely limited visibility. Despite these formidable conditions, the mountaineering team successfully reached the summit.

Shakil also expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Russian House in Dhaka for its support and cooperation, acknowledging its contribution to making the expedition possible.

One of the most poignant moments of the event was the formal handover of the Bangladesh National Flag that had been carried to the summit of Mount Elbrus. The ceremony symbolised not only the mountaineer’s personal accomplishment but also a moment of national pride, as Bangladesh’s flag had been raised on Europe’s highest peak.

Another major highlight was the inauguration of a dedicated photographic exhibition at the Russian House gallery. Alexandra A. Khlevnoy, Director of Russian House in Dhaka, joined the distinguished guests and Shakil in a ribbon-cutting ceremony to formally open the exhibition.

The exhibition showcased photographs capturing the expedition’s defining moments, offering visitors a glimpse into the extraordinary landscapes, harsh climatic conditions and determination that shaped the journey. Guests also had the opportunity to explore visual accounts of the team’s remarkable achievement.

Beyond its mountaineering significance, the expedition underscored the value of international cooperation, cultural engagement and people-to-people connections. The successful ascent demonstrated the power of courage, perseverance and collective determination in overcoming formidable challenges.

The Bangladesh–Russia Friendship Expedition thus stands as more than a sporting accomplishment. It represents another meaningful milestone in the longstanding friendship between Bangladesh and Russia, demonstrating how shared ambitions and mutual cooperation can bring the two nations closer together.