Ambassador of the European Union (EU) to Bangladesh Charles Whiteley has expressed eagerness to learn Bengali language.

As the EU believes in cultural exchange apart from economic ties, the alliance of 27 countries maintains 24 official languages.

Recalling the contribution of language heroes with deep respect, he said celebration of International Mother Language Day on every February 21 brings an opportunity for people of heterogeneous languages to be united.

Whiteley said he would like to learn Bengali in a befitting manner during his tenure in Bangladesh.

The United Nations have only six official languages although 193 countries are its members, he opined.

A question may arise as to why the EU has many official languages, he said, adding that the platform focuses on cultural relations in addition to the economic ties.

He said that he will work for promoting economic relations, renewable energy, people-to-people contact, and scholarship for students.

Professors of the university and other experts, among others, were present on the occasion.