The exhibition at Drik Gallery, Dhanmondi, was inaugurated on May 8 by Dr. Stefan Frowein, EC Ambassador to Bangladesh.

The exhibition is a part of a series of cultural events, which the EC has organised on the occasion of Europe Day (May 9). Through these events, the EC intends to focus on the links between Bangladesh and Europe. Relations betweens the EC and Bangladesh date from 1973. Since 1982, the EC has been represented in Bangladesh, and has had a full-fledged delegation in the country since 1989. The two major aspects of the EC-Bangladesh bond are development cooperation and trade.

The Ambassador's message says, "The EU's success can be put down to several factors. The key factor has been a shared set of values: democracy, rule of law, fundamental rights, social justice, respect for cultural difference and minorities and tolerance.

"Considering the relationship between the EU and Bangladesh, I am happy to note that we do share values such as those just mentioned. It is on the basis of these common values that we should continue to build our cooperation and enhance our trust and support for each other."

In Bangladesh, the EC finances a multitude of NGO projects -- from access to clean water to fighting human trafficking and supporting landless farmers or minority groups. Most of the projects target the most vulnerable and poorest members of society.

The purpose of the photo exhibition is to showcase examples of the work that the NGO partners of the EC are carrying out to improve the living standards of the less fortunate in Bangladesh.

Thirty-six photographs at the exhibition highlight the impact of 12 NGOs' activities on the underprivileged and marginalized. The participating organisations are: CAFOD (Catholic Agency for Overseas Development), NGO Forum for Drinking Water Supply and Sanitation, Groupe Developpement, RDRS (Rangpur Dinajpur Rural Service), Handicap International, ARBAN (Association for Realisation of Basic Needs), Intervida, Concern Universal, CHARM - Chittagong Hill Tracts Improved Natural Resources Management Project, Koinonia, Unicef and Caritas.

The image of an Orao child by S H Suza (for RDRS) is sure to grab one's attention. Dust and mud all over -- the young one is sporting a headgear with bright purple flowers and a smile all the money in the world can't buy.

In another photo by Shafiqul Alam Kiron (for Handicap International), a young batsman is focused on the ball, ready to strike. Looking closely, one would notice the ardent sportsman is balanced on one leg.

Close shot of a rural woman with her fishing net by Marcella Haddad (for CAFOD) zooms in on the subject's eyes -- the gaze exudes self-confidence.

Groupe Developpment's photos address the issue of gender inequality. One of Unicef's photos (by Sujan) show a mother signing a birth registration form during a health campaign by the organisation in Dhaka.

The exhibition also features posters, leaflets and other publications by the NGOs.

The show will continue till May 12.