Economy
FBCCI Hosts Iftar, Doa Mahfil for Diplomats and Dignitaries
The Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI), the apex trade organization of the country, organized an Iftar and Doa Mahfil at a hotel in the capital today to honor ambassadors, diplomats, and dignitaries.
A press release stated that ministers from various ministries, members of parliament, ambassadors, diplomats, editors, CEOs of print and electronic media, top businessmen, and other dignitaries attended the iftar mahfil.
FBCCI President Mahbubul Alam, speaking on the occasion, highlighted Bangladesh’s rich cultural heritage and history of hospitality. He emphasized the country’s diversity, where people from different faiths and backgrounds live together harmoniously. Alam expressed pride in Bangladesh’s unity in celebrating all religious occasions.
Addressing the diplomats and business leaders, Alam underscored their role in fostering international cooperation and understanding. He highlighted Bangladesh’s thriving business community and increasing opportunities for investment and trade. Alam expressed confidence in strengthening economic ties through collaborative efforts for a prosperous future.
During the event, guests prayed for the economic development, peace, and welfare of Bangladesh and its people.
State Minister for Commerce Ahsanul Islam Titu, Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen, Commerce Senior Secretary Tapan Kanti Ghosh, and former FBCCI Presidents Mahbubur Rahman, Kazi Akram Uddin Ahmed, Mir Nasir Hossain, Sheikh Fazle Fahim, and Md Jashim Uddin, along with FBCCI Senior Vice President Md Amin Helaly, Vice Presidents Khairul Huda Chopol, Dr. Joshoda Jibon Deb Nath, Shomi Kaiser, Rashadul Hossain Chowdhury (Ronni), and Md. Munir Hossain, were among the dignitaries present.
Also in attendance were ambassadors from India, Indonesia, Norway, Malaysia, Argentina, Sri Lanka, Denmark, diplomats from various countries, editors of print and electronic media, FBCCI directors, business leaders, and other dignitaries.
Expatriate Bangladeshis sent approximately US$ 2.11 billion in remittances during the first 28 days of September in the fiscal year 2024-25, according to data released by Bangladesh Bank on 29 September.
Of this total, state-owned and specialised banks handled $679.10 million, while private banks received $1.43 billion in remittances.
Chief Adviser to Bangladesh’s interim government, Professor Muhammad Yunus, has vowed to expedite reforms and hold elections swiftly. Yunus, who recently assumed the role after the collapse of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s 15-year administration, expressed his commitment during an interview with Tokyo-based news outlet NHK WORLD in New York on Sunday. He was attending the United Nations General Assembly at the time.
Following mass student-led protests that ended Hasina’s long-standing rule in August, Yunus stepped in as the leader of the caretaker government. Known for founding Grameen Bank, an institution providing microloans to the underprivileged, Yunus, along with the bank, earned the Nobel Peace Prize in 2006 for his efforts in poverty alleviation.
During the interview, Yunus emphasized that the interim government’s primary mission is to implement reforms promptly and ensure elections are held as soon as the groundwork is complete. He underscored the importance of success, stating, “Failure is not something that we can accept.”
Addressing the pivotal role of students in the ousting of the Hasina administration, Yunus acknowledged the sacrifices made by young people, referring to their involvement as part of a “revolution.” He highlighted his intention to engage the younger generation in shaping policy.
Furthermore, Yunus called for continued support from Japan, Bangladesh’s largest donor, during this crucial transition period. He stressed that Japan’s assistance is vital to stabilizing Bangladesh’s economy and fostering a democratic foundation in the nation.
Syeda Rizwana Hasan, the Adviser for Environment, Forests, and Climate Change, announced today that steps will be taken to restrict the use of polythene shopping bags to safeguard future generations.
Starting from October 1, polythene bags will be banned in shopping malls, followed by a ban in kitchen markets from November 1.
“Everyone must take responsibility and stop using polythene voluntarily. Action against polythene producers will begin from November 1,” Rizwana Hasan stated during a seminar.
The Department of Environment (DoE) organized the seminar to raise public awareness about alternatives to banned polythene bags.
Rizwana Hasan highlighted that the restriction on polythene will be executed in phases according to legal provisions, and discussions with shopping centers and store owners are ongoing to ensure a smooth transition.
She also announced plans to make the government secretariat a plastic-free zone by December.
Other speakers at the seminar included Environment Secretary Dr. Farhina Ahmed, DoE Director General Dr. Abdul Hamid, Director Rajinara Begum, President of the Shop Owners Association Muhammad Helal Uddin, and Md. Arifur Rahman Bhuiyan, Assistant Professor of Environmental Science at BUP. They discussed the harmful effects of polythene and the need for alternative products.
Earlier, Rizwana Hasan inaugurated a fair showcasing eco-friendly alternatives to polythene bags and visited 24 stalls. The fair featured products from government and private entrepreneurs, including reusable bags, jute bags, paper bags, and items made from bamboo and cane.
