Economy
PM Sheikh Hasina Urges Vigilance Against National Regression
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina emphasized today that Bangladesh will collaborate with countries that support its path toward development and prosperity, regardless of international conflicts.
“I prioritize the development of my country,” she declared, “I will align with those who aid in our progress, without considering who is at war with whom.”
The Prime Minister made these remarks while distributing awards to winners of the national competition for making a one-minute video documentary titled “Amar Chokhe Bangabandhu” (Bangabandhu in My Eyes) at her official residence, Ganabhaban, this morning.
Reaffirming Bangladesh’s stance on peace, Sheikh Hasina stated, “We do not want war; we want peace. We seek friendship with all and maintain amicable relations with everyone.”
She urged the nation to stay vigilant to prevent any regression, recalling how Bangladesh became known as a “nation of beggars” following the coup on August 15, 1975. “We must always be alert and take the country forward,” she insisted.
Earlier, the Prime Minister awarded certificates, crests, and prize money to the competition winners, who ranged from school to intermediate level students. Cabinet Secretary Md. Mahbub Hossain was also present at the event.
Describing the students as pivotal in transforming Bangladesh into a developed, prosperous, and smart nation, Sheikh Hasina urged them to focus on their studies to become worthy citizens, equipped with technological and scientific knowledge inspired by the Liberation War’s spirit.
“This era is one of technology, science, and knowledge,” she said. “Without acquiring knowledge, one cannot develop oneself or the country.”
She expressed confidence that the new generation would lead the country towards prosperity with visionary leadership. “We must learn from history and find ways to cope with other countries. You must prepare yourselves accordingly.”
The Prime Minister encouraged students to embody the spirit of the Liberation War and strive to build a hunger and poverty-free prosperous Bangladesh.
She also highlighted her government’s development plan extending to 2100, urging students to sustain the development journey by adjusting the plan in response to global changes.
Reiterating Bangladesh’s independence, she affirmed, “We will not bow to anyone or remain dependent on any country. We will move with dignity.”
She lamented the distortion of the Liberation War’s history following the assassination of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman but noted that the true history is now known. “Our children and new generation will one day lead the country forward, but it requires an ideal,” she said. “We must preserve the spirit of the Liberation War.”
The Prime Minister concluded by emphasizing her government’s commitment to economic emancipation for all, following Bangabandhu’s ideals to ensure the benefits of the Liberation War reach every household.
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.
