Prime Minister calls on expatriates and citizens to work together to build a developed nation

Bangla Press Desk: Prime Minister Tarique Rahman aspires to build the Bangladesh of our dreams with the cooperation of all expatriates, regardless of their political affiliations. He noted that efforts are being made to create an environment that would prevent the BNP from implementing reforms—reforms designed to directly benefit the most marginalized individuals. "I would like to say to everyone, irrespective of political leanings: if you offer your sincere cooperation, we will certainly be able to build the Bangladesh we envision. However, this will require hard work, patience, and a commitment to working together in unity."

He made these remarks on Wednesday (October 28) during an exchange meeting organized by the 'Bangladesh Community Japan' at the New Wazni Hotel.

The Prime Minister highlighted that Japan has invested in Bangladesh—both before and after its independence—and has consistently supported the nation's development. "We have held discussions with them regarding how they might expand their investments and contribute further to our country's development."

Addressing the expatriate community, he urged them to prepare diligently so that they can help attract these investors to Bangladesh. "To bring investors in, we must ensure the right conditions for investment. We aim to establish various industrial enterprises that will become national assets, while simultaneously creating employment opportunities for our people."

He added, "By generating foreign currency, we will be able to gradually develop other essential sectors for the benefit of the country and its citizens. Many of you are engaged in various professions—some in teaching, others in different roles, and many are involved in business and commerce."

Tarique Rahman further remarked, "Each of you can serve as an ambassador for our nation. Given that Japan is a country—a nation—deeply rooted in commerce, with business operations spanning both their own country and the globe, your role is significant." In other words, if you present the facilities established in your country to attract foreign investment—and share how your nation and its current government envision the future, or how you promote your country’s strengths globally—it proves beneficial both for the government and for the nation as a whole.

She further noted that when her administration assumed office eight months ago, the country was grappling with a fragile economic situation. The state of the administration was precarious, and law and order were in a highly vulnerable condition. There were—and in some areas, still are—a multitude of other challenges. Consequently, we have had to navigate and struggle through many obstacles to move forward.

The Prime Minister mentioned that books on traffic rules have been specially designed for children, enabling them to learn these regulations from a young age. This illustrates our commitment to addressing issues at a granular, detailed level. Consider the education system: by improving it, we ensure that our children—the future architects of this nation—receive a proper education. What could be a better reform than that? Many people talk about various types of reforms, but this is fundamental.

She also discussed the healthcare system, acknowledging the current state of access to medical services for the people of Bangladesh. Improving the healthcare system—making it better—is, in itself, a form of reform. Expanding healthcare infrastructure, bringing medical services to people’s doorsteps, and making healthcare more accessible—these are all essential reforms. Given that such measures would directly improve the quality of healthcare available to the public, what could be more urgent at this moment?

People may propose all sorts of reforms—I have no objection to that—but in my view, the two areas I have highlighted are the most critical reforms needed at this particular time.

That, at least, is my perspective as a politician, the Prime Minister concluded. I have traveled across the country and spoken with the people. It seems to me that, for the public, these types of reforms are far more desirable than questions about who has gained or lost power.

He stated, "Let us consider business investment—what can be done within our policy framework to facilitate the business community?" In addressing this, I emphasized that one of our primary objectives—a commitment we made both before and after the election—is to empower our youth, provide them with jobs, and create employment opportunities.

Tarek Rahman remarked, "Will our initiatives ensure the well-being of our nation’s children, our people, our women, and our mothers and sisters? To me, this is the most significant reform. Imagine if we could make Dhaka as clean as Tokyo, or transform Bangladesh to resemble Japan... When I was young, I remember hearing people say, 'Wherever you look in Bangladesh, there is nothing but greenery.' Do we still hear such things today? Whether in Dhaka or beyond, while there might be a few patches of green here and there, the lush, widespread greenery is no longer to be seen."

Accompanying him at the event were several ministers, state ministers, advisors, and senior officials, including Dr. Zubaida Rahman, wife of the Prime Minister. Among those present were Finance Minister Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury, Advisor for Finance and Planning Dr. Rashed Al Mahmud Titumir, and State Minister for Foreign Affairs (I) Humayun Kabir.

Bp/Sp