PM attributes development to continued democratic process

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has said the development of today’s Bangladesh has only been possible as the democratic trend has been continuing for 13 consecutive years.

“Today, you (people) have been seeing a changed Bangladesh for last 13 years which has only been possible because of continuation of democratic process in the country and Awami League was in power during the period,” she said.

The premier made this remarks while addressing a civic reception accorded to her by expatriate Bangladeshis on Friday during her official visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

She joined the event virtually from her place of residence in Abu Dhabi, while Bangladeshi community people were connected from three venues -- Bangladesh Consulate in Dubai, Abu Dhabi Theatre and Bangladesh English Private School and College in Ras Al Khaimah.

Mentioning that Bangladesh is marching forward and none would be able to take it back anymore, Sheikh Hasina said, “There was a black chapter in the country after 1975...  But the dark cloud has gone. We’re taking Bangladesh forward following the ideology of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.”

Noting that earlier a problem was created during the Covid-19 period, she said now there is another fresh problem arising due to a war situation between Ukraine and Russia.

“So, we are passing through another abnormal situation. Fuel prices are going up and various problems are seen in the international arena. We’re also facing some problems. But I believe that we can be able to tackle it in Bangladesh,” she said.

The prime minister asked the Bangladeshi expatriates to tell their families and relatives not to leave any piece of land uncultivated to have food autarky even in case of any global food crisis.

She added that, “If we can do so, we will not face any difficulty, no matter how economic recession and food deficit is there across the world.”

Highlighting the development of the country, Sheikh Hasina said there is no scope for anyone to stay unemployed in the country unless he/she wishes to remain. “If anyone takes a little initiative, the person would not remain unemployed,” she added.

About her visit to the UAE, the head of the government said she had talks with UAE Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and some MoUs were signed between the two countries. “I think my visit has been very fruitful,” she said.

She urged the overseas job seekers never to go abroad through illegal channels, and take loans from Probashi Kallyan Bank to go abroad, not selling home and land.

The premier called upon the Bangladesh expatriates to follow the rules and laws in the foreign lands to uphold the image of Bangladesh. “You have to protect your own dignity, ensure your own security, and uphold the dignity of both home and host countries,” she said.

Talking about demands placed by the expatriates, she said the government has taken steps to ensure prompt passport services for them, and to strengthen surveillance by installing more CCTV cameras in the airport to ease their harassment there.

Sheikh Hasina said when several flights land at a time, some problems over luggage delivery services are seen in the airport.

Noting that the government is constructing the third terminal of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, she said once the construction was completed, the luggage handling problems would be over.

During the function, the prime minister virtually unveiled the foundation stone of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Building of Bangladesh English Private School and Collage.

Expatriate's Welfare and Overseas Employment Minister Imran Ahmad also spoke at the event, while Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen, Commerce Minister Tipu Munshi, Prime Minister's Private Industry and Investment Adviser Salman F Rahman, and State Minister for Women Affairs Fazilatun Nessa Indira, among others, remained connected with the virtual event from the three venues.

Three expatriates, including a college girl, also spoke at the event moderated by Bangladesh Ambassador to the UAE Mohammed Abu Zafar.