Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon has said that the trajectory of Bangladesh’s history, politics and statecraft is shaped by the opinions of its people.
He said the country’s future will be built on the experiences, struggles, history and aspirations of the people. According to him, the voice of the people will break all artificial narratives and strengthen democracy, national unity and the state’s forward march.
The minister made the remarks while speaking as the chief guest at a discussion titled “Implementation of the July Charter for rebuilding the country,” organised by Amar Bangladesh at the Institution of Diploma Engineers, Bangladesh in the capital on Saturday.
He said the people of Bangladesh have built a distinct national identity based on their own history, language, culture and values. The country’s uniqueness and Bangladeshi nationalism are rooted in its historical and social reality.
Referring to late President Ziaur Rahman, he said Zia gave political shape to the distinct identity of the people through Bangladeshi nationalism, which blends linguistic, cultural, ethnic and religious heritage and remains a key foundation of the country’s political thought.
On regional and international relations, the minister said all policymaking must prioritise Bangladesh’s national interest.
He stressed strengthening regional cooperation through SAARC and enhancing the country’s position within the United Nations framework.
He also noted the importance of making SAARC more effective to harness the potential of more than 2.2 billion people in South Asia.
The discussion was chaired by Syed Ehsanul Huda. Economist Professor Mahbubullah attended as the chief discussant. Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment State Minister Nurul Haque Nur, MP Shahadat Hossain Salim, Revolutionary Workers Party General Secretary Saiful Haque, and BNP leader Rashed Khan were present as special guests.
Speakers at the event emphasised the spirit of the July mass uprising, democratic values and collective efforts to build a state system based on national interest.