Marking International Women’s Day, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam, on Sunday paid tribute to the “Mother of Democracy,” former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, recalling her groundbreaking initiatives in advancing female education. She also highlighted the legacy of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman in expanding women’s participation in the workforce and establishing the Women Affairs entity.

Highlighting the new government’s initiatives under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, the State Minister outlined several planned measures, including the Family and Farmers Card programmes, enhanced support for women entrepreneurs, free education for girls up to the postgraduate level, expanded healthcare facilities, and efforts to increase women’s participation in the formal economy.

She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to addressing violence against women and girls, emphasizing strengthened measures to prevent and respond to such incidents.

Bangladesh joined the global community in observing International Women’s Day, recognising the achievements, resilience, and contributions of women across all sectors of society.

As part of the celebration, the State Minister hosted an Iftar reception at the Pan Pacific Sonargaon Hotel in Dhaka, attended primarily by women, including diplomats, politicians, government officials, civil society leaders, and distinguished guests from diverse fields.

The State Minister paid tribute to Bangladeshi women—from the pioneers of the 1971 War of Liberation to the leaders, professionals, educators, and entrepreneurs who continue to drive the nation’s development.

British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Sarah Cooke and UN Women Country Representative Gitanjali Singh also addressed the gathering, highlighting the importance of global partnerships and collaborative efforts in advancing women’s rights and gender equality.

Among the attendees was Barrister Zaima Rahman, daughter of the Prime Minister.

Participants marked this year’s theme, “Rights. Justice. Action. For All Women and Girls,” underscoring the need to remove barriers to justice and ensure equal opportunities for women and girls everywhere.