Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s wife Dr Zubaida Rahman on Sunday expressed hope that Bangladesh will become a safe and dignified place for all women and girls.

“Bangladesh will be a country where every woman and girl will be safe, respected and have the opportunity for a bright future,” she said.

She made the remarks while speaking as a special guest at a programme marking International Women’s Day 2026 and the ‘Shreshtho Odommo Nari’ (Outstanding Indomitable Women) award ceremony.

President Mohammad Shahabuddin attended the event as the chief guest.

Quoting a widely known statement of the United Nations, Dr Zubaida said, “When women move forward, a nation also moves forward.”

She said International Women’s Day 2026 should be observed as a renewed commitment to building a society based on equality, dignity and justice.

On the occasion, she paid deep tribute to martyred President Ziaur Rahman and highlighted his contribution to establishing multi-party democracy in the country.

Saying that the greatest strength of a human being is determination and resilience, Zubaida Rahman said that despite immense oppression and injustice, Khaleda Zia remained uncompromising, patient, and steadfast.

She added that Khaleda Zia’s life offers important lessons about women’s resilience and courage in leadership.

Referring to BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia as an indomitable symbol of the country’s democratic journey, Dr. Zubaida Rahman said Khaleda Zia’s heart has always wept for the oppressed and persecuted people of the country, and her thunderous voice has consistently spoken out against autocracy and exploitation.

She described her as a mother, a fighter, and a strong voice for justice—someone who serves as a guiding inspiration for people who believe in democracy.

State Minister for Women and Children Affairs Farzana Sharmin, Resident Representative of the UNDP, Bangladesh Stefan Liller, members of the cabinet and parliament, award recipients and their representatives were present at the event.

The President handed over awards to six women for their outstanding contributions.

Barrister Zaima Rahman, granddaughter of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, received the award on behalf of Khaleda Zia for her contributions to women’s education and the advancement of democracy.