United News of Bangladesh

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Saturday shared a personal story involving Fatema Begum, a domestic worker who had long served his late mother Khaleda Zia, saying she has now become a member of their family. “Many of you may be familiar with a name — Fatema. This woman was also in jail with my mother when she was ill. She has been with her for a long time, for many years, and has now become a member of our family,” he said. Tarique, the eldest son of former prime minister Khaleda Zia, was speaking at the Upazila Health and Family Planning Officers (UHFPO) Conference-2026 at the Osmani Memorial Auditorium. The Health Services Division under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare organised the conference, with over 500 UHFPOs from across the country taking part. The Prime Minister also handed awards to the best-performing officers in six categories. Referring to a recent incident, Tarique said a relative of Fatema recently faced complications during delivery at her home in Barishal and was taken to a local hospital. “After being taken to the Barishal hospital doctors mentioned various complications and immediately decided to refer her to Dhaka,” he said. The Prime Minister said he later learned from his wife that even some basic treatment could not be provided at the local level. “They sent her to Dhaka right away. Fatema informed my wife and she spoke to a few people. As a result, her relative managed to receive better treatment,” he added. He expressed concern saying such support is not available to everyone. “But the question is, not everyone is Fatema, and not everyone is related to her. Because of that connection, my wife came to know about the matter and took care of it. The baby was born, though unwell, but the situation was somehow managed,” he said. The Prime Minister noted that many complications could have been avoided if those responsible at the hospital had been more attentive. “If those on duty had been a bit more careful and caring, many of the problems could have been avoided—if not all, at least a significant number,” he said. He urged healthcare professionals to be more responsible and compassionate in their duties. “As a citizen of this country, I request you to support us and support the government so that no one needs to depend on personal connections like Fatema’s case. Every person should be able to receive at least basic healthcare services,” Tarique said. Calling for a more humane and accountable healthcare system, he urged all concerned to work together to ensure fair and effective service delivery across the country.

The first session of the 13th Parliament on Thursday unanimously adopted a condolence motion expressing profound grief at the death of three-time Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, 31 former lawmakers and several other eminent personalities. Former President AQM Badruddoza Chowdhury was among 31 ex-parliamentarians. Other noted personalities included former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Head of the Catholic Church Pope Francis (Jorge Mario Bergoglio) and Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. ​​​​​​​PM Tarique calls for meaningful parliament, constructive debate The motion was moved by newly elected Speaker Major (Retd.) Hafiz Uddin Ahmed. The other ex-parliamentarians also include BNP’s Farhad Ahmed Chowdhury (Kishoreganj-4) and Nadim Mostafa (Rajshahi-4), Workers Party’s Shahidullah Shahid (Thakurgaon-3), Lutfun Nesa Hossain (Reserved Women’s Seat-6), Mahbubur Rahman (Patuakhali-4), Mostafizur Rahman (Dinajpur-5), Deputy Leader of Parliament Matia Chowdhury (Sherpur-2), BNP’s Shahiduzzaman Beltu, (Jhenaidah-4). Besides,  BNP Chairperson’s Adviser Rozi Kabir (Reserved Women’s Seat-8), SM Akram (Narayanganj-5), BNP’s SA Khalek (Dhaka-11),  Sector Commander and second Chief of Army Staff of Bangladesh KM Shafiullah, Bir Uttam, (Narayanganj-1), BNP’s Abdul Momin Talukder (Bogura-3), BNP’s Abdullah Al Noman (Chattogram-9), Nazim Uddin Ahmed (Lakshmipur-1) and Col (retd) M. Anwarul Azim (Cumilla-10). Hafiz Uddin Ahmed elected Speaker, Kayser Kamal Deputy Speaker of 13th Parliament Former President of Gono Forum Mostafa Mohsin Montu (Dhaka-3) and BNP’s Abdul Mannan Talukder (Sirajganj-3), Iftikhar Uddin Talukder Pintu (Netrokona-3) and Hafez Ruhul Amin Madani (Mymensingh-7) were among the ex-MPs. The other ex-MPs are BNP’s Borhan Uddin (Noakhali-6), BNP’s Motiar Rahman Talukder (Barguna-3), Nur Afroz Ali (Reserved Women’s Seat-14), Abdul Karim Khandker (Pabna-2), Sukumar Ranjan Ghosh (Munshiganj-1), Jatiya Party’s former minister and BNP’s former MP Major General (Retd.) Mahmudul Hasan (Tangail-5), former minister Ramesh Chandra Sen (Thakurgaon-1), Abdul Mannan Khan (Dhaka-1), BNP’s Mia Abdullah Wazed (Brahmanbaria-4) and Joaherul Islam (Tangail-8), Saleha Khatun (Reserve seat-30), Salahuddin Quader Chowdhury, Chowdhury Kamal Ibne Yousuf and Nasiruddin Ahmed Pintu. The Parliament also expressed deep grief at the demise of those who sacrificed their lives in the long 17-year struggle from 2007 to August 05, 2024 for ensuring voting rights, democracy, the rule of law, justice and human rights. It also recalled with respect former BNP lawmaker M Ilias Ali and BNP leader Sajedul Islam Sumon and others who were victim of enforced disappearance and killings in the time. The Speaker described 2024 as the milestone for the struggle to establish democracy for the people of Bangladesh. Besides, the House expressed profound shock at the demise of July Uprising martyrs including Abu Sayed, Mir Mahfuzur Rahman Mugdho, Shahariar Khan Anas, Mehedi Hasan Junayed and Farhan Faiyaz. The Parliament mourned the death of students in the Uttara Milestone school air crash on July 21, 2025, including school teacher and Independence Award 2026 recipient (posthumously) Maherin Chowdhury, the death of army officers in the 2009 Pilkhana carnage and the loss of lives of those who were killed during  the 2013 Shapla Chattor Hefazat rally. The names of former Jamaat MPs Motiur Rahman Nizami, Ali Ahsan Mohammad Mojaheed and Delwar Hossain Sayeedi, among others, were included in the condolence motion on request. During the halfway of placement of the condolence motion, Chief Whip Nurul Islam Moni requested the Speaker to include the names of former Jamaat MPs Motiur Rahman Nizami, Ali Ahsan Mohammad Mojaheed and Delwar Hossain Sayeedi as well as some others including former BNP MP Mashiur Rahman (Jhenaidah-2) in the motion. At this stage, Leader of the Opposition Dr Md Shafiqur Rahman took the floor and said some names were dropped from the motion. He requested the Speaker to give the floor to Deputy Opposition Leader Dr Syed Abdullah Mohammed Taher to propose the dropped-out names. Then Dr Taher said it is unfortunate that the condolence motion was prepared as one-sided one. “If we want the Parliament to be neutral and vibrant, we need to be more careful on these issues,” he said. Noting the names of those ‘who were ministers and very important personalities in the past remain’ out of the motion, he proposed some names including Motiur Rahman Nizami, Ali Ahsan Mohammad Mojaheed, Delwar Hossain Sayeedi, Moulana Abdus Sobhan, AKM Yousuf, Muhammad Kamaruzzaman, Abdul Quader Mollah and Mir Quasem Ali for inclusion in the condolence motion. Later, Opposition Chief Whip Md Nahid Islam requested the Speaker to include the names of Sharif Osman Bin Hadi (Osman Hadi), Abrar Fahad and Felani Khatun (a 15-year-old Bangladeshi girl who was shot and killed by the Indian BSF in 2011) in the motion. The Speaker incorporated all the names placed by the Chief Whip, the Deputy Opposition Leader and the Opposition Chief Whip. A one-minute silence was observed and a munajat offered seeking eternal peace for the departed souls. Religious Affairs Minister Kazi Shah Mofazzal Houssain (Kaikobad) conducted the Munajat. The condolence motion was adopted by a voice vote following two separate discussions on the death of Khaleda Zia and sacrifice of July martyrs.   BNP Secretary General and LGRD Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed, State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Aninda Islam Amit (Jashore-3), BJP chairman Andaleeve Rahman (Bhola-1) and Jamaat MP ATM Azharul Islam (Rangpur-2) participated in the discussion on Khaleda Zia. They highlighted the contribution and sacrifice of Khaleda Zia to Bangladesh and democracy during her 43 year-long political career. Water Resource Minister Md. Shahiduddin Chowdhury Anee, BNP MP Goyasawar Chandra Roy, Opposition Chief Whip Nahid Islam and State Minister for Planning Md. Zonayed Abdur Rahim Saki joined the discussion on the July martyrs. Mirza Fakhrul described Khaleda Zia as a courageous leader and visionary stateswoman who never compromised on the issues of democracy or the country’s independence and sovereignty throughout her political life. “In her 43 years of political life, she never compromised on the issue of democracy. She never compromised on the issue of the sovereignty and independence of Bangladesh. And that was her greatest achievement that inspires the people of Bangladesh,” he said. Salahuddin Ahmed said Khaleda Zia actually took oath as the Prime Minister four times – Twice in 1991 (first during the presidential system and the second after introduction of parliamentary system), once in 1996 and again in 2001. Noting that Khaleda Zia never lost election in any constituency, the Minister said, “Whenever she contested, no matter from how many constituencies, in the election, she was elected everywhere.” Salahuddin said she was recognised by the people of Bangladesh as ‘Deshanetri’ (the Leader of the Country) and mother of democracy for her unprecedented sacrifices in different democratic movements including the anti-autocratic movement and anti-fascism struggle. Nahid Islam demanded justice for the killings during the July uprising, enforced disappearances and past incidents of corruption and plunder, saying the spirit of July represents a democratic, inclusive and fascism-free Bangladesh.

Former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia will be honoured with the ‘Indomitable Woman of Democracy’ award by the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs, on the occasion of International Women’s Day 2026. The award recognizes her remarkable efforts and fearless leadership in restoring and strengthening democracy in Bangladesh. The award will be presented during the International Women’s Day celebration at Osmani Memorial Hall in Dhaka on March 8, according to a ministry press release. The recognition highlights her fearless leadership and unwavering efforts in establishing democratic practices in the country. Like previous years, this year five women will be honored as ‘Indomitable Women’ across five categories. Others include Nurun Nahar Akter for achievements in the economy, Mosammat Bobita Khatun in education and employment, Nur Banu Kabir as a successful mother, Mosammat Shamla Begum for overcoming adversity, and Mosammat Afroza Yasmin for her exceptional contributions to social development.

BNP Standing Committee member Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury on Saturday said former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia was a unique example of uncompromising politics. “When many compromised in difficult political realities or stepped aside under pressure, Begum Khaleda Zia never compromised for a moment—from the beginning to the end,” he said while addressing a civic mourning meeting in memory of Khaleda Zia at the International Convention Hall in the port city. After entering politics, Khosru said, Khaleda Zia spent most of her life in political movements, often outside of power.  “Although she was in power for only 10 to 11 years, she remained on the streets for nearly 30 years, continuing her struggle for democracy without compromise.” Drawing comparisons with world leaders, Amir Khosru, also a BNP candidate for the Chattogram-11 constituency, said Khaleda Zia’s sacrifices stood alongside those of leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela, who remained uncompromising throughout their lives. “Although we could not fully understand the depth of her sacrifice during her lifetime, after her death we have realised how deeply she had made a place in the hearts of the people of Bangladesh,” he said. Amir Khosru said Khaleda Zia lit the torch of democracy through her lifelong struggle and has now handed over that responsibility to Tarique Rahman. “This torch is extremely valuable, and we all must carry it forward,” he added. Referring to the upcoming election scheduled for the 12th, Amir Khosru said the struggle for democracy might become more difficult in the post-election period. “Many may think life will become easier after the election, but it will not. The fight for democracy does not end here. The post-election phase may be even more challenging,” he said, calling for unity to uphold Begum Khaleda Zia’s ideals. The meeting, chaired by Chattogram City Corporation Mayor Dr Shahadat Hossain, recalled the political life and contributions of Khaleda Zia. Mayor Dr Shahadat Hossain said the country must follow the path shown by Khaleda Zia to move forward. “Her contributions to democracy, rule of law, justice and fundamental rights will inspire future generations,” he said. Indian Assistant High Commissioner Dr Rajeev Ranjan said Khaleda Zia was a rare symbol of determination and unwavering faith in leadership. “As the first female Prime Minister of Bangladesh, she achieved a unique place in history. She was a visionary statesman committed to democratic values and public service,” he said. Consul General of Turkey Salauddin Kashem Khan, Vice-Chancellor of Chattogram Medical University Prof Dr Omar Faruk Yusuf, Principal of Chattogram Medical College Prof Dr Jashim Uddin, former principals Prof Dr Imran Bin Yunus and Prof Dr Siddique Ahmed Chowdhury, Premier University VC Prof Dr Nasrul Qadir, East Delta University VC Prof Dr Nazim Uddin, BNP Joint Organising Secretary and Chattogram-5 candidate Barrister Mir Mohammed Helal Uddin, Bangladesh Federal Union of Journalists (BFUJ) Secretary General Quader Gani Chowdhury, among others, spoke at the event.  

In a gesture of respect and bilateral solidarity, both Houses of the Indian Parliament - Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha - paid solemn homage to the former Prime Minister of Bangladesh and former Chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party Begum Khaleda Zia. The Parliament recalled her historic tenure as the first woman Prime Minister of Bangladesh and her contributions to the development of Bangladesh-India relations. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with the Members of both the Houses of Parliament, observed a moment of silence to honour her memory and extended deep condolences to the bereaved family and the people of Bangladesh. The Rajya Sabha on Wednesday paid tribute to Bangladesh's former prime minister Khaleda Zia, besides erstwhile members of the upper house of the Indian parliament, L Ganesan and Suresh Kalmadi, who also passed away recently. Soon after the house met for the day and before the laying of papers, Rajya Sabha Chairman CP Radhakrishnan read out the obituary references for Khaleda Zia and the two former members, according to the Press Trust of India. The house stood in silence as a mark of respect for the departed. Later, the chairman said the Secretary General will convey to members of the beloved families our sense of deep sorrow and deep sympathy. Reading out the reference for Begum Zia, he said, “I refer with profound sorrow to the passing away of Begum Khaleda Zia, former prime minister of Bangladesh and chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party”. Begum Khaleda Zia passed away on December 30, 2025, after a prolonged illness. “She was the first woman prime minister of Bangladesh and served in the office three times between 1991 and 2006. She also served as the leader of the Opposition from 1996 to 2001. Begum Khaleda Zia made important contributions to the development of Bangladesh and to Indo-Bangladesh bilateral relations,” the chairman said. “The house joins the beloved family, the government and the people of Bangladesh in mourning the passing away of her excellency Begum Khaleda Zia,” Radhakrishnan said. He also referred to the demise of L Ganesan, who passed away on January 4, 2026, at the age of 91 years. He served as a member of the Rajya Sabha, representing Tamil Nadu, from June 1980 to April 1986. He was born on April 4, 1934, in the Thanjavur district of Tamil Nadu.

The Rajya Sabha of India will hold obituary references on Wednesday to pay tributes to several distinguished personalities, including former Bangladesh Prime Minister and Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia. According to the official List of Business of the Upper House of India, the obituary references will be taken up half an hour after the conclusion of the President’s Address to a joint sitting of Parliament. Besides Khaleda Zia, the House will also pay homage to former Rajya Sabha members Shri L. Ganesan and Shri Suresh Kalmadi. Earlier in the session, the Secretary-General will lay on the table a copy of the President’s Address, in both English and Hindi, delivered to both Houses of Parliament assembled together on January 28. Khaleda Zia’s grace, sense of dignity were truly admirable: Nurul Kabir Khaleda Zia, a three-time Prime Minister of Bangladesh, significantly shaped the country’s politics and democracy, influencing its regional relations, including with India. The List of Business was issued by Rajya Sabha Secretary-General P. C. Mody on January 27.

Solaiman Chowdhury Shihab, joint convener of Islamic University's (IU) Chhatra Dal unit, has filed a penal case against Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami nominated candidate Mufti Amir Hamza over alleged defamatory remarks. The complaint alleges that during a Waz Mahfil, Amir Hamza mocked the late Arafat Rahman Koko, son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, and made offensive comments about Khaleda Zia’s imprisonment. Shihab said he saw videos of the remarks on social media on January 16. The petition requests the court to issue a summons or arrest warrant under sections 500, 501, and 502 of the Penal Code. Advocate Abdul Majid, the petitioner’s lawyer, said the court has taken the case under consideration and scheduled a hearing for February 1. Pickup–Nasimon collision in Kushtia leaves one dead When contacted regarding the case, Mufti Amir Hamza’s personal assistant Abu Bakar said they have not yet received any notice from the court. “Once a notice is served, we will take appropriate legal action,” he added. Earlier, Amir Hamza had claimed on his verified Facebook page that he had received death threats. In the post, he urged followers to care for his three daughters in his absence and pledged to continue his fight for justice in Kushtia.

Dhaka, Jan 16 (UNB)— Law Adviser Asif Nazrul on Friday said former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia was unjustly convicted in what he described as the most disgraceful and farcical trial in Bangladesh’s history, referring to the Zia Orphanage Trust corruption case. Addressing a condolence meeting held at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban, Asif Nazrul termed the Zia Orphanage Trust case against Khaleda Zia a “sham and disgraceful judgment” in the country’s judicial history. He recalled an incident from the trial, saying a defence lawyer had asked Khaleda Zia whether she had misappropriated orphan funds.  “Hurt and astonished, Khaleda Zia repeated the question—‘Did I embezzle orphan money?’ The court treated this as her statement and convicted her on that basis. As a student of law, I can say with certainty that there cannot be a more disgraceful trial than this,” the law adviser said. Khaleda Zia’s grace, sense of dignity were truly admirable: Nurul Kabir Asif Nazrul noted that there was a time when hardly anyone dared to speak out in support of the BNP or against the injustice done to Khaleda Zia. While searching for statements protesting the unfair trial, he said, only four people at home and abroad could be persuaded to issue statements. “I am talking about a time when it was almost impossible to find people willing to stand by Khaleda Zia,” he added, noting that the situation has since changed. Asif Nazrul further said Khaleda Zia has found a permanent place in the hearts of the people, while ousted former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has been relegated to a place of rejection. Asif Nazrul remarked that Bangladesh would prosper only if the country is envisioned in the way Khaleda Zia had envisioned it. “Khaleda Zia is no more. Now the biggest concern is what Bangladesh will look like in the days ahead. If we want a better Bangladesh, we must uphold Khaleda Zia, follow her ideals and run the country in that spirit.” Thanking the fighters of the July uprising, the adviser said people in the country are now able to express their opinions freely, without obstruction in expressing either love or dissent. Khaleda Zia’s legacy honoured in Washington National Press Club BNP Chairperson Tarique Rahman and his family members were present at the programme. Senior leaders, including members of the BNP Standing Committee, also attended the condolence meeting. Eminent citizens from the media, business community and various professional groups spoke at the event, recalling Khaleda Zia’s memories and paying tribute to her.

President of the Editors’ Council Nurul Kabir on Friday said former Prime Minister and ex-BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia consistently stood out in Bangladesh’s political landscape for her grace, decency, restraint and strong sense of self-respect. “Khaleda Zia created a unique example in Bangladeshi politics through her refined conduct, decency, moderation, dignity and restraint, which always impressed me,” he said while addressing a citizens’ condolence meeting organised in memory of Khaleda Zia at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban. Reflecting on her centrist and democratic political approach, Nurul Kabir said that although he was never directly involved with BNP’s political strategies, he had always supported the party’s democratic ideals. Highlighting her restraint amid personal suffering, the veteran journalist said, “Despite the oppression, persecution and hardships she and her family endured, no one has ever heard her utter words of condemnation. Such restraint is undoubtedly rare.” Civic condolence over Khaleda’s passing on Friday Recalling an incident from the night of March 25, 1971, Nurul Kabir said that when Bengali officers were preparing to take up arms against Pakistani commanders, a Pakistani Subedar Major under then Major Ziaur Rahman attempted to break open an arms cache and open fire on Bengali officers. “It was Khaleda Zia who stopped him. She was an ordinary housewife at the time, yet her courage saved the lives of many Bengali officers that night.” He stressed that her bravery should not be underestimated, noting that without her courageous intervention in the early hours of the war, many Bengali officers might have lost their lives. “It could even have affected Ziaur Rahman’s historic declaration of independence on March 26.” Addressing BNP leaders and activists, Nurul Kabir urged them not to take any action that would dishonour Khaleda Zia’s ideals. “Do nothing that would make people say Khaleda Zia was fortunate to have passed away and not lived to witness such days.” He called upon BNP to continue its democratic journey and actively participate in building a beautiful and democratic Bangladesh.

Leaders of 18 leading business bodies on Monday paid glowing tributes to former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia, recalling her decisive role in strengthening democracy and steering Bangladesh towards economic progress. The remarks came from a memorial and doa mehfil titled ‘Memorial and Doa Mehfil for Late Begum Khaleda Zia’, organised by the International Chamber of Commerce Bangladesh (ICC Bangladesh) at a city hotel in the afternoon. Special prayers were offered seeking eternal peace for her departed soul. Speakers at the mehfil said Khaleda Zia’s leadership marked a turning point for the country, as Bangladesh not only safeguarded democratic values but also embarked on a sustained journey of economic advancement under her stewardship. CA’s condolence message on Khaleda’s death handed over to Tarique ICC Bangladesh President Mahbubur Rahman, speaking at the doa mehfil, said Khaleda Zia’s initiatives in democratic reform and poverty reduction were ‘unparalleled’, mentioning that her policies laid a strong foundation for private sector growth and national development. Referring to the USD 500 million KAFCO fertiliser project undertaken with Japan, Denmark and the Netherlands during BNP’s second term in office, he said the country’s GDP had strengthened significantly at the time, while Bangladesh made notable progress in attracting foreign investment. “Bangladesh reached a unique height in privatisation under Khaleda Zia’s leadership. Through this single initiative, the country’s name reached the global economy,” Mahbubur Rahman said. Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) President Taskeen Ahmed said the new generation of business leaders wanted to move Bangladesh’s economy forward towards prosperity under the leadership of Khaleda Zia’s son, Tarique Rahman. Business organisations are committed to cooperating with him, he added. Bangladesh Association of Banks (BAB) President Abdul Hai Sarker said Khaleda Zia’s most distinctive quality was that she spoke less and listened more. “She listened attentively to businesspeople and made decisions based on fairness and her own judgment.” Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA) President Mohammad Hatem said the journey of prosperity in Bangladesh’s garment sector had begun under Khaleda Zia’s leadership. “She (Khaleda) thought about the country and its people throughout her life. I consider myself fortunate to have attended the janaza of former President Ziaur Rahman and, similarly, to have been able to attend Khaleda Zia’s janaza as well,” he added. Khaleda Zia a unique figure in Bangladesh’s democratic journey: Moyeen Khan Bangladesh Association of Pharmaceutical Industries (BAPI) President Abdul Muktadir said the liberalisation that helped develop Bangladesh’s pharmaceutical sector was largely driven by BNP and Khaleda Zia. The mehfil began with a one-minute silence to pay tribute to Khaleda Zia and to mourn her death. From the BNP, party Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir and Standing Committee members Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury and Abdul Moyeen Khan were present at the event. Leaders and top representatives of several other business bodies, including the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI), Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI), Chittagong Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI), Bangladesh Chamber of Industries (BCI), Bangladesh Insurance Association (BIA), Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), Bangladesh Textile Mills Association (BTMA), Leathergoods and Footwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association of Bangladesh (LFMEAB), Bangladesh Association of Publicly Listed Companies (BAPLC), Bangladesh Semiconductor Industry Association (BSIA), Bangladesh Cement Manufacturers Association (BCMA) and the Association of Bankers, Bangladesh (ABB) attended the programme.