Prestigious award for Dr. Atiur

Bangladesh Bank Governor Dr. Atiur Rahman received the 'Central Banker of the Year 2015' award from the Asia-Pacific region for stimulating growth and stabilising economy. Editor of the London-based The Financial Times-owned publication The Banker, Brian Caplen presented the award at a ceremony held in the House of Lords on Friday. The ceremony was chaired by Lord Sheikh who stated in his introductory speech, 'I'm sure that Dr. Atiur Rahman is worthy recipient of this award. The award is a clear recognition of his remarkable contributions towards the poorer segments of the population. Previously, the farmers were not able to reach the financial markets, but Dr. Rahman, through his work, has managed to stimulate them for a financially inclusive society.'

The Banker editor Brian Caplen said:

'What impressed the editors of The Banker about Dr. Rahman's performance was not only that he has done the basic things we expect from a central bank governor which is to keep an eye on inflation and provide stable economic conditions on a good financial system- not only those things. But he has actually done some rather unique and interesting things for central bank in terms of contributing something to the social good in Bangladesh.'

A panel discussion was held after the award giving ceremony followed by Q & A. This was conducted by Stefania Palma who is the Asia Editor of The Banker. The programme ended with comments from distinguished guests present at the ceremony. Bangladesh High Commissioner to the United Kingdom Md. Abdul Hannan mentioned:

'Dr. Rahman made a critical balance between the monetary policy and fiscal policy. He has effectively internalized the vision of social inclusiveness.'

According to Rushanara Ali, MP, 'Atiur Rahman's work has quite effectively demonstrated how central banks can play a key role in promoting socially responsible financing.' She also believes, 'Bangladesh can be a role model of inclusive socio-economic development.'

In her speech, Baroness Paula Uddin stated: 'Bangladesh is obviously a success story and this recognition indicates that the country is doing really well.'

Leading bankers, economists, politicians and media personalities were also present at the ceremony.

Bulbul Hasan

London.

bulbulbdf@yahoo.com