NEW YORK, Sept 28 (UNB): BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has praised Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, saying he saw in his words the reflection of late President Ziaur Rahman's dream of a democratic, developed and corruption-free Bangladesh.
"Two days ago, at a US-Bangladesh business forum, when our respected and globally respected Professor Yunus was speaking, I repeatedly felt as if I was listening to Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, the proclaimer of our country's independence," he said.
Speaking at the NRB Connect Day in New York on Saturday evening (US time), Fakhrul said late President Ziaur Rahman, also the founder of BNP, always dreamt of building a democratic, prosperous and corruption-free Bangladesh. "All of those words seemed to come out through Professor Yunus' speech on that day."
"One thing we must always remember is that we have to dream. The dreams that Professor Yunus has envisioned must be carried forward, and I believe we will also be able to move ahead with the dreams that Tarique Rahman has envisioned.
What we need most is political commitment - we must have that trust and determination within us," the BNP leader told his audience.
He hailed the contributions of Bangladeshis living abroad, including those in the Middle East, and women in the garment sector, for supporting the development of Bangladesh.
Fakhrul reminded that it was Ziaur Rahman who explored overseas labour markets by sending Bangladeshi workers to the Middle East and also opened a new chapter by developing the garment sector, creating jobs for many women.
Meanwhile, BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Sunday urged the law enforcement agencies to remain alert so that, unlike during the past fascist regime, no attempt is made to create communal tensions or disrupt security during the celebration of Durga Puja.
In a video message marking Durga Puja, the biggest religious festival of the Hindu community, he also said every citizen should play an appropriate role in protecting the safety and dignity of fellow citizens.
"From Sunday, one of the main religious festivals of the Hindu community, Sharadiya Durga Puja, will begin. On this occasion, I extend my greetings to the Hindu community of the country," the BNP leader said.
He said people of all faiths in Bangladesh have been practising their religions and celebrating their respective festivals with great enthusiasm and harmony for generations. "This represents the eternal religious and social values and cultural beauty of Bangladesh."
The BNP leader said the bond of friendship, fraternity and harmony among people of different faiths and communities reflects Bangladesh's long tradition of coexistence.
He said the country's constitution guarantees the security of all citizens, irrespective of faith or ideology. "So, ensuring the security of every citizen of Bangladesh is the responsibility of the state."
