MCCI anniversary celebrations kick off

The Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI), Dhaka, stages a gala event today (Saturday) to round off the two-day celebration marking its 110th founding anniversary.
Renowned scientist and 11th President of India Dr. A.P.J Abdul Kalam would grace the occasion as keynote speaker at today's function, said the chamber leaders.
Distinguished guests from home and abroad are expected to be present at its main celebration events, to be held at the Bangabandhu International Conference Centre (BICC) in the city.
Finance Minister AMA Muhith will be present at the programme as the chief guest while Industries Minister Amir Hossain Amu and Commerce Minister Tofail Ahmed as special guests.
The trade body will also host a 'gala evening celebration' at the same venue, culminating into a cultural show, according to the programme schedule of the chamber.
The two-day celebrations began Friday with a host of events.
The MCCI began its journey in 1904 when Narayanganj Chamber of Commerce, the first modern chamber of its kind in the
Eastern Bengal and Assam province, was established in the then key commercial trading centre under the British Empire. The chamber segued into today's MCCI in 1979.
Since its inception, the Chamber has been operating as a non-profit and non-trade body. By now, the MCCI has earned reputation for its positive roles in serving the interest of businesses in and beyond Bangladesh.
Having pro-growth policies, the MCCI has been playing a pivotal role in influencing decision-makers and shaping policies and creating congenial environment for businesses.
More than 300 companies, representing most of the sectors of Bangladesh, including multinationals, are affiliated with MCCI.
At present, it represents on 16 advisory committees of the government, ranging from exports and consultative committees of industries, commerce, communications, jute, textiles, power ministries, Chittagong Port, Customs House, the National Board of Revenue, Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institution and Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission.
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