Prime Minister Tarique Rahman called for united efforts to build a happy and prosperous “Better Bangladesh,” urging people of all religions to work together.
“Let’s all work from our respective positions and unite to build a better Bangladesh. Regardless of religion and caste, everyone must come forward to build the country,” he said.
He made the remarks during a greetings exchange event with leaders of the Protestant Church at his Cabinet Division office in the Bangladesh Secretariat on the occasion of Easter Sunday.
According to Additional Press Secretary Atikur Rahman Ruman, a 13-member delegation led by Bishop Philip P Adhikari, President of the Federation of Protestant Churches in Bangladesh, met the prime minister and exchanged views.
During the meeting, the prime minister wished success and prosperity for the Christian community. Church leaders invited him to attend Christmas in advance and presented him with a commemorative crest.
Greeting the community, Tarique Rahman said, “We see people of all religions equally and love them the same way. Religion belongs to individuals, but the country belongs to all. It is the responsibility of people of all religions to move the country forward.”
Referring to recent elections, he said the belief that minorities do not support BNP has been proven wrong, as people from all religions voted for the party.
He also highlighted the challenges faced by the government after taking office, saying the country was in a fragile condition, with weak economic and communication sectors, comparing it to a war-affected situation.
The prime minister further noted that the ongoing conflict involving Iran, the United States and Israel has created additional pressure, especially in the energy sector, and mentioned steps taken by the government to manage fuel-related challenges.
At the event, Rev Ashim Baroi of the Bangladesh Bible Society and retired Wing Commander Christopher M Adhikari also spoke on behalf of the Christian community.
They praised several welfare initiatives of the government, including family cards, loan waivers up to Tk 10,000 for farmers, and allowances for religious figures such as imams, priests, and pastors.
Community leaders also called for representation of Christians in reserved seats for women in Parliament and recognition of Easter Sunday as a public holiday. They expressed willingness to work with the government as partners.
Paying tribute to former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, they said prayers were held for her in 7,000 churches and are now being offered daily for the current government.
The prime minister assured that the demands raised by the Christian community would be considered.
