PM calls for religious unity to build 'Better Bangladesh'

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Sunday urged citizens of all religions to work together to create a prosperous, harmonious and inclusive “Better Bangladesh.”

The Prime Minister made the remarks during a goodwill reception at the Cabinet Division conference room at the Secretariat, held in celebration of Easter Sunday, one of the most significant festivals for the Christian community.

Prime Minister’s Additional Press Secretary Atikur Rahman Ruman said a delegation from the Christian community met the Prime Minister to exchange greetings and discuss national development.

“His Excellency exchanged greetings and wished the Christian community continued progress and prosperity,” Atikur Rahman Ruman said.

During the meeting, the Prime Minister highlighted his government’s commitment to religious harmony.

“We respect all religions equally. While faith belongs to the individual, the country belongs to everyone. People of all religions must come together to build a happy, prosperous, and inclusive Bangladesh,” he said.

Tarique Rahman also reflected on the 13th parliamentary election held on 12 February, noting that voters from all religious communities supported the BNP, disproving misconceptions that minority communities would not back the party.

He further described the challenging condition of the country when his government assumed office, citing a fragile economy, underdeveloped communication networks, and the energy crisis linked to the Israel-Iran conflict.

Leaders from the Christian community, including Reverend Asim Baroi, general secretary of the Bangladesh Bible Society, and Wing Commander (retd) Christopher M Adhikari of the Federation of Protestant Churches in Bangladesh, praised government initiatives such as the family card programme, farm loan waivers and special honorariums for religious leaders.

They also requested representation for Christians in reserved parliamentary seats and called for Easter Sunday to be declared a public holiday. The Prime Minister assured them that these demands would be given due consideration.

The delegation presented a commemorative crest to Prime Minister Tarique Rahman as a token of goodwill on Easter Sunday.