Minister of Information and Broadcasting Zahir Uddin Swapan has called for stronger regional unity among South Asian nations, emphasising that cooperation should extend beyond narrow national populations to encompass nearly 2.2 billion people across SAARC member states.
Speaking at a discussion titled “Implementation of July Charter in Rebuilding the Nation” held at the Muktijoddha Auditorium of the Institution of Diploma Engineers in Dhaka on Saturday, the minister said efforts should not be limited to uniting smaller population groups such as 140 million or 20 million people, but should instead focus on building solidarity across the entire South Asian region.
He further remarked that individuals or groups who do not support such a broader vision of regional unity should be viewed with caution, underscoring the importance he placed on inclusive cooperation among SAARC countries.
The event, organised by the group “Amra Bangladeshi,” also featured remarks on national identity, political direction and regional relations. Swapan stated that Bangladesh must clearly identify its true friends and long-term development partners, noting that the organization behind the event was formed with similar objectives. He added that “Amra Bangladeshi” may formally begin its activities on 5 August 2026, marking the anniversary of a mass uprising.
Economist Mahbub Ullah, speaking as keynote discussant, urged scrutiny of the motives behind the idea of an “Undivided India,” while stressing that national unity remains essential and public discourse should remain respectful and responsible.
In his presidential remarks, Syed Ehsanul Huda of “Amra Bangladeshi” reiterated the group’s commitment to Bangladesh-first nationalism and referenced the ideological framework of Bangladeshi nationalism associated with Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman. He also raised concerns over reported killings of Bangladeshi citizens along the India-Bangladesh border.
Several BNP leaders, including Abu Naser Muhammad Rahmatullah, Rashed Khan and Mominul Amin, also addressed the programme, which was moderated by Tamiz Uddin Titu.
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