Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen urged Bangladeshi expatriates to play a pivotal role in countering propaganda about Bangladesh, and highlight the nation's successes and achievements with accurate information and statistics.
While addressing a discussion programme organized by the Center for Non-Resident Bangladeshis in New York, the foreign minister made this call.
Momen said that the invaluable contributions of expatriate Bangladeshis in fostering positive relations between Bangladesh and the global community plays a vital role.
He stressed the need for the Bangladeshi diaspora to become more actively involved in the country's development efforts.
Additionally, Momen emphasized the importance of enhancing trade relations and shared values between Bangladesh and the United States, encouraging expatriates to work diligently to strengthen the existing friendly ties between the two nations.
Reflecting on Bangladesh's history, the foreign minister recalled the nation's heroic struggle for independence in 1971, emphasizing the courage, self-respect, and self-sacrifice demonstrated during the liberation war.
Furthermore, Minister Momen presented a remarkable transformation story, highlighting Bangladesh's journey from post-independence challenges, including famine and natural disasters, to its current status as an emerging economy.
Bangladesh has achieved significant progress in various socio-economic indicators, including poverty reduction, he said.
Momen also underscored the impressive growth of Bangladesh's GDP, which has risen from 3.2 percent between 1975 and 1990 to the current average of 6.8 percent.
Praising Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's leadership, Momen credited her with transforming Bangladesh into a development role model. He acknowledged the challenges faced during the period between 2001 and 2006, emphasizing the nation's return to stability and progress.
The foreign minister addressed historical issues, including the brutal assassination of Bangabandhu and the infamous Indemnity Act, which blocked justice for the perpetrators. He highlighted Bangladesh's role in UN peacekeeping operations and reaffirmed the country's commitment to global peace and security.
Momen concluded by recognizing the significant contributions of over 120 million expatriate Bangladeshis, who support the nation's development by various means, including remittances.
The discussion programme was attended by several dignitaries, including Prime Minister's Economic Adviser Dr. Moshiur Rahman, Center for NRB Chairperson MS Shakeel Chowdhury, US Ambassador of Peace Dr. Seema Karetnaya, UN and WHO Expert, and Consul General of Bangladesh Consulate in New York Nazmul Huda.