Shibbir Ahmed, New York — Prime Minister Tarique Rahman today said his government is pursuing a 3-R strategy — Recovery, Restoration and Reconstruction — to repair Bangladesh, which he described as having been ravaged by more than one and a half decades of “fascist rule and exploitation.”

“To repair Bangladesh, which was ravaged by fascist rule and exploitation, the Government is pursuing a 3-R strategy — Recovery, Restoration and Reconstruction,” he said while addressing the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly at the UN Headquarters in New York.

The Prime Minister said Bangladesh had freed itself from what he described as enforced disappearances, killings, abductions, corruption, looting and money laundering and was once again embarking on the path of democracy.

He said an immense horizon of possibilities had opened before Bangladesh and that his government had begun implementing extensive programmes to transform the country’s working-age population into skilled human resources by harnessing its demographic dividend.

“Detailed measures have been taken to create extensive employment opportunities and develop Bangladesh as a ‘manufacturing hub’,” he said, seeking support from the country’s development partners in this endeavour.

The government has allocated US$50 million in the current fiscal year to create opportunities for young entrepreneurs, researchers and innovators to implement start-up initiatives, he said.

Focus on women’s empowerment

Highlighting the government’s focus on women’s empowerment, Tarique Rahman said women were at the forefront of its plans for the country’s socio-economic transformation, noting that women account for more than half of Bangladesh’s population.

He said the government was prioritising women’s education, employment and entrepreneurship, including expanded access to cash financing, particularly in the small and medium-sized industries sector. Free education opportunities for women up to the undergraduate level had also been made available, he said.

The Prime Minister said the government wanted to ensure not only electoral democracy but also the democratisation of the economy so that the benefits of economic growth and prosperity reached every family and citizen.

To this end, the government had introduced social protection initiatives such as the Family Card, Farmers’ Card, Sports Card and e-Health Card to support economically disadvantaged people.

He described the Family Card, issued in the name of the female head of each household, as a symbol of women’s economic empowerment and said the government planned to introduce a Universal Card by integrating various support cards.

31-point programme and development

Tarique Rahman said the government was implementing its 31-point programme presented to the people ahead of the February 12 national election. He said 73 percent of the programme’s activities were directly aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals’ “Leave No One Behind” theme, while another 27 percent were indirectly aligned.

The government hoped implementation of the programmes would reduce development disparities between urban and rural areas and strengthen accountability and inclusive sustainable development under the 2030 Agenda, he said.

Education, health and sports

The Prime Minister said his government had given special importance to education, health and sports and had made the highest-ever budget allocation for the education sector.

“There are plans to gradually increase education spending to 5 per cent of GDP within the next five years,” he said. He said a curriculum had been developed with an emphasis on technical and practical education to establish an ethically sound and employment-oriented education system.

School bags, uniforms and free midday meals were being provided to primary students from the first grade, he said, expressing hope that the initiatives would increase school enrolment and improve the quality of education.

Sports had also been included as a subject in the education curriculum for the first time, with the aim of establishing sports as a profession, he said. More than two million students participated in a month-long nationwide football tournament last June as part of the initiative, he added.

Call for dialogue to resolve conflicts

Turning to the international situation, Tarique Rahman said human-made conflicts had created unrest in many countries, causing displacement and humanitarian crises while placing pressure on the global economy, energy security and supply systems and contributing to rising inflation.

He said conflicts should be resolved through dialogue, diplomatic processes and mutual cooperation, with equality, fairness, protection of mutual interests, respect and dignity forming the basis of bilateral and multilateral relations.

Bangladesh sees the United Nations as the centre of efforts to establish an understanding-based global community that respects the independence and sovereignty of states, he said.

Tarique Rahman reaffirmed Bangladesh’s commitment to general and complete disarmament, prevention of nuclear weapons proliferation and arms control, while supporting UN initiatives aimed at promoting global peace.

He also reaffirmed Bangladesh’s support for the legitimate demands of the Palestinian people, including their right to self-determination and to establish an independent State of Palestine.

Rohingya crisis

On the Rohingya crisis, the Prime Minister said Bangladesh had been providing shelter to more than 1.2 million forcibly displaced Rohingyas from Myanmar for more than nine years, putting immense pressure on the country’s resources, environment, security and local communities.

“The only solution to this problem is the safe return of the displaced Rohingya population to their homeland, Myanmar,” he said. He called for firm and effective support from the United Nations and the international community for a lasting solution and urged continued life-saving assistance for the Rohingyas until their repatriation.

“If the international community fails to ensure justice for the displaced Rohingya population, this may turn into a humanitarian crisis in the near future,” he added.

Climate change and development

On climate change, Tarique Rahman said Bangladesh was among the countries most vulnerable to its adverse impacts despite making little contribution to global carbon emissions. He said Bangladesh expected stronger global action at COP31 on climate justice, climate finance and adaptation support. The government has launched a programme to plant 250 million trees across the country over the next five years, while placing emphasis on clean and solar energy, he said.

He also said a programme had been launched to excavate 20,000 kilometres of canals across the country to help address flooding and drought. The government had begun implementing the Teesta Master Plan and the Padma Barrage project to increase freshwater flow into the Sundarbans and conserve water through large reservoirs, he said.

Technology and AI

On science and technology, the Prime Minister said Bangladesh’s large young population and growing digital capabilities had created new possibilities, but access to advanced technology, knowledge and research must be made available to all.

“We do not want today’s digital divide to become tomorrow’s artificial intelligence divide,” he said, stressing technology transfer, skills development and affordable access to modern technologies for developing countries. He called for an effective UN policy framework to ensure that the benefits of artificial intelligence and social media could be used positively around the world.

LDC graduation and global cooperation

The Prime Minister also called for continued international support as Bangladesh prepares to graduate from the Least Developed Country category, particularly through assured financing, greater market access, technology transfer and capacity building.

He said regional trade facilitation, connectivity and meaningful cooperation could help countries achieve shared prosperity in an increasingly interdependent world. Tarique Rahman also stressed the need to ensure sustainable production of vaccines, medical supplies and diagnostic equipment in developing countries so that they remain readily accessible to all.

‘Bangladesh First: Bangladesh for All’

Tarique Rahman said Bangladesh wanted to establish a prosperous, self-reliant and welfare-oriented democratic state where everyone, irrespective of political affiliation, religion or race, could live safely with equal rights, respect and dignity.

“Bangladesh’s progress in the areas of democracy, human rights, good governance, accountability, political stability and the investment environment is continuing,” he said, adding that the government was working to establish a safe and stable Bangladesh with a business- and investment-friendly environment.

“We want to build a Bangladesh where young people can pursue their dreams without fear or hindrance, women can lead their lives with confidence, and every child can grow up with the opportunity to realise their full potential,” he said.

“Above all, the people will have the assurance of a safe and peaceful life. That is why we say, ‘Bangladesh First: Bangladesh for All’.”

Earlier remarks

Earlier in his address, Tarique Rahman congratulated the President of the 81st session of the UN General Assembly on his election and assured Bangladesh’s full support during his tenure. He paid tribute to the martyred freedom fighters of Bangladesh and recalled the contributions of those who sacrificed their lives in the struggle to establish democracy, justice and people’s rights since independence.

He also paid respect to those killed and injured during the July-August 2024 mass uprising. The Prime Minister said the people had entrusted the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) with the responsibility of governing the state through the “fair, free and impartial” national election held on February 12 this year.

He said he felt nostalgic standing before the UN General Assembly as his father, Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, and his mother, former Prime Minister the late Khaleda Zia, had also addressed the world from the same platform on behalf of Bangladesh and its people.

Tarique Rahman said Bangladesh remained committed to multilateralism in maintaining international peace and security and, as Vice-Chair of the UN Peacebuilding Commission, continued to advocate sustainable peace, conflict prevention and inclusive peacebuilding.

He also highlighted the contributions of Bangladeshi peacekeepers and women peacekeepers to UN missions around the world. On migration, he said the government was committed to ensuring regular, safe and orderly migration and called for stronger global cooperation to protect the rights, dignity and welfare of migrants. Concluding his address, the Prime Minister reaffirmed Bangladesh’s unwavering support for the principles and values of the United Nations in the cause of establishing world peace.

CHATTOGRAM – Water Resources Minister and BNP Joint Secretary General Shahiduddin Chowdhury Anee described Awami League (AL) as a banned political organization, asserting that the party is endeavoring to destabilize society through organizing ‘flash processions’ across multiple locations. Such activities will be dealt with both political and administrative measures, he said.

“Efforts by the banned Awami League to provoke civil unrest via flash processions in Chattogram will be handled through political and administrative channels. It is imperative that we prevent them from engaging in any form of unlawful conducts, anarchic behavior, or terrorist activities,” he stated. He told journalists following a special consultation meeting on the district’s law and order situation at the Chattogram Circuit House this afternoon.

Emphasizing the significance of the meeting on the law and order, Shahiduddin Chowdhury Anee said, “This is precisely why today’s gathering—a session of the District Law and Order Coordination Committee—proved to be so vital. We engaged in comprehensive discussions and formulated decisions in collaboration with administrative officials and elected public representatives to mitigate concerns including theft, mugging, robbery, snatching, illegal firearms, and narcotics trafficking. Our objective is to guarantee that the district maintains effective coordination and stability in the forthcoming period.”

Matters such as illegal firearms, narcotics trafficking, hill cutting, and unauthorized sand extraction are receiving equal attention alongside general law and order concerns, the Water Resources Minister said, “Currently, we find ourselves obligated to implement certain stringent measures”.

“For the people’s welfare and to fulfill their requirements, we are directing our efforts toward particular initiatives—especially the confiscation of illegal firearms, the elimination of narcotics operations, and the prevention of hill cutting and sand extraction activities. We have recognized that these practices frequently contribute to the deterioration of law and order conditions. We have thoroughly examined these issues and are implementing suitable interventions,” he said.

He further stated, “With profound dedication to our responsibilities, and guided by the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, we have implemented targeted measures to resolve the situation and strengthen law and order—particularly throughout Chattogram city and the surrounding district. InshaAllah, the residents of this region will shortly witness the positive outcomes of these endeavors.”

Earlier, Water Resources Minister Md. Shahiduddin Chowdhury Anee joined a view exchanging meeting on law and order circumstances as the chief guest. Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Jahidul Islam Mian presided over the event.

Ershad Ullah, MP, Sarwar Jamal Nizam, MP, Abu Sufian, MP, and Humam Quader Chowdhury, accompanied by Chattogram Divisional Commissioner Dr. Md. Ziauddin, Chattogram Range DIG Md. Abdul Quddus Chowdhury, and Chattogram Metropolitan Police (CMP) Commissioner Hasan Md. Shawkat Ali, among others, spoke at the programme.

 

NEW YORK — Tensions between supporters of Bangladesh’s ruling Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and the opposition Awami League escalated in New York’s Jackson Heights on Sunday evening, September 20, as rival groups gathered for competing programmes ahead of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s visit to the city for the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly.

The situation at Diversity Plaza became increasingly tense as supporters of the BNP gathered to welcome Tarique Rahman, while a large group of Awami League activists assembled nearby chanting, “Wherever Tarique goes, resistance will follow.”

The two sides initially exchanged competing slogans before the confrontation reportedly escalated into pushing, shoving and verbal altercations. The BNP alleged that several banners welcoming Tarique Rahman were torn down by Awami League activists, further intensifying tensions.

According to witnesses, several hundred activists from both sides were involved in the confrontation. Multiple teams of the New York Police Department responded to the scene after receiving reports of the escalating situation. More than 50 riot-control officers subsequently moved between the two groups and attempted to keep them separated.

Police eventually intervened more forcefully as the two sides continued their confrontation. The area remained crowded with competing chants, while traffic was temporarily disrupted. Pedestrians moved away from the scene as police worked to prevent the situation from escalating further.

The confrontation comes as Bangladeshi political groups in New York prepare for a series of activities surrounding Tarique Rahman’s visit. BNP supporters have been organizing welcome programmes in Jackson Heights and elsewhere in the city. Recent reporting also confirms that BNP activists gathered in Jackson Heights ahead of the prime minister’s arrival.

Tarique Rahman left Dhaka on September 21 to attend the 81st UN General Assembly. According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS), he is scheduled to arrive at John F. Kennedy International Airport at about 5:55 p.m. New York time after a stopover in Istanbul. He is scheduled to address the General Assembly on September 24 and depart New York for Dhaka on September 25.

The United Nations’ high-level week for the 81st General Assembly is scheduled for September 22–29, with the general debate taking place from September 22 to 26 and again on September 28.

Meanwhile, Awami League leader Imdad Chowdhury said the party is preparing to mobilize about 1,000 activists at JFK Airport as part of its “Wherever Tarique, Resistance There” programme. He said permission had been obtained from the relevant airport authorities for the gathering.

BNP leader Golam Faruk Shaheen, meanwhile, said hundreds of BNP supporters would gather at JFK Airport to welcome Tarique Rahman. He also said the BNP had obtained the necessary authorization for its programme.

The competing plans are expected to require additional security measures at the airport. Police may establish separate areas and security barriers to keep the two groups at a safe distance from each other.

Security arrangements are also being heightened in New York during the UN General Assembly’s high-level week, when heads of state, government leaders and senior officials from around the world gather at the United Nations headquarters. The UN’s official schedule places the 81st General Assembly’s high-level week from September 22 through September 29.

The latest confrontation in Jackson Heights has raised concerns within the Bangladeshi-American community about the possibility of further tensions during Tarique Rahman’s visit, particularly around the airport and other locations where competing political groups are expected to gather.

WASHINGTON, D.C.: Bangladesh Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal (JCD) General Secretary Nasir Uddin Nasir was accorded a reception by BNP leaders and activists from the Washington, D.C., Virginia and Maryland areas. The reception was held on September 16 at the Comfort Inn in Springfield, Virginia. The event also included a preparatory meeting ahead of Nasir Uddin Nasir’s New York visit, with BNP leaders and activists from different levels in Washington, Virginia and Maryland taking part.

AJM Hossain, former general secretary of Greater Washington, D.C. BNP and a BNP leader, presided over the program. Former joint secretaries of Greater Washington, D.C. BNP Zakir Hossain Zakir and Mohammad Hossain moderated the event. Among those attending were Virginia BNP President Mohammad Zahir, General Secretary Tofail Ahmed, former vice president of Greater Washington, D.C. BNP and former general secretary of New Jersey BNP Shamsuddin Mahmud, former vice president Obaidul Haque Ovi, and former vice presidents Masudur Rahman, Harunur Rashid, Harun Bhuiyan, Elias Bhuiyan Liton and Munir Hossain.

A large number of BNP leaders and activists from the Greater Washington area also attended the reception, including Nur Mohammad Liton, Shahriar Rahman, Kamal Pasha, Faruk Hossain, Firoz Alam, Tayyubur Rahman, Md. Moktar Khan, Sohrab Hossain, Imam Hossain, Ibrahim Bhuiyan, Imran Bhuiyan, Laskar Sohel Rana, Al Amin Hawladar, Md. Abdul Kader Bacchu, Nurul Amin, Sanaul Haque Bhuiyan, Md. Nasim Ferdous, Riyad Hossain, Sumaiya Islam, Masud Rana, Ibrahim Khalil, Mahabubur Rahman, Belal Hossain, Md. Hossain (Biplob), Ahmed Islam Ripon, Sohel Hossain (Ripon), Zaker Hossain Mintu, Mizanur Rahman, Mohammad Alam (Milon), Taslima Rahman, Jahanara Bhuiyan, Sabina Hossain Polly, Laila Jannat and Maksuda Bhuiyan Happy.

Also present were former chief election commissioner of Virginia BNP Abdul Qayyum, former president of Maryland BNP Nesar Ahmed, Virginia BNP leader Kamrun Nahar Kona, Maryland BNP leader Kabirul Islam, Maryland BNP Vice President Mizanur Rahman and Washington BNP Vice President Mosharraf Hossain, among others.

Addressing the gathering as the chief guest, Nasir Uddin Nasir called on BNP leaders and activists to remain united and work to strengthen the party. He also urged expatriate Bangladeshis to focus on providing quality education and opportunities for the next generation.

Nasir said that late President Ziaur Rahman had worked throughout his life for the development of the people of Bangladesh. He also spoke about the contributions of the Zia family to the country and called on BNP supporters to work together to strengthen the leadership of BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman.

In his presidential remarks, AJM Hossain said BNP leaders and activists from Washington, D.C., would remain actively engaged during Tarique Rahman’s New York visit. He urged party members to remain vigilant in the evolving political environment and said BNP activists in the Washington area would continue working together in the days ahead. The event concluded with participants welcoming Nasir Uddin Nasir to the United States and emphasizing greater coordination and participation among expatriate BNP leaders and activists.