Conspiracy underway over PM’s foreign visits 

BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi has alleged that a vested quarter is trying to create a provocative environment and spread negative propaganda surrounding Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s maiden visit to Malaysia and China.

He made the remarks on Saturday while addressing a discussion titled “Bangladesh ICT Industry 2030: Challenges, Opportunities and Strategic Reforms” as the chief guest at the Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh (IEB) in Ramna. The event was organised by the Nationalist ICT Forum.

Rizvi said people have high expectations of the current government, which came to power through a long democratic struggle. He said the government remains committed to nationalist ideals and will not take any step that goes against the country's independence, sovereignty and democratic interests.

He also said the government must continue its work despite various conspiracies and challenges.

Referring to the Prime Minister's upcoming foreign tour, Rizvi said a strong foreign policy is essential for economic development, expansion of trade and strengthening international relations.

He said the Prime Minister's visits are aimed at enhancing bilateral relations and promoting Bangladesh's interests abroad. At the same time, some groups are trying to create confusion and provoke controversy over the tour, he alleged.

"Bangladesh's foreign policy should be based on friendship and mutual respect," Rizvi said, adding that the government does not regard any country as an enemy or a master, but seeks friendly relations with all nations while safeguarding national interests.

On the national budget, he said the government has adopted the "One Citizen, One ID" and "One Digital, One Wallet" initiatives in the information technology sector.

According to Rizvi, the initiatives are intended to bring public services under an integrated digital framework and improve service delivery for citizens.

Nationalist ICT Forum President Engineer Rafael Kabir, advisers Dr Maruf Mallik and Dr Shah Zed Miah, among others, also addressed the programme.