‘BD nationalism defines nation’s cultural identity’

Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon on Saturday said Bangladeshi nationalism remains the fundamental basis of the country’s cultural, historical and national identity.

Speaking at a discussion titled “Implementation of the July Charter Signed for National Reconstruction” at the Institution of Diploma Engineers in Kakrail, Dhaka, the minister said Bangladesh possesses a distinct cultural and historical identity that sets it apart despite sharing a common language with people beyond its borders.

“Many people outside the geographical boundary of 56,000 square miles may speak Bangla, but there is a fundamental historical difference in our collective mindset and culture. Those who seek to conceal this difference are either ignorant or are working with some far-reaching ulterior motive,” he said.

The programme was organised by Amra Bangladeshi, which promotes the slogan “Bangladesh First” as part of its state reconstruction initiative.

Addressing the issue of cultural sovereignty, Swapon said no Bangladeshi would need validation of Bengali identity from outside the country’s borders.

Referring to the legacy of Ziaur Rahman, he said the late president laid the foundation of Bangladeshi nationalism, which clearly defines the nation’s linguistic and cultural heritage.

The minister also spoke about the country’s democratic process, saying attempts to sideline the people in the electoral system had been defeated, resulting in what he described as a free and credible election on February 12.

He said the current government is working on the basis of the people’s mandate and that parliament is now functioning as a more effective and vibrant institution than at any previous time.

The discussion was chaired by BNP leader Syed Ehsanul Huda, while noted economist Mahbub Ullah presented the keynote address.

Among others present were State Minister for Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment Nurul Haque Nur, MP Shahadat Hossain Selim, Saiful Haque, BNP Executive Committee member Abu Naser Muhammad Rahmatullah, Mominul Amin and Md Rashed Khan.