Dr. Shafiqur Rahman, Ameer of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, has stated that his party will support expatriates who come back to invest in business in Bangladesh. He pledged to make every effort to resolve any challenges investors face. He shared these views on Wednesday, November 13, during a meeting at the British-Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industries (BBCCI) office in London, where he was the chief guest.
The event was presided over by BBCCI President Rafiq Haider and moderated by Director General and Solicitor Dewan Mahdi. Addressing the gathering, Dr. Shafiqur Rahman expressed his vision for a prosperous Bangladesh led by a courageous and dedicated youth. Criticizing those who treat Bangladesh as “everyone’s burden,” he said his goal is to break this stigma and develop a resilient nation.
In response to a question about Jamaat’s vision for Bangladesh, he clarified, “Bangladesh will neither become Pakistan nor Afghanistan; it will remain Bangladesh, in its own unique way.”
Dr. Rahman also stressed the importance of women’s involvement in the country’s progress, advocating for a policy where women work six hours instead of the standard eight, enabling them to balance family responsibilities and childcare.
Regarding minority communities, he emphasized that Jamaat does not differentiate between majorities and minorities. “We are all Bangladeshis,” he said, adding that they aim to build a united Bangladesh where people of all religions can freely practice their faith. He also called on everyone involved in nation-building to follow the “Right man in the right place” principle.
The event, which began with a recitation by Maulana Sirajul Islam, included remarks from BBCCI’s former presidents Shahgir Bakht Faruk and Dr. Wali Tasar Uddin, London Bangla Press Club founder Mohib Chowdhury, Greater Sylhet Development and Welfare Council Chairperson Barrister Ataur Rahman, Jamaat’s Europe spokesperson Barrister Abu Bakr Molla, and other distinguished guests from various professional backgrounds.
