Khandakar Abdul Muktadir, the Commerce Minister of Bangladesh, has assured that sufficient stocks of essential food items are available to maintain stable market prices during Ramadan.
Speaking to journalists on Friday at Sylhet Osmani International Airport, after exchanging greetings with government officials and party leaders, the minister said, “One of the primary responsibilities of the Commerce Ministry is to keep the prices of essential commodities stable. This responsibility becomes even more important during the month of Ramadan. While we did not have the opportunity to take special measures immediately after assuming office, the positive side is that the stocks we currently hold are sufficient to stabilize market prices.”
Regarding development plans for Sylhet, the minister said, “I have mentioned Sylhet’s development plans extensively during the election campaign and in our manifesto. We aim to implement projects that directly improve the quality of life for Sylhet residents, focusing on employment generation, expansion of IT-related professions, and the establishment of an AI centre.”
He emphasized the need for AI training for government officials and employees, citing that neighbouring countries have already adopted large digital initiatives. “If we lag, the world will view us as unprepared. We must achieve global competitiveness,” he added.
The minister also highlighted that creating employment in Sylhet’s IT park requires investment. He noted that improving transport systems, reducing bureaucratic red tape, and ensuring political stability are essential to attract investors. “Special policies and incentives are needed for both domestic and expatriate investors, and we are working on these measures. Their implementation will soon be visible,” he said.
Among those present were M A Malik (MP of Sylhet), Khan Md. Reza-un-Nabi, Md. Mushfequr Rahman, Abdul Kuddus Chowdhury, and Md. Sarwar Alam, along with leaders of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party and its affiliate organizations.
