DHAKA: Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina sought cooperation from the countrymen to continue the prosperous journey of the country marking Bangladesh’s graduation to a developing nation. 

“This achievement has been possible as we worked together . . . it's the achievement of the people as they are the main strength (for the graduation),” she told a reception program at Bangabandhu International Conference Centre (BICC) Thursday (March 22).

The premier was accorded a reception organized by Economic Relations Department to celebrate Bangladesh’s eligibility for graduating from the group of Least Development Countries (LDCs).

“I want this achievement to continue and it is not lost in any way”, she added.

At the reception, Finance Minister AMA Muhith handed over the UN's letter of recognition to the prime minister for the significant achievement of her government in attaining the prestigious status for the country.

However, celebration begins Thursday across the country to mark the historic achievement of Bangladesh-- graduating from the group of LDCs.

Processions will be brought out in the afternoon from nine places of the capital city. The processions will end at the Bangabandhu National Stadium in a colorful cultural show in the evening where the prime minister will attend as the chief guest. 

Similar rallies will also be organized across the country from March 22-28 when ministries will display the government's achievements in different sectors.

Bangladesh's GNI per capita was $1,610 at the end of 2016-17 financial year. For the HAI, a country must score 66 or above and for EVI 32 or below. 

Bangladesh scored 72.9 and 24.8 in the two indices respectively. Bangladesh, however, will have to maintain the thresholds for the three indices till the country's final graduation from the LDC category, which the UN will declare in 2024.

BDST: 1415 HRS, MAR 22, 2018
SI/SMS