New generation must step forward to build Bangladesh: PM

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has said the new generation must step forward to build a happy, prosperous and golden Bangladesh of the future. He also expressed the hope that the current generation would excel not only within the country but also on the international stage.

He made the remarks at the closing ceremony of the 'New Kuri Sports-2025-26' on Monday (July 27) afternoon at the Bangladesh Army Stadium, held under the theme 'Sports as a career, family will find support'.

He said, "Bangladesh has many problems, but we must move forward. If we can develop the current generation, it will be possible to build a beautiful Bangladesh in the future. For that, the new generation must focus on studies alongside sports. Whatever profession they choose, the government will support them."

At the very start of his speech, the Prime Minister surprised everyone by urging the journalists present: "Please make the New Kuri news the lead news."

"This event is the future of Bangladesh. Those sitting under the pandal, those in the galleries — they are the future of Bangladesh. My request to you is, no matter how much news there is, please make the news of these children's sports, these future citizens, the lead story in your newspapers and broadcasts tomorrow. This is my request to you," he said.

He added, "I hope you will highlight this future in the electronic media tonight or tomorrow. Our Bangladesh has many problems. We are not denying that. But alongside these problems, we can also see where we can take Bangladesh."

Earlier, the Prime Minister arrived at the venue around 3:45pm. Upon arrival at the Army Stadium, he was welcomed with flowers by the organisers. He sat by the field and enjoyed the girls' final match, and later distributed prizes to the winners of the girls' 100-metre race.

Instead of going directly to the gallery, the Prime Minister walked across the entire field. Hundreds of young students and child spectators rushed to the railing in front of the galleries. When the children stretched out their hands, the Prime Minister shook hands with them warmly and waved to the audience across the stadium. The children were overjoyed to be so close to the Prime Minister and to shake his hand.