Ziaur Rahman laid foundation of remittance economy: President

President Mohammad Shahabuddin has said Bangladesh’s remittance-driven economic strength is rooted in initiatives taken by Ziaur Rahman, crediting him with laying the foundation for overseas employment and foreign currency inflows.

Speaking at a Labour Day discussion at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Center on Friday (May 1), he said the policies introduced during Ziaur Rahman’s tenure, including labour reforms and overseas workforce expansion, marked the beginning of a new era in remittance earnings.

The president noted that the establishment of a manpower ministry in 1976 and initiatives to send Bangladeshi workers to more than 30 countries, particularly in the Middle East, significantly boosted foreign exchange inflows.

He also highlighted the role of former prime minister Khaleda Zia in strengthening labour welfare through measures such as the Labour Act 2006 and the formation of a welfare foundation.

Emphasising the contribution of workers, Shahabuddin said labourers remain the backbone of Bangladesh’s development across sectors including industry, agriculture, transport and construction.

He added that remittances from expatriate workers and earnings from the ready-made garment sector continue to be the lifeline of the national economy.

He said the government is implementing a series of measures to ensure workers’ welfare, rights, and safe working conditions, alongside efforts to revive state-owned industries to generate employment.

Calling for stronger cooperation between employers and workers, the president stressed that mutual trust and a harmonious workplace are key to boosting productivity and ensuring sustainable industrial growth.