Bangladesh will become a safe and dignified country where every woman and girl can live with respect and pursue a bright future, said Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s wife Dr Zubaida Rahman on Sunday.
She made the remarks while speaking as special guest at a programme marking International Women’s Day 2026 and the ‘Shreshtho Odommo Nari’ award ceremony in Dhaka.
President Mohammad Shahabuddin attended the event as the chief guest.
“Bangladesh will be a country where every woman and girl will be safe, respected and have the opportunity for a bright future,” she said. Quoting a widely known United Nations message, she said when women move forward a nation also moves forward.
International Women’s Day should serve as a renewed commitment to building a society based on equality, dignity and justice, she added.
Dr Zubaida Rahman also paid tribute to martyred President Ziaur Rahman and highlighted his contribution to establishing multi-party democracy in Bangladesh.
She said determination and resilience are the greatest strengths of human beings and noted that despite immense oppression and injustice, BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia remained uncompromising, patient and steadfast.
Khaleda Zia’s life offers important lessons about women’s resilience and courage in leadership, she said.
Describing the BNP chairperson as an indomitable symbol of the country’s democratic journey, she said Khaleda Zia has consistently spoken out against autocracy and exploitation.
“She is a mother, a fighter and a strong voice for justice who inspires people committed to democracy,” she said.
President Mohammad Shahabuddin handed over awards to six women for their outstanding contributions in different fields.
Barrister Zaima Rahman received the award on behalf of Khaleda Zia for her contributions to women’s education and the advancement of democracy.
State Minister for Women and Children Affairs Farzana Sharmin, United Nations Development Programme Resident Representative Stefan Liller, cabinet members, parliament members and award recipients attended the programme.
