Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Abdul Awal Mintoo on Saturday urged the country’s business community to expand their enterprises to help accelerate Bangladesh’s economic development, saying trade and investment remain the key drivers of growth and wealth creation.
He made the call while addressing the oath-taking ceremony of the newly elected executive committee of the Feni Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FCCI) for the 2026–2028 term in Feni as the chief guest.
Mintoo said the business community has a responsibility to contribute to increasing the country’s wealth, noting that entrepreneurs play a crucial role in creating jobs and supporting overall economic progress.
“The contribution of the business community to employment generation and national development is undeniable,” he said.
The minister also criticised the tendency to blame all businesspeople, saying many entrepreneurs follow the law and have made significant contributions to the country’s development.
He said sustainable economic growth and wealth creation can only be achieved through business, trade and investment.
“We can distribute wealth, but poverty cannot be distributed,” he said, stressing the importance of expanding productive economic activities.
Mintoo also underscored the need to promote environmentally sustainable development, enhance regional trade and strengthen the country’s overall economic progress.
Among those attending the event as special guests were Feni-2 MP Professor Zainal Abedin and reserved-seat MP Rehana Akter.
Feni Deputy Commissioner Monira Haque, Superintendent of Police Protyush Kumar Majumder, District Council Administrator Professor MA Khalek, representatives of business organisations, political leaders and chamber members were also present at the programme.
