Dhaka: Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Thursday announced ongoing efforts to secure United Nations recognition for Bangla and proposed transforming the Amar Ekushey Book Fair into an international event in the coming years. Speaking during the inaugural ceremony of the Amar Ekushey Book Fair 2026 held at Bangla Academy, he highlighted the importance of promoting reading habits and increasing the publication of research-based books.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the Prime Minister suggested that the Amar Ekushey Book Fair could evolve into the Amar Ekushey International Book Fair. He emphasized that this transformation would not only introduce citizens to global literature but also encourage them to learn about and understand various languages and cultures. Tarique underscored the necessity of building a knowledge- and talent-based society to achieve prosperity and dignity in a competitive world, while continuing efforts to recognize Bangla as an official language of the United Nations.
He reflected on the unique identity of Bangladesh's book fair, noting that while similar events are held worldwide, the Amar Ekushey Book Fair symbolizes the achievement of language rights and the establishment of Bangla as the state language. The Prime Minister recalled the sacrifice of the language martyrs of 1952, stating that February 21 is globally observed as International Mother Language Day.
Tarique Rahman expressed a vision for the book fair to become more than a marketplace for selling books, suggesting it should serve as a center for educational and cultural growth. He also appreciated Bangla Academy's cultural programs and competitions, which nurture young talents. The Prime Minister proposed that the book fair should expand beyond its current venue and duration, with the possibility of organizing it throughout the year across all divisions, districts, and upazilas.
Expressing concerns over internet addiction among youth, he emphasized the need to promote book reading, citing research that suggests regular reading enhances memory and analytical skills. An international survey highlighted that Bangladesh ranks low in reading habits, which the Prime Minister described as concerning.
The Prime Minister formally inaugurated the Amar Ekushey Book Fair 2026 at 3:12 pm, visiting various stalls with his family. The Bangla Academy organized the event, which will remain open until March 15, from 2 pm to 9 pm on regular days, and from 11 am to 9 pm on holidays.
During the opening ceremony, the Prime Minister awarded the Bangla Academy Sahitya Puroshkar 2025 to eight distinguished individuals for their contributions to Bangla literature. This year's fair, themed 'Multidimensional Bangladesh,' commenced later than usual due to the national election held earlier in February.
The event began with the national anthem and a tribute to the martyrs of significant historical movements. Professor Abul Kashem Fazlul Haque chaired the session, with several dignitaries addressing the gathering. Organizers also committed to a 'zero-waste' and environmentally conscious edition of the fair.