Dhaka: Leaders of the Buddhist community today exchanged greetings with Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on the occasion of Buddha Purnima this morning at the Cabinet Division in Bangladesh Secretariat here. Additional Press Secretary to the Prime Minister Atikur Rahman Ruman confirmed the matter to BSS.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, during the meeting, discussions covered various issues including the steps taken by the government for maintaining communal harmony in the country and the socio-economic development of the Buddhist community. The meeting highlighted the government’s efforts to ensure peaceful coexistence among different communities.
Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed, Religious Affairs Minister Kazi Shah Mofazzal Houssain (Kaikobad), Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs Minister Dipen Dewan, and State Minister Mir Mohammed Helal Uddin were present. The Prime Minister’s Special Assistant on Hindu, Buddhist, Christian and Ethnic affairs Bijon Kanti Sarkar, lawmaker from Bandarban Saching Prue, BNP nominated MP candidate for a reserved (woman) seat from the hill region Madhabi Marma, and Dr. Sukomal Barua also attended the occasion.
Representatives of the Buddhist community marked the occasion by presenting a commemorative crest and a replica of a Buddha statue to the Prime Minister, symbolizing the cultural and spiritual significance of Buddha Purnima.