Dhaka: Speakers at a book launching ceremony here today underscored the need for collective efforts by local communities, the government, and international partners to achieve lasting peace in the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT). They stressed that such peace is crucial not only for Bangladesh but also for the security of the wider region.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the book "Regional Security and CHT Peace Accord 1997: An Unfinished Peace Building Model of Bangladesh" was authored by Brig Gen Md Nasimul Gani (retd). Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain attended as the chief guest at the event held at the Foreign Service Academy. Special Assistant on Defense and National Integration Development Lt. Gen. Abdul Hafiz (retd) was the special guest, and writer and thinker Prof Salimullah Khan also addressed the gathering.
Speakers noted that since the signing of the CHT Peace Accord 27 years ago, the region is yet to achieve stability. Touhid emphasized the importance of fostering mutual respect and understanding to prevent minor issues from escalating into major conflicts. He highlighted the necessity of acknowledging the unique culture of the CHT and the rights of the diverse groups in the region to pave the way for peace. However, he acknowledged the challenge of rebuilding trust after years of mutual suspicion.
Lt Gen (retd) Abdul Hafiz pointed out the broader regional implications of peace in the CHT due to its proximity to India and Myanmar. He called for continued dialogue among government agencies, security forces, and civil society to promote harmony in the CHT.
Prof Salimullah Khan attributed the lack of economic progress in CHT to a lack of political will, suggesting that genuine effort could lead to successful implementation of the accord.