TDS Desk:

BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman has reiterated his party’s commitment to building an inclusive and safe Bangladesh for all communities.

“BNP believes Bangladesh does not belong to Bengalis alone, but to all ethnic groups who reside here legally,” Tarique Rahman said on Saturday while addressing a representatives’ conference of 34 ethnic minority groups from 12 districts, including Mymensingh, via video link.

He emphasised that BNP has ensured participation of ethnic minority representatives in all party committees to protect the rights of people living in both the hills and the plains.

“Every ethnic group in Bangladesh is like a different colour — together forming what we call a rainbow nation. Our goal is unity in diversity, where Bengali and non-Bengali citizens alike can build an inclusive state and society,” he said.

Tarique added that if BNP comes to power, it will take steps to make government jobs more accessible to ethnic minority groups.

Highlighting that the next election is scheduled for February, the BNP leader urged the cooperation of ethnic minority communities to help ensure a safe and peaceful Bangladesh.

He also pointed out that BNP has already outlined a 31-point plan for the development of both hill and plain regions.