Khaleda Zia's farsighted decisions are the result of today's modern capital market

DSE Brokers Association of Bangladesh (DBA) President Saiful Islam has said that today's modern and institutional capital market has been developed as a result of the farsighted and courageous decisions of former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia. He said that a new era began in the country's capital market during Khaleda Zia's rule, the benefits of which are still being reflected in the economy today.

He made these remarks while delivering the keynote address at a memorial meeting and prayer mahfil jointly organized by the Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) and DBA in memory of Khaleda Zia on Thursday (January 8). Saiful Islam said that Khaleda Zia was a humane and tolerant politician who was respectful of opposing views and dissent. In his long political career, especially in the last 15 years, despite various adverse circumstances, he has remained steadfast in the interests of the country and the people and has played an uncompromising role in protecting national unity and democracy.

He further said that Begum Khaleda Zia took a historic decision to develop the capital market by opening Bangladesh's capital market to foreign investors in 1991. This far-sighted step has laid the foundation for today's modern, technology-based and institutional capital market. At the end of his speech, he prayed for the eternal peace of the departed soul with deep respect and expressed his condolences to the bereaved family.

Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission (BSEC) Chairman Khandaker Rashed Maksud, DSE Chairman Mominul Islam, Managing Director Nuzhat Anwar, Chittagong Stock Exchange (CSE) Chairman Professor Habibur Rahman, Bangladesh Association of Publicly Listed Companies (BAPLC) President Riyad Mahmud and representatives of various capital market-related organizations were present at the memorial service.

DSE Chairman Mominul Islam said at the memorial service, moderated by DSE Chief Operating Officer Mohammad Asadur Rahman, that Begum Khaleda Zia's contribution to the formation of Bangladesh's economy and private sector-based development framework was unique and outstanding. The benefits of the massive expansion that began in the private sector since 1991 are being enjoyed by the common people of the country today. At the same time, her role in establishing discipline and institutional framework in the capital market and financial sector was also very important.

DSE Managing Director Nuzhat Anwar said, Begum Khaleda Zia was a strong and visionary statesman. During her government, the Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission (BSEC) was formed in 1993, which played a major role in establishing the country's capital market on a strong institutional foundation.

DSE Director Minhaj Mannan Emon said, the true value of a human life is most clearly expressed through the emotions and presence of people after their death. The spontaneous participation of crores of people in Begum Khaleda Zia's funeral proves how deeply she had made a place in the hearts of people - which is a rare example not only for Bangladesh but also for the people of the world.

BAPLC President Riyad Mahmud said, Begum Khaleda Zia was not just a Prime Minister or a leader of a political party; over time, she has become an integral part of the society and social life of Bangladesh. He said, as a human being, she had some limitations as well. However, the love and respect that has been expressed towards him across the country in recent times proves that he has risen above all limitations and made a permanent place in the hearts of people.

At the end of the program, former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia's nephew Md. Shams Iskander sought prayers for the deceased from everyone on behalf of the family.