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Closed factories to reopen soon to boost jobs: PM
Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Friday announced that factories shut down in recent years will be gradually reopened as part of efforts to revive employment and strengthen the economy.
“We have already taken initiatives to restart industrial units that were closed over the past years,” he said while addressing an International Workers' Day rally in Nayapaltan.
The rally was organised by the Jatiyatabadi Sramik Dal, with its president Anwar Hossain in the chair. Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir attended as a special guest.
Rahman said he has already held meetings with relevant stakeholders and directed officials to identify factories that can be reopened quickly.
“Just a month ago, I instructed officials to assess how soon closed factories can resume operations so that workers who lost their jobs can return. Another meeting on this issue is scheduled this week,” he said.
He criticised the previous government, alleging it weakened the economy, increased dependence on imports, and damaged key sectors such as health and education.
“As a result, people united in 2024 and removed that regime,” he said.
The prime minister added that the government is working to attract foreign investment to create jobs and expand employment opportunities both at home and abroad. Discussions with international investors are ongoing, he said.
He also addressed the issue of street hawkers, saying the government would not only remove them from roads but also ensure their rehabilitation and alternative employment.
“All commitments made to different professional groups will be implemented gradually,” he said, calling for unity among farmers, workers and teachers to improve livelihoods.
Rahman warned that certain groups were attempting to damage Bangladesh’s image internationally and urged vigilance.
“Whenever Bangladesh moves towards democracy, some forces oppose it. They are again trying to isolate the country globally,” he said, calling for resistance against such efforts.
He concluded by urging citizens to take part in nation-building.
“We must now focus on building the country together — men and women alike,” he said, adding that even cabinet members, including himself, should consider themselves “workers of nation-building” to achieve a prosperous Bangladesh.