Bangladesh replied to insults by constructing Padma Bridge: PM

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina said her government gave a befitting reply to insults heaped upon Bangladesh over so-called “corruption” by constructing the giant Padma Bridge with own funding.

“Through constructing the Padma Bridge with own finances, we could give a befitting reply to those who heaped insults upon us and undermined Bangladesh's ability,” she said on her return home on Saturday after a three-week visit to the United States and Britain.

Speaking in response to a reception for her successful participation in the just concluded 72nd UN General Assembly (UNGA) session in New York, the premier said the implementation of the mega project on its own brightened further Bangladesh's image abroad.

Bangladesh Awami League hosted the reception at the VVIP Lounge of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport as the prime minister returned home wrapping up her three-week visit.

Sheikh Hasina, however, said constructions of the bridge with own funding was a big challenge for the government as “ill attempts” were made to defame her, her family and the government.

She said a vested quarter tried to “stigmatize us” with false allegations of corruption spearheading a massive propaganda while some “enthusiastic people” wanted to mislead the people regarding the issue.

Many people, the premier said, thought when an international agency brought the allegation so it was true “but I had the self-confidence”.

“I have come for the country. We have come for changing the lot of the people, not of mine,” she said.

Road Transport and Bridges Minister and AL General Secretary Obaidul Quader also spoke on the occasion.

Source: BSS