Protect religious values from ‘religion traders’, says Information Minister Swapan

The information minister stresses democratic values and “Bangladesh first” slogan at discussion

Information minister Zahir Uddin Swapan has called for protecting religious values from what he described as “religion traders” while upholding democratic ideals and a Bangladeshi national identity.

He made the remarks at a discussion meeting at the National Press Club in Dhaka on Saturday afternoon.

The event was organised to mark the 47th death anniversary of politician Mashiur Rahman Jadu Mia.

Swapan said Bangladesh must remain committed to democratic values while strengthening its national identity.

"If we can uphold democratic values and our Bangladeshi identity under the leadership of Tarique Rahman, and protect religious values from the hands of 'religion traders', then I see no force capable of defeating us," the minister said.

The minister also highlighted the government’s emphasis on Bangladeshi nationalism and the slogan “Bangladesh first”.

Swapan added that the slogan was also aimed at countering political leanings toward foreign centres of influence.

“There are those who still feel drawn towards Delhi [India’s New Delhi] and those who remain attached to Pindi [Pakistan’s Rawalpindi]. Through the slogan ‘Bangladesh first’, we want to awaken those who remain captivated by such influences,” he said.