As the new year dawns and people reflect on the one just past, we look forward to 2016 in the hope the nation will face a more peaceful and prosperous year ahead.
For all our problems, Bangladesh is still a nation moving forward.
The continuing resilience and growth of our economy brings increased national self-confidence and the hope of lifting more people out of poverty as we move towards becoming a middle-income nation.
Whether it is from the achievements of our export industries in maintaining growth, or our cricket team in improving its performance, all Bangladeshis can draw inspiration from the many institutions and individuals who have excelled in their chosen fields.
Given our youthful population, it is especially encouraging to see more and more women leading by example.
It is the spirit of optimism and collective hard work put into building a better future that is helping to take the nation forward.
Of course, huge challenges remain ahead. Last year’s brutal murders and targeting of secular writers have shocked the nation into recognising the threats posed to our society by extremist groups, while the recent COP21 talks highlighted the perils posed to our nation by climate change.
Nonetheless, we can still hold out hope that our political climate can improve to help more of our people make the most of their potential.
The local elections held during 2015 have heralded signs of more opening up of and participation in a peaceful political process. We hope this will continue and the new year can bring the amity and co-operation that the people of this country want and deserve.
Bangladesh needs stability and vision to move forward. We hope 2016 will be a better year for all our citizens and wish all our readers a Happy New Year.
Source: Dhaka Tribune