(BSS) - LGRD and Cooperatives Minister Dr Abdul Moyeen Khan has said the history of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and Bangladesh are almost identical.

The minister made the remarks as the chief guest at a discussion at the Handloom Board Institute auditorium in Narsingdi today, marking the 48th founding anniversary of the BNP.

He said the ideology of Bangladeshi nationalism founded by Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman upholds the rights and dignity of all citizens irrespective of religion, caste or ethnicity.

"Embracing this ideology, BNP has been moving forward politically for the past 48 years," he said.

Moyeen Khan said Ziaur Rahman initiated the politics of production and development, taking important steps to open up the economy and promote the readymade garment sector and overseas employment, which are now key pillars of Bangladesh`s economy.

He also credited Ziaur Rahman with contributing to women`s and children`s rights and strengthening Bangladesh`s position internationally.

Recalling late Abdul Momen Khan, a founding member of BNP from Narsingdi, the minister said he played a significant role in establishing the party`s initial organisational base and expanding its activities in the district.

Referring to former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, he said she led the anti-autocracy movement for years and became the country`s first woman prime minister after being elected by popular vote, serving three terms.

"BNP does not believe in the politics of vengeance. We believe in establishing justice, democracy and the rights of the people," he added.

He urged party leaders and activists to convey BNP`s 48-year history and its founder`s political ideology to the younger generation.